Guest Speakers:

David Stevens, President, Stevens Capital Partners.  David was recently highlighted in Inc Magazine as one of the fastest growing privately held companies.  Stevens Capital Partners is one of the top 10 Black-owned registered investment advisor firms in the nation.  As head of the Private Client division, he works closely with entrepreneurs, executives, and multi-generational families to navigate the complexities of significant wealth.

Kim Roxie, CEO of Lamik Beauty.  Roxie has established an international beauty brand featured in Ulta and other premium and luxury stores and sites. Her mission-driven approach to beauty—rooted in wellness, sustainability, and inclusivity—has earned her a spotlight in Forbes and recognition as one of American Business Journal’s Young Executives to Watch.

The Summit will also include updates from special guests including Hometeam Auto Co-owner, Candice Price and native Omahan, Wendy Muhammad, an international business leader.

Price and her business partner, Ron Devers, have recently purchased a $2 million headquarters to expand their business.

Muhammad is leading major development efforts across the country and globally with over $600 million in completed projects.

The Revive Black Business Exchange has helped to establish a strong system in Omaha where business owners are doing more business together and now forming partnerships in Tulsa, New Orleans and other national cities.

Business resources will also be presented by:  Malinda Williams, CEO of Omaha 100; Davida Stewart, Client Relationships with Hayes & Associates; Karnetta Rushing, Business Development Officer, Carver Legacy Center; Ernest White, Senior Vice President of American National Bank and Ambassador of Carver Legacy Center; and April Hibbler, Nebraska Opportunities Exchange.

Over 7,000 attend the annual community celebration and holiday tradition in North Omaha

The Empowerment Network’s 13th Annual Christmas in the Village at 24th and Lake was one of the largest and best ever according to both the visitors and hosts.

Watch the Highlight Video from the 13th Annual Christmas in the Village at 24th and Lake Here

“Christmas in the Village just keeps getting bigger and better every year,” said an attendee that has made the event a holiday tradition for their family.

The event is hosted annually by the Empowerment Network and Omaha Economic Development Corporation and dozens of organizations and businesses to officially kick off the Christmas season.  Major sponsors include:  American National Bank, Douglas County Visitor Improvement Fund, Nebraska Arts Council, KETV, Revive Omaha and Veridian Credit Union.

It has become the largest holiday event in North Omaha but attracts visitors from throughout the region.  Guests have come from as far away as Minneapolis, Des Moines, Kansas City and St. Louis to participate in the event.

“It was such a blessing to see so many come down to 24th and Lake…the vision has become reality,” said Vicki-Quaites-Ferris, VP of Community Development for the Empowerment Network and event director.  “All of the partners had great activities and the families enjoyed all of them.”

The atmosphere is full of joy, excitement, smiles, hugs and laughter.  Children visited Santa, Mrs. Claus, live animals including a camel and donkey and even take pictures with the Grinch.

“The children and families loved the Grinch,” said Imani Murray, owner of Ital Vital Living.  “And, we sold out of special holiday smoothies and other items right at the end of the day.  It was amazing.”

There were also opportunities to make Raku pottery, create crafts and play games with prizes.

Families enjoyed free carriage rides down 24th Street, visited with Cartoon characters and received free family photos, hot cocoa, apple cider, cookies and popcorn.

For those looking to purchase holiday gifts and support local businesses, a stop at the Empowerment Network’s Holiday BoutiQue, Omaha Star’s store, Unionmade Artist Market, NOMA’s holiday market or any of the local businesses including the Styles of Evolution, Revive Center, Doll House Fashions, Carver Legacy Center and Fair Deal Village were all available.

Small Black businesses and vendors were excited about the event.  “Many of them reported generating thousands of dollars in sales in just five hours and some sold completely out of merchandise,” said Aisha Conner, Village Community Manager for the Empowerment Network and host for the Holiday BoutiQue.  “The entrepreneurs said the crowds were large and attendees were very supportive of them.”

Attendees could visit the Community Partners Fair tent in the parking lot of OEDC.

Northend Teleservices presented Santas Sweet Shop and gave out Stocking Stuffers.  The entry of the tent was elegantly decorated in a festive way.

Face painting and health assessments were available at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church and the Washington Branch Library presented their Mobile Free Book Giveaway.

One of the main attractions is the holiday concert in Dreamland Park where some of Omaha’s top gospel and jazz artists present Christmas music and local children’s groups and choirs provide entertainment.

A consistent and popular participant is the Pear Tree Performing Arts group that always has a special performance just for Christmas in the Village and the park was packed.

New this year was the Guiding Light Foundation, I Heart Dance teams and Central Step Team.  Zions Children Choir also returned singing Christmas songs.

The Great Plains Black History Museum was able to serve 850 visitors featuring a balloon artists and a national exhibit from the Smithsonian Institute.

It was a festive celebration in the historic heart of North Omaha.  A great way to kick off the holiday season, celebrate community, support small businesses, and continue the reemergence of the arts, culture, entertainment and business district at 24th and Lake.

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