All About Nebraska Daily News

Omaha Nebraska - The Gateway to the Heart of the American West

Jan 30

Greg Nelson Attorney at Law is a Criminal justice attorney in Omaha, Nebraska. At Greg Nelson Attorney at Law, I represent clients who have been charged with crimes like assault, drug possession, domestic violence, and more. If you live in Nebraska and are in need of an experienced defense attorney, contact me at my office in downtown Omaha. I’m ready to help you defend your rights.

Omaha is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. It is located in the eastern portion of Nebraska close to the Iowa border. The cost of living in Omaha is 11% below the national average. As a result, it has been recognized as a top destination for retirees, young professionals, and families. There are also many national and regionally recognized medical and research institutions in the city.

Omaha has a history of diversity. Many of its earliest residents were Native Americans. Other early ethnic groups included Swedes, Poles, and Danes. Some of these were recruited for jobs in the meatpacking industry in South Omaha.

The largest ethnic group in Omaha is the Hispanic population. Over the last century, this has expanded rapidly. By 1990, it represented more than two-thirds of the population. In addition, African Americans comprise more than a tenth of the population. They have sought equality in housing, employment, and education, among other areas.

The African American community in Omaha has been resuscitated through new economic development and community revitalization. North 24th Street, a commercial area, is now the center of this vibrant neighborhood.

Omaha is home to a number of nationally recognized hospitals, including the University of Nebraska Medical Center, which is dedicated to patient care, research and education. Also, the Methodist Women's Hospital is a standout medical institution. Aside from its high-quality health care, the institution has delivered more babies than any other medical center in the region.

Another cultural center is the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, which is home to a rainforest, desert habitat and big cat complex. This institution has also spearheaded conservation efforts.

The Union Pacific Railroad had its eastern terminus in Omaha. Construction began on the line in 1865 and continued until 1969. Since then, almost every major railroad has served Omaha.

Omaha was an important food-processing center in the 1950s. The meatpacking industry remained a large part of the economy until labor costs prompted a decline in the industry. During the same time, plant obsolescence led to the closure of several major packers in the area. However, the city was still a leading livestock market in the world.

Several large corporations are located in the Omaha area. The Union Pacific Corporation and Con-Agra Foods are two of the five Fortune 500 companies in the area. Others include Kiewit Corporation, Berkshire Hathaway and Mutual of Omaha.

For entertainment, the city is home to a number of nationally recognized performing arts organizations. Music is a major part of the city's culture. Several of the leading bands and artists in rock, jazz and blues are from the city, including Elliott Smith, Buddy Miles, Luigi Waites and Wynonie Harris.

A large part of Omaha's economic success has been based on the development of information technology. During the 1990s, the growth of this industry caused a surge in the local economy. That trend continued through the 21st century.

Omaha has many museums. The Bemis Center for Contemporary Art is the premier urban artist colony in the country. Located in the historic Old Market district, the center is free to visit and features works by international and local artists.