CRYSTAL THIESSEN Hub Cafe and Global Ties Nebraska
TEHL KESLAR Central States Hydraulics
JURA MICHAEL The Waterford Communities
KELLY BURGE Cruise & Associates
CHRIS ROGERS Lincoln Running Company
JEFF KORBELIK James Arthur Vineyards
TYPES OF FENCES
Why Choose Us
TOP RATED FENCE CONTRACTOR
Our values and work ethic have helped us become one of the most respected fence companies across the state of Nebraska
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
Our values extend to the customers we serve, and we pride ourselves on the ways we support our local communities through great service and quality care
WORKMANSHIP WARRENTY
For every fence installation we complete, Empire Fence Company provides a 1-year workmanship warranty for your peace of mind and satisfaction
When you want elegance and durability from a fence while having lots of visibility through your yard, check out our aluminum fence options
CHAIN LINK
Fencing in your yard to protect your children, pets, or pool can be done with the installation of an economical chain link fence, built to last and withstand deterioration for many years
Vinyl fences are highly favored in Waverly, Nebraska neighborhoods due to their low maintenance, attractive style, and versatility in both privacy and open designs
For naturally beautiful fences in Nebraska, many homeowners choose wood fencing to complement and protect their yard WOOD
Discover endless possibilities with FenceTrac Customize your fence with red cedar, metal, vinyl, and more! With FenceTrac, enjoy durable privacy borders without worrying about rot or decay
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A Paige From My Notebook...
Dear Readers,
As I reflect on this past year, I am humbled and deeply appreciative of the countless times I hear someone say how much they love reading Strictly Business. Many of you have shared that it’s your favorite thing to receive in the mail, and your enthusiasm and support mean the world to me.
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to our amazing advertisers, without whom this magazine would not exist. Many of you have been advertising with me for well over 10 years, and some for more than 15 years. Your unwavering support and belief in the value of Strictly Business are the foundation of our success, and for that, I cannot thank you enough.
To our incredible readers, I want to remind you how important it is to mention Strictly Business when doing business with our advertisers. In this age of advertising
tracking, it’s vital that they know you found them in our magazine. Your voice is invaluable in supporting the businesses that make our community thrive.
And lastly, to my incredible team—thank you for your dedication, creativity, and hard work. It is your efforts that make this publication a reality, and I am endlessly grateful for everything you do.
This month’s issue highlights the many amazing non-profits that support our community. It is our great privilege to showcase them and the incredible impact they have on making Lincoln and Omaha such wonderful places to live.
Here’s to another great year of sharing your events, stories, and showcasing your employees.
With gratitude,
Paige Zutavern President, Strictly Business
Krueger Development has been contributing to Lincoln’s residential and commercial landscape for over 30 years. Its newest development, Water’s Edge at the Woodlands, will be opening this Spring! Located at 8801 Mohave Drive, in the quiet residential suburb of Yankee Woods Residences, Krueger Development’s community offers picturesque views, luxury amenities and elegantly designed apartment homes. The eight-building apartment complex will offer studio, onebedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom units. Each home will create an atmosphere of soft lighting, luxury appliances, neutral color palettes and harmonious finishes.
Water’s Edge gives residents an enjoyable experience in the best community in the area. Relaxation and recreation are at Krueger Development’s forefront, with a 24-hour fitness center, pickle ball court, luxurious outdoor pool, dog park and beautiful private pond where residents can picnic, relax and much more!
Water’s Edge is located near Nebraska Parkway, allowing its residents to reach some of the area’s best destinations within minutes. Water’s Edge residents enjoy convenient access to casual and fine dining, local breweries, shopping, entertainment,
outdoor recreation and highly-rated schools, and the city’s thriving downtown is within a comfortable ride. Commuting in and out of Water’s Edge Apartments is not only convenient, but simply effortless.
Krueger Development offers a wide array of apartment living in Lincoln, and its other properties include:
• Chantacleer Residences at 1400 Garret Lane
• The Mirada at 8455 Cody Drive
• Sierra Suites at 7501 S 15th Street
• The Dakota at 7500 S 15th Street
• Chatelaine Residences 55+ at 6201 Normal Blvd
For leasing inquiries, contact Siara Doggett, Regional Portfolio Director, at (402) 4234495 or siara@kruegerdevelopment.net.
CollaborativeMedicalAlternativesistheOnly Place
in Town Where You Can Receive a Sofwave Treatment
Collaborative Medical Alternative promotes a different kind of healthcare and now, they’re providing a treatment known as Sofwave!
Sofwave is an FDA approved ultrasonic device that delivers radio frequency deep into the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin for tighter and brighter skin. It’s a single 30-45 minute treatment with results that last up to two years! This treatment is for all skin types and though you have to wait four months for the results, it will be worth it!
Sofwave is a non-surgical treatment that is clinically proven to remodel collagen, which improves facial lines and wrinkles and lifting effect to the eyebrows, neck and submental region.
Collaborative Medical Alternatives PC is a private family practice that focuses on wellness and blending traditional medicine with holistic alternatives, with regenerative therapy to heal injuries and address degenerative changes naturally without surgery. To learn more, visit collabmedalternatives.com.
Come to the 53rd Annual Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show
Western National Bank Extends its Thanks for a Wonderful Coat Drive
On November 21, 2024, Western National Bank took part in the KLKN Channel 8 Coat Drive! With an initial goal of collecting 500 coats for those in need, the community’s overwhelming generosity helped them surpass that goal—reaching an extraordinary goal of 2,300 coats! All the donated coats were given to The People’s City Mission to help those in need.
Western National Bank extends their heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed and made this event such a remarkable success. They were proud to sponsor such an amazing event and help keep the people of Lincoln warm this winter.
Western National Bank is a community bank that is family-owned and operated with 11 locations throughout Nebraska and Kansas. Since its establishment in 2009, the bank has expanded through strategic acquisitions, providing a wide range of banking services to customers in various communities. With a commitment to delivering the best banking experience, Western National Bank continues to serve and support the local communities it operates in. Learn more at mywnb.com.
Get Involved in Tobacco Prevention and EducationwithTobaccoFreeLancasterCounty
Exhibitor contracts are available for the 53rd Annual Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show to be held February 7-9, 2025 at the Sandhills Global Event Center located at 84th and Havelock Ave. Show hours are Friday, 12 to 8 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. With over 50 years of history in Lincoln, it’s a community favorite!
Reach a year’s worth of customers in three days! Even with today’s online presence, most homeowners believe face-to-face contact is the best source of home improvement information. The Home & Garden Show, which is sponsored by the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL), provides a great opportunity to have “face-time” with potential customers. With over 12,000 attendees, they are the largest show in the market.
Professionals who display their products and services include:
• New Home Construction
• Remodeling
• Kitchens & Bathrooms
• Pools & Spas
• Heating & Air Conditioning
• Landscaping & Outdoor Living
• Fencing
• Windows, Roofing & Siding
• Financial & Professional Services
Exhibitor contracts are available online at hbal.org/builders-homegarden-show/exhibitors or by calling the HBAL office at (402) 423-4225.
As we step into the New Year, Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) invites individuals and organizations to participate in the ongoing efforts to create a healthier, tobacco-free community. This year, TFLC is focused on advancing key initiatives that address the widespread impact of tobacco and e-cigarette use.
TFLC works to eliminate tobacco use and exposure by focusing on: Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Housing: Advocating for policies that protect residents from the dangers of secondhand smoke and vapor.
Public Education on Flavored Products: Raising awareness about the risks of menthol and other flavored tobacco products, which disproportionately target youth and vulnerable populations.
Cultural Competency in Tobacco Education: Tailoring tobacco prevention programs to be culturally relevant and inclusive for diverse communities.
Systematic Cessation Referrals: Partnering with healthcare, social service, and education agencies to provide effective resources and support for people trying to quit tobacco use.
By engaging with the coalition, individuals and organizations can help identify additional areas of focus for the coming year, ensuring that all voices are heard and the needs of everyone in the community are addressed.
Join the movement to make Lancaster County a healthier place to live, work, and play. Get involved today at tobaccofreelancastercounty. org/get-involved.
Funding provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement.
Myotherapy Institute is Hosting a Ribbon Cutting!
On Friday, January 10, Myotherapy Institute is hosting a ribbon cutting! The event is set to take place from 11 to 11:30 a.m. at 245 S 84th St. STE 100. Stop by and check out their new building! Myotherapy Institute is a distinguished educational institution committed to offering comprehensive, research-based training in massage therapy. Their programs are deeply rooted in the profession's historical charm—the genuine, caring relationships between therapists and their clients.
Their curriculum is meticulously crafted to merge the clinical aspects of massage therapy with a compassionate understanding of client needs, ensuring students not only master techniques but also remain attuned to the holistic needs of those they serve.
The Institute encourages a culture of intellectual curiosity and creative thinking, empowering students to enhance the therapeutic process and explore their full potential. Learn more at myotherapy.edu.
UBT is Hosting Makers Markets at Union Bank Place
In the winter months of early 2024, Union Bank & Trust hosted a series of makers markets at Union Bank Place, their new home in downtown Lincoln. With great feedback from local vendors and the shoppers who stopped in to see them, they brought the event back for 2024-25 to being shoppers and vendors together!
They’ve selected a full slate of talented local vendors, with each upcoming event featuring a lineup of about 25 vendors, which will be announced before each market. The free-to-attend events also include some fun family crafts and other treats.
A special facet of the makers markets is the artwork of the late Lynne Faulkner, a beloved local artist and long-time art teacher with Lincoln Public Schools. Sales of her artwork will go to a fund powering art education in Lincoln schools. Upcoming events include:
Cupid’s Arrow Market
Saturday, February 8 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
If you’re wondering what to get that special someone for Valentine’s Day, stop by their vendor booths for the best handmade products for those you love — or treat yourself.
Spring Forward Market
Saturday, April 5 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
They’ll be ringing in Spring weather with one last market, full of family fun, great handmade products, and plenty of giveaways. All makers markets will take place in Union Bank Place at 1248 O St. in downtown Lincoln. Entry is free.
At UBT, people don’t have your money — your money has people. Learn more at ubt.com.
Help the Lincoln Stars Raise Money to Fight Cancer
Join Bryan Health to cheer on the Lincoln Stars, raise awareness and help local cancer patients. A portion of tickets sold and proceeds from the post-game jersey auction benefit the April Sampson Cancer Center patient fund. The game is on Saturday, January 18. Doors open at 5 p.m. and puck drops at 6:05 p.m. so make sure to get your tickets beforehand! Prices for the tickets start at $17.
This thrilling game of hockey versing the Muskegon Lumberjacks is the backdrop as they will showcase the amazing things that Bryan Health is doing to support those facing a cancer diagnosis. Visit etix.com to find tickets and make sure your donation counts!
The Lincoln Stars are a Tier I ice hockey team in the United States Hockey League (USHL). The USHL is the only top tier junior hockey league in the United States and are sanctioned by USA Hockey. The league consists of 16 teams located in the Midwestern United States, for players between the ages of 16 to 10. The league is strictly amateur allowing former players to compete in NCAA collegiate hockey. The Stars are a member of the Western Conference and were established in 1996. Games are played in the Ice Box right on UNL’s campus, a 4,321 seat multi-purpose arena. Players come from all over the world to play from September to mid-April/May depending on a playoff run. Learn more at lincolnstars.com.
Winter Season
Traditions Health is sending out a gentle reminder to stay protected this coming winter months. Remember to get your flu vaccine! Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications. Millions of people get sick with the flu every year and thousands will be hospitalized as a result. Make sure you and your loved ones are protected from the flu this season by:
• Talking to a doctor about a flu shot
• Getting your flu shot if you haven't yet
• Avoiding people who are sick
• Covering coughs
There’s still time! A flu vaccine is the best way to help protect yourself and those you love against the flu and its potentially serious outcomes.
Traditions Health provides Hospice services. Their goal is to help patients have the best quality of life possible by surrounded by the people they love. Learn more about their mission at traditionshealth. com/locations/lincoln-ne.
MYWellnessCenterBringsLightTherapyand Holistic Healing to Nebraska
MY Wellness Center, a sanctuary for holistic healing and well-being, proudly opened its doors in Lincoln, Nebraska, on September 3, 2024. Founded by sisters Sara Baldonado and Megan Bellamy, the center was born out of their deep belief in the transformative power of the Energy Enhancement System™ (EES). This cutting-edge light therapy technology uses scalar waves to promote physical, mental and emotional healing, offering hope and renewal to clients around the globe.
The inspiration behind MY Wellness Center comes from the sisters’ late sibling, Morgan Yardley, whose initials grace the name of the center. Morgan’s unwavering passion for alternative healing methods and holistic care was the driving force behind this heartfelt vision. Together, Sara, Megan and Morgan dreamed of creating a space where people could find light, hope and healing—a dream now brought to life in their wellness centers.
Building on the success of their Lincoln location, MY Wellness Center expanded with a second location in Kearney, Nebraska, in October 2024. Both centers welcome guests Monday through Saturday, offering a wide array of services designed to enhance the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Visitors to the Energy Spa can experience benefits such as:
• Detoxification
• Reduced inflammation and pain
• Improved circulation and sleep quality
• Boosted immune function
• Cellular regeneration
• And much more!
Beyond light therapy sessions, MY Wellness Center offers hour-long appointments, overnight stays, monthly sound bath retreats and private event space for a fully customizable wellness experience. Discover how MY Wellness Center can help you reclaim your energy and restore balance. Visit mywellnesscenterEES.com to learn more and give your body the power to heal itself.
True North Technologies is a Women-Owned Small Business
True North Technologies is proud to announce that they are officially certified as a WomenOwned Small Business (WOSB)! This certification represents more than just a title—it’s a testament to their dedication, perseverance and passion as a women-led business.
The WOSB program helps level the playing field for women entrepreneurs, opening doors to federal contracts in industries where women-owned businesses are underrepresented. With this certification, True North Technologies is excited to continue growing, contributing and making an even greater impact in our industry. They would like to thank everyone who has supported them on this journey—they couldn’t have done it without you! Here’s to breaking barriers and building the future!
True North Technologies’ purpose is to cultivate people, businesses and communities. They can help you create a buzz around your business with a clear and compelling message. They love what they do, and it shows! They know their industry like the back of their hands. There’s no challenge too big or too small, and they dedicate themselves to every project they take on. Learn more at go-tnt.com.
2024wasaLandmarkYearfortheLincolnAirport
In May, Lincoln Airport Authority proudly completed their twoyear terminal renovation project, celebrating with a public Open House and ribbon-cutting ceremony. This transformation has not only modernized LNK but also enabled the expansion of programs like their community tours.
Throughout the year, LNK has hosted well over 20 tours for community groups ranging from daycares and summer camps to Lincoln Public School’s Aviation Student Program and the Nebraska Center for the Education of Children Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired. Each tour was carefully tailored to its audience, offering participants a unique and engaging glimpse into the world of aviation and aviation careers. The success of this program has inspired them to grow and enhance these tours with the goal of inspiring the next generation to consider a career field in aviation and of course educate our community about LNK Airport.
Another highlight was the LNK Outdoor Movie Series. The season concluded in October with a Halloween-themed finale that featured a trunk-or-treat event and screening of Hocus Pocus. With over 1,600 attendees, it was truly a magical night to remember. These movie nights strengthened their relationships with local vendors, organizations and non-profits while creating a fun, family-friendly space for the community that over 9,000 enjoyed throughout the summer. They look forward to kicking off the series again in May 2025!
As Lincoln continues to thrive, they take pride in actively supporting our community through meaningful partnerships and collaborations. This year, they proudly sponsored the 2024 Good Life Halfsy, a nationally recognized half-marathon that brought over 7,000 runners to the city. And as the Official Airport of the Huskers, they further strengthened community ties through engaging giveaways and initiatives to sporting events, highlighting their dedication and love of the Huskers.
Learn more at lincolnairport.com.
January is the Perfect Time to Start a Project with Luxury Landscape
Did you know that winter is the perfect time to plan your spring landscape project with Luxury Landscape? The winter season gives you the time to start the process and carefully plan the landscape design without the pressure of a looming installation deadline. You and your landscaper can take time discussing ideas, narrowing down hardscape materials, selecting plants and refining the design to suit your needs.
As one of the top professional landscape designers and installers, Luxury Landscape can work with you to make adjustments to the design, ensuring that it complements the property in the long term. They want to make sure your wants and needs are met based on your style and how you wish to utilize your outdoor space. The winter months provide time and space to tweak plans and make final decisions.
Spring is the peak time for landscaping, so booking in winter ensures you get a spot on the schedule. Luxury Landscape books up quickly for spring installs, so by working ahead of time, you avoid the rush and delays. Visit their website for more information: luxurylandscape-llc.com.
Luxury Landscape was started all because a couple had a passion for creating unique, gorgeous and functional landscapes, using their 50+ years of landscape experience and offering it to their clients. Learn more at luxurylandscape-llc.com.
West Gate Bank Enhances Online Experience with New Website
Launched in December, West Gate Bank is excited to introduce its redesigned website, created to provide a more intuitive and personalized experience for customers. The new site offers streamlined navigation, an updated look and helpful tools such as drop-down menus that organizes products and services into clear categories in order to help users easily find the information they are looking for. The site also features an Account Finder tool, which guides customers to the Personal or Business account that suits them best and Frequently Asked Questions about their products and services.
This redesign reflects West Gate Bank’s commitment to providing a seamless and user-friendly experience for customers. Visit westgate. bank today to explore the new features.
West Gate Bank is a family-owned community bank, serving the Lincoln and Omaha markets for more than 50 years. Offering personal service, new and improved Digital Banking technology and accounts for all of your banking needs, West Gate Bank is committed to serving their communities. Learn more at westgate.bank.
SumnerPlaceCelebratedtheHolidaySeason at The Lincoln Zoo!
Sumner Place loves taking their patients out for special occasions and this holiday season was no exception! The nurses at Sumner Place took a trip to see the lights at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo. They had a magical evening just soaking it all in. The lights were a perfect break from the run of the mill lights at Sumner and their team is thankful to be able to do this!
The team at Sumner Place is committed to making a difference in the lives of seniors they care for. Though this outing may seem small, it was spectacular for the patients that don’t see things like this every day!
Vetter Senior Living is passionate about providing quality life and quality care for seniors. Their mission, Dignity in Life, is the heart of everything they do. They believe their unwavering commitment to excellence will allow them to change the view of long-term care. Learn more at sumnerplacecare.com.
ALLO Communications: Serving Nebraska Businesses for Over 20 Years
Since 2003, ALLO has been an integral partner for many businesses, providing powerful and innovative technology solutions for businesses of all sizes. From small startup businesses to large enterprises, ALLO’s customized toolkit of business solutions is designed to catapult business growth and scale with businesses as they grow.
ALLO is a Nebraska-born business that has grown into an awardwinning communications company, winning Best Internet Service Provider of 2024 across multiple Nebraska and Colorado markets. It has extended its influence across Nebraska, Colorado, Arizona and Missouri and proudly serves a population of over 1.2 million people—a number that is growing rapidly.
ALLO’s Business Services Include:
• Business Internet and Data
• Business TV
• Cybersecurity
• ALLO Smart Business App
• Next Generation Firewall
• Voice Solutions
• Cloud Voice
• Analog Voice
• Microsoft Teams Voice
• Technology Solutions
• PC Monitoring, maintenance and patching
• On-site, remote and automated support
• Endpoint detection and response
• Email security software
• Dark web monitoring and cybersecurity training
• Secure user password management platform
• Reporting
• Virtual CIO
ALLO’s history provides a solid foundation for a future of continued, innovative growth as a local telecommunications company. For more information on ALLO’s business solutions and how they can help your business achieve its goals, visit AlloBusiness.com or contact their sales team at (402) 480-6500.
CORE SERVICES LIGHTING DESIGN
Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate Hosted a Holiday Party!
Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate recently hosted a holiday party open house on Saturday, December 7, 2024! This party was one for the books with each person showing up with their best and brightest holiday spirit! Greenleaf would like to thank everyone for showing up, and they can’t wait to do it again next year! The team at Greenleaf wishes you a happy new year!
Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is a full service commercial real estate firm in Lincoln, Nebraska servicing clients across the state. With some of the most recognized names in the industry, their professionals have an established track record of performance. Whether you are planning to lease or purchase a business property—they have options tailored for you. Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate offers an array of business properties for office, retail, warehouse, industrial and land built for suit in the Lincoln area.
LIBA is Hosting the 2025 Free Enterprise Celebration
The Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) is delighted to announce the 2025 Free Enterprise Celebration, happening on Thursday, March 27 at the Embassy Suites in downtown Lincoln. This highly anticipated event promises an evening filled with networking, entertainment and a celebration of free enterprise.
• 4:30 p.m.: Kick off the evening with the Business of Politics Reception, where attendees can meet and greet local and state elected officials.
• 5:30 p.m.: The staggered live auction begins, featuring hundreds of items and services to bid on.
• 6:30 p.m.: Enjoy a delightful dinner while participating in a silent auction, continuing throughout the evening.
• 7:30 p.m.: Celebrate excellence with their annual LIBA awards and presentations, recognizing outstanding members of the business community.
• 8:30 p.m.: The night concludes with the auctioning of the final three live items.
The Free Enterprise Celebration attracts 500 attendees each year and features hundreds of items and services slated for auction. This year's event is set to captivate with fun games and amazing prizes, enhancing the excitement of both the live and silent auctions.
Businesses and individuals are welcome to sponsor the event and show their support for the local business community. Inquire about sponsorship opportunities and reserve your table of eight for $750 by contacting LIBAconvention@liba.org.
Join them for an unforgettable evening dedicated to celebrating and supporting free enterprise in Lincoln. This is a unique opportunity to connect with peers and leaders in the business sector while enjoying an exciting array of auction items and services!
The Lincoln Independent Business Association is committed to advocating for local businesses, promoting a free-market economy, and creating a vibrant business community in Lincoln.
TheLincolnHaymarketWelcomesaNewBrewery
Opened in October 2024, Salt Mine City Brewing Co. has expanded from David City, NE, into the heart of Lincoln, and they’re ready to be your go-to brewery. They have 12 different brews on tap and offer flights of four beers, with the owner Marty Roper recommending four flights in order to get the spectrum of what Salt Mine City has to offer you. Roper knows that not all beers are for everyone, which is why he’s helping people get introduced to their new favorite beer.
Salt Mine City is just a small-town brewery looking to make great beer; they’re here to make sure that you drink local, stop by any day of the week, their hours are located on their website at saltminecity. com.
Salt Mine City was formed in 2022. It started with a vision to brew great beer with great friends and to share their product in a new and exciting venue in the David City area. Their goal is to brew the best beer for a growing community. Learn more at take a peek at their menu at saltminecity.com.
Eakes Office Solutions Named 2024 Elite Dealer by ENX Magazine
ENX Magazine, a monthly publication dedicated to the office technology and document imaging industry, has been named a 2024Elite dealer.
ENX Magazine judges Elite Dealer applicants on several criteria, from technical service excellence to marketing proficiency, growth initiatives, technology leadership, industry accolades and community philanthropic support. Those dealers honored are profiled in the December issue of ENX Magazine. Eakes has been named an Elite Dealer in 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2014 through 2024. Congratulations, Eakes!
Eakes Office Solutions has grown into one of the largest locallyowned office product dealers serving the Midwest. They attribute Their growth to exceptional customer service and quality products and are driven to continue this tradition from one generation to the next. For all your office needs–think Eakes. Learn more about their business at eakes.com.
Don’t Miss the 2025 Lincoln’s Women’s Expo
Visit the Sandhills Global Event Center for Nebraska’s largest Women’s Event! The Lincoln Women’s Expo has become the city’s “Don’t-Miss-It” event of the year for women in the area! A time to relax, shop and enjoy the company of girlfriends is what the Lincoln’s Expo is all about. The expo takes place on Saturday, January 18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday, January 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and they can’t wait to see you there! Admission is $5 and will feature shopping, educational opportunities and free health screenings.
Women’s Lincoln Expo’s mission is to create an annual event that mothers, daughters, grandmothers, sisters, cousins, friends and coworkers look forward to attending year after year together. An event that offers health and wellness information and exposure to business that can benefit one’s well-being, while making a day of shopping, exploring, tasting and relaxing. Learn more about their mission and the expo at lincolnwomensexpo.com.
DAVID CITY, NE
Deer Springs Winery Presents Galentine’s Modern Calligraphy for Beginners
On Thursday, January 10, join Sip and Script for a night of learning calligraphy at Deer Springs Winery! Whether you’re a stationery nerd, DIY Bride-to-be or just a crafty individual, in this workshop you’ll be learning an introduction to modern calligraphy with a pointed dip pen and ink. They will cover all the basics and get you ready to add those special lettered details to your Galentine’s cards. The perfect crafty night out! Class includes one and a half hours of instruction and demonstration, their beginner’s calligraphy kit (two nibs, black ink pot, two letter guides, tracing paper and straight pen holder), and all materials to write on. Everything is yours to keep at the end of the workshop! Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for you to begin purchasing wine and/or charcuterie platters (you can purchase throughout class too!). Class will start promptly at 6 p.m.! The event is $65 a person and fills up quickly, so make sure to register early at sipandscript. com/events/all.
Deer Springs Winery is the culmination of the dream of Jim Partington, retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral and strike fighter pilot, to preserve his family heritage. Family owned and operated, their Nebraska Farm winery produces small lots of character-crafted wines for every taste preference with Nebraska grown grapes. Learn more at deerspringswinery. com.
Santa Brought Holiday Cheer to Bryan Health’s NICU
Christmas came early at Bryan Health’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit last month. Santa Claus paid a visit to each room and brought gifts for the littlest patients and their families. Santa was assisted by a NICU nurse dressed as an elf.
“It’s just really special to bring the magic of Christmas to them, especially to the little ones since it’s their first Christmas,” said Santa. “Just being here and bringing the magic of the North Pole just does wonders.”
Alex White is a nurse that cares for the babies and said the day had become a holiday tradition. “It’s so nice to see the parents light up, all the staff lights up, it just bring a little bit of holiday and fun to the NICU,” said White.
White calls what she does the best job ever. “Just spending that extra time with them because we know it’s a long journey and it’s a lot on the parents,” White said. “Mental health is really important so anything we can do to be family to them is very important to us too. It’s really fulfilling.”
Faith Niles gave birth to her son Bo three months ago, but he was supposed to be born on January 20. For parents like Faith, spending her son’s first Christmas in the hospital can be difficult, but bringing holiday cheer to the NICU helps.
White says there were no shortage of patients for Santa to visit. “We were up to 30 babies for a little bit,” White said.
The NICU at Bryan Health opened in 2008 and has since cared for thousands of premature babies and their families. Learn more about Bryan Health at bryanhealth.com.
Strictly Business recognizes this as the authorship of Tom Stanton of KLIN.
BUSINESS NEWS
ALLOFiberInstallsTemporaryLinesThisWinter
What are those lines doing in peoples’ yards?
Well, if one’s fiber is installed during winter when the ground is frozen, a temporary line will be installed in one’s yard. Don’t worry! This line is secure and provides the home with fiberfast speeds.
ALLO Fiber lays temporary lines, so its clients don't have to wait until the ground thaws for service. ALLO returns to bury the line as soon as the temps warm up in the spring.
ALLO Communications is a telecommunications company offering fiber telephone, long-distance, broadband, internet and television to residents and businesses. ALLO currently provides communications services to 48 cities across Nebraska, Colorado, Arizona and Missouri, totaling over 1.2 Million in population.
For questions about temporary lines, contact ALLO at info@allofiber. com or (402) 480-6500.
Join White Elm Brewing Co for Their Boozy Book Fair
Elleinad Books and White Elm Brewing Co are teaming up for Round Two of Books & Brews: A Boozy Book Fair, but this time, they are adding a theme: Romance/Love/Valentines!
Join them on Thursday, January 30 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at 2717 S 18th St.—they can guarantee you are in a for a good time! They have also added additional vendors; including The 3AM Co. Stay tuned to see who else will join. Food for the night will include Golden Goat Pizza and Meta Modern BBQ.
Healthcare employees, they are celebrating you with White Elm offering $4 pints and Elleinad Books offering 15% off your purchase! Stop at the end of January for a bookish night that you won’t forget!
White Elm Brewing Company was established in Lincoln in 2016. Learn more and order at whiteelmbrewing.com.
SaveNebraskaLocalisHostingaNetworking Event!
Stop by Harbor Coffee off of Cotner Boulevard for the best networking event for business owners and professionals! Join Save Nebraska Local for an evening of discussion and socializing! The networking event is on Thursday, January 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Join them to start your year off right! Networking is not only about trading information, but also serves as an avenue to create long-term relationships with so many mutual benefits. Save Nebraska Local was started to strengthen local community ties in the midst of uncertainty. Large corporations, big box chains and institutions may not know what's best for our Nebraska community. In fact, it's almost certain that they don't. Nebraska citizens aren't jig saw puzzles that these larger corps can just copy/paste onto. There's nothing wrong with large corporations, but they are on track to gain too much influence over our local economy, culture, jobs, health and even overall well-being.
Save Nebraska Local is a grassroots project aimed at helping shift consumer purchasing, and the group is free. Learn more at savenebraskalocal.com.
Sun Valley Lanes & Games Launches eGift Cards Options
Sun Valley Lanes & Games is thrilled to ring in the New Year with the recent launch of its highly anticipated eGift Cards, available now on the company’s website. Designed for ultimate convenience, these eGift Cards can be sent to recipients via email or text and even scheduled to deliver at a later date, making them the perfect gift for any occasion.
“We’re excited to offer our guests a quick, easy, and thoughtful way to share the Sun Valley Lanes & Games experience,” said John Losito, owner of Sun Valley Lanes & Games. “With the added feature of scheduling delivery, you can plan ahead and make someone’s day extra special, right on time.”
eGift Cards are redeemable for bowling, food, and more, providing endless options for fun and entertainment. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, marking a holiday, or giving a ‘just because’ surprise, these eGift Cards bring joy straight to the recipient’s inbox. To purchase an eGift Card, visit the Gift Card page at sunvalleylanes. com
Sun Valley Lanes & Games is your go-to spot for endless fun, mouthwatering dining and friendly competition, right here in the heart of Nebraska. Learn more and reserve a spot at sunvalleylanes.com.
The Nebraska Communities Playhouse (NCP) is excited to announce its upcoming 2025 season, bringing an exciting lineup of performances to the stage and offering businesses an exclusive opportunity to become part of the action through corporate sponsorships. The season will showcase a diverse range of productions, from timeless classics to bold new works, appealing to audiences of all ages and interests.
NCP is currently seeking corporate sponsors for the 2025 season. With sponsorship benefits including up to 300 tickets to NCP’s shows throughout the year and a range of advertising platforms, this is a unique opportunity to partner with one of the region’s most beloved community theater organizations. Sponsorships offer visibility across NCP’s season, including recognition in marketing materials, on the NCP website, at performances and more. Businesses interested in learning more about these exciting sponsorship opportunities can contact the NCP team at info@neplayhouse. com for full details.
In addition to corporate sponsorships, NCP is also offering season subscriptions for the 2025 performances. With four, five and six-show options, patrons can customize their theater experience and make seat selections at any time following their purchase. Subscriptions are available now at neplayhouse.com.
The Nebraska Communities Playhouse (NCP) has been a cornerstone of the Hickman community for many years, whose mission is to be a welcoming and innovative community providing opportunities to create, learn and appreciate the arts. For more information about the 2025 season, corporate sponsorships or to purchase season tickets, please visit neplayhouse.com or contact NCP at info@neplayhouse.com.
New Year, not a new you—just a better version of you! Why aim to make an entirely new you when you can level up the amazing person you already are? Green Line Nutrition is all about progress, not perfection.
Join their 21-day challenge starting Monday, January 6, and take the first step toward becoming a strong, healthier and more confident you! The entry fee is just $15. By joining, you’re eligible to win the grand prize (the pool of money entered by all participants!). All you need is the desire to be a better version of yourself. Contact them through their number at (531) 249-2940, to get started!
It’s three simple steps!
1. Schedule your free nutrition assessment to figure out your goals and create a game plan to accomplish them!
2. Choose the meal plan that best suits your lifestyle.
3. Get incredible results alongside your accountability partners!
Green Line Nutrition saw a lack of delicious, low-calorie and nutritious options that fit meal plans. So, they decided to change that and create a space where everyone can find tasty, healthy choices to fuel their day. Learn more through their Facebook (@GreenLineNutrition).
Husker Energy and Power Earns Green Business of Year Award
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln was named the 2024 Green Business of the Year by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, recognition of the university’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
The award honors businesses that go beyond local, state and federal environmental regulations, with a focus on achievements in pollution prevention, waste reduction, and energy efficiency. The Husker Energy and Power team, which manages the university’s sustainability efforts, has been at the forefront of these initiatives. Husker Energy and Power is led by Clay Kelly, director of utility services.
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln has made significant strides in energy efficiency in the past several decades. The work has made Nebraska’s flagship university as the most energy-efficient campus in the Big Ten Conference.
Partnerships with local utilities have also been key to Husker Energy and Power’s success. In collaboration with the Lincoln Electric System, the university has installed 12 million gallons of chilled water storage on campus. This system shifts 20% of peak power use to off-peak periods, reducing energy costs and lessening the burden on municipal power resources.
Another highlight of the university’s sustainability efforts is the Central Renewable Energy System at Nebraska Innovation Campus. The system captures thermal energy from wastewater at the nearby City of Lincoln treatment facility and uses it to sustainably heat and cool campus buildings.
In addition to energy initiatives, the university has made strides in waste reduction. The university’s All in the Hall recycling program and the installation of biodigesters in campus dining centers have helped divert 50% of the university’s waste from landfills in the past five years.
The Green Business of the Year award underscores the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s dedication to environmental stewardship, with a focus on long-term solutions that benefit the campus, local community and environment.
Learn more at news.unl.edu.
Acton Academy Lincoln is Expanding!
Are you looking for a school that breaks the mold? Look no further! Acton Academy of Lincoln is expanding, and they are inviting just a few more families to join their thriving learning community. Imagine your child in a place where critical thinking, creativity and real-world skills are at the heart of every day. While they are growing, space is still limited for their 2025 fall term. Request your free info kit today and see if they’re the right fit for your family. Get registered at actonacademylincoln.com.
They are parents just like you—searching for the answer to children’s education.
They believe that:
• Clear thinking leads to good decisions
• Good decisions lead to the right habits
• The right habits forge character
• Character determines destiny
They believe self-directed, peer-to-peer, learner-driven communities built by young heroes will deliver transformational learning at a cost all parents can afford. Visit actonacademylincoln.com for more information.
Leadership Harbor LLC is Hosting Eight Coaching Sessions!
The Leadership Harbor Learning Center wants you to feel like you’re ahead of the curve. In today’s fast-paced world, many people face a growing "energy gap," where they are overwhelmed by responsibilities yet have little time or energy left for what truly matters. Gradual changes like increasing work demands, family obligations and the ever-present digital distractions have normalized a life without breathing room. This norm threatens well-being, leaving people stressed and disconnected from meaningful experiences. Imagine a life free from the constant pressure of time—a life where you can focus on what brings joy and fulfillment. What would it take to bridge this gap? Identifying and overcoming barriers is the key: whether it’s reevaluating your priorities, letting go of unnecessary commitments or learning to manage distractions.
There are eight sessions over eight weeks with an in-person option and a Zoom option.
Beginning January 9 - Each Thursday from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. (January 9, 16, 23, 30 and February 6, 13, 20 and 27).
Leadership Harbor will run 3 sessions of content and application and then spend a session with more of a coaching format to unlock more of your potential (January 30) and then do another three sessions of content and application and end with another coaching session to formalize an action plan (February 27).
Does your current lifestyle reflect your values and the impact you want to make? Let's make this coming year different - maybe even better - than last year. It’s time to realign and make choices that foster connection, purpose and peace. RSVP at leadershipharbor.com/events-1/its-about-time.
Leadership Harbor is empowering people to achieve their potential with confidence and influence. Learn more at leadershipharbor.com.
Ironhide
Construction Just Completed a Massive Project!
The team at Ironhide Construction is thrilled to celebrate the completion of this massive and exciting project! The AdventHealth Sports Park at Bluhawk in Overland Park, KS, is now officially open, and it’s poised to welcome an incredible 3.8 million visitors annually. This state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue offers toptier amenities for athletes, families and fans. Their team proudly contributed to this facility by erecting:
• A 39,352 square foot Chief Metal Building System housing an NHL-size ice rink with mezzanine-level viewing suites.
• A 76,184 square foot Chief Metal Building System designed for versatility, featuring basketball courts that convert to volleyball or pickleball courts, alongside a 40,000 square foot turf field. They’re honored to have been part of a project of this scale and purpose. It’s truly rewarding to see the impact it will have on the community. They extend huge thanks to everyone involved!
Ironhide Construction has built a reputation throughout Nebraska for providing quality buildings and genuine service at a reasonable price. From design phase to final punch list, they pride themselves in providing expert advice, skilled craftsmanship and top-notch construction management. Learn more at ironhideconstruction.com.
Commonwealth Announces Vision for PhilanthropicGiving:EnergizingCommunities for a Brighter Tomorrow
Commonwealth Holdings, Inc., along with its subsidiaries Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest and Rydalch Electric, Inc., is proud to unveil its comprehensive vision for philanthropic giving through its “Commonwealth Cares” initiative. This initiative goes beyond local giving and volunteer efforts, aiming to significantly illuminate lives and serve the communities in which Commonwealth operates.
Commonwealth’s approach to philanthropy is rooted in the understanding that the company does not solely exist to deliver top-tier electrical, low voltage, and exposition services, but also to actively contribute to the betterment of its industry, customers and communities. Commonwealth Cares formalizes all aspects of the company’s giving under the banner "Energizing Communities for a Brighter Tomorrow."
The Commonwealth Cares initiative is structured to ensure sustained and impactful giving. Commonwealth will continue to support local customer-giving causes, youth sports teams, charitable donations, and volunteering efforts such as Habitat for Humanity and Meals on Wheels. At the holding company level, a significant percentage of net profits will be allocated annually towards this strategic effort. The Employee Ownership Committee has developed mechanisms for employees to nominate and vote on charitable causes and organizations to support. This participatory approach fosters a sense of ownership and community within Commonwealth, encouraging employees to actively contribute by nominating charities that are important to them. This inclusive process allows employees to use their skills, volunteer their time and have a say in the philanthropic direction of their company.
Commonwealth Holdings, Inc., along with its subsidiaries Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest and Rydalch Electric, Inc., is a 100% Employee Owned, full-service electrical and low voltage contractor located in Arizona, Iowa, Nebraska and Utah. Learn more at commonwealthelectric.com.
Embassy Suites by Hilton has Started Renovations!
Renovations are officially underway in Embassy Suites by Hilton in their Atrium! Over the coming months, they’ll be transforming their public spaces throughout the first floor to create an event more inviting and modern experience for their guest and community. They’re committed to making your stays and visits better than ever, and they can’t wait to share the refreshed look with you! Stay tuned for updates and sneak peeks as they bring their new vision to life!
At Hilton, it matters where you stay, but the stay is only one side of the story. They’re here for all of your hotel needs! Spending the night in their luxurious hotel accommodations is an experience they want their guests to remember. That's why they provide the very best of hotel services and amenities in order to make your stay in Lincoln as pleasurable as possible. Learn more at hilton.com/en/brands/ embassy-suites.
Tacos Los Hermanos is Officially Open in Lincoln!
Started by two brothers in Grand Island, Tacos Los Hermanos offers authentic Mexican food and delivery service, right here in Lincoln. They’re all about serving up a fiesta of flavors! Their menus boast a mouthwatering array of options to satisfy every craving. Whatever you’re in the mood for, they’ve got it covered. They have the best birria, tacos and antojitos in Nebraska with everything they sell being made with love.
They opened on November 18, 2024, at 4401 N 70th St. after starting their service as a food truck! If you’re in the mood for good food with a good atmosphere, make sure to stop by! They’re open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays. Learn more and order today at tacosloshermanos.com.
Gathering Grove Celebrates the Success of First Friday!
The Gathering Grove wants to sincerely thank all 98 of the wonderful guests and six artists who made First Friday happen last night! The artwork was incredible with several pieces sold and several more commissions made. They loved the sense of community that was formed and getting to share their wonderful space with everyone! If you want to host an event at The Gathering Grove, feel free to reach out here, via their website, or by email at events@tgglincoln. com.
The Gathering Grove is a meeting and event space in Northeast Lincoln. Holding 50-100 comfortably, this is your perfect place to host or attend your next meeting, event, training, workshop, yoga class or sound bath.
Explore more of what The Gathering Grove can offer for your next event! At The Gathering Grove, they strive to provide a unique and tranquil setting for events and wellness activities. Their space is designed to offer a harmonious blend of nature and comfort, fostering an environment that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Learn more at tgglincoln.com.
(402) 625-6578
www.insuranceonpoint.com
by Krista Dittman Agent, Individual & Senior Benefits
Health Savings Account
What is an HSA exactly? A Health Savings Account is a savings account that allows money to be set aside tax-free to pay for qualified medical expenses for yourself and immediate family members.
Who can contribute to an HSA? Anyone enrolled in an especially designated qualified High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) either through the Marketplace or an employer-based plan.
Where can I open an HSA? A bank where you currently do business makes for easy transfers between accounts. There are other options to research online that may offer higher returns or the option to reinvest. Unlike an FSA, the money in an HSA is retained by the account owner and any remaining balance rolls over from year to year.
Why would I want to open an HSA? Dollars you contribute to your HSA are considered pre-tax dollars. This means that the amount contributed reduces taxable income. This deduction is calculated on the tax return for the contribution year. The money in this account also grows tax-free. Spending this money for qualified medical expenses for the account owner, spouse or eligible dependents is also tax-free. These funds may NOT be used to pay for health insurance premiums.
When can’t I contribute to an HSA? Once enrolled in any part of Medicare, whether enrolling in Part A when turning 65, or being awarded Medicare eligibility through a disability determination, HSA contributions must cease. If enrolling in Medicare later than age 65, it is important to remember that the Part A start date will be six months prior to the Part B effective date. In this instance, you would need to discontinue your HSA contribution six months prior to enrolling in Medicare.
How much can I contribute? Every year the IRS determines the HSA contribution limits. For 2025 an individual may contribute up to $4,300; the family maximum is $8,550; for individuals 55 and older, an additional $1,000 “catch-up” amount is allowed. An HSA contribution can be made before the tax filing deadline for that coverage year.
If deciding to enroll in an insurance plan that allows HSA contributions seems confusing, let the licensed insurance agents at On Point Insurance Agency help!
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of the Largest Hydraulic Seal Inventories in the Midwest
Building Tomorrow
STAR CITY SIX CRYSTAL
Crystal Bock Thiessen HUB CAFE AND GLOBAL TIES NEBRASKA
Meet Crystal Bock Thiessen, Owner of the Hub Café and Executive Director at Global Ties Nebraska.
Tell us a little about your business. - The Hub Café was founded in 2016 as a farm-to-fork breakfast, brunch, and lunch restaurant. Serving as a “hub” for community and on the “hub” of some of Lincoln’s many bicycle trails, the Hub Café prides itself on fresh, locally-sourced, chef-driven dishes.
Global Ties Nebraska is a nonprofit local affiliate of Global Ties U.S. and is dedicated to fostering international exchange and citizen diplomacy.
How did you get started in the business? - For the Hub Café, my husband, Jake, was hired on as the sous chef when they opened in 2016, eventually working up to Executive Chef and on the path to purchasing the place from the original owner, Doug Dittman, which we eventually did in July 2023. Prior to our purchase, I served as the Hub’s social media and communications manager.
I became involved with Global Ties Nebraska in 2014 as a board member because of my experience with and interest in global exchanges and international education, and that passion has only grown through being able to host and program for the international leaders who visit us here in Nebraska.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Honestly, balancing different professions and constantly changing my different hats daily has often been challenging, but is also quite rewarding as I get to be involved in so many different areas of personal and professional interest.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?This is a hard one…since I’m also an English language teacher at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (my “real” full-time job), I think a lot of my professional achievements relate to education, publication and work with my students from all over the world. With Global Ties U.S., becoming the first Executive Director of the organization has been an especially great achievement, and I’m quite proud of the contributions I’ve made with my team to get us to that point.
Tell us a little about your family. - Jake and I and two cats, Harvey and Amos.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The biggest turning point in my life was studying abroad in the Netherlands when I was in college. After that experience, I was hooked on seeing and absorbing the world as much as possible and have been to 54 countries since then. The second was when Jake and I lived and worked in Japan for three years, followed by me living in eastern Ukraine for one. Those years really taught me what it meant to be a part of a community and how it’s the people that make a place especially important in our lives, not necessarily the place itself, so it’s important to make, cultivate and maintain those relationships with others in our lives.
What local nonprofit organizations are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Besides Global Ties Nebraska, I am also a supporting member of the Great Plains Trails Network because of their dedication to improving and expanding the bicycle trails network in Lincoln and beyond. Additionally, I serve on the South Salt Creek Community Organization as board president because I think that really transformative community impact begins close to home with our neighbors and in our neighborhoods. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
- Hub Café: hubcafelincoln.com and @hubcafelincoln | Global Ties Nebraska: globaltiesnebraska.com and @globaltiesne.
JEFF STAR CITY SIX
Jeff Korbelik
JAMES ARTHUR VINEYARDS
Meet Jeff Korbelik, the Winery Manager at James Arthur Vineyards.
Tell us a little about your business. - Opened in 1997, James Arthur Vineyards (JAV) is the state’s oldest operating winery, specializing in wine and hard apple cider. The winery hosts several special events throughout the year, including its popular Summer Music Series, World Famous Murder Mysteries and Haunted Hayrack Rides. JAV also has a tasting room in Lincoln’s Haymarket at the From Nebraska Gift Shop.
How did you get started in the business? - I’ve known co-owner Jim Ballard since we were fraternity brothers together at UNL in the 1980s. I worked part-time at JAV from 2005-12 for vacation money. After retiring from a 30-year career in newspapers, I accepted Jim’s offer to manage the winery.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? biggest challenge was becoming a salesperson. But it’s much easier when you have a product that people really want!
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Helping to coordinate our events. We’ve been very lucky to either sell out or have a large attendance at many of our events. We’re thrilled to provide our patrons experiences they will remember!
Tell us a little about your family. - My wife, Rebecca, and I have two dogs, Satchel and Oscar, and four backyard chickens.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - I have two. The first was when I left sports writing for feature writing in 1998. That led me to 25-year career as the Lincoln Journal Star’s dining critic, which I will cherish forever. The second was retiring from the newspaper business in 2018 to join JAV.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - My wife and I have a cabin on the Platte River, just outside of Valley and Elkhorn. We love spending time there when we can.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I always tell people I wanted to be a starting pitcher for the New York Mets, but since I had mediocre athletic abilities, I became a sportswriter instead. My dream was to cover a Nebraska national championship football team and was able to do so three times.
Who inspires you? - My wife and my parents.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Laughter is the best medicine.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Dependable.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? - R.E.M’s “Man on the Moon”.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Flying. What local nonprofit organization are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Flatwater Shakespeare Company. As a features writer and editor for the Journal Star, I covered the Lincoln theater scene. I became a big fan of Flatwater’s mission to make Shakespeare accessible and of its impact on Lincoln residents, young and old.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Great Gatsby.
What is your favorite movie? - Elmer Gantry.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - jeffjavwines@gmail.com
STAR CITY SIX TEHL
Tehl Keslar
CENTRAL STATES HYDRAULICS
Meet Tehl Keslar, Owner of Central State Hydraulics.
Tell us a little about your business. - Central States Hydraulics is a full-service machine shop that specializes in repairs of hydraulic cylinders, pumps, motors and heavy equipment.
How did you get started in the business? – My wife and I purchased the business in September 2022. I have 15 years of manufacturing operational experience and most recently prior to owning this was the COO of Rocket Car Wash, where I helped expand it from three locations to seven locations between Omaha and Lincoln.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – The first two to three years of owning a business are really the toughest to make work. There’s a different mindset to owning and running a business, but my experience in my previous roles helped me become resilient and capable of changes and challenges.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Now that I own a business, I’m able to finally work for myself and I enjoy that very much!
Tell us a little about your family. – My wife, Kelsey, and I are high school sweethearts. We’ve been married for 16 years and together for 23 years. We have three busy kids, Alayna-11, Patrick-nine, and Tate-four. My wife is a CFO at a company in Omaha, and we spend a ton of time supporting our kids at the different sports they play.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Probably when I bought my business and my decision to go into business ownership.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Hunting or golfing are always going to be my go-tos on my days off, and spending time with my family.
Who inspires you? – My wife, my team, and my close friends. I love watching and seeing them have success professionally, in family and life.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – My dad always said “Never be content with average because it’s just as close to the top as it is to the bottom”. I’m not sure where he got that from, but it’s a piece of wisdom I always carry with me.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Passionate.
What local nonprofit organization are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – I’m involved with the Nebraska One Box Pheasant Hunt in Broken Bow, NE. They support hunting, shooting and habitat conservation and I’m proud to be the past shooter chairman of the event this year.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss. It totally opened my eyes to a different lens of how to approach your ideal running of a business and your life.
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? – Misty’s.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – The most interesting right now is probably Donald Trump.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – They can contact our main office at (402) 438-5900; visit our website at cshydraulics.com or by email at office@cshydraulics.com.
KELLY STAR CITY SIX
Kelly Burge
CRUISE & ASSOCIATES
Meet Kelly Burge, Business Development Director at Cruise & Associates.
Tell us a little about your business. - Cruise & Associates has been a full-service accounting firm since 1991. We do everything from a basic tax return to full-service accounting/bookkeeping/advisory for small to medium-sized businesses. We have seven locations in Nebraska: Columbus, Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, Norfolk, Wayne and Albion.
How did you get started in the business? - I have been in sales my entire adult life, and seven years ago when I started with Cruise & Associates, I was calling for prospects and a part of the marketing team, and I was in that position for 5 years. My supervisor, when I started, retired in October of 2022, and they hired someone in his position for about three months. When they did not work out, I spoke with my significant other and asked him what he thought about me applying for the promotion. He was and is very supportive and eight days before my 50th birthday, I was offered the position of Business Development Director.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - This year has been especially busy for Cruise & Associates, and this summer, I broke the company record with the most business service agreements in company history.
Tell us a little about your family. - My significant other, Tom, and I have been together for just about six years. He has two sons, and we have three grandchildren, two girls and a boy.
We also have three puppies, Katrina, a 17-year-old Schnoodle, Molly, a year-old Morkie and Baxter, a three-month-old Morkie. Tom is semi-retired and works at one of the local bowling alleys.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Honestly, when I got promoted to my current position. I am a “people person” and love to talk to everyone. When I started driving to our other offices and meeting with the people about how we can help them and get things done for them, it is rewarding. Some of the potential clients that come in have come into hard times or have had something catastrophic happen that they need some help with. Some of them have waited years, and now, things are catching up with them, and they are worried. It is nice to see the “worry” come off their face and the weight off their shoulders when they know everything will be okay.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - The nonprofit that I hold near and dear to my heart is Playing for an Angel Co-Ed Softball Tournament. 12 years ago, a couple of my friends wanted to organize a co-ed softball tournament to raise money for their cousin, who had recently passed away from cancer, for a park bench in his honor at their local park, and they wanted my help. We named the tournament, Playing for an Angel. We made enough money that year to purchase a bench in Trevor’s honor. The following year we thought, “We had so much fun; let’s do it again, we broke even.” Since the first tournament, we have played for over 25 Angels and have raised over $50,000 for local families who are suffering or have suffered from the financial burdens of cancer. We have teams from Columbus, Norfolk, Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, Kearney and so many other communities that come and play. Several of the teams have played for multiple years.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - kellyb@cruise-associates.com | (402) 480-0498 | cruiseassociates.com
STAR CITY SIX JURA
Jura Michael
THE WATERFORD COMMUNITIES
Meet Jura Michael, Administrator at The Waterford Communities at Williamsburg and Wilderness Hills.
Tell us a little about your business. - In the heart of Lincoln, The Waterford at Williamsburg and The Waterford at Wilderness Hills Memory Care stand as beacons of compassionate senior care. At the helm of these family-owned communities is me, Jura Michael, an administrator whose nearly 30 years of experience embodies dedication, hard work, and a true passion for serving the elderly population.
The Waterford at Williamsburg offers 40 apartments, creating a warm, home-like atmosphere where residents can thrive. At Wilderness Hills Memory Care, the community is even more intimate, with 16 apartments designed to foster close-knit connections among residents. This scale allows me to ensure personalized, dignified care for every elder.
Our mission is to provide a place where seniors can age in place with grace and independence. We are driven by a passion for creating a sense of home, whether it’s through the relationships we build or the environment we maintain.
How did you get started in the business? - My career began nearly 30 years ago as a dietary aide, but my journey into senior care was far from linear. Over the decades, I deliberately immersed myself in nearly every role within the field—working as a nursing assistant, a medication aide and even in social services. Each position gave me a new perspective and a deeper understanding of the intricate needs of both residents and staff.
I found my true passion in this work early on. Through every role, I gained insight into how we can provide better care and create a more meaningful experience for our elders. It’s been a journey of growth and purpose that led me to administration.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?One of the most significant obstacles I have faced is addressing outdated stereotypes about assisted living. For so many people, assisted living is still associated with the old image of a ‘nursing home’—a dark, lonely place. My grandmother felt the same way and resisted the idea of moving into care, but the reality today is so different. Assisted living communities are vibrant, dignified and designed to offer residents independence and choice. It’s not about taking something away—it’s about enhancing their lives. Educating families and residents about these modern realities has become an essential part of my role. Combating loneliness, boredom and depression among elders is just as critical as providing physical care.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?I love hands on work and most of my achievements are not in policies or systems, but in the relationships I have formed over the years! You end up becoming part of the residents’ families and their loved ones’ families. That connection is incredibly rewarding—it’s what motivates me every day.
Tell us a little about your family. - I’m a proud mother of three children, all of whom share her passion for caring for the elderly population! And, my family will soon be growing! I’m becoming a grandmother as soon as well. I couldn’t be prouder of my children. To see them inspired by the same work I love is the greatest gift If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Contact the Waterford Communities at (402) 423-0000 | home@ thewaterford.net |thewaterford.net.
STAR CITY SIX CHRIS
Chis Rogers
LINCOLN RUNNING COMPANY
Meet Chris Rogers, Owner of Lincoln Running Company.
Tell us a little about your business. - Lincoln Running Company is a locally owned Running store that specializes in running and walking. Locally owned for 49 years by the same family. We are very committed in what we do and have over 100 years of experience in our line of work. It’s not just selling shoes though to us, It’s about helping our customers and building relationships with them. Selling shoes is a big part of our business but we do much more than that.
How did you get started in the business? - I started selling shoes in 2008 after an injury at my previous job that left me unable to continue in that role. Over the years, I’ve worked my way through various aspects of the job—selling shoes, stocking shelves and replenishing products. As time went on, I realized I truly enjoyed what I was doing. While stocking shelves wasn't my favorite part, I loved engaging with customers, hearing about their passion for running and walking and helping them find the perfect shoe.
Now, in 2025, I’m still in the shoe business and wouldn’t change a thing! I may do a little less stocking these days, but it’s still a part of the daily routine. :)
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Working in retail, I've faced a variety of challenges, not just personally but for the business as a whole. The rise of online shopping has been the biggest obstacle. With more and more people opting to shop from home, businesses that rely on foot traffic need to adapt. The key to overcoming this challenge is ensuring that we have a team of knowledgeable staff who provide excellent customer service. It’s about creating an experience that makes customers want to visit the store, and more importantly, come back. Without customers walking through the door, small businesses like ours won’t succeed.
Tell us a little about your family. - My wife, Miranda, and I got married in 2021, and we have a beautiful daughter, Kennedy, who is 18 months old. In March, we’re excited to be expecting our second child. Miranda is a dedicated 4th-grade teacher at LPS and has been teaching for seven years.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Getting hurt back in 2008 to make me come down and work in the store. For the longest time I thought I was going to go into the military but when I got hurt and started working selling shoes it changed everything. I don’t know where I would be today if that did not happen.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Being with family and friends is one thing I cannot get enough of! Being in the outdoors, whether its hunting, fishing or golf! But most important being with my daughter and watching her grow up!
Who inspires you? - My dad has always been my biggest inspiration. He’s taught me so much, including how to run a business. I honestly don’t think I’d be the person I am today without his guidance and support. I can only hope that I can be the same kind of influence for my own kids. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - We donate shoes to many different organizations throughout Lincoln. I would have to say that the biggest one we are most involved with is The Bridge Behavioral Health. We began a running club there three days a week that helps with them to overcome their addictions. By making sure they have good shoes on their feet they keep running. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 474-4557 | lincolnrunning@allophone.com | website at shoplincrunningcompany.com
WE’RE CELEBRATING 100 YEARS!
It’s been a remarkable year for Kingery Construction Co. as we celebrate 100 years. Our ongoing commitment to excellence propels us forward as we eagerly embrace future opportunities and nurture partnerships.
With a focus on the future, we’re primed to embark on new ventures, innovate projects, and further enrich Nebraska’s communities. Our dedication and partnership focus ensures a sustained positive impact for years ahead.
Expect the following when working with Kingery Construction:
• Clear processes and communication with Owners
• Accountability
• Understanding of your vision and expectations
• A 100 year record of reliability
Kingery has the ability to figure the ins and outs of a project at a very early stage in the delivery process. With a “no fear” attitude, we can out-think everyone else. The team approach to problem solving is well developed and has a track record of success. This permits us to offer accurate estimates, offering comprehensive construction solutions and precise estimates. Our knack for developing and maintaining relationships sets us apart, enabling seamless project implementation and strong community involvement.
UNICOGroupWelcomesFiveNewCommercial Risk Advisors
UNICO Group, a client-focused insurance broker, recently welcomed five new Commercial Risk Advisors to its team: Jonah Cohen, Nate Fisher, Grant Huck, Chase Keitges and Noah Kulhanek. This strategic move reinforces the company’s commitment to growth.
Grant and Noah, both transitioning from their previous roles as Account Executives at UNICO, showcase the company’s commitment to fostering internal and individual growth. As advisors, they’ll be able to tap into the network and relationships established in their previous role.
Nate, Jonah and Chase will focus on growing their professional networks and providing comprehensive risk management solutions to businesses within the Omaha metro. Their addition to the team will strengthen UNICO’s strategic capabilities and contribute to their ongoing success and growth.
Shane Ideus, President of UNICO group, expressed enthusiasm about the new advisors stating, “We are thrilled to welcome these five talented individuals to our commercial risk advisory team. This not only strengthens our capabilities but also aligns perfectly with our growth strategy for the Omaha market.”
Jonah, a Denver native and University of Kansas alumnus, brings a fresh perspective to UNICO Group. Prior to joining the team, Jonah honed his skills as a business consultant at Deloitte Consulting, where he worked with Fortune 500 clients to modernize and migrate their legacy software systems. His decision to join UNICO was driven by the company's outstanding commitment to investing in its people and culture.
And expertise will be instrumental in serving clients in Commercial Real Estate, Hospitality/Entertainment, Telecommunications and Nonprofits sectors.
Nate Fisher adds a unique dimension to UNICO with his professional sports background. Originally from Yutan, NE, Nate attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln before an exciting stint as a professional baseball player for multiple organizations across the United States. The palpable enthusiasm and pride at UNICO is what drew him to the organization, from his first interaction with Shane to the entire hiring process. With his diverse experiences and collaborative spirit, Nate will be well-suited to serve clients in Manufacturing, Construction, Trucking and Commercial Real Estate Sectors.
Grant joins UNICO Group as a valuable addition to the Capital Markets team. A fellow graduate of the University of Kansas, he hails from Bellevue, NE, bringing a wealth of experience from his previous role at another insurance brokerage where he focused on employee benefits. Grant was drawn to UNICO by the leadership's strategic vision and the company's national reach. His expertise in employee benefits and his alignment with UNICO's values make him a perfect fit for providing top-tier service to clients in the Capital Markets sector.
Chase, combining his Lincoln roots with a diverse professional background, brings a range of well-rounded skillsets to UNICO. A Nebraska Wesleyan University alumnus, he was initially a teacher and coach through Lincoln Public Schools for four years before transitioning to insurance. Now, Chase leverages his experience to serve his focus areas of Nonprofits, WhiteCollar Industries and Golf Courses. He’s eager to continue growing his network and building lasting relationships that foster community growth.
In his new role, Noah will be serving UNICO clients in the Construction and Property sectors. A Lincoln native and graduate of Hutchinson Community College, Noah brings a unique blend of experiences to the role including banking, life insurance and e-commerce. His versatile background will be particularly valuable as he helps businesses grow and fosters strong connections and partnerships within the community.
UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance broker headquartered in Lincoln. Their consultative and relational approach develops customized solutions for clients all around the nation. For more information, call (402) 434-7200 or visit unicogroup.com.
Midwest Bank Announces a Promotion!
Exciting news! Lesia Piper of Midwest Bank has been promoted to Vice President of Treasury Services! With their growing team across multiple locations, they’re thrilled to unite them under the Treasury Services Department. They are confident that under Leisa's leadership, their team will continue to achieve great success and reach new milestones. Midwest Bank has a strong tradition of family, initiative, integrity and community. And at the center of it all, is building relationships. Their mission is to build strong relationships that inspire successful individuals, businesses and communities. Midwest Bank has a heart for the community and service woven into their culture at their core. Their existence is only because of the people they serve; therefore, they believe in improving the places they live and work through their actions. Service builds relationships. Through their dedication to excellent personalized service, your experience will be exceptional. Learn more at midwest.bank.
Farris Engineering Announces Newly Elected Board of Directors
Farris Engineering, Inc. (Farris Engineering) is proud to announce its 2025 board of directors, elected by the firm’s employee-owners for a one-year term. The board comprises seven incumbents and one newly elected member, representing the company’s commitment to innovation, leadership, and collaboration.
• Ashley Davis –Incumbent
• Brad Kennedy – New Board Member
• Donna Kohlan – Incumbent
• Mark Mazour – Incumbent
• Ericka Nienhueser – Incumbent
• Ryan Richard – Incumbent
• Stephen Roitsch – Incumbent
• Michael Wallace – Incumbent
Newly elected board member and Lincoln Office Manager Brad Kennedy joined Farris Engineering’s Lincoln office in 2008. With over 22 years of experience in mechanical engineering and design, Brad has been instrumental in delivering innovative solutions for a variety of high-profile projects across the region.
Brad is passionate about fostering strong client relationships and ensuring project excellence through thoughtful design and collaborative teamwork. A proud Lincoln native, Brad actively engages with the local community and is committed to driving the success of Farris Engineering’s projects in both urban and rural areas.
“I am excited to contribute to Farris Engineering’s leadership team and am honored to be a part of shaping our future as a firm. Together, we’ll continue delivering exceptional service and innovative designs for our clients,” Brad said.
Farris Engineering is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering, with additional expertise in fire protection engineering, lighting design, building commissioning services, technology systems design and life safety systems engineering. To learn more, visit farris-usa.com.
Kenl Inn Introduces Two New Team Members!
Kenl Inn is excited to announce their new K-9 Pet Trainer, Sandy, and their new Kennel Manager, Samantha! They are thrilled to have them join the Kenl Inn team. Give them a warm welcome by visiting Kenl Inn, off Old Cheney Road! Kenl Inn offers overnight boarding, daycare, pet training classes (individual or group) and grooming services.
Set on twenty-two acres just outside of Lincoln, Kenl Inn is devoted to providing the best possible care for your pet. Their trained staff and state-of-the-art facilities ensure your pet receives the best possible care, whether they are staying for the day or for a week.
Kenl Inn offers seven large outdoor play areas, an agility field, a nature trail through the trees and down to the pond, and two indoor play areas. Rain or shine, sleet or snow, your dog can socialize and play with other dogs, or nap and snuggle, but most importantly, your dog is free to just be a dog.
As a leader in the pet care industry, it is their mission at Kenl Inn to provide their clients and their pets with the finest and most up-todate services available within the pet industry.
Learn more at kenl-inn.com.
2025 Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Honorees Announced
The NE Chamber and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Business today announced the 2025 inductees into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame, including:
• Mike Boyle, Kawasaki, Lincoln
• Paul and Lori Hogan, Home Instead, Omaha
• Senator John Stinner, Western States Bank, Gering
• Senator Matt Williams, Flatwater Bank, Gothenburg
These leaders will officially be inducted at the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Banquet Thursday, January 30, at a 5:30 p.m. reception and 6:30 p.m. banquet held at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. To join in honoring these individuals and their families, register here or contact the NE Chamber at (402) 474-4422. To sponsor, contact Tera Norris at (402) 474-4717 or tnorris@nechamber.com
“This year’s honorees truly represent the entrepreneurial and innovative leadership that is so essential to Nebraska’s growth and success,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. “We’re thrilled to honor these individuals for the contributions they’ve made and the lasting impacts those contributions will continue to have on Nebraska’s business economy.”
These individuals join a distinguished group of more than 135 business leaders whose work to grow their businesses in Nebraska have made a significant impact on the free enterprise system, Nebraska’s economy, overall job opportunities and quality of life in their communities. Candidates are nominated by individuals from the business community, business associations and academia.
“We are excited to honor these five individuals with their induction into the 2025 Nebraska Business Hall of Fame. The impact this group has had on all sectors of Nebraska business is tremendous and their determination and grit is admirable,” said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Endowed Dean of the UNL College of Business.
Learn more at nechamber.com.
Stepping Stones Welcomes Abby Musick, PLMHP
Professional Realty Group Congratulates its Agents on Getting “Top Agent” on Zillow!
Stepping Stones is pleased to welcome Abby Musick to their team. Abby is a Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP). Abby, a Lincoln native, completed her undergraduate studies and her Masters of Social Work at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. Abby specializes in treating depression, anxiety disorders, trauma and stressor-related disorders, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Abby has a passion for helping others navigate their challenges and improving their overall well-being. Appointments are now being accepted for individuals ages 18 and up. She joins Stephanie McNichols, LIMHP, LADC, who offers mental health and substance use services for adolescents and adults and Robin Hinrichs, LMHP, LADC, who offers mental health and substance use services for children and adults.
Stepping Stones provides counseling for mental health and cooccurring disorders, drug and alcohol assessment, and substance use counseling and treatment. Stepping Stones is a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership located at 4600 Valley Rd. Appointments are available Monday through Friday and are scheduled by calling (402) 488-6511. For more information, visit steppingstoneslincoln.com.
Professional Realty Group is thrilled to announce that their very own team members, Andrea Bleicher, Nate Rangel, Ben Bleicher and Elizabeth Haney all got Top Agent on Zillow has achieved the prestigious Top Agent badge on Zillow. This recognition is a testament to Ben’s hard work, dedication and exceptional service to his clients.
All of these agents have consistently gone above and beyond in helping buyers and sellers navigate the real estate market with ease. Their commitment to excellence and passion for real estate has not only earned them this accolade, but also the trust and respect of their clients and peers alike.
Please join Professional Realty Group in congratulating this amazing group of agents on this remarkable achievement. They are proud to have him as part of the Professional Realty Group team. If you’re looking for a real estate agent who will put your needs first—look no further!
LincolnFederalSavingsBankWelcomesSakkas
Lincoln Federal Savings Bank (Member FDIC / Equal Housing Lender) is pleased to introduce Vasili Sakkas as the newest member of their Omaha Mortgage Lending Team as VP / Mortgage Loan Officer.
Vasili Sakkas brings 18 years of mortgage banking expertise and a passion for helping clients achieve their financial goals to Lincoln Federal Savings Bank. Whether assisting first-time homebuyers, refinancing, or planning for the future, Vasili is dedicated to making significant life milestones both smooth and rewarding. Outside of work, Vasili stays active in the local Greek community, serving on the board of St. John’s Greek Orthodox Church and as the youth basketball director, organizing tournaments that create lasting memories. He’s also a devoted father to three energetic children and a proud supporter of their basketball endeavors. Vasili can be reached by phone at (402) 415-9249 or by email at vsakkas@lincolnfed.com.
Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is a depositor-owned financial institution specializing in residential home loans, construction loans, home equity products, commercial real estate loans, and deposit services. The Omaha Loan Production Office is located at 15858 W Dodge Road with Deposit Services available at 673 N 132nd St. Learn more at lincolnfed.com.
SchwisowConstructionhiresWesleyR.Leuck as Chief Operating Officer
Wesley Leuck— who began working for Schwisow Construction in October 2024—recently relocated to Lincoln from Waconia Minnesota. Wesley served most recently as Director of Field Operations for Sleep Number Coporation for the past 17 years. He worked out of the company’s corporate headquarters in Minneapolis, MN.
Leuck also held other roles with Sleep Number including leading retail operations in Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas and South Dakota and Senior Manager of New Store Projects and Construction where he helped lead unprecedented growth in store count for the organization. Prior to Sleep Number, Wesley spent over 16 years as multi-location Retail Leader for Wal-Mart Stores Inc.
Leuck will play a major role in advancing our business at Schwisow Construction according to CEO/President Doug Blum. "Wes will be responsible for running day to day business operations for Schwisow Construction. He will be working directly with our team members at our headquarters located in South Lincoln.”
Congratulations Wesley!
Schwisow Construction is a general contracting firm specializing in the design and construction of commercial, manufacturing and industrial facilities. Learn more at schwisow.com.
At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha. com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.
Troy Dannen University of Nebraska Athletic Director
PERSONNEL
HopeSpoke Welcomes Maggie Montoya as Development Director
HopeSpoke is excited to announce that Maggie Montoya has joined the team as the new Development Director. Maggie has an extensive background in nonprofit development and fundraising efforts and is passionate about making positive changes throughout Nebraska. Maggie joined the HopeSpoke team in November and brings a passion for our not only their mission but for the success of all children and families in our community. HopeSpoke is thrilled to have Maggie. Her creativity, her expertise and her passion join the team.
Maggie believes in the importance of helping others feel connected to HopeSpoke’s mission and believes in engaging with community members to educate them about our work. Maggie looks forward to showcasing how HopeSpoke’s services meet the pressing needs of the community and in turn, empower the individuals that they serve.
HopeSpoke inspires healthy futures for children and their families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. For more information, visit hopespoke.org.
NebraskaCommunityFoundationRecognizesTeri!
Please help Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) congratulate Teri Alley-Davis on her welldeserved promotion to Administrative Services Manager/Technology Coordinator! Teri does it all—from facility management to administrative workflow, human resources, tech support, IT security and countless day-to-day tasks that keep their organization running smoothly. NCF would not be where it is today without Teri’s talents and expertise! Congrats, Teri!
Teri, one of NCF’s longest-tenured employees, performs a broad range of work in her role.
Having joined NCF in 2003, Teri has a tremendous amount of institutional knowledge and memory that she generously shares with her colleagues.
When not in the office, Teri can be found hanging out with her adorable grandson, A.J.
NCF unleashes abundant local assets, inspire charitable giving and connect ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Nebraska Community Foundation was established in 1994 by a group of visionaries determined to empower communities throughout the state to grow and prosper. They believed that with the right tools and resources, people could build the hometowns of their dreams. Hometowns that are poised to attract families, lay a progressive and sustainable foundation, create opportunities, emanate pride and welcome everyone. Learn more at nebcommfound.org.
At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha. com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.
Former Husker Signs with Saltdogs
The Lincoln Saltdogs are excited to announce the signing of former Nebraska Cornhusker catcher Griffin Everitt for the 2025 season.
A Lincoln native and graduate of Lincoln Southwest High School, Everitt’s signing marks an exciting addition to the Saltdogs roster and a homecoming for the former Husker standout.
"Bringing Griffin to the Saltdogs is huge for our organization and our fans," said Saltdogs General Manager Shane Tritz. "He’s a local talent with an impressive track record at Nebraska, and we’re excited for the energy he’ll bring to Haymarket Park this season."
Everitt played three seasons at Nebraska from 2021 to 2023, where he became a reliable and dynamic presence both at the plate and behind it. He finished his collegiate career with 15 home runs, 78 RBI and 70 runs scored over 126 games as a Husker. In 2022, Everitt started all 53 games and hit .291, leading the team in doubles and tying for the team lead in RBIs.
His hometown connection and impressive collegiate resume are sure to make him a fan favorite at Haymarket Park.
Stay tuned to saltdogs.com and follow us on social media for news and informational regarding player signings, team apparel, season tickets, group sales and promotions for the 2025 season.
Smetter Homes Welcomes Joanna Stahl!
Smetter Homes is thrilled to announce that Joanna Stahl is joining the crew as one of their Smetter Townhome Agent Specialists! Her expertise, energy and passion for helping clients find their perfect townhome make her an incredible addition to the crew. Smetter Homes welcomes her to the family with open arms and they can’t wait to see the amazing work she’ll do!
In business since 2003, Smetter Homes is a proud member of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL). They are a company that specializes in superior materials, pride in workmanship, as well as excellent customer service. Building top quality townhomes at an affordable price is their first priority. They have built over 800 homes in Lincoln and surrounding areas. Attention to detail and superior craftsmanship are the centerpiece of their company. At Smetter Homes, they believe in taking care of their clients - they want you to love your dream townhome! Learn more at smettertownhomes.com
Help HoriSun Hospice Welcome Jose to the Team!
Jose, CNA, has joined the HoriSun Hospice team! Jose began working as a CAN over 15 years ago in Northeast Nebraska. Throughout the years, he has worked in home health, skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care, hospice care, special needs health and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Jose is passionate about his work around the community. He enjoys making patients smile and laugh through their journey. Jose dedicates himself to providing the best service to patients and their loved ones.
Welcome to the team, Jose! They are glad to have you here!
The mission of HoriSun Hospice, Inc. is to deliver the highest level of holistic hospice care with honor and respect for patients and their families. Their vision is to be the most respected, compassionate and utilized hospice care provider, serving all people. HoriSun's purpose is to ensure the delivery of quality, safe and cost-effective hospice services to patients and their families.
LEAP Day Center Honors Staff Member with the Nicholas Liechti Memorial Award
The LEAP Day Center along with Apace is thrilled to announce the recipient of the annual Nicholas Liechti Memorial Award, which recognizes one staff member for exceptional dedication, compassion, and leadership. Established by Nick’s family, the award celebrates his inspiring legacy and honors staff members who go above and beyond in their roles.
Nicholas Liechti inspired everyone around him and left a lasting impact on the LEAP community. This year’s award was presented to James Goni, who exemplifies the values of Apace through their outstanding work. James consistently demonstrates creativity, and an unwavering commitment to supporting and enriching the lives of the people he supports.
“This award is a testament to his memory and the exceptional efforts of our staff.” said Callie Kacvinsky, Community Support Coordinator. James works one on one with a young man, taking trips to the YMCA, going up to Omaha and helping him stay involved with the community.
LEAP extends heartfelt thanks to Nick’s family for their continued support and commitment to this tradition. For more information about the LEAP Day Center or the Nicholas Liechti Memorial Award, please visit, GoApace.com.
Apace empowers people with disabilities to live each day to the fullest. Learn more at goapace.com.
Farmers Union Midwest Agency Celebrated Eight Anniversaries in December!
Please join Farmers Union Midwest Agency (FUMA) in celebrating December’s Anniversaries. Collectively they have been dedicated to FUMA and their communities for 165 years! These include:
• Richard Boxum – 49 years
• Greg Frank – 41 years
• Jay Obermiller – 29 years
• Jim Gierhan – 21 years
• Hanna Hertzig – 13 years
• Curtis Hinrichs – 6 years
• Wendee Jones – 5 years
• Brandon Dahna – 1 year
Congratulations to these agents dedication!
Through their agents, FUMA strives to build better communities by protecting where you work, where you live, what you own and the ones you love.
Farmers Union Midwest Agency has been a pillar of strength and reliability for the communities they serve. With a rich history in Nebraska and Kansas, they have consistently focused on protecting individuals, family farms and businesses with a personal touch. Their agents are not just representatives; they are neighbors, committed to building safer, stronger communities through reliable insurance solutions. Learn more at fumainsurance.com.
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR –Custom Blinds & Design
Custom Blinds & Design shines their light at the window with humfidence*!
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and its member organizations are excited to recognize seven award winners from the 29th Annual Celebrate Business Awards held at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel on Wednesday, December 11.
On behalf of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and its membership, we are honored to announce this year’s award winners for 2024, who are as follows:
They create a luxurious, yet simple experience, bringing customers the results they love. Celebrating 25 years in business in 2025, Custom Blinds thanks their clients who’ve shared so many referrals over the years with family and friends. As a Hunter Douglas Gallery®, they believe in high-quality products, and VIP service, working with homeowners and businesses alike.
*Yeah, Custom Blinds & Design made up a word - it means humble confidence.
The Small Business of the Year Award is intended to honor a business which best exemplifies the spirit of free enterprise in Lincoln.
ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT AWARD –Union Bank & Trust
At UBT, people don’t have your money – your money has people. Their local, family-owned bank provides all of the products and services needed, but with exceptional, personalized customer care. They care about their customers, their community and each other. Their Union Bank Place Pop-Up Shop, located at 13th and O streets in the heart of downtown Lincoln, is a place for small businesses to shine with an opportunity to grow and make their dreams a reality. TheEntrepreneurialSpiritAwardrecognizesapersonorcompanythat has exemplified creativity in the development of enterprise in Lincoln.
CORNERSTONE AWARD – ALLO Fiber
ALLO’s growth and success since 2003 is in large part due to their award-winning customer service, technical capabilities, experienced and knowledgeable personnel and superior products. Their customers and team have made Lincoln, the 2nd most connected community of the 100 largest cities in the United Stares and consumer reports top internet service provider. ALLO provides customers with the most modern network possible, offering fiber telephone, broadband, internet and television to residences and businesses serving 48 cities across Nebraska, Colorado, Arizona and Missouri to over 1.2 million people.
ALLO’s history provides a solid foundation for a future of continued, innovative growth to fuel local communities.
The Cornerstone Award is presented to the entity whose entrepreneurship and skillful endeavor has added to the economic base of our community and provided opportunity for others to live and work in Lincoln.
ROGER T. LARSON COMMUNITY BUILDER AWARD – John Goodwin
MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR –Timpte, Inc.
Timpte trailers are built for life. For their customers, it’s not about having to think twice about getting the job done – it’s being rugged, dependable, and always ready. Timpte’s sole focus is designing and building trailers for any dry built commodity. Their trailers are light and dependable, and each is custom-built to make sure it does its job right. Timpte takes its Midwestern roots seriously, applying solid manufacturing principles and state-of-the-art technology to produce the industry’s #1 dry bulk commodity trailers.
The Manufacturer of the Year Award serves to bring attention to Lincoln’s manufacturing community and the contributions made to Lincoln both economically and socially.
TOM LORENZ TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AWARD –
Joe Shaw, LUX Center for the Arts
The LUX Center for the Arts makes art happen in Lincoln for youth and adults as they discover the joys of pottery, printmaking, painting, jewelry, drawing and more. As executive director since May 2019, Joe Shaw and the LUX have always had community as a priority. In 2021, the LUX began its Emerge Mural Festival which has created 10 new murals in the University Place neighborhood, plus the LUX has created a mural at the Lied Center and one at South Street Library. Three more are coming to University Place in Fall 2025.
The Tourism Development Award recognizes the business that has exemplified creativity in the development of the tourism industry.
GREEN BUSINESS OF THE YEAR –University of Nebraska-Lincoln Husker Power & Energy
Providing reliable and cost-effective utilities for a more sustainable campus, the job of UNL’s Husker Energy & Power is to power campus so students, faculty and staff can focus on their jobs. As one of the most efficient campuses in the country, the UNL team consults with industrial and college campuses across the U.S. on their practices, demonstrating their significant leadership in green business.
The Green Business of the Year Award is designed to honor a business that has gone beyond local, state and federal environmental regulations to create an environmentally responsible business.
A Lincolnite since 1996, John Goodwin is a Chicago native that has consistently involved himself within the Lincoln community. Before being named the Clyde Malone Community Center’s Executive Director, John worked for Lincoln Public Schools as a campus supervisor and still serves as a football coach. He brings incredible life, energy and motivation to maximize the potential and growth of the staff and youth at the Malone Center. John is eager to continue leading the Malone Center’s efforts of taking Lincoln to where it needs to go as a community.
The Roger T. Larson Community Builder Award is given each year to an exceptional candidate whose proven leadership and influence through public service has shaped the Lincoln community.
An Act of Caring in 2025: Create Your Will with Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach
After a busy holiday season of giving, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach invites you to reflect on how you will share your love and gifts with the community both now and in the future. There are lots of ways to give back to those in need, and a planned gift is one of them. Creating a will provides an opportunity to care for those experiencing homelessness and poverty and leave a lasting legacy.
It’s a common misconception that only older adults need to create an estate plan, but every adult, regardless of age, should have a will to protect their legacy and loved ones. Unfortunately, nearly 70% of Americans do not have an up-to-date will, an issue that impacts every age demographic.
Giving USA found that bequests were the only source of funding to outpace inflation in 2023! Start 2025 by ensuring your will is complete so that your wishes will be honored and your assets distributed according to your intentions. Learn more and find resources at mtko.org/donate/planned-giving.html.
Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach’s relieve hunger, overcome homelessness, address addiction and provide outreach and advocacy in Lincoln. Learn more at mtko.org.
Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska Receives a $2,500 Grant for a Community Garden
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Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska has received a $2,500 grant to fund a community garden in Gage County. The grant is provided through FCSAmerica’s Working Here Fund. The Working Here Fund grant is planting the seeds of connection and empowerment by creating a community garden. This project goes beyond gardening—it’s about bringing people together and fostering inclusion.
“When we work side by side, we create a stronger, more inclusive community—one where everyone belongs.” Community Relations Malindi Gabelhouse said. “The individuals we support will lead the way in cultivating, maintaining and harvesting the garden, while inviting the entire community to join in the journey,” Gabelhouse said.
This garden offers a unique opportunity for people of all abilities to connect, contribute and learn. Whether it’s discovering the joy of growing their own food, mastering the art of canning homemade salsa or simply lending a hand to a neighbor, this project is a powerful reminder that everyone has something valuable to give.
“We are proud to support organizations that are helping community members learn the benefits of growing and sharing fresh food from the garden,” said Tami Campbell, Regional Vice President of Customer Experience in FCSAmerica’s Lincoln office.
Farm Credit Services of America is a customer-owned financial cooperative proud to finance the growth of rural America, including the special needs of young and beginning producers. With $42.9 billion in assets and nearly $7.7 billion in members’ equity, FCSAmerica is one of the region’s leading providers of credit and insurance services to farmers, ranchers, agribusiness and rural residents in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming. Learn more at fcsamerica.com.
RoaringintotheBigEasy:ANightof
Glamour and Giving at the Mardi Gras Gala
Get ready for an evening of glamour, entertainment and philanthropy at the Heartland Cancer Foundation's 10th
Annual Mardi Gras Gala, presented by Oncology Supply! Mark the calendar for Saturday, February 8 as the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel transforms into a Mardi Gras extravaganza.
This year’s theme is “The Roaring 20s in the Big Easy.” One can indulge in the excitement of the live and silent auction, try one’s luck at the bourbon pull and savor a delectable dinner, featuring steaks generously provided by Omaha Steaks. The night promises to be a feast for the senses, with vibrant themed festivities and audience entertainment.
The true magic of the evening lies in the impact it will have on the cancer community. Attendees become an integral part of the Heartland Cancer Foundation's mission to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in the community, so they can focus on healing. The funds raised will go towards providing housing and transportation grants for local cancer patients in need, offering crucial support during their treatment journey.
Don't miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to make a difference while enjoying a spectacular event. Join the Heartland Cancer Foundation in supporting a great cause and creating a night to remember. Secure a table now by visiting heartlandcancerfoundation.org.
CONGRATULATIONS ON THEIR GRAND OPENINGS THE MERCATO & SHOOT 360
Help People’s City Mission Support Their Growing Demand
Since the start of winter, People’s City Mission has experienced a significant surge in individuals seeking emergency shelter.
Currently, the shelter is hosting over 350 guests, including 56 children—a number that surpasses their pre-COVID statistics. With winter weather yet to reach its harshest conditions, the demand for shelter is expected to grow even further in the coming weeks.
To support their efforts, the community can help by donating warm clothing, shoes or financial contributions. Monetary donations are particularly vital as they help cover the costs of food and utilities for the shelter. As Lincoln's only homeless shelter, People’s City Mission is committed to providing care and support to those experiencing homelessness during this challenging winter season.
People’s City Mission’s mission is to be a witness for Christ among the poor and homeless, serve their needs, and advocate their cause to the community at large. Learn more and donate at pcmlincoln.org.
Lincoln Community Foundation Receives MomentousEstateGiftBenefitingLocalNonprofits
Lincoln Community Foundation recently announced that seven organizations have been named by the estate of Mark H. Tallman to each receive approximately $90,000 a year over the next 10 years. The nearly $7 million legacy gift will benefit Center for People, Food Bank of Lincoln, Friendship Home of Lincoln, Lighthouse, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach, People’s City Mission and Lincoln Community Foundation in support of Give to Lincoln Day matching funds.
“This extraordinary gift is a representation of Mark’s quiet, yet visionary philanthropy,” said Lincoln Community Foundation President Tracy Edgerton. “Through his estate plan, he found a unique way to make a difference and support these essential organizations throughout the next decade.”
This fund will be held and invested at the Foundation for 10 years.
“Mark supported Lincoln in a variety of ways throughout his lifetime,” said Chip DeBuse, the Foundation’s vice president for development. “His legacy gift will establish a pipeline of critical support into our community through the work of these nonprofits.”
Mark Hall Tallman spent most of his life in Lincoln, graduating from Lincoln Southeast High School in 1967 and Princeton University in 1971. Mark was the owner and president of DATA SOURCE MEDIA for 38 years. He died on January 23, 2024.
“Mark was always pro-Lincoln,” said Mark’s brother, Tom Tallman. “He wanted to leave his estate to charity to make it easier for these organizations to live out their mission and continue to do great work for the community.”
Through partnerships and collaboration, Lincoln Community Foundation facilitates positive change for the common good. The Foundation has distributed more than $255 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that improve the lives of Lincoln’s residents. Learn more at LCF.org.
Voices of Hope celebrates their 50th Anniversary
This year, Voices of Hope proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary of empowering survivors and fostering hope. Over the past five decades, the organization has grown into a trusted resource, providing advocacy, education and life-saving services to thousands in the community. Join them in honoring this milestone as they continue their mission to create a future free from violence and full of possibilities. Together, they celebrate 50 years of hope and healing! The celebration is taking place on September 25, 2025, at their office at 2545 N St., and they would love to see you there!
Their mission is two-fold: to provide services to victims and their significant others who are faced with the traumatic aftermath of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, incest and childhood abuse and to provide information about these crimes for the purposes of citizen awareness, prevention and to enhance the sensitivity and professional understanding of those who may work with individuals with these problems. Learn more at voicesofhopelincoln.org.
TabithaFoundationRalliesforSeniorSupport in 2025
To kick off the New Year, nonprofit Tabitha—Nebraska’s leading senior care provider— is drumming up awareness and support for its crucial senior-focused programs.
Tabitha consists of four campuses and living communities—two in Lincoln, one in Crete and another in Grand Island—and provides in-home health and hospice services throughout 27 counties in Nebraska. Tabitha’s renowned resources include independent and assisted senior living options, memory care, short-stay rehabilitation for caregiver respite and long-term skilled nursing with the support of expert nurses.
In addition, Tabitha Meals on Wheels delivers nutrition, connection, safety and independence to hundreds of seniors who rely on the program to remain at home. Since 1967, over 5.5 million meals have been delivered within the capital city.
“What sets Tabitha apart is attentive, personalized care…” said Jeff McGinn, Vice President, Tabitha Foundation, “…plus our local presence since 1886; our life-altering, and often life-saving, resources; and the unwavering commitment of team members who are deeply invested in the areas in which they live and work. As a nonprofit, generous donors and community gifts make Tabitha’s purpose—empowering people to live joyfully, age gratefully— possible.”
In 2025, ensure the future of quality care for seniors throughout Nebraska by supporting Tabitha. Learn about how to make a difference at Tabitha.org/Give.
As the state’s quality award-winning expert for older adults, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Supporting families since 1886 across Nebraska, Tabitha offers a range of services, from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home home health care, innovative living communities and compassionate hospice services. Learn more at Tabitha.org.
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Bright Lights Seeking Camp Sponsors
Looking for a great investment in the future? Sponsor a Bright Lights camp! For going on 39 summers, Bright Lights has been providing fun plus STEAM learning through amazing summer camps for elementary and middle school students.
Sponsors from local businesses like yours have helped keep the program vibrant through many generations of campers, with some now parents themselves and bringing their kids to camp! You can pick a specific camp you’d like to sponsor or simply choose a sponsorship level to help cover the cost of materials, teacher salaries and rental space – all while giving students the best camp experience possible.
To sponsor a Summer 2025 camp, visit brightlights.org/support or contact Megan Ockander, Development Specialist, at mockander@ brightlights.org so that she can create a custom sponsor package to fit your budget.
Serving K-eighth grade students, Bright Lights provides energized, engaging and fun summer learning opportunities. Their week-long half-day and full-day camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills and build new relationships. Find out more about these opportunities at BrightLights.org.
Bright Lights is a nonprofit organization that has established a long tradition of offering engaging, high-quality summer learning camps for elementary and middle school students. Learn more at brightlights.org.
GlobalTiesNebraskatoHostRibbonCutting !
On Wednesday, January 29, from 4 to 4:30 p.m. at The Foundry Community (211 N. 14th St.), Global Ties Nebraska, formerly known as the Lincoln Council for International Visitors, will be hosting a ribbon cutting event through the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce in celebration of their new rebranding. A reception will follow in the 3rd floor conference room of The Foundry. Global Ties Nebraska members, friends, and the community are all invited to attend.
Global Ties Nebraska, a Lincoln nonprofit and community-based member affiliate of Global Ties U.S., is on a mission to advancing global citizen diplomacy in Nebraska. Working closely with the U.S. Department of State, Global Ties Nebraska organizes impactful programming for the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), creating opportunities for visiting international leaders to engage with local community members, gain valuable insights, and build lasting connections in Nebraska.
Global Ties Nebraska’s programs support the vision of IVLP by connecting Nebraska community members with international leaders through professional exchanges, cultural activities, and unique Dinner Diplomat experiences, where visitors dine in local homes, gaining an authentic perspective on American culture and values. These exchanges promote citizen diplomacy, fostering mutual understanding and goodwill across borders while empowering local Nebraskans to become active participants in global conversations. Visit globaltiesnebraska.org for more information.
Goodwill to Host Electronics Recycling Drive on National Technology Day
On Saturday, January 11, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. will hold its eighth annual Electronics Recycling Drive to celebrate National Technology Day. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., community members are encouraged to drop off electronics of all brands and conditions at Goodwill’s store at 4555 Vine St.
Thanks to Goodwill’s partnership with Dell Reconnect, all electronic donations will be resold, refurbished, or responsibly recycled. Revenue from electronics sold in Goodwill’s thrift stores in Lincoln and York helps fund a variety of employment services and programs in Southeast Nebraska. Nonworking electronics will be shipped to Dell’s recycling centers and broken down in an environmentally responsible manner. By recycling used technology, Dell keeps reusable materials out of the landfill and decreases the amount of e-waste in the environment.
For 93 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been strengthening the Lincoln community by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents a year-round outlet for recycling electronics, household items and clothing. To learn more about Goodwill and these events, follow them on Facebook (@LincolnGoodwill) or visit lincolngoodwill.org.
Save the Date: Angels Among Us Announces 2025 Events
Angels Among Us (AAU) is excited to announce event dates for 2025! This year is filled with 4 featured events:
• Birds & Beer (April 17): Birds & Beer is back at Nebraska Brewing Company! Partnering with several local craft breweries and food vendors, this low-ticket price event is all you can consume brews and chicken concoctions. Registration opens in February.
• Bland Cares Golf Outing (July 7): Join AAU for a day of friendly competition at the annual Bland Cares Golf Outing. Enjoy 18 holes of golf, raffle prizes, games on the course, an exclusive player gift, and a meal to wrap up the day. This event sells out quickly; stay tuned for registration opening soon!
• Birdie Battle (September 24): For the more competitive golfer, join AAU for Birdie Battle at The Players Club Omaha! This Ryder Cup format tournament gives individuals the chance to show off their skills and peer to peer fundraising abilities. Reach out to AAU for more information.
• An Evening Among Angels (October 3): AAU’s annual gala is the biggest event of the year! At A View West Shores, enjoy a night full of cocktails, elegant dinner experience, live and silent auctions all while making an impact for the pediatric cancer families of Nebraska and Western Iowa. Corporate sponsorships are available now, and individual ticket sales will begin in August. AAU is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to any family whose child is battling pediatric cancer living in or being treated in the state of Nebraska. If you are interested in learning more about AAU’s mission, please contact Ashley McMurchie at ashley@myangelsamongus.org or by calling (402) 934-0999.
Make2025theYearYouFinallyCreateaWill
An estimated 70% of American adults have either an outdated will or no will at all. Planning for the future is easier than most people think and 2025 is the perfect time to get started.
Nebraska Community Foundation offers a free Wills Guide that will guide you through the process. The easy-to-use, fill-in-the-blank downloadable booklet will help you organize your assets and your intent, all in one place. It is full of useful information and templates to record your family’s information, accounts, assets, liabilities and charitable intentions.
Visit Nebcommfound.GiftLegacy.com to download or request their free Wills Guide and start making a plan to provide for your family and support the communities and causes you care about.
Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 270 communities. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $553 million in Nebraska’s people and places.
Nebraska Community Foundation works with professional advisors and their clients every day to help put their assets to work with tax-efficient charitable strategies that make positive impact on the Nebraska communities they care about most. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
Lincoln CBMC to Host Leadership Workshop
Lincoln Christian Businessmen’s Connection (CBMC) will host a Leadership Coach Training workshop on Thursday, March 27. The workshop will be held at their office in Lincoln at 4435 O St. This course is a seven-week opportunity for a comprehensive yet accelerated coaching development program. It will highlight the skills and practices of classic coaching from a Christian perspective.
The video-based workshop is facilitated with a workbook and breakout discussions led by a certified CBMC coach trainer. After this full day, attendees will have the opportunity to practice peer-to-peer coaching through seven weekly calls with a peer workshop participant and a certified coach. During these seven weeks, participants will be given a specific agenda and format that will walk them through reading and reflection exercises that reinforce the primary principles and skills of coaching. At the end of the workshop, there will be a final half day practicum and graduation celebration.
This workshop blends coaching concepts and practices together, providing a rich leadership coaching experience. Spaces are limited, so it is encouraged that anyone who is interested reach out for information and register soon. For information and to register, contact Garrett Garner at ggarner@cbmc.com or (402) 617-5699.
CBMC is a movement of men who believe God has called them to take Christ to the marketplace. CBMC equips men to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually. Lincoln CBMC is part of a global ministry in 330 cities in the U.S. and 98 countries. For information about Lincoln CBMC, connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne), visit Lincoln.cbmc.com or call (402) 204-1997.
RegistrationNowOpenfor2025Lincolnand Omaha Corporate Games
The Nebraska Sports Council is excited to announce that registration is open for the 2025 Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games! These events unite businesses of all sizes for a series of exciting activities designed to promote wellness, teamwork and community spirit. Participants will engage in challenges that encourage collaboration and friendly competition, creating memorable experiences for employees while enhancing workplace morale. The games provide an opportunity to strengthen bonds among colleagues and foster a culture of health and camaraderie.
Early bird pricing is available through Friday, January 31, offering companies the chance to join at a discounted rate. Don’t wait too long—spots are limited, and they’re filling up fast! Secure your place today to ensure your organization doesn’t miss out on this one-of-akind experience.
Whether your team is new to the games or returning for another year of competition, the Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games offer a dynamic platform to boost employee engagement, inspire teamwork and compete for the prestigious title of Corporate Games Champion.
For more information and to register your team, visit LincolnCorporateGames.com or OmahaCorporateGames.com. Be part of the excitement and represent your company in this growing tradition of fun, fitness and friendly competition!
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ThisWasaBigYearforFriendsof
WildernessPark!
As a result of the Friends of Wilderness Park members' generous support, they brought hundreds of people to Wilderness through their hikes, bike rides and volunteer events. They were able to produce new maps to help their friends navigate the 30+ miles of trails in Lincoln’s largest park.
They also negotiated the addition of five acres of woodland to the park system and an additional 17.5 acres of wetland buffer west of the park near 14th and Saltillo St.
Your tax deductible, end-of-the-year donation will help FWP do even more in 2025. Friends of Wilderness Park would like to thank you for your continued support and they can’t wait to see you return in the New Year.
Wilderness Park is the largest park in the community with more than 1,400 acres in southwest Lincoln, seven trailheads and more than 17 miles of dirt hiker/biker/equestrian trails through dense forest, meadows and creek beds. And Friends of Wilderness Park searches for people who love the park as much as they do! Learn more and donate at friendsofwildernesspark.org.
Branched Oak Observatory is Hosting a Parade of the Planets Star Party!
Although closed for the season, Branched Oak Observatory could not pass up this opportunity to open for an amazing planetary alignment!
Witness the universe like never before as a "Parade of the Planets" graces the night sky! On Saturday, January 18, from 7 to 11 p.m., join them for an unforgettable evening of celestial wonders where nearly every planet in the Solar System makes a special appearance.
Highlights of the night:
• Planets Venus and Saturn will be in a dazzling conjunction early in the evening low in the Western sky. They will have just a little over two degrees of separation!
• The beautiful Planet Jupiter, high in the sky, promises crystal-clear telescopic views.
• Mars, the red planet, rising in the East, completes the naked-eye planetary panorama.
• Even faint Uranus and Neptune will be visible through our powerful telescopes!
But the planets are only the beginning. Their telescopes will also unveil breathtaking deep-space treasures, including the radiant Great Orion Nebula and the incredible Andromeda Galaxy.
Don’t Miss the Conjunction! Arrive by 8:30 p.m. to catch Venus and Saturn before they set.
Important Note: This event is weather permitting. It also depends on the condition of our grounds. Be sure to check Branched Oak Observatory's website and right here on Facebook for updates as the date approaches.
This is your chance to marvel at the vastness of space, connect with the cosmos and explore the extraordinary. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see the Solar System’s finest on a single magical night! Admission is free. Bring your curiosity and your sense of wonder. See you under the stars!
Branched Oak Observatory is an astronomical observing site near Branched Oak State Recreation Area. Learn more at branchedoakobservatory.com.
VisionMakerMediaandTheRossMediaArtsCenter Continues Native American Film Series in 2025
Vision Maker Media and the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center are proud to continue the Native American Film Series. Every second Monday at the Ross Film Theatre, located at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, a series of historic films from Vision Maker Media’s archives will screen each month beginning Monday, January 6. The Native film series is free and open to the public. The series honors founding executive director Frank Blythe’s vision to illuminate and educate audiences about Native people’s lives and experiences in a contemporary context. Stories highlight leaders in history, athletics, art, music, youth, and more from Native communities around the country.
Opening the 2025 Native American Film Series on January 6 is Racing the Rez. Navajo cross-country runners from two rival high schools put it all on the line for pride, triumph, and glory in the name of identity and hard work. Win or lose, the lessons learned interestingly impact the team’s lives. A Q&A session will immediately follow the screening with filmmaker Brian Truglio. Screening begins at 7:15 p.m. at the Ross Theatre located in Lincoln, NE. This screening is free and open to the public. Check the schedule at theross.org.
Vision Maker Media envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. Learn more at visionmakermedia.org.
• Enhance the look and value of your home
• Choose from a variety of styles, patterns and colors
• Will not crack like plastic, rust like metal or shift and move like pavers and rocks
Defining Boundaries Redefining
Style
Get Registered with the Domesti-PUPS Pet Therapy Program!
Do you have interest in becoming a certified therapy dog team with your dog? Are you a teacher that wants to be able to incorporate pet therapy into your classroom? Join DomestiPUPS for an informative and heartwarming event where you can:
• Learn the process to becoming a Domesti-PUPS Therapy Team
• Learn more about the impact these dogs can make in schools with our Edu-PUPs program.
• Meet the dogs and their handlers in person!
This event is on Saturday, January 11 from 1 to 3 p.m. at their main office at 4630 Y St.
This is a perfect opportunity for families, educators, healthcare professionals and anyone interested in the therapeutic benefits of these incredible dogs.
Domesti-PUPS is 501c3 community organization based in Lincoln. They provide therapy dogs, service dogs for persons with disabilities and obedience trained rescue dogs. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for persons with special needs through the assistance of animals and to promote awareness through education. Visit domestipups.org for more information.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is the Recipient of Karma Latte Proceeds!
To celebrate National Mentoring Month, Bagels & Joe is giving 10% of the profits from each Karma Latte sold to support Big Brothers Big Sisters! These caramel lattes are regular size and can either be hot or over ice. They can be purchased at all Bagels & Joe locations except the downtown location. You don’t even have to mention the promotion to support it! Each latte purchased helps support the children and families in the community. Congratulations Big Brothers Big Sisters!
Big Brothers Big Sisters helps children realize their potential and build their futures. They nurture children and strengthen communities. And they couldn't do any of it without you.
Big Brothers Big Sisters' mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Their vision is to have all youth achieve their full potential. Learn more and support programs in Lincoln and Omaha at bbbsmidlands.org.
Happy New Year from Oak Electric!
NONPROFIT NEWS Daring MinDs Therapy
CenterforPeopleAnnouncesNewlyEnhanced Educational Space
As we head into 2025, Center for People is thrilled to unveil their newly enhanced educational space at their main office!
They would like to give thanks to grants from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development and the City of Lincoln, they’ve made significant upgrades to better serve our community:
• A larger classroom for English Language Learning classes
• A dedicated space for Opening Doors courses
• A completely reimagined computer lab
• A warm and welcoming environment for all educational programming
This transformation means more opportunities to provide the community with the education, confidence, and hope they need. They are deeply grateful for the support that made this possible, and they can’t wait to see the positive impact it will bring in 2025 and beyond!
Center for People’s mission is to provide services and programs to the low-income community here in Lincoln that address basic needs and provide opportunities to achieve economic independence. They will help you with the basic needs, education and professional development to move beyond poverty – to better opportunities, a better career and a better life. Learn more at centerforpeople.org.
LocalBusinessLeadersUnitetoHostFundraiser for Mothers and Babies in Malawi, Africa
Local business leaders are coming together to make a global impact.
On Saturday, February 8, Morrow Collision Center will host an exclusive fundraiser organized by Renee Sobotka, owner of True North Technologies; Kevin Harrington of FUMA Financial; and Sara Mach of SERVPRO. The event aims to support Child Legacy International (CLI), a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving maternal and infant healthcare in Malawi, Africa.
CLI delivers over 200 babies each month and has drastically reduced the region's maternal and infant mortality rates. However, the organization needs funding to complete a neonatal center to provide life-saving care for complicated deliveries. Currently, these cases are referred to government hospitals, where outcomes are often heartbreaking.
This grassroots effort combines the passion of Lincoln’s small business community with the spirit of giving. The event will feature casino gaming tables, dinner, live and silent auction and seeks to bring together 75 attendees who are not only generous but also deeply aware of the challenges faced in developing nations.
“We’re honored to rally support for such a meaningful cause while showcasing the power of local businesses coming together to create global change,” says Renee Sobotka. For tickets, sponsorships, or more information, contact Renee at renee.sobotka@outlook.com or (402) 968-5068.
CLI helps transform lives in Africa with opportunities that break the cycle of poverty and despair. Learn more at childlegacy.org.
individual, family, and Couples’ Counseling substance Use/Mental health/Co-occurring/Trauma evaluations
YMCA of Lincoln’s Giving Tree Program Brings Holiday Cheer to Students
The YMCA of Lincoln made the holidays a little brighter for children at Elliott and Pershing Elementary Schools. Their annual Giving Tree program collected over 2,000 gifts for children in preschool through fourth grade so that every student would receive a special holiday gift this year. Gifts were distributed by YMCA staff and volunteers through the Y’s Community Learning Center (CLC) program on Friday, December 13, 2024.
“Despite the daily challenges we all are facing, the holiday season remains a time of joy and generosity,” shared Renee Yost, President & CEO of the Lincoln YMCA. “Our YMCA members and the community continue to make a difference in the lives of so many students by supporting this annual effort. It’s truly one of the most special events we host as an organization.”
The YMCA of Lincoln leads the schools’ CLC program in providing after school care and summer programing to keep students safe, learning and active while supporting their families. This program has helped thousands of students improve academically and provided enriching experiences that they may not have had otherwise.
The YMCA of Lincoln has served the community for over 150 years, promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind and body for all. For more information about the YMCA’s Community Learning Center programs, visit YMCALincoln.org.
Visit the Brand New Exhibit Mission: Astronaut!
Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum is thrilled to announce that their brand new traveling exhibit, Mission: Astronaut opens to the public on Monday, January 27.
This hands-on experience takes you on a journey through space exploration. Visitors will learn about the technology that makes space travel possible, how it benefits life on Earth and more— through exciting astronaut training challenges. Each section presents interactive tasks that require an astronaut’s mindset to solve and focus on engineering, physics, teamwork and fun!
Plus, they’re offering discounted memberships for just 12 more days—don’t miss out on this special offer! Join the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum for an unforgettable adventure into the world of space!
As they ascend into their 25th year, the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum is on a mission to provide innovative and interactive experiences inspired by the past to imagine the limitless possibilities for the future. From larger-than-life exhibits and aircraft collections to exciting, hands-on STEM camp experiences, join them on a journey into the sky and beyond. Learn more at sacmuseum.org.
Catholic Social Services’ 2025 Event Dates Announced
Nebraska Community Blood Bank is Celebrating a Legend
Nebraska Community Blood Bank celebrated a long time donor— Sherman! At 90 years of age, Sherman made his 901st donation! That’s 113 gallons and 2,703 lives saved! Sherman has been a part of the NCBB family since 1968 when they first opened. He’s been donating platelets every two weeks since 2000, and his dedication is inspiring. Sherman hesitated to take a trip to the Dominican Republic to visit his song because it would mean a temporary deferral!
Help NCBB honor Sherman by scheduling your next donation at their 84th Street location and mentioning “Sherman” when you come in!
Help NBCC see how many appointments they can fill in his honor while he enjoys time with his son! Schedule a donation at bit.ly/4iHhZrA.
Founded in 1968, Nebraska Community Blood Bank is a nonprofit community-based blood center that provides lifesaving blood and blood products to hospitals and other organizations. Nebraska Community Blood Bank operates in Nebraska and western Iowa and relies on the local community to donate blood to help ensure a safe and stable blood supply is available to area hospitals and other partners. Someone needs blood every two seconds, so step up to donate today! Learn more and schedule and appointment at ncbb.org.
Keep
Nebraska Beautiful’s Sustainability Seal Program to Launch in January 2025
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) has announced the dates of fundraising events for the new year. The 21st annual Trumpet Fest is the first event of the year and will take place on Sunday, February 16 at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph Church, 7900 Trendwood Drive. At Trumpet Fest you can enjoy music from the area’s finest trumpeters including Kevin Murray, UNL’s Dr. Darryl White and the Darryl White Trio, and UNK’s Dr. Louie Eckhardt. Admission is free but hats will be passed for a free-will offering to support the programs of CSS. Mark your calendars for these other upcoming events:
• Celebration of Hope Gala & Silent Auction- Saturday, March 15, Embassy Suites, Lincoln
• The 29th Annual CSS Memorial Golf Classic & Cookout- Monday, September 15, Hillcrest Country Club, Lincoln
• Bountiful Harvest Gala & Silent Auction- Sunday, October 12, Hastings City Auditorium
Visit csshope.org/connect to stay updated on these and other CSS happenings.
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all people regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their services cover 24,000 square miles offering charitable assistance through the Family Support Services, providing crucial financial assistance; St. Gianna Program; Food Market and Meal Services; Refugee Resettlement; Immigration Legal Services and Employment Services. Learn more at csshope.org.
Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) is excited to unveil our Sustainability Seal Program, a new initiative designed to recognize and promote businesses and organizations in Nebraska that lead with environmental stewardship in mind.
The program will honor businesses that integrate sustainable practices into their daily operations. Sustainability goes beyond policy—it’s a way of operating that reflects a commitment to the future. That’s why our judging process will evaluate the depth and impact of these practices, awarding businesses that truly embody the values of environmental consciousness. From waste reduction and energy efficiency to eco-friendly packaging and employee engagement in green initiatives, we aim to spotlight businesses going above and beyond.
For businesses that receive the Sustainability Seal, the benefits are far-reaching. In addition to receiving a static window sticker to proudly display, each recipient will be showcased in a series profiling their commitment to sustainability. These features will be shared across our platforms and website, helping recipients generate positive visibility among the growing base of eco-conscious consumers. This is a unique chance for Nebraska’s businesses to not only share their green efforts but to inspire others in their communities to take meaningful action.
KNB invites Nebraska organizations to apply for the Sustainability Seal Program and be part of the solution. Together, we can lead the way in showing that profitability and sustainability can go hand in hand, inspiring businesses throughout Nebraska to operate with purpose, pride and a commitment to the environment. Call them at (402) 486-4562 or see more at knb.org/sustainability-seal.
Join the International Quilt Museum for First Friday on Friday, January 3 as they celebrate Festival of Sleep Day! From 4 to 7 p.m., enjoy free access to galleries, refreshments, an art project and read-aloud of “A Kids Book About Sleep,” by Katie Pitts.
Read aloud times are 4:30, 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. Pajama attire is encouraged. Make sure to spread the word about this event!
The International Quilt Museum’s mission is to build a global collection and audience that celebrate the cultural and artistic significance of quilts. The International Quilt Museum is located on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's East Campus at 33rd and Holdrege St. The museum has the world's largest publicly held quilt collection, dating from the early 1700s to present and representing more than 60 countries. Learn more about their mission and about the event at internationalquiltmuseum.org.
Join Saint Paul Methodist Church for Their Seminar
Have you ever thought about how, if at all, climate change affects your health? You might be surprised. You can learn about that by attending a presentation co-sponsored by the church’s Health Justice and Climate Justice Teams on Sunday, January 26 at 11 a.m. in the Chapel. The presentation will be given by Dr. Jesse Bell, whose titles include the Claire M. Hubbard Professor of Water, Climate and Health at UNMC. Dr. Bell is a nationally recognized expert on the relationship between climate change and health, so plan to attend to become more aware of that relationship and how it could affect you.
Saint Paul is in the heart of Lincoln and can’t wait to meet you! Their church hosts a number of classes that meet on campus. Come join them as you learn and grow together! Some classes also provide child care—be sure to check the class details.
Learn more about their mission at saintpaul.churchcenter.com.
Join Spring Creek Audubon Center on Super Bird Saturday
Spring Creek Audubon Center is hosting their first exploration of the prairie in the New Year! Join them for this leisurely stroll through the winter tallgrass looking for animal tracks and chat about what birds and beasts do to survive the winter! The event takes place on Saturday, January 4, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Center at 11700 SW 100th St., Denton, NE. Admission is free but donations are welcome! Register now at springcreek.audubon.org/events.
The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. The trails and grounds are open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. They encourage you to come visit their outdoor spaces and enjoy fresh air and nature — bring along your family and walk the trails. But dogs, even on leashes, are not allowed on the prairie trails. Drones are only allowed on our property as part of research activities, and flights must be approved by and scheduled with staff. Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center focuses on conservation of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem and the birds that rely on it. Learn more and support their mission at springcreek.audubon.org.
It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You!
At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Omaha community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.
Need Office Space?
Located in the Trade Center 6201 S 58th St
• Up to 4 Rooms Available
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Email 5elements.ne@gmail.com for more information.
Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter: ServingFamiliesandCommunitiesAcrosstheState
HopeVenture'sProjectDonorClubAccelerates Its Goats Project
The Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter is committed to leading the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia through education, advocacy, support and research. The Nebraska Chapter serves as a vital resource for individuals and families affected by dementia, including the nearly 36,000 Nebraskans living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
The Nebraska Chapter provides free programs and services designed to help individuals and families navigate the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia. These offerings include:
Support Groups: Safe spaces for caregivers and individuals living with dementia to share experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges.
Education Programs: Community presentations to increase understanding of Alzheimer’s, reduce stigma, and promote brain health.
24/7 Helpline: A free, round-the-clock helpline, (800) 272-3900, that offers expert guidance and support for families at any stage of the disease.
Alongside education and prevention, the Nebraska Chapter is committed to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s by advocating for public policies that benefit individuals living with dementia and their families.
The Nebraska Chapter will host their Advocacy Day on February 20, to provide a critical platform for individuals to share their stories, connect with lawmakers, and push for funding and legislation that supports families affected by the disease.
Those interested in becoming an advocate, can reach out to the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter at NEVolunteers@alz. org or register for Advocacy Day at alz-ne.quorum.us/event/18892. You can also text AIMWALK to 52886 to send a message directly to local lawmakers asking them to support Alzheimer’s research and resources.
The Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter can provide free services to Nebraskans statewide thanks to the generosity of individuals, local businesses, and event sponsors. If you are interested in sponsoring an event, please reach out to nebraskainfo@alz.org or visit alz.org/Nebraska.
The Hope Venture Project Donor Club’s generosity recently went toward Hope Venture’s Goats Project. Because of this support, families in Oletukat now have access to food for their loved ones and a sustainable income from goat milk and offspring!
Through the Project Donor Club (PDC), Lincolnites are making a difference every month. They choose how much to give, and The Hope Venture takes care of the rest by selecting the project they impact.
In order to create lasting change in communities around the world like this, The Hope Venture believes that its projects must be locally-led. Everything it does overseas is directed by local leaders. The Hope Venture chooses to come alongside women and men who have been serving their own communities for years and provide the additional resources they need to make an even greater impact on the people around them.
From the day it started, The Hope Venture wanted anyone to be able to bring hope to people around the world, so it made it a value to always create tangible ways for people to donate. Whether one has $7 or $70,000, he/she can make a difference.
To learn more about the PDC or how goats are changing lives, visit thehopeventure.org.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada Signs Three-Year Contract with Christian Record Services
The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada (SDACC) is pleased to announce a new three-year contract with Christian Record Services (CRS) to provide services to members who are blind and visually impaired. This partnership will enhance the quality of life for many individuals across Canada.
Under this agreement, SDACC funding ensures members from all conferences within their territory continue to receive essential resources without added costs to the conferences or SDACC during the contract period.
The services provided by CRS include access to an online library and app, various formats of the Adult Sabbath School Bible Study Guide, and subscriptions to CRS magazines in multiple accessible formats. This initiative also allows for the addition of new members from churches and communities throughout Canada during the contracted period, expanding the reach and impact of CRS and the goals of SDACC to provide services and support throughout its territory to people who are blind and visually impaired.
"This partnership reflects our commitment to improve the lives of people who are blind and visually impaired by providing valuable resources and support," said Diane Thurber, CRS President. "We are excited to collaborate with SDACC to accomplish their ministry goals.”
It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You!
At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Omaha community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.
“This is a giant step forward to provide services to the blind in Canada, and it is a great resource for churches to share with those with visual challenges in their communities,” said Paul Llewellyn, SDACC President.
“Our three-year partnership will help change the landscape of the services our churches may offer to their communities.”
For more information, contact CRS at Services@ChristianRecord.org or (402) 488-0891.
Christian Record Services is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people who are blind and visually impaired by providing them with free Christian publications and programs. For more information, visit christianrecord.org.
Lincoln Bike Kitchen Celebrates 1,500 Bikes Donated
In 2024, Lincoln Bike Kitchen reached its goal with 1,500 donated bikes, an incredible milestone for the nonprofit. Since its opening in October in the Telegraph district, more than 35 volunteers have joined the organization, making it easier for them to provide bikes and related resources for those in need throughout the Lincoln area. They advocate for utilitarian bicycling as a vital part of a healthy, equitable and sustainable community. They connect cycling to broader environmental and social issues through outreach and education, and with your help, they can continue this progress in 2025.
The Lincoln Bike Kitchen empowers people in the local community of Lincoln by actively promoting and advocating for cycling. It is run entirely by volunteers and supported by donations (bikes, parts, tools, money) from the community.
Cycling can be a fun, healthy, environmentally-friendly, and cost effective mode of transportation. They believe that it should be made safe and available for everyone who wants to be a "biker. Learn more and support their mission at lincolnbikekitchen.org.
Lincoln Gem and Mineral Club is Hosting a Rock Swap!
On Sunday, January 19, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Lincoln Gem and Mineral Club is hosting their 44th annual Mid-Winter Rock Swap at a new location! At the Lincoln Firefighters Reception Hall, 241 Victory Lane, come and buy, sell or trade rocks, jewelry, fossils, rocks and or minerals with fellow rock enthusiasts. Help the Lincoln Food Bank replenish its shelves after the holidays. Make sure to bring canned items for the Food Bank and your best items. Adult admission is $3 and 15 and under get in FREE!
The purpose of this club is to study, promote an interest in and disseminate knowledge of Lapidary and various Earth Sciences including but not necessarily limited to geology, paleontology and mineralogy. It is the Club's purpose to provide education in these fields to its members and to the general public; particularly youth and student groups. Learn more at lincolngemmineralclub.org.
Start Your Year off Strong with a Donation to the American Cancer Society
Nebraska showed up in unforgettable ways this year for the American Cancer Society. Whether it was uniting behind a common cause at their inaugural Coaches vs. Cancer Preseason Breakfast, or raising critical funds for lifesaving programs, you made it all possible.
Continue building on this momentum in 2025! Your donation today can help us save even more lives tomorrow: donate.cancer. org/?campaign=norregion.
They are leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. They are improving lives of people with cancer and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research and patient support, to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer.
The mission of the American Cancer Society is to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer. Learn more at cancer.org.
Are you looking to up your social media game? Do you need more traffic directing audiences to your website? Look no further than Strictly Business’s Social Media Spotlight!
Boost Your Online Credibility
Strictly Business Magazine delivers powerful, online editorial content for our clients, content that Google assigns the maximum credibility. No other local media business can help you create new and fresh content with a higher level of skill and experience than we can—we’ve been doing this for 25+ years.
Google loves original, timely, backlinked, and promoted editorial content. These are the most important SEO tactics that you should adopt to improve your website’s search engine ranking. By employing these tactics, you demonstrate to Google, and all the other search engines, that you and your website are a credible source of information.
Establishing credibility with search engines is just as important as establishing credibility with clients and potential clients. Fresh new content is of the upmost importance for your website’s online ranking and your ability to hold on to a coveted top search position.
Strictly Business Magazine is your local expert for creating original, timely, backlinked and promoted editorial content, and the proof is in the 15.3+ million times our clients’ press has been seen in just Google Search Engine Result Pages (SERPs) per year. That’s over one million times that our clients’ content has been viewed in Google search results per month! WOW!
To see the proof, just visit our website and click on the “Boost Your Online Credibility” ad.
What’s even more amazing is the fact that we will create, post, and promote your content at no charge, as a part of your print advertising campaign.
Isn’t it time you created some new and fresh content to increase your online presence and credibility for free? To get started, call or visit our website today: 402.466.3330 | Strictly-Business.com
If there is one thing to invest in to help keep safe this New Year, it is car maintenance!
Vehicles are complex, and most people aren’t familiar with the more complex automotive care. A lot of the maintenance needs cars require never even cross many peoples’ minds, but inMOTION Auto Care thinks of everything its customers don’t. inMOTION makes its primary aim to provide an exceptional customer-service experience for any and all car maintenance needs, so its clients can get right back on the road!
Visit inMOTION Auto Care for anything, from simple oil changes to complex diagnostic work, or even engine or transmission replacements. inMOTION offers free pick up/delivery of customers’ vehicles and a five year/fifty-thousand mile part and labor warranty.
inMOTION also has a fleet of loaner vehicles customers can use and offers three different financing options if one needs more time between payments.
“Here at inMOTION, we focus on great communication,” says Owner Jared McPike. “We make a customized repair plan for each vehicle and make it a point to educate our customers on everything good or bad on their vehicle. We want them to know what repairs are needed, what can wait and what maintenance items are due, so they can have a complete overview of their vehicle and thus, have the knowledge to make an informed decision on what is best for their own unique situation.”
inMOTION Auto Repair provides additional benefits aside from its comprehensive maintenance services and competitive pricing, such as its Tire Protection plan, which is included with the purchase of four tires and an alignment. Benefits include:
• FREE tire rotations for the life of the tires
• FREE alignment checks for the life of the tires
• FREE flat tire patch repairs for the life of the tires
• FREE 3-year Nationwide Road Hazard Coverage, up to $150 per tire (may be prorated based on tread depth)
• FREE $299 Everywhere Program, expense reimbursement if one has troubles while traveling
• FREE 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program, covers towing, lock out service, jump starts and more
FRIENDS FRIENDS
We has such a great time at Tipsy Tina's for our last Friends4Lunch of 2024. HUGE thank you to everyone who joined us as it was such a great turnout! It was so great to catch up with everyone and meet all the new faces that joined us, and we hope to see you all again this month. Tipsy Tina's is located in the Haymarket at 800 Q St.
FRIENDS
This month we have an extra special Friends4Drinks planned for Friday, January 31 to celebrate our President Paige's birthday! Join us at the new brewery in town, Salt Mine City Brewing Co. in the Haymarket from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and help us celebrate with a handcrafted beer made in the Midwest. Salt Mine City is loacted at 801 R St Suite 100.
As always these events are FREE - you only pay for what you order! We’ve been loving the energy you all have been bringing to our events lately, and we can’t wait to see you and friends at the next one. If you have any questions, reach out to editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com or call our office at (402) 466-3330.
JANUARY BUSINESS EVENTS
JANUARY 3
GenLNK at Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee| LIBA Lincoln Circle - Select Lincoln: LPED | LincolnHR
JANUARY 7-8
2-Day Boots to Business Course at Offutt AFB | Veterans Business Outreach Center
JANUARY 9
Chamber Coffee | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
JANUARY 9
Rise 2025 Kickoff | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce BizNet | LIBA
JANUARY 13
Latino Connect | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
JANUARY 23
The HIVE: Salt Creek Senior Living | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
JANUARY 24
Boots to Business - Reboot | Veterans Business Outreach Center
JANUARY 28
Coffee and Contacts | LIBA
JANUARY 31
Friends4Drinks @ Salt Mine City Brewing Co. | Strictly Business
For specific event details including time, location and contact information, visit our event calendar online at strictly-business.com/calendar-of-events.
Don’t see your event? Submit your events on our calendar! RSVP is encouraged for these events. Please let the Strictly Business team know if you plan to attend by calling (402) 466-3330, emailing office@strictlybusinessomaha.com or marking yourself as “Going” on the Facebook event pages.
No matter what your business looks like, it’s important to have your payroll figured out and ready to go for any employees you choose to take on, and that’s what PayWorks is here for. Don’t know how or where to start for your payroll needs? PayWorks has some advice!
1. Determine whether your employees should be salaried or paid hourly.
2. Decide how often you’ll pay your employees.
3. Classify your workers.
4. Pick the best software for the needs of your business.
5. Simplify your process to save time and money.
6. Keep track of everything.
7. Automate state and federal taxes.
Whether you’re a small business or you’re operating an enterprise, you almost certainly need a payroll provider. It’s crucial to keep all of your financials straight, especially when you’re responsible for the finances for your employees. Let PayWorks help you with your payroll.
PayWorks is a locally owned professional business providing customers with topquality full-service payroll including multistate payroll, Davis Bacon reporting and so much more. They have several options for paying your employees, paper checks, direct deposit, pay cards etc. If desired, they can provide the journal entry to record payroll in your books
or they also offer bookkeeping services so they can record all your month’s activities including payroll. In addition to the payroll services offered, they offer timekeeping solutions and an Employee portal. Their timekeeping solutions come with physical timeclocks, web timeclocks and mobile timeclock options. Their employee portal provides employees online access to their pay stubs and W-2s.
For the employer, in addition to being able to view and print, if necessary, employees’ pay stubs and W-2s, they will have the ability to print their own datedriven reports from the Report Library or they also have the option of creating their own payroll reports based off the variables provided. With over 20 years of experience, PayWorks ensures to provide you with comprehensive and trustworthy services.
They help you:
• Process payroll
• Process your monthly, quarterly and annual payroll tax reporting requirements;
• They submit all payroll tax liabilities automatically for you
• Multi-state payroll processing including filing and paying of payroll taxes
Though PayWorks recently changed their name, their values and commitment to making sure your payroll always runs smoothly has never wavered. Choose PayWorks for all of your accounting needs.
by Travis Filing Executive Director
Proven Client Retention Strategies for Small Businesses
Client retention is an essential aspect of running a successful small business. While attracting new customers is important, keeping your existing clients satisfied and loyal is even more valuable. Implementing strong retention strategies can make the difference between a business that’s just surviving and one that’s thriving.
First and foremost, prioritize excellent customer service. Whether it’s a quick response to a query, handling complaints professionally or delivering beyond expectations, how you treat your clients will determine if they stay with you long-term.
Consistency is another critical factor. Ensure that your products or services deliver the same high-quality experience every time. Inconsistencies can cause frustration and erode trust, making it easier for clients to switch to a competitor.
Communication plays a huge role in retention. Stay engaged with your clients by offering regular updates, sharing news and even thanking them for their business. Email newsletters, personalized offers or social media engagement can keep your brand top of mind.
Additionally, offer loyalty programs or exclusive deals. Rewarding repeat customers with discounts, special offers or early access to new products encourages them to stick with your brand. Make them feel valued and appreciated for their loyalty.
Finally, ask for feedback. Regularly surveying your clients about their experiences and making necessary adjustments shows that you care about their satisfaction. Not only will this help you improve your offerings, but it will also strengthen your relationship with clients.
DEVELOPING
REALTIONSHIPS
Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is a full-service commercial real estate company offering brokerage, management and consulting services. We assist clients with every aspect of commercial real estate, from leasing to sales and acquisitions, valuations, portfolio evaluations and facility and asset management.
As a smaller company, we strive to develop client relationships that span more than one transaction with much time and attention devoted to understanding each client’s specific and unique commercial real estate needs and goals.
To provide clients and the public with the best available local market data and knowledge, we produce a semi-annual market report in-house. This also places the best market data in the hands of our agents, allowing them to serve our clients with the highest level of insight and professionalism.
Quotes & Testimonials
“We first met them when we were attempting to purchase a commercial building and Greenleaf represented the seller as agent. We were so impressed we hired them as the property manager after closing. We have been happy with our decision and appreciate having them guide us through the intricacies of owning a multi-tenant commercial building. Based upon my first-hand knowledge of how they handle matters, I recently recommended them to a client to manage a shopping center.”
Kent Endacott | Client
“Greenleaf, as well as the city of Lincoln, has seen many productive changes over the 17 years I’ve been employed here. It’s honestly a wonderful place to work with a genuine family atmosphere where everyone cares about each other. This culture extends from our clients to our tenants to our vendors to our agents on down to our staff. The foundation of Greenleaf is family.”
Amy E. Bretta | Accounting
“Working at Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate has provided me with the opportunity to maintain a great balance between work life and home life. I enjoy working for a company that values its employees and where I feel appreciated every day.”
Cleo Styskal | Brokerage Assistant
Awards & Achievements
2017 - Realtor Commercial Service award 2018, 2019 - CoStar Powerbroker award 2022 - BBB Honor Roll
Member of the 2022 and 2023 Community Pacesetter 2022/2023 Brett Harris, Nebraska Chapter CCIM President
John Linscott, 2023 Q3 Winner - Powerbroker Quarterly Deals
John Linscott, 2023 Q3 Winner - Powerbroker Quarterly Deals
Adam Lowney, 2023 Q3 Winner - Powerbroker Quarterly Deals
Donald Linscott, 2023 Summit Hall of Fame 2023 Top Firm Winner - CoStar Powerbroker Award
“Working at Greenleaf is great for so many reasons. We are a small, close-knit team who work hard to deliver that same family-like loyalty and respect to our clients, tenants, and vendors. We also get to be part of a team that has played a major role in the growth of Lincoln for several years. Getting to see that growth firsthand is a fun and special perk of the job. Greenleaf is a workplace full of opportunities for personal and professional growth; making it a great place to build a fulfilling career.”
Talisha Parsley | Property Manager
“I have been employed by Greenleaf for two years. My experience here has been incredible. Greenleaf is a commendable workplace that offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional development. My colleagues and the owners have become like family to me. I consider myself extremely fortunate to be a part of the Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate Team.”
LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DISCOVER THE POSSIBILITIES
(402) 436-2350 www.lcoc.com
CelebratingLincoln’sSuccess in 2024
by Jason Ball, President & CEO – Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
2024 has been a remarkable year for the Lincoln community. From significant progress made on transformative projects to collaborative efforts that strengthened our economic vitality, the progress we made together positions Lincoln for an incredibly bright future. And, as we look ahead, it is clear our community is positioned for continued success and prosperity, as we work together to build on this momentum to achieve ambitious goals, including those outlined in the Vitality Lincoln Strategic Plan.
One of the standout achievements of the year was Lincoln’s firstever intercity visit, a groundbreaking collaboration with the Greater Topeka Partnership. Nearly 120 business and community leaders traveled to Boise, Idaho, one of the fastest-growing mid-size cities in the country, to forge valuable connections and identify new opportunities for community growth. Over two productive working days, we explored how Boise is addressing critical issues such as homelessness, economic development, housing and entrepreneurial support. Building on the success of this inaugural trip, the Lincoln Chamber team and leadership are preparing to announce plans for a 2026 intercity visit early next year, ensuring this impactful initiative continues to shape our community’s future.
I am proud of the work of the Lincoln Chamber’s policy team, serving as a leading voice for the business community, and all of Lincoln, throughout the 2024 Legislative Session and summer Special Session. This dedicated team worked hard to retain business incentives in Lincoln and advance plans for an East Beltway under a working group initiative by the Lincoln Chamber, while also playing an active role in the strategic planning process for the continued success of Lincoln on the Move – just to name a few.
Progress was equally evident in the landscape of Lincoln, with transformative projects like the Sandhills Global Youth Complex and plans for a future Lincoln Convention Center. Set to host young athletes starting in Spring 2025, the Sandhills Global Youth Complex will position Lincoln as a premier destination for youth sports. Meanwhile, the Assemble Lincoln team has laid the groundwork for a new convention center, a key addition to our city’s suite of amenities that will attract events and visitors for years to come.
November 2024 also marked the launch of Latino Connect, a program designed to empower Lincoln’s vibrant Hispanic and Latino business community. Through a series of six events in 2025, Latino Connect will provide valuable connections and resources that foster inclusion and growth, supporting the diverse entrepreneurs of Lincoln. Likewise, Lincoln became Nebraska’s first Kiva Hub in 2024, enabling local entrepreneurs to access interest-free microloans. With a focus on underserved populations such as women and minorities, this program makes Lincoln an even more economically vibrant community for all residents.
I applaud the Lincoln business community for their steadfast leadership, making 2024 a milestone year. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for Lincoln—one marked by growth, innovation and opportunity. Here’s to an exciting and successful 2025!
Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska
Securing Futures Across the Midwest
How protected is your home this holiday season? Farmers Union Midwest Agency (FUMA) wants to make sure that your home is the safest it can be as the temperatures shoot towards the sub zeros. Have you done everything you can to make sure your pipes are safe and not frozen? What essentials do you have in your car and do you need new ones before the weather gets too bad? When’s the last time you checked your car battery?
FUMA is here to give some much needed advice to make sure that your winter season is the warmest it can be. To prevent frozen pipes:
• During a cold spell, turn on hot and cold faucets near an outside wall.
• Keep heat at 55 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow air circulation.
FUMA is here to help you. If something happens to your car or your house this winter, they’ll be just a call away to make sure that you are properly insured, making your recovery in the cold the easiest and breeziest it can be! Your home and your car are at the center of your life and both are your biggest investments. This is where your insurance comes in. FUMA will
help you find a policy that protects you from the small and large risks that are out of your control when it comes to owning a car and a house. Discover your risks and get coverage today before the cold really sets in!
Does your current home and car insurance cover your needs? Chances are, they don’t. They’ll work with you to determine the risks your home and car face and help you find customized coverage to fit your specific needs. Because your home and car deserve to be covered with insurance that’s more than the bare minimum.
For your car make sure to have:
• Battery booster cables
• An ice scraper
• A portable shovel
• A first aid kid
• A portable cell phone charger
DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION
by Todd Ogden, President
(402) 434-6900 www.downtownlincoln.org
Vinyl Brings 70s Inspired Bar to the Haymarket
Vinyl offers an inviting spot for craft cocktails and a unique vibe in the heart of the Haymarket.
Soon to become a Downtown Lincoln favorite, Vinyl combines a retro, 70s-inspired aesthetic with a laid-back atmosphere. This vibrant bar has been making significant waves in the Haymarket District; attached to Fleetwood and brought to life by Red Herring Concepts, Vinyl represents their newest and most exciting concept.
Jessica Powell, the Director of Operations, shared insights into the naming process behind "Vinyl." “We initially brainstormed a variety of names, including 'Cake,' inspired by the band, and 'Root Down,' reflecting a musical theme,” Powell explained. “However, during one brainstorming session, Mike Barton (the owner of Vinyl), came up with the idea of simply calling it 'Vinyl.' It truly captures the essence of what we wanted!”
Vinyl is dedicated not only to a nostalgic atmosphere but also to fostering a calm and intimate environment. It’s the perfect setting for those seeking a cozy corner to engage in meaningful conversations or just unwind. Adding to the theme, the drink menus are cleverly designed to resemble vinyl record-shaped coasters.
“Our vision was to create a speakeasy feel,” Powell elaborated. “While Lincoln lacks the speakeasy culture found in places like Omaha, where some bars require a password or specific attire, we aimed for a different approach. We envisioned it as a space akin to a cool aunt's basement—inviting, relaxed and somewhere you’d love to hang out.”
Vinyl prides itself on delivering not just a good time but also expertly crafted cocktails. Among their unique offerings is the “Alabama Slammer,” a popular drink from the 70s that combines amaretto, Southern Comfort, sloe gin and orange juice.
For espresso martini aficionados, Vinyl offers three different takes. They incorporate cold brew coffee sourced from Mill Coffee and Tea and add a hint of chili pepper to the traditional recipe, creating an exciting, flavorful twist that sets their drinks apart.
“Our goal is to craft our cocktails in-house as much as possible,” Powell stated. “We’re always strategizing on how to create our own infusions and mixes to make them more robust and interesting.”
Vinyl is open Tuesday through Sunday from 4 p.m. to midnight. Click here for more details about their offerings and upcoming events.
Are you looking for better coverage and potential savings on your home and auto insurance? Look no further! At Ashley Freese & Associates you can get a free, no-obligation quote They won’t bug you—they’re just offering you an opportunity to see if they can offer you better coverage and save you some money!
Ashley Freese’s team is here to serve. Their unique backgrounds, training and experience have prepared them well to help meet your insurance needs. Additionally, as residents of your community, they understand how important it is to be there for you - their trusted friends and neighbors. Together, they’re building strong partnerships that help everyone succeed.
And on top of that free no-obligation quote, they offering bundling! Maximize your savings when you combine two or more policies with Ashley Freese & Associates. Moving all your insurance coverages under one roof can save you money on your premiums, It also simplifies the insurance process.
All under one roof they offer: •
• And so much more!
Ashley Freese & Associates is dedicated to delivering unparalleled service and exceptional protection to their customers. Ashley Freese & Associates are always ready to help protect what matters most to you. They believe there’s more to insurance than just policy.
Advertising with Strictly Business is a no brainer! Paige and her crew are thorough, professional, and provide so much. From linking our business content online, to promoting employee morale with press releases and spotlights, they hit the mark every time. Not only do we love advertising here, we love receiving the publication each month. I absolutely recommend them to businesses large and small!
-Alyssa Richards, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank
Strictly Business is by far the most accommodating, personable, and creative team to work with for all of our advertising needs! Their magazine is in every business and waiting room in Lincoln. Thanks for all you continue to do!
-Crystal Collins, Oak Electric
“Personal Banking Like You Remember” Lincoln Federal Savings Bank
Lincoln Federal Savings Bank has been providing Nebraskans with personal banking solutions since 1906. They believe that everyone deserves to save and achieve their dreams.
Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is dedicated to providing Personal Banking Like You Remember. This means putting you first.
This promise is delivered with high level customer service, innovative products, and years of experience serving Nebraska communities.
Service Area
Lincoln | Omaha | Fremont | Blair | Hastings Holdrege | McCook | North Platte | Benkelman
5-Star Reviews
The personnel are very courteous, well educated, prompt and highly professional. I feel they are happy to see me.
- James G., Customer
Products & Services Offered
Personal Checking Accounts
Offering non-interest and interest-earning accounts with low fees, low minimum balances and convenient features including mobile deposit, online banking and so much more!
Personal Savings Accounts
Simple savings accounts offered to help you reach your goals! Name your accounts to match your savings goals.
Small Business Banking
Small Business checking and savings solutions that feature multiple account users, convenient features like Bill Pay, and low fees.
Home Mortgage Lending
Your home is your biggest asset! Their home mortgage experts will help you on your journey with loan products to fit your unique situation. Offering conventional, NIFA, VA, USDA, FHA, and jumbo financing.
Commercial Real Estate Lending
If you are an investor or entrepreneur looking for a commercial real estate loan, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank can assist you with purchasing, building or refinancing.
Paige
Jayda
Avery
Paige’s New Year Resolutions are to slow down, appreciate the little things and take the time to live in the moment.
New Year Resolutions
Kacey’s New Year Resolutions are to run a halfmarathon and learn how to make sourdough bread.
Jayda’s New Year Resolutions are to learn a new skill (like Martial Arts) volunteer more and get back into practicing ceramics.
Avery’s New Year Resolutions are to read more, reduce her screen time and learn something new (like knitting!)
Rowan’s New Year Resolutions are to be present, focus on mindulness and move with intentionality.
Kacey
Wishing you a Happy New Year!
Rowan
New Year Resolutions
Making New Year ’ s resolutions doesn ’ t have to be a cliché. New Year’s resolutions have been proven to boost one’s selfconfidence, encourage self-reflection, improve overall health and provide necessary opportunities for one to go outside one’s comfort zone.
Kicking the New Year off with a few new positive habits encourages self-awareness and builds confidence, both
of which support an overall improved well-being. Sharing resolutions with friends or family can further provide the accountability and motivation one needs to make a positive change in their life. Sticking to one’s resolutions and reaping the benefits will only encourage one to keep moving toward better, positive change! Make prioritizing New Year’s resolutions easy by accepting the help of these Lincoln specialists!
When one sets New Year’s resolutions, identifying areas for improvement and committing to making a change, one is choosing to exercise discipline and gain perseverance. Collaborative Medical Alternatives addresses every aspect of one’s well-being—physically, mentally and emotionally and spiritually—and takes the time to listen and get to the root of its clients’ problems.
Getting better and feeling more fulfilled in one’s life does not happen overnight, so Collaborative Medical Alternatives encourages its clients to make small, sustainable steps.
“Your resolutions need to fit within your current lifestyle,” says Owner Stefanie Leyden. “Pick something that means a lot to you, so it’s worth the effort; then, stick with it.”
“Don’t take on too many changes at once,” adds Leyden. “Start with a family walk each evening, limiting substance use, increasing magnesium intake or simply listening to music or an audio book non-work-related, and build from there.”
Collaborative Medical Alternatives understands that maintaining motivation can be hard and setbacks are part of getting started. However, it believes it’s better to start and have to start over or change course than to not start at all! Every person has his/ her own story and experiences that affect performance or desire to engage in difficult tasks, but Collaborative Medical Alternatives reminds its clients of the small victories and is there to celebrate all achievements, which is one of the most rewarding parts of job according to the team.
Collaborative Medical Alternatives’ resolution to increase its clients’ well-being starts with clients’ tippy toes and ends with the tops of their heads. Every little detail matters, so one should personalize one’s New Year’s resolutions with the help of Collaborative Medical Alternatives.
Setting New Year’s fitness resolutions always sound like a good idea, but once one starts, it can be hard to fall into a grove. To help remedy this, one should try something new and exciting! For example, one can try the mind-body exercise called Pilates! It is one of the fastest growing exercise modalities in the US, and Pilates is rapidly rising as a method of rehabilitation from injury, which means it is an activity for anybody at any age.
Club Pilates’ strategy to a healthy fitness lifestyle is a surefire way to achieve one’s New Year’s resolutions, correcting aspects of the body such as one’s posture, the way one walks, bends over, sits, lies down or works out—which are aspects of fitness about which most people don’t ever think. These aspects are nevertheless important to achieving an overall fit lifestyle.
Pilates exercises promote an even musculature throughout the body by strengthening the core. The core is considered the “center” of the body and consists of the deep abdominal muscles. Pilates stresses spinal and pelvic alignment, which is critical to avoid injuries. Club Pilates wants to be proactive, not reactive, about its clients’ New Year’s resolutions!
“At Club Pilates, our instructors have 500 hours of education prior to them being certified. This gives them the ability to modify certain exercises to benefit your body, even after injury or even surgery,” says Owner Christine Krueger . “This allows you to become responsible for your own unique and personalized New Year’s resolutions and fitness goals!”
Setting fitness goals for the New Year is really an act of self-love. Staying active is not only physically beneficial, but also mentally and spiritually uplifting. New
Year’s resolutions can often open doors to self-judgment, but committing to making one’s body move can help tone one’s body up without compromising self-compassion, which is the most important. Say “No” to restrictive, fad diets, and say “Yes” to a healthy, active lifestyle!
Capital City Fitness & Performance stands out due to its commitment to helping individuals achieve their fitness goals. As the exclusive Training for Warriors (TFW) affiliate in the city, Capital City Fitness offers a comprehensive group training program, which includes holistic warm-ups, speed and strength training, endurance workouts, flexibility exercises and nutrition guidance, all within a supportive and motivating environment.
Owner Mike Bevard emphasizes the importance of goal setting saying, “If you want to be a goal getter, you’ve got to be a goal setter!” Make implementing a fitness routine a goal this New Year.
Capital City Fitness’ approach caters to individuals of all fitness levels and enhances muscular strength, endurance and mental resilience, all of which are necessary for both fitness pursuits and life’s challenges. TFW’s philosophy aims at “Bringing Out the Warrior Within” and invites Lincolnites to embrace their strength and make 2025 a year dedicated to finding their inner “WARRIOR.”
Whether it’s Pilates, jazzercise or finding one’s inner WARRIOR, setting fitness goals as New Year’s resolutions is a great step toward bettering one’s overall health. With that, let Lincoln Running Co. make achieving a new, healthier lifestyle easy with its unwavering sole support!
Lincoln Running Co. understands the importance of a great pair
Stefanie Leyden Collaborative Medical Alternatives
Christine Krueger Club Pilates
S.
of shoes, perfectly fitted to one’s feet. The right pair of shoes will set one up for success in his/her New Year’s resolutions and make staying fit sustainable. Lincoln Running Co. defines holistic health as participating in some kind of activity every day, so naturally, foot health is holistic health! Investing in foot health will also save one from possible medical bills in the future.
Because of its close relationships with the medical professionals in Lincoln and surrounding areas, Lincoln Running Co. knows feet better than anyone else around and knows how important it is to share that knowledge with the community. By helping individuals find the right shoes to keep their New Year’s resolutions attainable and fun, Lincoln Running Co. feels it’s fulfilling its commitment to supporting Lincoln and Lincoln’s blooming generations.
“We want the shopping experience with us to be just that, an experience, one that encompasses everything from shoes, training, nutrition and injury prevention to education or whatever else the customer needs to know about running, walking or moving!” says Manager, Ann Ringlein
“We’ve been one of the top 50 Best Running Stores in America three times now, and as proud of that as we are, we are more proud of our relationships with our customers and community.”
What happens if one is injured while achieving his/her fitness resolutions? Well, Husker Rehab works closely with patients to establish realistic, meaningful and achievable goals tailored to their individual needs.
Therapists regularly track patient progress through objective measurements and patient reported outcomes and provide constructive feedback, recognizing small accomplishments with patients. Therapists also help patients acknowledge that the rehab process can take time, and by celebrating every accomplishment, it keeps patients motivated to achieve their recovery goals and New Year’s resolutions.
“Set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Timely) goals,” says Janna Vavra, DPT. “Write down and share those goals with friends and family, so they can help with accountability. This can help you stay committed to your resolutions, especially if you struggle staying motivated.”
A thorough initial evaluation establishes a baseline for progress measurement, and regular re-evaluations ensure that improvements are accurately tracked. Goal setting is a collaboration and ongoing process between patients and therapist to insure success ensuring goals integrate smoothly into daily living.
Husker Rehab’s therapists emphasize consistency over perfection, which helps patients stay motivated without feeling overwhelmed. If setbacks occur, therapists provide positive reinforcement and reframe setbacks as part of the natural process of healing. Patients are encouraged to view setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures, so patients are prepared to get the most out of the resolutions they set!
Ann Ringlein Lincoln Running Co.
Janna Vavra Husker Rehab
BUSINESS PLANNING
The New Year calls for a fresh start. Take advantage of these Lincoln experts who make business planning easy, sustainable and tailored to companies’ unique needs. A business plan outlines how an organization operates, along with its goals and strategies to achieve them. A robust business plan accounts for areas beyond financial performance to include roadmaps for employees, human resources, products and services, as well as planning for a business’s technology needs.
Whether a business is new or has been around for many years, creating an annual plan helps a business determine how it will manage its growth and needs in the coming years. It’s important to have a plan for measurement and goal-setting purposes as well as to plan and prepare for future needs. It’s just as important, however, to leave room for flexibility as things change. As short-term and long-term goals adjust over time, so should a business’s technology plan.
Hamilton works with its clients to review their current plans and prepare for adjustments in advance for the upcoming year. Hamilton encourages businesses to review their technology goals, needs and plans while they prepare their financial budgets and other preparations for the New Year.
One of the most important steps a business or organization can take to maintain their plan is to track results regularly and review for adjustments as needed. “We encourage our clients to make plans for the immediate future as well as for the long term,” says Ryan Wineteer , Hamilton Business Development Manager. “Having one-year, three-year and five-year technology plans are essential to ensure your employees and staff are equipped with the technology they need as your business grows.”
The advantage of working with Hamilton is that Hamilton provides its clients with comprehensive plans that encompass solutions businesses might not have thought of!
With that, creating and adhering to a business plan is important because it describes a business’s product or service, its target market, upfront capital requirements, projected income and expenses, competitive environment and real estate requirements. It also provides a strategy and a structure to get the business off the ground, and it may be necessary to obtain financing from a lender.
For example, when working with tenants who have new businesses, Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate strongly advises those tenants to develop a business plan because landlords might ask to review a plan as part of their assessment to determine a tenant’s likelihood of success.
Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is a full-service commercial real estate company that offers its customers brokerage, consulting, development and property management services.
With roots dating back to 1973, Greenleaf believes in building
Ryan Wineteer Hamilton
relationships and strives to understand each client’s objectives to develop a strategy that meets a client’s specific needs.
“The most important thing about maintaining a successful business plan is flexibility,” says Director of Brokerage Services Brett Harris. “While it's important to stick to your plan as much as possible, it's likely that you will have to modify certain aspects of your business as you move through the start-up phase and adjust to unexpected conditions.”
Business planning also involves sorting and managing payroll responsibilities such as providing employees with annual tax statements like W-2s and 1099s, distributing year-end bonuses and adjusting benefit contributions. Tax withholding calculations should be reviewed to align with current regulations and individual employee circumstances. Compliance with tax regulations at various levels and the filing of requisite forms are essential but can be confusing. Payroll at the end of the year demands meticulous attention to detail to ensure both legal compliance and employee satisfaction, so look to PayWorks LLC for expert advice and solutions. PayWorks LLC provides full-service payroll solutions, bookkeeping services and more while keeping up with the ever changing payroll laws and regulations at a fair and reasonable cost. PayWorks is dedicated to providing its business clients with the personal attention they deserve.
Owner and Manager, Terry Clark , is celebrating 25 years in the payroll and bookkeeping industry. With the latest software technology and Terry’s attention to detail, experience and knowledge as a member of the Lincoln community, PayWorks is more than equipped to help any business organize its finances and create a business plan that will help it succeed.
“It’s always my goal that the employer has confidence in me, so they know their finances are being properly organized,” said Owner Terry Clark.
Likewise, Cruise & Associates takes business planning seriously so its clients don’t have to. Since the beginning, Cruise & Associates’ goal has been to help small to mid-size owners grow their business and take it to the next level.
Cruise & Associates specializes in working with individuals and businesses to handle income tax, business and financial service needs and believes the key to running a successful business is giving clients personal service. Cruise & Associates’ clients are assigned an accountant to work with them year-round, so he/she gets to know their business on a deeper level.
Building client relationships helps create an environment where owners can do what they do best, which is running their business. They do not need to be focusing on paying bills, tracking finances, paying employees or trying to figure out QuickBooks. Cruise & Associates’ accountants and bookkeepers can help take that stress away.
Cruise & Associates accountants are available to answer questions year-round, making business planning easy like never before!
“We listen to a business owners’ needs and work one-on-one with them to develop a plan for their business,” says President
Business Planning Tips
Define Your Vision and Mission: Clearly articulate your company's vision and your mission, outlining the purpose and values that guide your business so that everyone is on board. This sets the tone for your employees and year.
Conduct Thorough Market Research: Understand your industry, target market and competitors. Identify trends, opportunities and potential challenges. This research forms the foundation for your business strategy and marketing plan.
Set Clear and Achievable Goals: Establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound (SMART) goals. This provides a roadmap for your business and helps you measure success.
Create a Marketing Strategy: Outline how you will attract and retain customers. Define your unique selling proposition (USP), pricing strategy, promotional activities and channels for reaching your target audience.
Understand and Manage Risks: Identify potential risks and challenges your business may face and develop strategies to mitigate them. A thorough risk analysis demonstrates preparedness and resilience.
Financial Projections and Budgeting: Develop detailed financial projections, including income statements, balance sheets and cash flow statements. Consider different scenarios to understand potential financial outcomes. Develop a realistic budget that aligns with your goals.
Build a Strong Team: Outline your organizational structure and identify key team members. Highlight their skills and roles in achieving the business goals. A strong team is essential for executing your business plan effectively.
Seek Professional Advice: Consider seeking input from mentors, industry experts or business advisors. Their experience and insights can provide valuable perspectives and help refine your business plan.
Adopt Technology: Embrace technology to enhance operational efficiency and stay competitive. Implement systems for streamlined processes, data security and improved communication.
Network and Partnerships: Build strong relationships within your industry and consider strategic partnerships. Collaborating with other businesses can offer shared resources and insights.
Brett Harris Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate
Terry Clark PayWorks LLC
Robert Cruise Cruise & Associates
Robert Cruise. “We spend time to develop a custom strategy because what works for one person doesn’t work for everyone. We believe in educating and providing our clients with the tools needed to be successful.”
Another major area to consider when business planning is advertisement! In this day and age, with the immediate gratification social media and technology plays in the lives of everyone, it is important to have eye-catching, effective advertising if a business is to grow and profit!
Sign Pro has been providing customers with the best in signs and graphics for more than 30 years. Many individual and commercial clients throughout southeastern Nebraska have come to depend on the tasteful, eyecatching signs Sign Pro delivers.
Sign Pro won’t stop until it has come up with the right solution for each client’s special signage project. Whether a business requires advertisement for a one-time event, signage for a construction site or is celebrating a new opening, Lincoln businesses can depend on Sign Pro to meet every need. The following signage is available but not limited to:
• Banners. Banners are a budget-friendly way to draw attention with vibrancy, generating excitement and high visibility. Businesses can make banners attractive by incorporating photos, full color designs or computer graphics.
• Vehicle Wraps and Decals. Vehicle graphics are one of the most cost-effective forms of advertising on the market because they are visible every day, everywhere. People see the signage when
they are driving down the street, on the way to work, taking the kids to school, heading to the grocery store or just out for a drive.
• Exterior and Storefront Signage. Effective storefront signs are the number one attractant of new customers and clients. A business’s storefront is the first opportunity to catch the attention of someone who may be interested in what one has to offer.
Sign Pro of Lincoln offers a wide variety of signage solutions to fit any project or budget. Even if a business’s project idea does not fit into one of Sign Pro’s listed signage options, Sign Pro is always ready to come up with custom solutions!
Business planning also provides an opportunity to reevaluate costs that are tax deductible, but tax planning and tax prep is not for the faint of heart. Thankfully, SP Group P.C. of Lincoln has experts that know just how to help!
SP Group pours all of its energy into getting to know its clients, so it can provide the best tax planning, tax prep and business support services.
SP Group believes in the power of positive relationships, and the firm’s simple beginnings have kept it humble. SP Group takes great pride in the success of its clients and the path it has traveled together as it has grown alongside them.
The following exhibit the four cornerstones of SP Group and its certified public accountants:
1. Relationships. SP Group creates and fosters long-term relationships to help develop a deeper insight into who its clients are and what drives them to succeed.
2. Power of Team. SP Group serves clients most effectively and efficiently by combining the unique talents of each member of
Julie Shald Sign Pro
3. Life/Work Balance. SP Group’s professionals aim to give the same energy to serving their clients as they would devote to their own personal interests, family and friends and community.
4. Competitiveness. SP Group is a team that likes to win–its competitive sports-minded culture makes SP Group’s firm better at achieving success for clients at large.
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that your employees want for life’s unexpected moments — whether that’s an accident, illness or injury. its staff into one strong cohesive team.
This foundation is why SP Group has been Lincoln business’ go-to for business planning and tax support services! Now, what does one do if finances or time means business planning really needs to be more of a DIY project? Check out Alpha Zed!
“A business plan is a map of the processes that run your business, such as production, marketing, communication, HR and finance,” says Systems Strategist Kim Hazelton
“This map guides your decisions, actions and success, so following that map is the best way to reach your destination, which is where we can help!”
Alpha Zed Business Services follows a framework that walks clients through the exercise of mapping out their business processes with a goal of maximum efficiency.
“You should figure out and document processes, so you don’t have to try and remember next steps. Then, automate where possible to make the best use of your resources,” notes Hazelton.
Alpha Zed Business Services helps business by implementing systems like Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software and automation, enabling streamlined productivity from the core.
Business owners often underestimate the complexities of managing various tasks and data or delay implementing systems, thinking it’s unnecessary at the early stages. However, setting a strong foundation facilitates smoother growth.
Alpha Zed Business Services helps a company ensure it has good back-office processes in place and automates those processes where possible, allowing operations to run more efficiently. Alpha Zed Business Services understands the efficiency they help implement has a positive impact on the bottom line in these ways:
• Businesses don’t have to pay as many staff members or can pay employees to perform revenue-generating tasks, rather than admin tasks.
• Businesses are less likely to lose money due to their missing important follow-up dates.
• Businesses can rely on automation to track and send out reminders for late payments.
Automation, a rapidly expanding field, holds great potential for businesses. Yet, navigating it can be daunting. Alpha Zed serves as a guiding partner, helping business owners embrace new technologies rather than fearing them.
“Take a look at the various software tools you’re using. Have you been piecing together a mish-mash of tools to handle your systems? Are they still serving your needs? Consider an all-in-one process automation platform that can support things like your website, CRM, marketing, sales funnel, booking, email marketing and team and customer communication,” says Hazelton.
For business owners struggling to take that first step toward improvement, planning ahead with Alpha Zed will ensure a solid foundation for growth!
Kim Hazelton
Alpha Zed Business Services
Similarly, Panology helps support business planning via its innovative technology solutions. Business planning is obviously important, but it is imperative that companies remember that it is now the 21st Century. Technology must be a core element of any business strategy.
Panology offers experienced technology consulting and solutions that focus on each business’s special needs. Whether a business needs a long-term service agreement or has a short-term project, Panology is prepared to meet a business where it is at. Panology’s services expand as its business partners grow, so it is always looking for ways to save a business money on its technology needs.
Panology pays special attention to small businesses because Panology is a small business itself! Panology understands the struggles small businesses face, especially of the technology kind. Small businesses can’t simply “notify the IT Department” every time something goes awry. This is where Panology can help.
Panology’s objective is always to drive the highest possible value for its client’s technology dollar. Panology proudly accepts the responsibility of providing fast, quality technology information, so its business clients can continue to exercise the best business planning possible.
Business planning is essential for businesses wishing to grow and become more than average. Developing a consistent and collaborative vision alongside these Lincoln experts is just the guidance a business needs to soar!
“Business planning is not a one-time task but an ongoing process. Regular reviews and updates allow businesses to incorporate lessons learned, adjust strategies and stay relevant in a dynamic marketplace.”
“A thoughtful business plan ensures that everyone in the organization is on the same page. It aligns individual and team goals with the broader vision, fostering a unified and focused effort toward success.”
Darren Lichty Panology
Supporting Nonprofits
At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Our commitment to supporting local nonprofits stems from recognizing their pivotal role in addressing the pressing needs of our community’s most vulnerable segments. Nonprofit organizations understand the needs of those who are vulnerable in our community and work to help support causes many of us connect to.
Nebraska’s nonprofits do whatever they can to make our beautiful state and even better place to live, and so we want to being awareness to their efforts. Our Supporting Nonprofits feature is a place to recognzie some of these amazing organzations and the work they’re doing locally.
Readers should keep these nonprofits in mind when they are choosing to give back to Lincoln this year. Whether you choose to donate your own time or to give back through your business, supporting any of these nonprofits will have positive ripple effects in the lives of fellow Nebraskans.
These organizations not only champion causes that resonate deeply with us, but also play a significant role in job creation, providing invaluable opportunities for individuals – be they workers, volunteers or donors – to contribute meaningfully to causes larger than themselves. When we pitch in to help nonprofits, we’re helping our communities and neighbors, keeping a culture of humanity, art and philanthropy alive.
For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln (BBBSL) has operated under the belief that inherent in every young person is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. The Big Brothers Big Sisters' vision is for all youth to achieve their full potential. To fulfill that vision, the mission of BBBS is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. BBBS Lincoln is part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM) network. As a donor and volunteer supported organization, BBBSM is committed to defending the potential of youth in the Lincoln and Omaha/Council Bluffs metro areas, spanning across nine counties in Nebraska and Iowa. Through the establishment of nearly 150 mentoring relationships this year, BBBSL strives to provide a solid foundation for personal growth, academic achievement, and positive development. To volunteer, donate, or acquire further information about our initiatives, please visit bbbsmidlands.org or contact us at (402) 330-2449, option 4. Stay connected and informed by following Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln (@bbbslincoln) on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
The Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation was founded by Blake and Kathy Collingsworth after their personal tragedy of losing their son, Josh, due to accidental drowning. Out of this tragedy has come a worldwide foundation whose sole mission is to educate children and adults about water safety and drowning prevention. The local nonprofit foundation is recognized nationally and internationally for the Josh the Otter Water Safety Awareness Program and Float 4 Life.
“Josh the Baby Otter” was designed to help children comprehend and remember to stay away from water unless accompanied by an adult. Hundreds of thousands of copies have been distributed globally. With ongoing support, they will continue to incorporate the Josh the Otter Program in every educational curriculum in the United States and beyond. Beyond the well-known book, they have created life jacket loaner stations at numerous lakes in the surrounding areas, with plans to keep increasing numbers of stations and locations.
The Team Jack Foundation is dedicated to advancing groundbreaking research and increasing national awareness of pediatric brain cancer. Since its inception, the foundation has raised over $13.7 million and supported 20 research projects globally, including a $6.5 million commitment to the University of Nebraska Medical Center to establish a childhood brain tumor program. Pediatric brain cancer, though relatively rare, is one of the most difficult cancers to treat and remains the leading cause of disease-related deaths among children. Nebraska ranks seventh nationally in brain tumor incidence rates, highlighting the urgent need for continued research, heightened awareness and innovative treatments.
Your support can help change the future for children battling this devastating disease. Visit www.TeamJackFoundation.org to learn more about how you can contribute to funding transformative research and improving outcomes for pediatric brain cancer patients. Together, we can make a difference.
Float 4 Life was designed to teach and promote infant and toddler water safety training across the nation. Our Float 4 Life program which incorporates water training and water safety education also serves as the National Training Facility to instructors from all over the United States.
To view more information, please go to joshtheotter.org.
Based in Lincoln, nonprofit Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is part of a whole-person healthcare organization across 13 states in more than 700 communities serving people with intellectual and developmental needs. Mosaic’s purpose is to “love and serve” and its mission is to “embrace God’s call to relentlessly pursue opportunities to empower people.” The values woven through Mosaic’s work are belonging, connection, faithfulness and grit.
HopeSpoke inspires healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. Emotional issues and trauma are hard for anyone to overcome, especially for kids. When things feel hopeless, HopeSpoke can help.
HopeSpoke provides mental health services for individuals and families across the lifespan, including:
• Outpatient counseling
• School-based therapy
• Extended day treatment
• Crisis and residential services
Outpatient counseling is available in-person or via telehealth to best fit each individual’s needs. Caring for children’s mental health since 1949, HopeSpoke continues to provide expert, innovative services to grow a community of happy, hopeful, healthy families. For more information about HopeSpoke’s programs, or to make a gift to support mental health for children and families, please visit hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666.
At Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska, “to empower” means providing truly personalized services to those it supports to achieve their best or most meaningful life, working with them and their families to create closer ties to the community in order to open up volunteer and employment opportunities and Mosaic standing alongside them to advocate with and for them to bring awareness to issues that affect their lives and promote public policy that positively impacts them. This empowerment of people ranges from helping someone communicate for the first time to helping another gain enough independence to secure a job and live in their own home. If you would like to learn more about Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska’s services, to donate, volunteer or inquire about employment, please go to mosaicinfo.org/southeastnebraska.
The Alzheimer’s Association
Nebraska Chapter is a leader in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Through its mission to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease, the Association advances research, provides expert care and support, and promotes brain health to reduce the risk of dementia. With a vision of a world without Alzheimer’s, the Association works tirelessly to fund groundbreaking studies, advocate for policies that benefit individuals and families affected by the disease, and offer resources like the 24/7 Helpline and local support groups. Together, we’re making strides toward a future where no one has to face this disease alone. If you are interested in sponsoring an event, please reach out to nebraskainfo@alz.org or visit alz.org/Nebraska.
One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility is the YMCA of Lincoln. The YMCA has served the community for over 150 years – promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind and body for all. Today, the YMCA serves the community with facilities in all quadrants of Lincoln through programs including swim lessons, YMCA Youth Sports, YMCA Camp Kitaki, after school programs, health and wellness offerings and more.
While the names and program offerings have changed over the past 150 years, the cause remains the same – strengthening the community. As one of the country’s most storied nonprofits, the YMCA knows that lasting personal and social change comes about when everyone works together. Every day, the YMCA works side-by-side with their neighbors to make sure everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. For more information on the YMCA of Lincoln, visit YMCALincoln.org.
Aiding Angels is a local, 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization providing FREE, professional house cleaning to the cancer heroes in our community during one of the most stressful times of their lives. A clean home and environment contributes to the welfare and recovery of patients.
Brenda Schwery, local business owner of Maid to Please, has provided free home cleaning services for years through another foundation where women with cancer are the only recipients. In response to an overwhelming number of requests from not only women, but also men and children, Brenda founded Aiding Angels. Now, the void is filled and the much-needed help is extended to everyone – men, women and children regardless of financial status – going through cancer treatment or hospice due to cancer.
For more information on Aiding Angels, please visit aidingangels. com or contact Brenda at (402) 434-2472.
Clinic With a Heart is a faithinspired organization that helps people who are uninsured and underinsured through a ministry of healthcare. It started because of a week in Reynosa, Mexico in 2002, when Dr. Rob Rhodes was providing free healthcare to a disadvantaged population. After they ended their medical mission in Reynosa, Mexico, they related it to home asking the question, “If we can provide free healthcare in Mexico, why wouldn’t we provide free healthcare in our own backyard?” Then, after verifying the need, the inspired and motivated team started their journey to provide free healthcare in Lincoln, Nebraska. Clinic With a Heart was officially sanctioned as a nonprofit organization and opened its first free healthcare clinic in May, 2003.
Today, each clinic night is sponsored by a mission team. The team provides the coordination of service and funding. Mission team sponsors include seven different churches, a temple, two hospitals, and one education institution.
All service provided at Clinic With a Heart is free of charge for the patient. For more information, visit clinicwithaheart.org.
TeamMates of Lincoln matches an adult volunteer with a student in grades 3-12 to help them realize their strengths, grow hope for their future and to simply be heard. Matches share common interests and/or lived experiences. Mentor’s may choose the school and/or grade level that fits best for them. Visits last one class period, once a week and take place at school.
TeamMates began in 1991, thanks to Dr. Tom and Nancy Osborne. In 33 years, program outcomes have confirmed their belief that caring adults help students – especially those with multiple live challenges – stay engaged in school, graduate high school and make postsecondary plans. Mentors help students expand their aspirations, develop visions for their futures and realize their full potential. To discuss the benefits of mentoring for associates in your business or to offer donations of food for trainings, reach out by calling (402) 436-1990. You can learn more at lincolnteammates.org.
Filament Essential Services empowers nonprofits to focus on their mission by providing essential operational support. We help organizations thrive by addressing critical needs so they can make a greater impact.
• Build Your Visibility: Strengthen your brand, create compelling content and execute strategic marketing campaigns.
• Ensure Financial Stability: Rely on expert bookkeeping, payroll, financial reporting and compliance support.
• Protect Your Data: Safeguard donor information with our certified cybersecurity services, ensuring trust and compliance.
• Optimize Your Technology: Streamline IT operations with managed services and technology solutions tailored to your needs.
• Enhance Leadership and Growth: Develop your team and strategies with workshops, board development and capacitybuilding programs.
Visit filamentservices.org or call (402) 219-9600 to discover how Filament Essential Services can support your organization’s success.
As the state’s quality award-winning expert for older adults, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully and age gratefully. Supporting families across Nebraska since 1886, Tabitha —an Eventide Affiliate—offers a range of services: results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home health care, innovative living communities, compassionate hospice services and Tabitha Meals on Wheels (Lincoln). For all Senior Care needs, “Tabitha is the answer.”
Each year, Tabitha must fundraise to supplement the cost of Seniors’ care. Medicaid and Medicare do not come close to fully reimbursing Tabitha to cover costs.
Connect with the Tabitha Foundation to make a donation to support Seniors TODAY. Call (402) 486-8520 or go to Tabitha.org/Give.
Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.
Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 270 communities. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $553 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
Christian Businessmen’s Connection (CBMC Lincoln) is part of a global network of men in the marketplace who want to develop personally, professionally and spiritually. These are men who aspire to honor God in their businesses and work. CBMC encourages men to connect with Christ and with others who are growing and discovering how to represent Christ in life and work.
CBMC offers one-on-one mentoring, challenging growth groups, leadership development, networking and events throughout the year. They also serve business owners and leaders through Peer Advisory Groups geared to equip members to lead lives and businesses which honor Christ and serve the community. Young Professionals (YP) groups offer opportunities for men from all areas of the workplace to engage with other YP’s as well as learn from senior leaders and business owners. When men connect with CBMC, they become part of a trusted band of brothers who are there to provide encouragement and accountability and share wisdom.
To learn how CBMC Lincoln can serve you, please contact CBMC Lincoln at (402) 204-1997, connect with them on Facebook (@ cbmclincolnne) or visit lincoln.cbmc.com.
Since 1952, The Arc of Lincoln has been a resource for parents, schools, agencies and individuals who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities. The mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to promote and protect their rights and interests, while enriching the quality of their lives. They believe that all people deserve opportunities and to be contributors and influencers in their communities. Questions can be directed to Jennifer Stuhmer, Executive Director, at (402) 421-8866 / director@ arclincoln.org. Visit www.arclincoln.org for more information.
The Nebraska Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) is part of the world’s largest and oldest children’s youth ministry. Established in 1937, the global ministry has reached over 350 million children with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are unique in that they focus specifically on elementary children ages five to 12. CEF of Nebraska’s Good News Club is an after-school Bible club during the school year that primarily meets in local public elementary schools. During the summer, their Summer Good News Club (formerly the Five-Day Club) goes where the children are – neighborhoods, homes and parks.
CEF of Nebraska brings the gospel of Jesus Christ to children for an opportunity in which to make a life-changing decision for Christ in a safe and loving environment. If you would like to know more, please contact Matt Anderson at matta@cefnebraska.org / (402) 480-5515.
Voices of Hope provides 24-hour services to all genders who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, or related forms of abuse. They have provided free and confidential services to individuals of these crimes in Lincoln/Lancaster County for 48 years. Their services include a 24-hour crisis line (402) 475-7273, victim advocacy courts/hospitals, support groups, crisis counseling, safety planning, assistance with protection orders, basic needs and campus advocacy. They answer more than 8,000 crisis line calls a year and provide face-to-face services to approximately 2,500 unduplicated survivors. Voices of Hope is in need of financial donations, gift cards, gas cards, and donations of basic need items such as personal hygiene items, household items, and security cameras. To learn more visit voicesofhopelincoln .org.
For over 60 years, Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) has worked for the betterment of Nebraska through waste reduction, recycling and community beautification. KNB’s mission is to enhance, preserve and beautify Nebraska by developing and managing programs and partnerships with statewide affiliates, private industry leaders and citizens who share a passion for the environment. As a state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful (KAB), KNB coordinates KAB events in the state of Nebraska and is a statewide resource for its 20 local community affiliates and all Nebraska residents.
The largest programs offered through KNB are the Nebraska School Chemical Cleanout Campaign, Materials Exchange Program, Used Oil Collection Program, Food Waste Reduction Program and Household Hazardous Waste Program. These initiatives focus on promoting environmental sustainability and public education/ awareness.
To learn more, call us at (402) 486-4562 or visit knb.org for more information.
Founded in 1932, Catholic Social Services (CSS) of Southern Nebraska is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all individuals regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their services cover 24,000 square miles and touch the lives of nearly 30,000 people annually.
Catholic Social Services provides food market and meal services, family support services – which include rent and utility assistance, disaster relief, refugee, immigration services and St. Gianna Program (a program for women and their children escaping violence and domestic abuse). Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska has offices and Gift & Thrift stores in Lincoln, Auburn, Hastings and Imperial. To connect, donate or volunteer with CSS in bringing Hope in the Good Life, visit www.csshope.org or call (402) 474-1600.
The Branched Oak Observatory (BOO) is a unique astronomical park located conveniently just 20 minutes from downtown Lincoln near Branched Oak Lake Recreation Area. Established in 2015, they offer a unique viewing experience and learning opportunity for young and old alike. Whether viewing the sun, the moon or deep-space star clusters and nebulae, the Observatory’s staff of volunteers – amateur and professional astronomers alike – help to “Bring the Night Sky Down to Earth.”
Opening SOON! Come view our newest observatory the Miller Astrophotography Research Center (MARC). Check out our Facebook page for the latest announcements!
The Observatory has a radio telescope to view the electronic spectrum of the universe, a SATCOM array for communications with the International Space Station and other satellites, a Cosmic Ray Detector and an Earth Moon Earth EME array that will allow them to bounce radio signals off the surface of the moon and back to Earth!
Please follow the Branched Oak Observatory on Facebook (@BranchedOakObservatory). Keep checking back to see about our “NEW” operating hours! If you would like more information, visit theboo.org or contact Matt Anderson at matthew@ branchedoakobservatory.com / (402) 480-5515. Branched Oak Observatory is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
The Pregnancy Center of Lincoln is a nonprofit, faith-based organization located in the heart of Lincoln, just off O Street. Every day women in our community visit the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need love and support, and many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center provides comprehensive information about every option available to women facing an unintended pregnancy. The center also provides confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support, parenting and birth classes all at no cost to their clients or taxpayers.
The Bridge Behavioral Health is a nationally accredited substance use treatment center. Their mission is to provide hope and a strong foundation for recovery through substance use treatment and behavioral health intervention. Since 1984, The Bridge has served as an essential part of the community’s safety net, providing compassionate support and treatment to people struggling with substance use and related mental health disorders. The Bridge offers a continuum of services including medically-monitored withdrawal, substance use and mental health respite, residential treatment and outpatient counseling. For more information, contact their Executive Director,Ed Thornbrugh at (402) 477-3951 or visit thebridgenebraska.org.
The Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) stands as a premier organization fostering community engagement through sports and physical activity. At the heart of its initiatives are the Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games, events that unite businesses in friendly competition, promoting teamwork and healthy lifestyle. These games serve as a platform for corporations to build camaraderie among employees while emphasizing the importance of fitness and well-being. The NSC, committed to enriching sports culture in Nebraska, actively seeks partnerships and sponsorships. Corporations aligning with the NSC gain exposure and contribute to the development of a healthier and more connected community. Sponsorship opportunities encompass a range of engagement levels, from event-specific branding to sustained partnerships, allowing businesses to tailor their involvement according to their marketing and charitable objectives. By supporting the NSC and the Corporate Games, sponsors play a vital role in fostering a dynamic, active and interconnected Nebraska community. Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.
For over 20 years, DomestiPUPS has been supporting people in our local, regional and national communities through the assistance of animals. From therapy dogs in the classroom motivating children to pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals and assisted living centers, Domesti-PUPS pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. The organization’s service dog teams provide increased independence when paired with a disabled partner. These highly-skilled canines can turn on lights, provide balance and mobility, retrieve dropped items, bring a bottle of water from a refrigerator, respond to medical emergencies such as a seizure or a diabetic high or low and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide lifesaving measures for their disabled partners. Learn more online at domesti-pups.org.
Angels Among Us provides financial and emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply. Once approved, families qualify for levels of $550 or $825 a month, depending on household income, for the duration of their critical treatment plan. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, which ensures funds are used for their intended purpose. AAU is the only organization providing long-term sustained funding to pediatric cancer families in the region.
In addition to financial support, Angels Among Us launched emotional support programming in 2022 to provide wrap-around services for all members of the pediatric cancer family. Programs include Kids Link, Women’s Recharge, Healing Hearts, and events for the whole family. These emotional support programs allow Angels Among Us to better fulfill its mission of both financial and emotional support.
Since 2006, over 720 families have been supported with over $5 million in financial support. Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit www.myangelsamongus.org.
Since 1978, Friendship Home has helped survivors of domestic violence find physical and emotional safety by offering possibilities to help change their lives when things are at their worst. Friendship Home’s current facilities have expanded shelter options including transitional housing and single-family shelters and a variety of different crisis services.
Friendship Home offers emergency shelter in a communal shelter setting, apartments for families and transitional living for families who need more time to rebuild their lives – free from violence. Friendship Home continues to empower everyone who comes through their doors to achieve safety, independence and freedom from domestic violence.
Friendship Home is Lancaster County’s only safe, confidential emergency shelter for survivors of domestic violence and their children. Services include emergency and transitional shelter, as well as supportive services, through safety planning, crisis intervention, support groups and mental health counseling. To access safe shelter and services, call (402) 437-9302. Learn more about Friendship Home online at friendshiphome.org.
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives – devoted to saving people from two of the nation’s top killers: heart disease and stroke.
Powered by millions of volunteers, global and local collaborators, their goal is equitably increase worldwide healthy life expectancy from 64 to at least 67 years by 2030.
Through events right here in Nebraska, like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women and Heart Ball, the American Heart Association is making an impact. For more information, visit heart.org/nebraska.
Lincoln Medical Education Partnership (LMEP) is a leader in healthcare education, patient care and behavioral health services through a variety of programs designed to meet community needs. These include the training of Family Medicine resident physicians and the delivery of exemplary patient care through the Lincoln Family Medicine Residency Program and the Lincoln Family Medicine Center, exposure to integrative medicine through Lincoln Medical Acupuncture, outpatient mental health and substance use counseling services for children and adults through Stepping Stones, and the provision of training and technical assistance to help school identify and assist students with behavioral health issues through School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP). To learn more about Lincoln Medical Education Partnership, visit www.lmep.com or call (402) 483-4581.
Nebraska Diaper Bank (NDB) believes that ALL babies deserve clean diapers. Since 2014, NDB has operated a growing diaper distribution program, working collaboratively with other social service agencies to serve the community.
Clean, dry diapers are necessary for the health and well-being of growing babies, yet many families struggle to provide enough diapers for their child’s needs. Diapers are not covered by SNAP, WIC or Medicaid, so for families who stretch every dollar, the extra burden of $80+ for diapers every month can be the breaking point.
NDB focuses on filling this gap for low-income families in Nebraska. By distributing diapers to families through trusted partner agencies, NDB reduces financial stress and empowers parents to work, attend school, and provide a more stable environment for their children. NDB currently serves over 4,700 babies each month, distributing over 300,000 diapers in our state. Learn more at nebraskadiaperbank.org.
Hundreds of children and youth in Lancaster County are victims of abuse and neglect. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Lancaster County is a local nonprofit that recruits, trains and supports community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused, neglected, truant or ungovernable children in Juvenile Court. CASA volunteers get to know the children and the circumstances and issues surrounding the family. They gather information and report their findings and recommendations directly to the judge. CASA volunteer advocates provide a voice for children in court, expedite permanency, share with the judge the needs and wishes of the children and ensure that children have safe, permanent homes. Help us “Change a Child’s Story™” by becoming a CASA volunteer or by donating today!
To volunteer, donate or for more information, please contact CASA for Lancaster County at (402) 474-5161 or visit www.casa4lancaster. org / Facebook @CASA4LancasterCo.
The mission of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Our mission is more than words. We always aim to prevent and relieve suffering with every action. The Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to people affected by disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross, through its strong network of volunteers, donors and partners, is always there in times of need. Red Cross supporters provide a beacon of hope. From helping during disasters and ensuring access to lifesaving blood, to providing training to save lives and supporting military communities, the Red Cross is there when help can’t wait. To learn more, visit redcross.org.
Summer should be fun and filled with new experiences, and Bright Lights provides all of that and more!
Serving K-8th grade students, Bright Lights provides energized, engaging and fun summer learning opportunities. Their week-long half-day and full-day camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills and build new relationships.
For Summer 2025, camps take place June 2-6; June 9-13; June 16-20; June 23-27 and July 7-11. Camp topics include science, technology, math, art, literature and music with most having a STEAM connection.
The full Summer 2025 camp schedule will be available online in February, and registration will open on Saturday, March 1 at 8:00 am at BrightLights.org.
Bright Lights provides Before Care and Lunch Care at some camp locations. Need-based scholarships are available. There is also an international experience for middle school students and a Camp Assistant program for high schoolers. Find out more about these opportunities at BrightLights.org.
The mission of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is to relieve hunger, overcome homelessness, address addiction and provide outreach and advocacy in Lincoln. Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, Matt Talbot is a hunger relief and outreach center dedicated to helping the homeless and near-homeless find possibilities when things seem impossible. Each year over 250,000 meals are provided through onsite prepared meals, emergency food pantries and the distribution of donated high-quality food and over 50,000 outreach and homeless prevention services are provided including housing, case management, drug and alcohol evaluations, education classes, homeless diversion and help with obtaining vital identification documents. Matt Talbot has maintained a four-star Charity Navigator ranking for ten consecutive years, received the 2023 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics, and is recognized for transparency with a Gold Seal GuideStar Nonprofit Profile.
Learn more at mtko.org.
People’s City Mission (PCM) was started in 1907 by local churches, offering food and shelter for transient and impoverished men, women and children. In 1987, PCM moved to their current location and now houses on average 350 men, women and children nightly in their emergency shelters and the Curtis Center permanent supportive housing program. The Help Center offers free clothing, housewares and food to Lincoln’s needy, to aid in preventing homelessness. The Free Clinic offers quality dental and other services to the uninsured. As Lincoln’s homeless shelter, People’s City Mission’s work is more than 97% funded by community donations. When you give a little, you can change a lot.
Contact info@pcmlincoln.org or call (402) 475-1303 for more information. You can also visit www.pcmlincoln.org or @pcmlincoln on Facebook, Instagram and X for more information.
The Mission of Apace , previously Region V Foundation is to support and improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in Southeast Nebraska. Apace helps provide services that may not be available through usual funding methods, including day services, transportation, housing, job coaching and other programs and experiences. Apace has been serving the Lincoln area and Southeast Nebraska for over 45 years. We strive for a community where those who experience disabilities are included by providing tools and resources, we educate the public and connect members of the community.
To learn more, please visit GoApace.com or call (402) 471-6400.
Vision Maker Media’s (VMM) mission is empowering and engaging Native people to share stories. By funding and working with producers to develop, produce and distribute programs, VMM supports training to increase the number of Native Americans and Alaska Natives producing public broadcasting programs.
With initiatives like the Creative Shorts Fellowship (CSF) and the Native Youth Media Project (NYMP), VMM fosters the next generation of storytellers. CSF equips Native filmmakers with mentorship, funding and resources to craft innovative short films that honor cultural traditions through modern media. NYMP empowers young storytellers with hands-on training in media production, amplifying innate storytelling talent and sharing finished films with communities. VMM amplifies Native voices and inspires and connects generations through the art of storytelling.
Vision Maker Media (VMM) envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. Visit visionmakermedia.org.
Global Ties Nebraska , a Lincoln nonprofit and community-based member affiliate of Global Ties U.S., is on a mission to advancing global citizen diplomacy in Nebraska. Working closely with the U.S. Department of State, Global Ties Nebraska organizes impactful programming for the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), creating opportunities for visiting international leaders to engage with local community members, gain valuable insights, and build lasting connections in Nebraska.
Global Ties Nebraska’s programs support the vision of IVLP by connecting Nebraska community members with international leaders through professional exchanges, cultural activities, and unique Dinner Diplomat experiences, where visitors dine in local homes, gaining an authentic perspective on American culture and values. These exchanges promote citizen diplomacy, fostering mutual understanding and goodwill across borders while empowering local Nebraskans to become active participants in global conversations. Visit globaltiesnebraska.org for more information.
Since 1965, Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties has been partnering with its community in fearless pursuit of anti-poverty solutions so all have the opportunity to live well.
Community Action provides programs and services in four impact areas: Early Childhood Education, Homelessness Prevention, Financial and Family Well-Being and Hunger Relief and Healthy Food Access. Just some programs include Head Start, which gives children and families the education and supports for success in kindergarten and beyond; Emergency Services, which provides rent, utility, and deposit assistance to those at-risk of and experiencing homelessness; and the Gathering Place, which provides free hot, nutritious meals to anyone experiencing hunger in Lincoln.
In 2023, Community Action provided over 109,000 anti-poverty services to over 17,000 individuals. To connect, call (402) 471-4515 or visit communityactionatwork.org.
For 93 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been strengthening the Lincoln community by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents an outlet for recycling unused household items and clothing. The sale of donated items in Goodwill’s retail stores remains the largest source of funding for its programs and services. Goodwill recognizes that services provided by peer agencies prepare people served by Goodwill to better succeed in Goodwill’s employment programs. It is with this understanding that Goodwill provides funding to colleague agencies to help with their own programs that align with Goodwill’s mission of keeping willing workers employed and community resources maximized. To learn more, visit lincolngoodwill.org.
More than 11,000 Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. The Heartland Cancer Foundation's (HCF) mission is to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in out community so they can focus on what matters most: healing.
If YOU are passionate about supporting local cancer patients who are struggling with both a cancer diagnosis and financial hardship, YOU can get involved by sponsoring one of HCF's signature events like the Mardi Gras Gala, Oncology Symposium or Heartland Golf Classic, or by becoming an Impact Partner and have a presence at all events year-round.
Other ways YOU can show your support includes volunteering, joining the Impact Guild, setting up a recurring gift or including HCF as a beneficiary in your legacy plans.
Chances are, cancer has had an impact on your life. If you're ready to provide hope, learn more and reach out at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.
Through partnerships and collaboration
Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) facilitates positive change for the common good. LCF's mission is to inspire out community to give, act and lead.
Since 1955, LCF has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. The organization serves as a faithful stewards for many types of philanthropic gifts and help donors create lasting legacies of giving. With gifts of all sizes from thousands of donors over the years, the assets of the LCF have grown to more than $250 million. LCF has distributed more than $255 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of our residents.
The success of Lincoln Community Foundation is measured by the quality of life achieved for people today and generations to come. Find out more online at lcf.org or by calling (402) 474-2345.
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