Registration is closing this week for The Bloc’s 50 Over 50 Nebraska Awards, an annual tribute to Nebraskans whose leadership and service continue to shape the state. The awards dinner is set for Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, 5:30–9:30 p.m. at Embassy Suites by Hilton Downtown Omaha (555 S. 10th St.).

In South Omaha, the name Jacobo’s means more than groceries. It’s tortillas pressed fresh each morning, tamales wrapped in corn husks by hand, and salsa so authentic it carries a lineage. Behind it all were Ramon and Cirina Jacobo, a husband-and-wife team whose faith, grit, and vision built one of the community’s most enduring institutions.

Dr. Athena Ramos is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health Promotion at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) and a leader in community-based health research focused on Latino and immigrant well-being.

Raised in Nebraska, Ramos holds a PhD in International Family & Community Studies from Clemson University, and dual master’s degrees from UNO in Business Administration (MBA) and Urban Studies. Her credentials also include certification as a Public Manager (CPM).

Douglas Vincent “S.A.” Martinez, born October 29, 1969, in Omaha, Neb., has carved out an extraordinary career as the DJ and co-vocalist of 311, a band that has become one of the most successful alternative rock acts of the last three decades. His journey from South Omaha to international stages speaks to both his talent and his relentless commitment to innovation.

Marta F. Nieves, a longtime advocate for equity and inclusion in Nebraska, devoted her career to lifting up Latino voices and building bridges across communities. She passed away on May 28, 2025, at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of service, mentorship, and civic engagement.

Ben Salazar has spent more than five decades as one of Nebraska’s most visible Chicano activists, community advocates, and storytellers. Born in Scottsbluff, he earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a juris doctorate from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. His activism began in the late 1960s, when he worked alongside farmworker organizers to fight for dignity and fair treatment.

Julia Carrillo arrived in Omaha at age 17 and today she leads one of the Midwest’s boldest cultural movements for Latina empowerment. As founder of the Soy Chingona brand and co-creator of Midwest Chingona Fest, Carrillo is reshaping how Latina identity is celebrated — and challenged — in Nebraska’s heartland.

In a city better known for its stockyards than its TikTok trends, Omaha has an unlikely new cultural ambassador: Leduar Lopez. With millions of views across TikTok and Instagram, Lopez has built a loyal following by doing something deceptively simple: sharing everyday life through the lens of La Familia Lopez.

Maria Luisa Gaston’s story begins with courage and movement: she fled Cuba at age 15, when the Castro regime nationalized her family’s sugar mill. From that early upheaval to decades of service in Nebraska, she has carried with her a fierce commitment to justice, faith, and uplifting Latina voices.

Robert “Bob” Campos was born February 5, 1938, in Omaha to Mexican immigrant parents. Raised in South Omaha, he attended Assumption Catholic School and Omaha South High before serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. Skilled in carpentry and construction, he turned that experience into a business legacy.

Yesenia Peck’s journey spans continents and sectors, but the throughline is always the same: service, equity, and connection. Originally from Lima, Peru, she worked as an attorney in the Peru Supreme and Superior Courts before moving to the United States, where her drive to advocate and lead found new forms.

Edward “Babe” Gómez was born August 10, 1932, in Omaha, into a large Mexican American family, one of thirteen children of Modesto and Matiana Gómez. He grew up in South Omaha and attended Omaha South High School, where he played football and ran track. Though he left just one quarter shy of graduation, Babe would become one of the community’s most revered figures.

Viridianna Almanza Zavala has built her career around a simple truth: service is a calling. As Director of Programming at the Latino Center of the Midlands, she channels her passion for immigrant rights, indigenous peoples, and youth empowerment into programs that open doors and expand opportunity across Omaha.

Javier Fernández is a leader whose impact reaches far beyond the energy sector. As Chief Executive Officer of the Omaha Public Power District (OPPD), he oversees one of the nation’s largest publicly owned electric utilities, ensuring that affordable, reliable power fuels homes, businesses, and communities across Nebraska.

Inclusive Communities is proud to present Transformational Leadership Retreat from Oct. 15 to 17, in Grand Island, Neb. This immersive three-day event is designed to equip today’s mid-level and people managers with strategic, human-centered tools to lead tomorrow’s workforce with authenticity, vision, and impact.

Kai came to Omaha, expecting to stay with his father. At the last minute, everything changed. His plans dissolved. There was no welcome home. With no place to turn, he made his way to the public library, hoping for some refuge, even if only temporarily.

A librarian overheard him telling another teen his situation. Recognizing this was more than a moment of distress, the librarian called  Youth Emergency Services’ Safe Place line.

Lozafina client The Bloc is honored to announce Omaha Mayor John Ewing Jr. as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Awards. The ceremony, presented in partnership with AARP, will take place on October 25, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at Embassy Suites by Hilton Downtown Omaha (555 S. 10th St.), celebrating Nebraskans whose leadership and legacy have transformed communities across the state.

Cristina Castro-Matukewicz has built her career on leadership rooted in perseverance, transparency, and justice. As Senior Vice President at Wells Fargo, she brings a rare blend of corporate expertise and community vision to every role she takes on.

Armando Salgado has spent decades building bridges for Latino entrepreneurs in Omaha. As founder and CEO of the United Hispanic Contractors Association and co-founder of the Latino Economic Development Council (LEDC), he has dedicated his career to breaking down language, cultural, and business barriers that often prevent Latino business owners from succeeding.

María Arriaga, executive director of the Nebraska Commission on Latino-Americans, has built her career at the intersection of culture, communication, and advocacy. A native of Michoacán, Mexico, Arriaga began her professional journey as a radio announcer, a role that ignited her gift for connecting with people and amplifying community voices.