Council Member Pete Festersen Celebrates Omaha's Sister City Bond with Car Lentini Italy

The Omaha City Council meeting on August 26, 2025, featured significant discussions, including a heartfelt tribute to long-serving poll worker George Reed and updates on the city’s international relations.

Council member Pete Festersen opened the meeting with remarks about Omaha's sister city relationship with Carlin Tini, Italy. He highlighted a recent delegation visit where they dedicated a new amphitheater in honor of former council member Sabian Zaldo and celebrated the Santa Lucia Festival, emphasizing the deep connections between the two communities. Festersen noted that two-thirds of Omaha's Italian American population can trace their ancestry back to Carlin Tini, underscoring the cultural ties that enrich Omaha's diversity.

The meeting also included a proclamation honoring George Reed for his decades of service to the Douglas County Election Commission. Reed has participated in over 80 elections since 1960, earning recognition for his dedication and reliability. He was inducted into the Poll Worker Hall of Fame in 2010, reflecting his significant contributions to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process in Douglas County. The council expressed gratitude for Reed's commitment, recognizing him as a cornerstone of the volunteer program that supports local elections.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for Reed to share his thoughts, marking a moment of appreciation for his lifelong dedication to public service. The council's acknowledgment of both local and international connections highlights Omaha's commitment to community engagement and cultural exchange.