As the Lincoln mother drove down one of the city’s main thoroughfares, a new sculpture outside the Lincoln Children’s Zoo appeared to her as a set of hands signaling the devil’s horns.
Red and black like the devil. And fingers bent to make the devil’s horns.
Surely that doesn’t belong around children, she thought. Some other, more whimsical sculpture could be placed at the zoo.
Only thing is, the sculpture isn’t a hand signal evoking the devil, but rather Spider-Man’s hands unleashing strands of silk.
But that’s not what the Lincoln mother saw during her frequent drive, so in an email to the city, she asked that the sculpture be moved.
“This is anti-Christen (sic), and demonic, and completely inappropriate and offensive to place in front of the Children Zoo and Gardens where couples are married,” she wrote in an email. “Remove it please. Put it (in) a empty ditch somewhere … (Devil worship) is a Hate Crime against the church.”
The woman’s request has gone viral, and the woman, reached by phone Thursday night, said the whole thing is largely a misunderstanding.
Driving by, she couldn’t see the Spider-Man details to the sculpture, she said. She’s in her 50s, and her memories of Spider-Man included a red and blue suit, she said, and not the red and black suit seen with some versions of the comic book character. She said she truly believed that she was looking at a sculpture of hands imitating devil’s horns.
“This is not about religion; it’s more about children,” the woman, who spoke on the condition of not being named, said Thursday.
The sculpture, it turns out, has a distinctly Christian history.
It was created as part of a fundraiser for the Youth for Christ Campus Life program. In October, the Spider-Man sculpture and about 50 other hand sculptures will be auctioned off, with the proceeds going to the campus youth program.
Matt Schulte, executive director of Youth for Christ in the Lincoln area, hopes that the notoriety brought by the dust-up comes with a silver lining.
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“It’s been featured in Newsweek, CNN, I’m told it’s gone overseas. I’d love it if Marvel (comics) would … say, ‘We should buy that for our campus.’ ”
Of the many hand sculptures scattered about Lincoln, the Spider-Man one has been one of the most popular, Schulte said. His organization intentionally placed it at the zoo.
“Kids just love it,” he said. “This caught us off guard because we thought this sculpture would be a fun celebration of an American superhero, someone looked at it and didn’t see a superhero, they saw devil horns.”
The sculpture was made by Ian Laing of Omaha, who himself is deeply Christian. Laing said that his chief medium is metalworks and that his calling to become a metal artist occurred in church.
“It was Good Friday, and my pastor laid three nails on the table. He walked in front of everybody and said, ‘If you’re not using your God-given gifts, you’re doing a disservice to God.’ ”
And from there, Laing developed “Third Nail Creations,” inspired by the crucifixion. He makes custom metal pieces, including frames, bicycles, wine racks and jewelry, including numerous crosses and other religious symbols.
Laing made three hand sculptures for the Lincoln project.
The other two are a pair of hands holding a bowl, inspired by “Oliver Twist,” and hands holding a moon, inspired by the children’s book “Goodnight Moon.”
“Spider-Man is my favorite superhero, and I saw a way I could make his hands,” he said.
For Laing, the episode is reminder that public art is very much part of the public realm.
“There are no limits to your imagination,” he said. “Art is meant to create controversy. Not everybody looks at it in the same way.”
Raindrops collected on the pedals of a rose as a steady, cool rain fell on flowers and grasses planted in the median near 133rd Street and Holling Drive in Omaha, Nebraska.
On the 75th anniversary of D-Day, Ed Morrissette a 95-year-old WWII veteran of Papillion, reminisced while toasting to his fallen comrades with a drink accompanied by John Adams, Tom Demro, Antonio Chickinelli and Jeff Hadden at Patriarch Distillers Inc. in La Vista, Nebraska, Thursday, June 6, 2019. Morrissette who was part of the second wave on D-Day at Omaha Beach drank a Canada Dry while the others had Soldier Valley Omaha Beach D-Day 75th anniversary bourbon whiskey.
United States' Annie Drews hit the ball past Brazil's blockers Amanda Francisco, left, and Ana Beatriz Correa, right, during a game in the FIVB Volleyball Nations League round-robin event at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Thursday, June 6, 2019.
United States' Jordyn Poulter (2) set the ball during a game against Brazil in the FIVB Volleyball Nations League round-robin event at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Thursday, June 6, 2019.
United States' Jordyn Poulter passed the ball during a game against Brazil in the FIVB Volleyball Nations League round-robin event at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Thursday, June 6, 2019.
Carolyn McNamara, left, of the Heritage Task Force, helped Carolyn Ducey, curator of collections with the International Quilt Museum, hang a quilt made by quilters from the First Unitarian Church of Omaha in 1898. The quilt was made by the Ladies of Unity Circle #1.
This was a quilt made by quilters from the First Unitarian Church of Omaha in 1898. The quilt was made by the Ladies of Unity Circle #1. The circle sold subscriptions quilt blocks to local businesses to be featured on the "commerce quilt."
Kathmandu Momo Station offers Nepalese themed momos and Burmese ramen, fish ramen pictured, at their brick and mortar location in the Blackstone neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska.
Comedian Jim Gaffigan performed during the ArchOmaha Unite event in front of thousands of catholics at the CHI Health Center Omaha in Omaha, Nebraska, on Saturday, June 8, 2019.
Jeremy Caniglia of Omaha, held an umbrella to shield Josephine Lohmeier of Omaha, a woman he calls his great aunt from the sunshine while watching bocce ball competition during the 95th annual Santa Lucia Italian Festival at the Lewis and Clark Landing in Omaha, Nebraska, on Saturday, June 8, 2019.
From left to right, Chuck Vacanti, Larri and Joe Caniglia, Alyssa Turnquist, Jerry Caniglia and Mike Ferro chat while attending the 95th annual Santa Lucia Italian Festival at the Lewis and Clark Landing in Omaha, Nebraska, on Saturday, June 8, 2019.
Detroit Tigers' Blaine Hardy kissed his 6-month-old son Griffin prior to the Major League Baseball game against the Kansas City Royals at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska, on Thursday, June 13, 2019.
Detroit Tigers' Miguel Cabrera signed autographs for fans prior to a Major League Baseball game against the Kansas City Royals at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska, on Thursday, June 13, 2019.
All eight College World Series baseball teams, Texas Tech, Michigan, Arkansas, Florida State, Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, Auburn and Louisville joined the Kansas City Royals and the Detroit Tigers on the field for the National Anthem prior to the first ever Major League Baseball game at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska, on Thursday, June 13, 2019.
Kansas City’s Nicky Lopez hit a second inning solo home run on front of Detroit catcher Grayson Greiner at TD Ameritrade Park on Thursday, June 13, 2019.
Pat McPherson of Omaha, who waited in line to get autographs from the Michigan baseball team, said he has been coming to the College World Series for about 20 years. He said the College World Series pins on his hat span a time of about 15 years.
Omaha Burke's Jaylon Roussell jogged the field people to participating in the Nebraska Cornhuskers Friday Night Lights event at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Lincoln Southeast's Xavier Trevino (61) and an athlete not listed on the roster (62) battled one another during a drill while participating in the Nebraska Cornhuskers Friday Night Lights event at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Nebraska Cornhuskers' head football coach Scott Frost addressed the prospects who participated in the Friday Night Lights event at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Florida State's J.C. Flowers lept to make a catch on a ball hit by Arkansas' Heston Kjerstad in the bottom of the second inning during game 2 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Florida State's McGuire Weaver had a catch with right fielder in between innings during game 2 of the College World Series against Arkansas at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Arkansas' Isaiah Campbell delivered a pitch to Florida State's Nander De Sedas during game 2 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Auburn's Will Holland failed to tag out Mississippi State's Jordan Westburg who stole second base during game 4 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Auburn's basketball coach Bruce Pearl, center, cheered with David Ayers, of Gadsden, Alabama during game 4 of the College World Series between Auburn and Mississippi State at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Mississippi State's Marshall Gilbert, center, celebrated with teammates after his walk off hit in the bottom of the ninth against Auburn during game 4 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska. Mississippi State defeated Auburn 5-4.
Harrison Richmond of Arkansas caught a piece of popcorn in his mouth thrown by his father Jonathan Richmond before the Arkansas game against Texas Tech during the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
Arkansas catcher Casey Opitz tagged out Texas Tech’s Dylan Neuse after a dropped third strike during game five of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
Casey Opitz reacted after Arkansas was eliminated from the College World Series in game 5 against Texas Tech at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska. Texas Tech eliminates Arkansas after an 5-4 win.
Arkansas' Trey Harris walked back to the locker room after Arkansas is eliminated by Texas Tech during game 5 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Amy Koski, left, wiped the face of her son Brody while nephew Michael Davis and husband Matt Koski watched the field before game 7 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
Kim Kline of Omaha watched game 7 of the College World Series though his plastic poncho as rain poured down. The game was stopped at the end of the fourth inning because of the weather.
Louisville's Danny Oriente rubed the beard of Alex Binelas prior to resuming game 7 of the College World Series against Auburn at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Edward Francis, 10, of Goldsboro, North Carolina celebrated after recovering a foul ball alongside his family during game 7 of the College World Series between Louisville and Auburn at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Auburn's Matt Scheffler and Edouard Julien reacted to being eliminated by Louisville during game 7 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Vanderbilt's Walker Grisanti and Kiambu Fentress played rock, paper, scissors in between innings during game 8 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Florida State Head Coach Mike Martin tipped his hat and thanked the crowd after losing to Texas Tech during game nine of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park. It was his final game.
Will Bolt, left, who is the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's new baseball coach, posed for pictures with Bill Moos, who is the athletic director of UNL, during a press conference.
Kent Bellows Mentoring Program students spray painted murals on the bottom of the large grain silos near S. 35th Street and Vinton Street in Omaha, Nebraska.
Kent Bellows Mentoring Program students, Gabrielle Washington, 17, alongside artist mentor Hugo Zamorano, and other students Abby Patterson, 17, and Mahala Bush posed for a portrait while spray painting murals on the bottom of the large grain silos near S. 35th Street and Vinton Street in Omaha, Nebraska.
The Louisville bench celebrated Jake Snider scoring the tying run on a hit by Danny Oriente as Mississippi State catcher Dustin Skelton can’t handle the throw in the ninth inning during game ten of the College World Series.
Louisville's Jake Snider reacted to scoring run off of a hit from teammate Danny Oriente to tie up game 10 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
Louisville’s Danny Oriente scored the winning off of a hit by Drew Campbell in the ninth inning against Mississippi State during game ten of the College World Series.
Louisville's Drew Campbell celebrated a walk-off win on his hit in the bottom of the 9th against Mississippi State during game ten of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
Blaze Barr, right, and his cousin Jaxton Blazek, left, of Dallas, Texas rode the zipline before game 11 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
Logan Klindt of Omaha, a Michigan fan, waved his Michigan flag while he watches the Wolverines warm up before the start of game 11 at the College World Series.
A throw sailed wide of Vanderbilt's Austin Martin as Louisville's Justin Lavey slid into third base during their College World Series game. Lavey would scored on the errant throw.
Te'Andi Titus, left, and Kevin Kalaw, both of Omaha, read on the dock at Standing Bear Lake as a cool breeze swept over the lake, keeping the mosquitoes at bay.
Vanderbilt's JJ Bleday (51) and the Commodores faced off against Michigan's Jordan Brewer (22) and the Wolverines in the College World Series finals at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
Michigan's Jimmy Kerr was greeted by Jordan Brewer and Blake Nelson after hitting a home run against Vanderbilt during their College World Series game.
Gwen Handelman of Ann Arbor, Michigan, tried to get photos of the Michigan baseball team as they arrive for game 1 of the College World Series championship.
Vanderbilt’s Pat DeMarco ran from first to second on a hit by Stephen Scott in the third inning during the third game of the champion series of the College World Series.
Omaha Police responded to the scene where pilot Eugene Puttbrese, right, of Frazee Minnesota, had to emergency land his plane near the intersection of S. 136th Street and Discovery Drive in Omaha, Nebraska.
An Omaha firefighter carried a cat pulled from an apartment that had caught fire earlier at 5427 86th Court .The cat was later revived in the back of an ambulance.
Raindrops collected on the pedals of a rose as a steady, cool rain fell on flowers and grasses planted in the median near 133rd Street and Holling Drive in Omaha, Nebraska.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
On the 75th anniversary of D-Day, Ed Morrissette a 95-year-old WWII veteran of Papillion, reminisced while toasting to his fallen comrades with a drink accompanied by John Adams, Tom Demro, Antonio Chickinelli and Jeff Hadden at Patriarch Distillers Inc. in La Vista, Nebraska, Thursday, June 6, 2019. Morrissette who was part of the second wave on D-Day at Omaha Beach drank a Canada Dry while the others had Soldier Valley Omaha Beach D-Day 75th anniversary bourbon whiskey.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
United States' Annie Drews hit the ball past Brazil's blockers Amanda Francisco, left, and Ana Beatriz Correa, right, during a game in the FIVB Volleyball Nations League round-robin event at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Thursday, June 6, 2019.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
United States' Jordyn Poulter (2) set the ball during a game against Brazil in the FIVB Volleyball Nations League round-robin event at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Thursday, June 6, 2019.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
United States' Jordyn Poulter passed the ball during a game against Brazil in the FIVB Volleyball Nations League round-robin event at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Thursday, June 6, 2019.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Carolyn McNamara, left, of the Heritage Task Force, helped Carolyn Ducey, curator of collections with the International Quilt Museum, hang a quilt made by quilters from the First Unitarian Church of Omaha in 1898. The quilt was made by the Ladies of Unity Circle #1.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
This was a quilt made by quilters from the First Unitarian Church of Omaha in 1898. The quilt was made by the Ladies of Unity Circle #1. The circle sold subscriptions quilt blocks to local businesses to be featured on the "commerce quilt."
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Kathmandu Momo Station offers Nepalese themed momos and Burmese ramen, fish ramen pictured, at their brick and mortar location in the Blackstone neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Comedian Jim Gaffigan performed during the ArchOmaha Unite event in front of thousands of catholics at the CHI Health Center Omaha in Omaha, Nebraska, on Saturday, June 8, 2019.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Jeremy Caniglia of Omaha, held an umbrella to shield Josephine Lohmeier of Omaha, a woman he calls his great aunt from the sunshine while watching bocce ball competition during the 95th annual Santa Lucia Italian Festival at the Lewis and Clark Landing in Omaha, Nebraska, on Saturday, June 8, 2019.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
From left to right, Chuck Vacanti, Larri and Joe Caniglia, Alyssa Turnquist, Jerry Caniglia and Mike Ferro chat while attending the 95th annual Santa Lucia Italian Festival at the Lewis and Clark Landing in Omaha, Nebraska, on Saturday, June 8, 2019.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Detroit Tigers' Blaine Hardy kissed his 6-month-old son Griffin prior to the Major League Baseball game against the Kansas City Royals at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska, on Thursday, June 13, 2019.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Major League Baseball debuted in Omaha on Thursday June 13th as the Royals faced the Tigers at TD Ameritrade Park.
Z LONG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Detroit Tigers' Miguel Cabrera signed autographs for fans prior to a Major League Baseball game against the Kansas City Royals at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska, on Thursday, June 13, 2019.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
All eight College World Series baseball teams, Texas Tech, Michigan, Arkansas, Florida State, Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, Auburn and Louisville joined the Kansas City Royals and the Detroit Tigers on the field for the National Anthem prior to the first ever Major League Baseball game at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska, on Thursday, June 13, 2019.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Kansas City’s Nicky Lopez hit a second inning solo home run on front of Detroit catcher Grayson Greiner at TD Ameritrade Park on Thursday, June 13, 2019.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Detroit’s Miguel Cabrera fouled a ball over his shoulder in the fourth inning at TD Ameritrade Park.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Pat McPherson of Omaha, who waited in line to get autographs from the Michigan baseball team, said he has been coming to the College World Series for about 20 years. He said the College World Series pins on his hat span a time of about 15 years.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Arkansas' Kevin Kopps warmsed up his arm during practice at TD Ameritrade Park for the College World Series.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Mississippi State's Cole Gordon wore his glove on his head during the College World Series practice day at TD Ameritrade Park.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Omaha Burke's Jaylon Roussell jogged the field people to participating in the Nebraska Cornhuskers Friday Night Lights event at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Lincoln Southeast's Xavier Trevino (61) and an athlete not listed on the roster (62) battled one another during a drill while participating in the Nebraska Cornhuskers Friday Night Lights event at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Nebraska Cornhuskers' head football coach Scott Frost addressed the prospects who participated in the Friday Night Lights event at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Blake Nelson waited in the dugout for game 1 of the College World Series to start.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
The National Anthem was played before Texas Tech faced Michigan during their College World Series game.
Z LONG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Florida State's J.C. Flowers lept to make a catch on a ball hit by Arkansas' Heston Kjerstad in the bottom of the second inning during game 2 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Florida State's McGuire Weaver had a catch with right fielder in between innings during game 2 of the College World Series against Arkansas at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Arkansas' Isaiah Campbell delivered a pitch to Florida State's Nander De Sedas during game 2 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Auburn's Will Holland failed to tag out Mississippi State's Jordan Westburg who stole second base during game 4 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Auburn's basketball coach Bruce Pearl, center, cheered with David Ayers, of Gadsden, Alabama during game 4 of the College World Series between Auburn and Mississippi State at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Mississippi State's Marshall Gilbert, center, celebrated with teammates after his walk off hit in the bottom of the ninth against Auburn during game 4 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska. Mississippi State defeated Auburn 5-4.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Harrison Richmond of Arkansas caught a piece of popcorn in his mouth thrown by his father Jonathan Richmond before the Arkansas game against Texas Tech during the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Texas Tech's Kurt Wilson fumbled a triple from Arkansas' Casey Martin during a game at the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Arkansas catcher Casey Opitz tagged out Texas Tech’s Dylan Neuse after a dropped third strike during game five of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/THE WORLD-HERAL
Casey Opitz reacted after Arkansas was eliminated from the College World Series in game 5 against Texas Tech at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska. Texas Tech eliminates Arkansas after an 5-4 win.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Arkansas' Trey Harris walked back to the locker room after Arkansas is eliminated by Texas Tech during game 5 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Louisville's Adam Elliott warmed up before the start of game 7 of the College World Series.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Amy Koski, left, wiped the face of her son Brody while nephew Michael Davis and husband Matt Koski watched the field before game 7 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Auburn's Rankin Woley slid into the fence while catching a foul ball for an out in the third inning.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Auburn's Will Holland reacted to being thrown out at home plate in the third inning in game 7 of the College World Series.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Kim Kline of Omaha watched game 7 of the College World Series though his plastic poncho as rain poured down. The game was stopped at the end of the fourth inning because of the weather.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Louisville right fielder Drew Campbell made a diving catch for the final out of the fourth inning of game 7 of the College World Series.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Louisville's Danny Oriente rubed the beard of Alex Binelas prior to resuming game 7 of the College World Series against Auburn at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Edward Francis, 10, of Goldsboro, North Carolina celebrated after recovering a foul ball alongside his family during game 7 of the College World Series between Louisville and Auburn at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Auburn's Matt Scheffler and Edouard Julien reacted to being eliminated by Louisville during game 7 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt's Walker Grisanti and Kiambu Fentress played rock, paper, scissors in between innings during game 8 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Florida State Head Coach Mike Martin tipped his hat and thanked the crowd after losing to Texas Tech during game nine of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park. It was his final game.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Will Bolt, left, who is the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's new baseball coach, posed for pictures with Bill Moos, who is the athletic director of UNL, during a press conference.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Kent Bellows Mentoring Program students spray painted murals on the bottom of the large grain silos near S. 35th Street and Vinton Street in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Kent Bellows Mentoring Program students, Gabrielle Washington, 17, alongside artist mentor Hugo Zamorano, and other students Abby Patterson, 17, and Mahala Bush posed for a portrait while spray painting murals on the bottom of the large grain silos near S. 35th Street and Vinton Street in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Louisville’s Nick Bennett wrote in the dirt on the mound before the game against Mississippi State during game ten of the College World Series.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
The Louisville bench celebrated Jake Snider scoring the tying run on a hit by Danny Oriente as Mississippi State catcher Dustin Skelton can’t handle the throw in the ninth inning during game ten of the College World Series.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Louisville's Jake Snider reacted to scoring run off of a hit from teammate Danny Oriente to tie up game 10 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Louisville’s Danny Oriente scored the winning off of a hit by Drew Campbell in the ninth inning against Mississippi State during game ten of the College World Series.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Louisville's Drew Campbell celebrated a walk-off win on his hit in the bottom of the 9th against Mississippi State during game ten of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Mississippi State’s Jake Mangum reacted to losing to Louisville in a walk-off during game 10 of the College World Series.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
The moon rose over the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge in the early morning hours.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Blaze Barr, right, and his cousin Jaxton Blazek, left, of Dallas, Texas rode the zipline before game 11 of the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Ako Thomas celebrated as Jordan Nwogu scores against Texas Tech during their College World Series game.
Ryan Soderlin
Logan Klindt of Omaha, a Michigan fan, waved his Michigan flag while he watches the Wolverines warm up before the start of game 11 at the College World Series.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Louisville's Michael McAvene reacted after losing to Vanderbilt in their College World Series game.
Z LONG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Louisville's Trey Leonard was tagged out by Vanderbilt's Ty Duvall during their College World Series game.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
A throw sailed wide of Vanderbilt's Austin Martin as Louisville's Justin Lavey slid into third base during their College World Series game. Lavey would scored on the errant throw.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt's JJ Bleday slid safely home for the tying run against Louisville during their College World Series game.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Te'Andi Titus, left, and Kevin Kalaw, both of Omaha, read on the dock at Standing Bear Lake as a cool breeze swept over the lake, keeping the mosquitoes at bay.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt's JJ Bleday (51) and the Commodores faced off against Michigan's Jordan Brewer (22) and the Wolverines in the College World Series finals at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt and Michigan faced off in the College World Series finals at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska in 2019.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Jordan Brewer and Jack Blomgren celebrated after defeating Vanderbilt in their College World Series game.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Jimmy Kerr was greeted by Jordan Brewer and Blake Nelson after hitting a home run against Vanderbilt during their College World Series game.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Michigan did a little warrior pose flow during their College World Series game.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt did some acrobatics between innings during their College World Series game.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Veteran Alfred Brown salutes while being introduced before a College World Series game.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Gwen Handelman of Ann Arbor, Michigan, tried to get photos of the Michigan baseball team as they arrive for game 1 of the College World Series championship.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt players visited the the grounds crew dog, Casey, before their College World Series game.
Z LONG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Michigan fans cheered as Jordan Brewer rounded second base against Vanderbilt during their College World Series game.
Z LONG/THE WORLD-HERALD
A B-2 stealth bomber flew over as Michigan stands during the National Anthem before their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Jordan Brewer celebrated with Christan Bullock after scoring against Vanderbilt during their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Tommy Henry threw a pitch against Vanderbilt during their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Jimmy Kerr celebrated with Jordan Brewer after hitting a home run against Vanderbilt during their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Jimmy Kerr was greeted after hitting a home run against Vanderbilt during their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt's Stephen Scott toke a tumble after colliding with Michigan's Tommy Henry during their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Chicken tikka korma consists of chicken cooked in tandoor and creamy red sauce with a dash of cilantro on top at Taste of India.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Riley Bertram stayed loose before during their College World Series game.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Michigan fan Alan Cleveland waved a flag during a College World Series game against Vanderbilt.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt's Ethan Paul dove to catch wide throw as Michigan's Blake Nelson slides safely into second base during their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Jack Weisenburger warmed up during a College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt faces Michigan during their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Olivia Orozco, left, and her father Hector entered the field to throw the first pitch during the opening of Kerrie Orozco Memorial Field.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Blue first pitch baseballs were handed out to those attending the first pitch ceremony at Kerrie Orozco Memorial Field.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Lexie Meskouris hugs Vanderbilt's Pat DeMarco while celebrating a national championship after a win over Michigan.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt's Kumar Rocker chatted with his dad Tracy Rocker while celebrating a national championship after a win over Michigan.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt coach Tim Corbin is hoisted in the air while celebrating their national championship after a win over Michigan.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt celebrates their national championship after a win over Michigan.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Michigan warms up before the start of game 3 of the CWS championship.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt's Harrison Ray signed autographs before the start of game 3 of the CWS championship.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt fans celebrate at the Commodores capture a national title with a win over Michigan.
Z LONG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Jordan Brewer and Jordan Nwogu relaxed before their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Michigan players mingled prior to their College World Series game against Vanderbilt.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Ako Thomas was greeted by Jimmy Kerr after scoring against Vanderbilt during their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt’s Pat DeMarco ran from first to second on a hit by Stephen Scott in the third inning during the third game of the champion series of the College World Series.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt's Stephen Scott made a catch at the wall against Michigan during their College World Series game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt celebrated their win over Michigan during the third game of the champion series of the College World Series.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt celebrated their win over Michigan during the third game of the champion series of the College World Series.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt celebrated their national championship after a win over Michigan.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Fireworks went off after Vanderbilt wins the College World Series over Michigan at TD Ameritrade Park.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt celebrated their win over Michigan during the third game of the champion series of the College World Series.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Vanderbilt coach Tim Corbin was soaked while celebrating a national title after win over Michigan.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Michigan's Ako Thomas reacted after falling to Vanderbilt in the national title game.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
James Burks posed for a portrait at Burke High School. Burks was named Male Athlete of the Year.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Bronze statues awaited installation at Pioneer Courage Park in downtown Omaha.
Z LONG, THE WORLD-HERALD
Omaha Police responded to the scene where pilot Eugene Puttbrese, right, of Frazee Minnesota, had to emergency land his plane near the intersection of S. 136th Street and Discovery Drive in Omaha, Nebraska.
BRENDAN SULLIVAN/WORLD-HERALD
Superior's Kalynn Meyer was named the Omaha World-Herald's athlete of the year. Meyer competes in basketball, volleyball and track.
RYAN SODERLIN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Chris Isaak performed at the free Memorial Park Concert at Memorial Park.
ELSIE STORMBERG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Patrick Bartman of Omaha spins around his daughter Colette during Chris Isaak’s performance at the concert in 2019.
ELSIE STORMBERG, THE WORLD-HERALD
Backup singers for Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul at the Memorial Park concert and fireworks show in 2019.
ELSIE STORMBERG, THE WORLD-HERALD
Omaha firefighter Curt Huey used ice to cool down after fighting a fire at 5427 86th Court.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
An Omaha firefighter carried a cat pulled from an apartment that had caught fire earlier at 5427 86th Court .The cat was later revived in the back of an ambulance.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
A cat looked up at Jill Tafoya after she revived it in the back of an ambulance after the cat was rescued from a fire at 5427 86th Court.
CHRIS MACHIAN/THE WORLD-HERALD
Attendees waive during the Heartland Pride parade in downtown Omaha.
Z LONG/THE WORLD-HERALD
Northern Kentucky’s Griffin Doersching has Gatorade dumped on him after winning the College Home Run Derby at TD Ameritrade Park.