News

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – This week is Severe Weather Awareness Week in Nebraska and Iowa. The National Weather Service sets aside the week to educate the public about safety during inclement weather.

As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, the National Weather Service Omaha office will conduct a tornado drill Wednesday. The drill is an opportunity for schools, businesses, and government agencies to review their procedures during severe weather and practice what to do when a tornado strikes.

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – The first annual Heartland Walk for Warmth is being called a success by its organizers. The Walk was held February first in downtown Omaha, with the goal of raising awareness about the need for utility assistance. The Salvation Army, United Way of the Midlands, and American Red Cross Heartland Chapter all sponsored the event.

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – A committee seeking to force a recall election of Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey has requested additional petitions. Recall Fahey Co-Chairman Greg Lyons says they've asked the Election Commissioner's office for 300 more petitions. Those were picked up this morning for distribution.

Lyons says 1,150 petitions have been distributed since the beginning of the drive March 24. The Recall Fahey Committee set a goal of 26,000 signatures. Petitions are due back April 22nd.

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – Alegent Health is preparing to open a new recovery center that focuses on all-around treatment for those suffering from mental illness. The Lasting Hope Recovery Center opens April 8.

Lasting Hope features 64 private rooms in three wings. Two of those wings are for new patients who require short says at the center. The third wing is for longer inpatient treatment. Patient rooms at Lasting Hope were designed to be quiet and calming, with earth tones and natural lighting.

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – The Durham Western Heritage Museum is seeking National Historic Landmark Status for the Union Station building.

Union Station opened in 1931 and was renovated in 1995. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Omaha City Council on Tuesday put its support behind the Museum's efforts, which means the application process can begin.

By Michael Lyon

Omaha (KIOS-FM) – Happy April Fools Day from your Events Calendar staff at KIOS-FM.
Thanks for being such great supporters of KIOS-FM and permitting us the occasional lapse from Public Radio gravitas.

You can hear my interview with Hamish McTavish at the link at the top of this article.

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – The Metropolitan Entertainment and Convention Authority has reached an agreement with Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey and the Stadium Oversight Committee. MECA Chairman David Sokol and Mayor Fahey announced the agreement Tuesday morning.

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – Omaha Performing Arts' 2008-2009 season features a wide range of performances, from jazz, to bluegrass, comedy, classical, and dance. The season begins October Third with Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band. This season's concerts include:

Jazz

Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band
Blue Note Records 70th Anniversary-On Tour
Regina Carter
John Pizzarelli
Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band

Dance

DanceBrazil
Diavolo
Aspen Santa Fe Ballet
Tomas Kubinek

Classical

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – Metropolitan Community College is receiving a $1.8 million grant to educate and prepare a highly skilled Information Technology workforce.

The federal grant is funding a three-year pilot project that also involves Goodwill Association of Iowa and Nebraska, Dell Computers, and West Corporation. Metro Vice President of External Relations Jim Grotrian says the program is designed to prepare for than 470 individuals for IT jobs.

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – An Omaha agency that helps low-income families become homeowners is one of three recipients of this year's Community Development Excellence awards. The City of Omaha presented the awards Thursday night as part of National Community Development Week.

Family Housing Advisory Services was recognized for its workshops and programs. Family Housing offers financial counseling, fair housing workshops and education on tenants' rights.