Meet some of the contributors behind this edition of Omaha Magazine.
Tamsen Butler—Contributing Writer
Butler is an award-winning author of five nonfiction books. A contributing writer to Omaha Magazine for more than five years, she fills her days by working as a senior marketing copywriter for Carson Group, teaching fitness classes, and spending time with her ridiculously clever teenagers, Monet and Abram. She also serves as athletic director for the Omaha chapter of the national veterans’ group RWB.
Though she enjoys most types of writing assignments, she especially enjoys writing dining reviews and tackling local historical pieces that require some research—helping this California native learn more about the Omaha area.
Sarah Lemke—Photographer
Lemke is an Omaha native and a third-generation family member of Omaha Publications, contributing her discerning eye and technical savvy since 2013. After studying photography at Brooks Institute in Ventura, California, and journalism at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lemke has continuously broadened her freelance experience with photo and video roles in Omaha, Los Angeles, and New York. She serves as first assistant at Sitzmann Photography, in addition to operating her own photography business. An FAA-certified drone pilot, Lemke has also earned credits assistant directing and producing for high-profile video productions. When not behind the lens, Lemke enjoys hiking, camping, and hitting the pavement on her motorcycle anytime the weather permits.
Joe Mixan—Contributing Writer and Photographer
A South Omaha native, Mixan is the youngest of nine boys, and he always loved playing and watching sports. A graduate of Gross High (1984) and UNL College of Journalism (1988), Mixan’s photography passion began when he bought his first camera at age 12. He was the team photographer for Creighton University when they played in the 1991 College World Series, and was the team photographer for the Huskers when they won National Championships in 1994, 1995, and 1997. Mixan also covered the war in Croatia and Bosnia from 1992-1994 and his work was published in newspapers, magazines, and a book, titled As She Asks, which was published in eight languages. Mixan was an Omaha firefighter for over 20 years, retiring in 2018. Joe and his wife, Suzana, live in Papillion, where they raised three children who are now in college and beyond.
This article originally appeared in the June 2022 issue of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
