Council approves commemorative street namings for Mayor John W. Ewing Jr. and Native Omaha Days founders

The City Council unanimously approved a resolution to name Lothope Street from 20th to 24th (Laird area) as John W. Ewing Jr. Street and approved commemorative street names honoring Vera Johnson and Betty McDonald, the co-founders of Native Omaha Days.

Speakers including longtime neighborhood advocates, commissioners and community leaders offered testimony in support and recounted Ewing’s decades of public service as a former deputy police chief, Douglas County treasurer and now mayor. Preston Love Jr., who testified, called Ewing a "public servant for 44 years," and Douglas County officials submitted letters of support. The council president noted the timing was chosen to allow a ceremonial unveiling during the upcoming Native Omaha Days events.

For the Native Omaha Days honorees, dozens of supporters — including members of the Native Omahans Club and descendants of the founders — spoke about the event’s cultural significance and its economic impact on North Omaha. Witnesses said Native Omaha Days draws thousands of visitors, with proponents describing it as an economic driver for the area and a long-running community tradition beginning in 1977.

Councilmember Goodwin clarified that the actions were commemorative and would not change existing street names; city staff confirmed the signs will be adjunct commemorative signage. Each resolution passed on a roll call vote of 7 to 0.

Ending: Council members and community speakers said the commemorations recognize long-term civic service and preserve local cultural history; the council approved the resolutions unanimously.