Good morning, this is Omaha Local Pulse for Sunday, July 13. We’re here to bring everyone up to speed on what’s new and important in our city as we head into the heart of summer.

Starting with breaking news, federal officials have announced the arrest of a high-ranking MS-13 gang leader right here in Omaha following a coordinated operation this weekend. Authorities say this is a significant step for regional public safety and believe it will have an immediate impact on gang-related activity, especially in the neighborhoods around South 24th Street and beyond.

Turning to the weather, we’re waking up this morning to smoky skies and poor air quality as wildfire smoke from Canada blankets much of the Upper Midwest. If you were planning outdoor activities near Zorinsky Lake or Elmwood Park, it’s a good idea to reconsider or keep things indoors today. The air is expected to remain dense with smoke through this afternoon, with only minor improvement by evening.

There’s also news from City Hall, where officials have been busy navigating the recent holiday closures. City offices and the Human Rights and Relations Department will reopen fully tomorrow, catching up on services like permit processing and inquiries that affect so many of us in day-to-day life, especially for those waiting on business or property paperwork.

On the business front, Omaha’s real estate market is steady. While listings remain competitive, the number of homes available in neighborhoods like Dundee and West Omaha is slightly higher than last month, giving buyers more options. The job market remains healthy, with several local businesses around Midtown and the Old Market announcing openings for customer service, healthcare, and logistics roles just this week.

For those looking for music and culture, big crowds and plenty of excitement are expected tonight as the Kansas and 38 Special Summer Tour rolls through Omaha. The concert is set for CHI Health Center, promising classic hits and a good time for all ages. St. Cecilia Cathedral will also hold its Sunday morning mass at 10:30, providing neighbors with a moment of reflection.

In community sports, local high school teams are making headlines. Millard North’s summer baseball squad picked up a tournament win over the weekend, building momentum as the fall season approaches.

A quick look at this morning’s crime report: aside from the high-profile gang arrest, police are encouraging residents near Benson and North 72nd to lock cars and keep valuables out of sight after several vehicle break-ins overnight. Officers are describing it as a crime of opportunity but are increasing patrols in response.

Finally, for a feel-good story, shoutout to the volunteers from North Omaha’s Florence neighborhood who spent Saturday repainting the playground at Minne Lusa Elementary. Their work is already being enjoyed by dozens of kids and families and serves as a great reminder of the pride and neighborliness that keep our city vibrant.

Thank you for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been Omaha Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai.

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