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CODY ARNOLD
KRISTIN WALSTAD Tobacco Free Lancaster County
SHAWN
RYAN
CHAD MCCARTHY Farris
Nick Cusick
Tom Smith
Marc LeBaron
A Paige From My Notebook...
Dear Readers,
This month, we proudly present our “WomenOwned Businesses” feature, which celebrates the leadership, innovation and influence of women making a significant impact in their fields. This feature serves as an inspiration to other aspiring female leaders and showcases their importance in our daily lives. From breaking barriers to shaping industries, this feature highlights just some of the significant local women that are making a difference in our economy
As the President of Strictly Business, I want to take a moment to highlight the incredible power of local printed magazines, especially when combined with the strength of a strong website. In a world where digital media often takes the spotlight, the enduring value of print remains stronger than ever— particularly when it’s deeply connected to the community it serves.
At Strictly Business, our print publication represents more than just pages of articles. It is a tangible connection to the local businesses, stories and achievements that make our community special. There’s something uniquely powerful about flipping through a magazine, discovering new businesses, reading about local people and feeling a direct connection to the community. Print engages in a way that’s personal and lasting, offering readers a break from the digital overload that often surrounds us.
But in today’s evolving media landscape, printed magazines aren’t isolated—they thrive when they’re paired with a well-crafted, comprehensive website. This combination gives readers the best of both worlds: the intimacy of print and the accessibility of digital. A magazine you can hold in your hands provides depth and reflection, while our dynamic website extends that experience, offering real-time updates,
event information, and a place for readers to engage with important content that was created years ago, working long after the print edition has been read. In a typical month our websites will generate over 52,000 pageviews and over 1.3 million search engine impressions for our clients.
Our website also enables us to reach new audiences beyond our print circulation, ensuring that the stories, people and businesses we showcase are accessible to a broader audience. It also means more visibility for our advertisers, providing them with both the prestige of being featured in print and the reach of digital.
In an era where digital noise and social media platforms can often bury and drown out local voices, we are proud to say that local publications like Strictly Business is a powerful force in preserving and promoting the unique flavor and power of our community.
Together, print and digital offer the perfect synergy—one that preserves the timeless appeal of a local magazine while harnessing the power of modern technology to amplify its impact. For readers, it’s a richer experience. For businesses, it’s a broader more impactful platform. And for the community, it’s the best way to stay connected and informed.
At Strictly Business, we are committed to delivering the highest-quality content in print, while also providing a robust and complete digital experience. Thank you for continuing to support us, our advertisers and our city as we celebrate the power of local in every format.
Here’s to the power of local, join us!
Warm regards,
Paige Zutavern
The Inaugural JA Business Hall of Fame took place on Friday, September 27th, at the Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln, Nebraska. This prestigious event, organized by Junior Achievement of Lincoln, celebrated the remarkable achievements of local business leaders who have made significant contributions to the community and demonstrated outstan ding leadership throughout their careers. The Hall of Fame honored individuals who exemplified the values of innovation, perseverance, and community impact, serving as role models for future generations of entrepreneurs and professionals. During the event, five laureates were recognized for their extraordinary leadership and dedication: Nick Cusick of Bison Inc., Marc LeBaron of Lincoln Industries, Tom Smith retired from D.A. Davidson, and the late Earl Hatfield and Dan Remigio. Each honoree played a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape of Lincoln and beyond, while also supporting initiatives that empower young people to succeed. Representing a diverse range of industries, these laureates left lasting legacies not only in business but also through their commitment to community service and mentorship.
Nick Cusick, owner and CEO of Bison Inc., exemplified entrepreneurial leadership throughout his career. As a co-founder of Bison Inc., a leading manufacturer of sporting equipment, he transformed the company from its humble beginnings in 1985 into a nationally recognized brand. Nick’s hands-on approach, commitment to quality, and deep understanding of the sports industry drove Bison’s success across various markets, from schools to professional venues. Beyond business, he actively supports community initiatives, fostering a strong work culture and earning respect as a visionary leader in Nebraska’s business community.
innovation, employee wellness, and a strong company culture has been integral to Lincoln Industries’ success, earning recognition for both business excellence and its unique approach to employee engagement. His influence extends beyond his company, as he actively contributes to local economic development initiatives across Nebraska.
Dan Remigio left a lasting legacy through his work at Goodyear Tire Company and his support for the formation of Junior Achievement of Lincoln. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, Dan led successful initiatives and fostered a culture of innovation and growth. His strategic leadership helped guide his teams through challenges while maintaining a long-term focus. Dan’s deep commitment to the Lincoln community, particularly through Junior Achievement, reflected his belief in empowering the next generation of leaders.
Earl Hatfield was a dedicated leader whose career and community involvement made a significant mark on Lincoln. A longtime employee at Goodyear Tire Company, Earl played a pivotal role in the company’s growth, earning respect for his hard work and commitment to excellence. His leadership was defined by integrity, collaboration, and a focus on empowering others. Earl’s support for Junior Achievement helped bridge the gap between the business community and local students, ensuring they had the tools and knowledge to thrive in their careers.
Tom Smith is known for his dedication to both business and community development. Over the years, he successfully led several local ventures, combining his keen business acumen with a commitment to improving the local economy. His collaborative and innovative leadership style drove growth within his organizations while empowering teams to reach their full potential. Recognized for his civic and charitable efforts, Tom worked tirelessly to create opportunities for others, contributing to the overall wellbeing of Lincoln.
Marc LeBaron, former Chairman and CEO of Lincoln Industries, has made a significant impact in the metal finishing industry. Under his leadership, the company flourished, expanding its capabilities and establishing itself as a national leader. Marc’s commitment to
PRODUCTION TEAM:
Director of Operations Kacey Russell – Kacey@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
Art Director Jayda Lyon – Jayda@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
Editorial Interns: Rowan Havranek and Avery Carl
TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com
Junior Achievement empowers young people by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a global economy. Through hands-on programs in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and work readiness, JA connects students with local business leaders to inspire confidence and purpose. By volunteering or supporting Junior Achievement, you can play a vital role in shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators. Get involved today and help make a lasting impact on the future of our community! Visit Lincoln.ja.org today to make a powerful impact! Whether you choose to become a volunteer or make a financial gift, your contribution will play a crucial role in ensuring that future generations gain the financial literacy they need to thrive. Together, we can empower young people to achieve their dreams and build a stronger community!
Kacey Jayda Rowan Avery
Dan Remigio
Earl Hatfield
SweetThingsbyMarcytoHostAnniversaryOpen House at Lincoln Community Foundation Park
Sweet Things by Marcy is celebrating four years of business for STbM and six months in its brick and mortar building at the Culinary Kitchen with an Open House event at the Lincoln Community Foundation Park (1417 N Street). The Anniversary Open House will take place on October 16 from 3 to 5 p.m.
Sweet Things by Marcy offers an exceptional dessert experience that captures the essence of Southern culinary traditions. Marcy’s Alabama roots inspire all Sweet Things creations, including banana pudding, peach cobbler, Kentucky butter cake and sweet potato pie. Sweet Things by Marcy takes pride in using only the finest ingredients, ensuring each dessert is a masterpiece of flavor and quality.
Check out Sweet Things by Marcy’s upcoming events:
• October 12: Cake & Cocktail Pairing at The Post Lincoln (Telegraph District 20th & M St)
• November 3: Dessert & Wine Pairing at James Arthur Vineyard
• November 14: Dessert & Wine Pairing at James Arthur Vineyard (OLLI)
To see more on what Sweet Things by Marcy has to offer, visit sweetthingsbymarcy.com. Questions can be directed to sweetthingsbymarcy@gmail.com or (402) 540-6982.
NorthRiskPartners’Commitmentto#Service
North Risk Partners is one of the largest, privatelyowned independent insurance brokerages in the Midwest with more than 450 employees and 30 locations. North Risk Partners specializes in strategic insurance solutions for businesses and individuals, helping clients mitigate risk through value-added services that help prevent avoidable losses.
North Risk’s values are rooted in a mission of service — to their clients, to each other, and to their communities.
One way that North Risk Partners lives out this mission is through Volunteer Time Off (VTO) for employees. This benefit supports team members to volunteer and provide service to the communities they live and work in.
In North Risk’s Omaha office, VTO is a big part of their culture. Each month the team delivers Meals on Wheels, a service that provides meals to seniors in various communities, and several employees donate blood and/or platelets throughout the year.
Earlier this year, the Omaha team also took part in a large volunteer opportunity with the Special Olympics swim competition in Omaha. The team helped with various tasks such as guiding the athletes from station to station to compete and to receive their awards.
North Risk Partners’ Omaha office is located at 8204 S 109th St, La Vista, Nebraska. For more information, visit northriskpartners.com or call (402) 592-7777.
Husker Rehab Introduces the International PelvicPhysicalTherapyDistanceJourneyClub
Each month, Husker Rehab has a couple of Pelvic Physical Therapists have a conference club to discuss the most recent research. Dr. Michelle Spicka is one of the 12 presenters that present each year. She usually does the month of September.
“I have been a presenter/research analyst for the International Pelvic Physical Therapy Distance Journal Club since it started in 2010,” says Michelle Spicka, PT, DPT.
The Pelvic Physical Therapy Distance Journal Club’s purpose is to provide a forum for discussion of current research and new ideas in the field of pelvic physiotherapy. Research in this area is occurring at a fast pace. It is nearly impossible to stay up to date alone. The format that the Pelvic Physical Therapy Distance Journal Club provides allows structured discussion of research and its application to practice.
All coordinators, speakers and social media helpers are providing services here free of charge. Learn more about what they do at pelvicptblog.wordpress.com.
At Husker Rehab, physical pain and dysfunction are personal. They’ve become very good at listening to their patient’s needs and desires, analyzing the problem, ferreting out causes, and figuring out ways to get people moving again. Learn more at huskerrehab.com.
SavvySeniorsEmpowermentSeminarSeries: Upcoming Sessions on Aging in Place and Navigating Life after Loss
Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminar is pleased to announce the topics for the upcoming monthly seminars, aimed at enriching and empowering the senior community through education and support. These seminars, held every first Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. at Suite 111 in the Clocktower shopping area (70th and A Street), will explore key aspects of aging and life transitions, focusing on aging in place and navigating life after the loss of a spouse.
The October seminar, scheduled for October 2, will focus on "Aging in the Best Place." This session will provide valuable insights into how seniors can remain in their homes or choose the best living situation as they age. Experts will discuss the importance of creating a safe, comfortable and supportive environment, whether through home modifications, community resources or alternative living arrangements.
Additionally, Savvy Seniors continues to offer the newly established Downsizing Club, which provides support for seniors looking to downsize their homes. The club offers practical advice, emotional support and resources to help make the downsizing process as smooth as possible. Those interested in the Downsizing Club are encouraged to contact Alicia for more information.
Participants can register for these seminars by visiting NESavvySeniors. com. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot. For further information or to register for the seminars, visit NESavvySeniors.com or contact Alicia Chrastil at (402) 499-8147.
OvationSalon&Houseof WigsPartnerswith Clinic With A Heart for “Fashion With A Heart” Event
Join Sun Valley Lanes & Games for Their Tournaments!
Ovation Salon & House of Wigs is proud to announce its partnership with Clinic With A Heart for the upcoming “Fashion With A Heart” event, which will take place on Saturday, October 19 at the Graduate Hotel, 141 South 9th Street. The doors will open at 6:00 p.m., followed by a fashion show at 7:00 p.m.!
This event will celebrate the donors, volunteers and staff who make Clinic With A Heart’s mission possible. Ovation Salon & House of Wigs owner, John Aguirre, is excited to play a crucial role by providing resources for the models, including hair styling and wig fittings, ensuring they are runway-ready.
As a long-standing community partner, Ovation Salon & House of Wigs is committed to supporting causes that give back to the community. By collaborating with Clinic With A Heart, Ovation Salon & House of Wigs is helping raise awareness for the organization’s vital work in providing free healthcare services to those in need. For more information on this exciting event, visit clinicwithaheart.org, or email Molly at molly@clinicwithaheart.org.
Kingery Construction Celebrates Century of Excellence
Sun Valley Lanes & Games is proud to announce the return of two highly-anticipated annual bowling tournaments, the Ultra Doubles and Capital City Matchgames. These events are set to draw top-tier amateur bowlers not only from the local area but also from neighboring states.
This year marks the sixth edition of the Ultra Doubles and the 39th Capital City Matchgames, both sponsored by Sun Valley Lanes & Games, Action Plumbing, and Lincoln Winnelson Company.
Competitors will compete for the first-place titles and cash prizes, with $1,200 going to the winners of the Ultra Doubles and $2000 for the winner of the Capital City Matchgames. In addition, if a participant is able to win both tournaments, they will earn a $1,250 bonus, courtesy of Action Plumbing.
The weekend starts off with the Ultra Doubles tournament at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 16. The following day, Sunday, November 17, at 9 a.m., the Capital City Matchgames will begin. Tournament registration is available at sunvalleylanes.com/tournaments and admission for spectators is free.
Sun Valley Lanes & Games is the go-to spot for endless fun, mouthwatering dining and friendly competition. Learn more at sunvalleylanes.com.
Kingery Construction Co. is a leading construction company with over 100 years of experience, committed to delivering exceptional construction projects that cater to the specific needs of local communities. The company prides itself on professionalism, integrity and cost-effective solutions, which have helped them build strong partnerships and become a trusted name in the industry. Kingery has consistently demonstrated excellence by providing outstanding customer service and adhering to the highest industry standards.
The core of Kingery’s approach is centered around people, safety and hard work. The focus on continuous improvement drives growth and innovation, positioning Kingery at the forefront of the industry. Kingery has been a reliable partner for schools, universities, hospitals, churches, commercial properties, government buildings, industrial facilities and private projects. The company has established longstanding relationships with owners and architects, fostering collaboration and trust that spans decades. By continuously adapting to industry advancements and embracing new technologies, Kingery is well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of clients and deliver exceptional results.
As Kingery celebrates its century of excellence its commitment to enhancing communities through exceptional construction projects remains steadfast. With a focus on delivering superior craftsmanship, outstanding customer service and driving innovation, Kingery is poised to continue shaping the construction landscape for years to come. For more information about Kingery Construction Co., please visit kccobuilders.com or call (402) 465-4400.
Farris Engineering Team Enhances Expertise and Community Support at NFPA Conference
In June, Farris Engineering proudly sent a team of three dedicated fire protection engineers to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Annual Conference & Expo in Orlando, Florida. This prestigious event, renowned for its focus on cutting-edge fire protection technologies and best practices, offered the team invaluable insights and learning opportunities. The conference provided a platform for engaging with industry leaders and experts, fostering connections that will enhance Farris Engineering’s approach to fire safety.
In addition to their professional development, the team participated in a heartwarming community service initiative. They spent part of their time stuffing and assembling comfort bears, which were subsequently donated to fire departments in Orange and Seminole counties. These comfort bears are instrumental in soothing traumatized children during emergencies and supporting older adults with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Farris Engineering’s commitment extends beyond technical excellence; it embodies a deep dedication to community support and wellbeing. This charitable activity highlights their holistic approach to fire protection, combining advanced knowledge with compassionate outreach.
Farris Engineering is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering with additional expertise in multiple sectors, including fire protection and life safety systems. To learn more about Farris Engineering, visit farris-usa.com.
THANK YOU
to these community-minded businesses who have chosen to amplify their impact for our community through the United Way/CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive) Campaign by loaning personnel or providing sponsorship for the Loaned Executive program.
2024 Loaned Executives
Derek Kay, FNBO
Steve Stueck, Union Bank & Trust
Annie Williamson, HBE LLP
Wade Walkenhorst, Cornhusker Bank
Loaned Executive Sponsors
Nebraska Owners Insurance Agency is Hosting a Ribbon Cutting
Join Nebraska Owners Insurance Agency (NOIA) for the ribbon cutting of their newest building! The ribbon cutting will take place on Thursday, October 3, from 4 to 4:30 p.m. The event is taking place at 6130 S 58th St., STE A. They hope you celebrate this milestone with you!
As an independent agency, the Nebraska Owners Insurance Agency is proud to offer insurance coverage to individuals, families, businesses and groups alike. They take pride in offering the best rate and coverage, perfectly catered to your needs. Life is unpredictable— they’re here to ensure your peace of mind with their custom-fit solutions, They’re in Nebraska, by Nebraskans, for Nebraskans. Learn more about their mission and get in touch with an agent today at nebraskaownersinsurance.com.
Tourism, LLC Offering Workshops,
for Business, Nonprofits & International Travelers
love to help!
Beyond Tourism offers consulting, coaching and workshops on cultural intelligence, also known as CQ. Cultural intelligence enables individuals and organizations to be successful in today’s multicultural, interconnected world. It’s the ability to function and relate effectively in culturally diverse situations.
Cultural intelligence is an incredibly important skill that you need to be a successful leader in a multicultural workplace. While working with Beyond Tourism, you will learn to identify your cultural preferences and behaviors, identify cultural behaviors in others, and how to adapt to cultural differences around you. Improving your CQ will connect you with your international employees, clients or colleagues for stronger trust and collaboration.
Renae Ninneman has a Master’s degree in Public Administration and has recently obtained certifications from The Cultural Intelligence Center.
Based on more than twenty years of research across over 100 countries, the CQ model assesses four capabilities to be developed in order to relate and work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
1. CQ Drive is the level of a person’s interest, persistence and confidence to function in culturally diverse settings.
2. CQ Knowledge is the level of a person’s understanding about how cultures are similar and how they are different.
3. CQ Strategy is the degree to which a person plans for, remains aware during and checks after multicultural interactions.
4. CQ Action is the extent of a person’s flexibility and appropriate use of a broad repertoire of behaviors and skills during multicultural encounters.
While working with Beyond Tourism, you will learn to identify your own cultural behaviors, understand how other cultures behave, and how you can adapt. For more information, contact Renae at renae@goingbeyondtourism.com or (402) 413-8948, or visit goingbeyondtourism.com.
Home Builders Association of Lincoln to Host Fall Parade of Homes October 6-13
Choices Treatment Center is Going to be at Project Connect Lincoln
The Home Builders Association of Lincoln’s (HBAL) Fall Parade of Homes will be the week of October 6-13. Every spring and fall, HBAL organizes a Parade of Homes for the public, offering potential home buyers a unique opportunity to walk through new homes and meet the builders. From Sunday, October 6, through Sunday, October 13, homes will be open weeknights from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday afternoons from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The event is free and features local home building companies at various locations around Lincoln. The 2024 Fall Parade guidebook is now available on the HBAL website, hbal.org.
The Home Builders Association of Lincoln is a visible, effective and respected trade association, promoting home building through professional education, member communication and civic participation, all of which represent builders and associated professionals in community, government and industry forums. HBAL has promoted the home building and remodeling industries in Lincoln since 1951. For more information about HBAL and the Parade of Homes, visit hbal.org.
BBB Midwest Plains Recognizes 2024 Recipientsof theInternationalTorchAwards for Ethics
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of the Midwest Plains is proud to announce that two exceptional businesses within its region have been named winners of the 2024 International Torch Awards for Ethics. These prestigious awards, presented by the International Association of Better Business Bureaus (IABBB), recognize businesses that demonstrate outstanding commitment to leadership character, organizational ethics and promoting trust in the marketplace.
Thrasher Foundation Repair, headquartered in Papillion, and Omaha Steaks, headquartered in Omaha, were among only four businesses across North America honored with this international award. Both winners were celebrated at BBB Midwest Plains’ 2024 Torch Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, September 24, at A View West Shores. These companies were recognized at the event alongside 33 other local recipients of the BBB Torch Awards for Ethics, the recipient of the BBB Spark Award, and the recipients of the BBB Student of Integrity Scholarships.
Since 1975, Thrasher has helped homeowners preserve and improve the value of their homes using proven basement waterproofing and structural repair solutions. Thrasher Foundation Repair is a 2023 Torch Award for Ethics recipient from BBB Midwest Plains. For Omaha Steaks, today, they maintain their reputation as a top meat provider by embracing an omnichannel marketing strategy that ranges from traditional customer service to modern digital platforms. Omaha Steaks is a 2023 Torch Award for Ethics recipient from BBB Midwest Plains.
“We are incredibly proud of Thrasher Foundation Repair and Omaha Steaks for their remarkable achievements,” said BBB Midwest Plains President & CEO Jim Hegarty. “These businesses represent the very best of our region, demonstrating how ethical practices and leadership integrity can drive success and trust in the marketplace.” Learn more at bbb.org.
Thanks to the support of Lincoln Homeless Coalition, Choices Treatment Center is proud to once again have a booth at Project Connect Lincoln on October 16!
We look forward to offering free problem gambling screenings, along with information regarding free problem gambling treatment and all of Choices addiction and mental health services. Get the services you need for free! One day, one stop event for people who are experiencing or “at-risk” of homelessness.
Choices Treatment Center is an outpatient treatment to help individuals and families overcome addiction and mental health concerns. They are a recovery facility committed to helping individuals overcome problems related to gambling, substance abuse and mental health through a holistic approach so all co-occurring issues may be addressed. They offer a 24-hour helpline staffed by licensed counselors, individual and group counseling and education sessions. Learn more about their mission at choicestreatmentcenter.net.
Join the Great American Smokeout on November 21!
According to the CDC, 70% of tobacco users want to quit. So, who do you know that needs support to quit tobacco?
Whether it’s a parent, coworker, or even yourself, quitting tobacco can feel overwhelming. But with the right support, it’s possible.
Tobacco addiction, especially to nicotine, can feel more overpowering than other addictions, but there’s hope. The Great American Smokeout (GASO), hosted by the American Cancer Society for over 40 years, is the perfect time to take the next step—whether you’re just starting or continuing your quit journey. With free support available from 1-800-QUIT-NOW and other local resources, you can join others in experiencing a tobacco-free life.
You can be the one to offer encouragement because no one should have to walk this journey alone. We all have a role in building a tobacco-free community. Individuals, businesses, and community members can work together to create healthier environments. For example, employers who support For employers, supporting tobacco cessation means caring for the well-being of your workforce, leading to a healthier, more productive team.
(moved up) Tobacco addiction, especially to nicotine, can feel more overpowering than other addictions, but there’s hope. The Great American Smokeout (GASO), hosted by the American Cancer Society for over 40 years, is the perfect time to take the next step—whether you’re just starting or continuingyour quit journey. With free support available from 1-800-QUIT-NOW and other local resources, you can join others in experiencing a tobacco-free life.
Wherever you are in your journey, we want you to feel seen and supported. Every attempt at quitting tobacco matters, and each step brings you closer to a tobacco-free life. Whether you’re ready to quit or looking to help someone else, November 21 could be the start of something great.
Join us at TobaccoFreeLancasterCounty.org/GASO to access resources, claim your free quit kit, and help build a healthier community.
JamesArthurVineyardisProudtoAnnounce Their Holiday Wine
James Arthur Vineyard announced their holiday wines—SleighBell Blush and Santa’s Secret—both of which will be available for purchase on Friday, November 1. James Arthur Vineyards looks forward to this time each year! They’ve been working on these new wines for a while and they can’t wait for them to become available for you! Learn more and purchase them when the time comes at jamesarthurvineyards.com.
What started as a hobby has turned into a popular Nebraska destination celebrating over 20 years in business. James Arthur Vineyards has hosted thousands of guests. They are nestled amidst 400 acres of rolling hills and natural prairie grasslands. Everyone is encouraged to sample from a wide variety of wines, stroll the grounds or sit under the covered deck by the waterfall. James Arthur Vineyards has built a business that Nebraska can be proud of. Find them at the winery in Raymond, at their tasting room in the "From Nebraska Gift Shop" located in the Haymarket or visit jamesarthurvineyards.com.
LincolnAirporttheOfficialAirportof Huskers Athletics
Halloween is Coming to the Haymarket!
Halloween in the Haymarket is here! This event will be held on Wednesday, October 23 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Bring your whole family and join them taking over Canopy Street, Iron Horse Park and the Railyard. This event is open to the public and is completely free! Wear your costumes, be ready to trick-or-treat with your favorite downtown businesses and join in on all the fun. Activities include face-painting, balloon artists, a live quick draw caricature artist, a dance party and more! All free for you and your friends and family!
More details to come as the event gets closer.
The Downtown Lincoln Association (DLA) was founded in 1967 and was originally established as a merchants’ association by downtown retailers who recognized the need for an organization to serve downtown’s unique needs. DLA has since evolved to a multi-faceted organization supporting a wide range of programs and activities including maintenance, economic development and advocacy. Learn more at downtownlincoln.org.
In October 2022, Lincoln Airport proudly became the official airport of Husker Athletics. As the first airport to support NIL, they’ve helped bring Husker athletes closer to their fans. NIL opportunities have enabled Nebraska athletes to partner with Lincoln Airport, and they’re excited to support the local traveling community and the athletes who embody the spirit of Nebraska.
As a benefit of their agreement with UNL, they’re honored to offer free game tickets through community giveaways, regardless of the season. These giveaways provide fans the opportunity to cheer for their favorite teams, strengthening the bond between the Huskers and their community.
Lincoln Airport serves as a crucial hub, not only connecting athletes to destinations but also uniting families and fans right here at home. Their terminal has witnessed countless unforgettable moments— families greeting loved ones with balloons and gifts, and fans coming together over their shared love for the Huskers. Each of these experiences highlights their role in connecting people.
Troy Dannen, University of Nebraska Athletic Director, captures the essence of their partnership, “Nebraska Athletics sees aviation as more than just transportation. Lincoln Airport connects our athletes and coaches to fans and recruits worldwide while staying rooted in Nebraska. Together, we elevate Husker Nation to new heights.” This partnership is about more than just transportation; it’s about creating connections, sharing stories and celebrating the pride and spirit of Nebraska. Lincoln Airport is honored to be part of this journey, and they look forward to continuing to support the Huskers and the vibrant community.
Learn more at lincolnairport.com.
ALLO Business Voice Solutions: Reliable Connectivity, Clear Communication
ALLO has been enhancing and redefining communication excellence for over 20 years, which is why they understand the critical role that communication plays in your business's success.
ALLO offers a variety of voice solutions designed to connect your team and enhance collaboration and productivity.
• Cloud Voice
• This voice solution brings the power of the cloud to your voice communication with a feature-rich platform. It offers advanced call management, flexibility and a flawless communication experience that grows with your business.
• Analog Voice
• This reliable and straightforward approach to communication uses traditional phone lines with clear, dependable connections.
• Microsoft Teams Voice
• Integrate your voice communication seamlessly. Stay connected and communicate as a team from a desktop phone, mobile phone or Teams on your desktop.
ALLO makes growing your business more accessible than ever by offering customized plans so that you can choose communication solutions that align best with you and your business needs. For more information, visit AlloBusiness.com or call (844) 560-2556
ALLO Communications, a Nebraska-based company and a leader in providing fiber-optic services, has been dedicated to delivering world-class communications and entertainment services since 2003. With a commitment to building Gigabit communities, ALLO serves over 46 communities across Nebraska, Colorado, Arizona, Missouri, Iowa and Kansas. ALLO is known for its reliable fiber networks and customized technology solutions that support businesses of all sizes.
TAC Payroll Solutions LLC Changed Their Name To PayWorks LLC
Though they might have changed their name, PayWorks' mission is still the same! Whether you’re a small business owner or operating an enterprise, you almost certainly need a payroll provider, and they’re here to make sure that this process is simple and convenient for all of your employees. It’s crucial to keep all of your financials straight, especially when you’re responsible for the finances of your employees. PayWorks LLC will continue to uphold all of your accounting needs, no matter what name they’re under, they’re putting your finances first.
When you work with PayWorks LLC, you can feel confident that your business finances are in great hands. They know first-hand that the entrepreneurial grind never takes a day off. That’s why they’re always here to assist you whenever you need them. PayWorks LLC is a local, woman-owned business serving customers in Lincoln and surrounding areas. Their services include full payroll services, notary services, bookkeeping, sales tax reporting, 1099 preparation and more. Learn more at payworksllc.com.
UnionBank&TrustMovesWealthManagement Division to Pine Ridge
For years, Union Bank & Trust (UBT) has offered a breadth of wealth management services, with different departments occupying different UBT office locations in Lincoln. Earlier this summer, UBT orchestrated several moves to bring these teams together in one location, enhancing collaboration, gaining efficiencies and ultimately providing more seamless service to their customers.
The Wealth Management division of Union Bank & Trust manages over $51 billion in assets in these key areas:
• Union Investment Management Group (personal and institutional investments)
• Personal Trust & Wealth Management (estate and trust administration)
• Retirement Plan Services (for companies of all sizes)
• Short-Term Investments (to maximize daily returns for businesses)
• Corporate Trust (for cities, counties, schools, etc.)
• 529 College Savings Plans (helping families throughout Nebraska save for education expenses)
The employees of these departments now call the office at 1801 Pine Lake Rd. in Lincoln — also known as the Pine Ridge location — home. UBT also has a Wealth Management team in Omaha that primarily operates from its location at 144th & Dodge, which opened in late 2023.
For more information about their wealth management services, visit ubt.com/wealth.
At UBT, people don’t have your money –your money has people. UBT is a local family owned bank and provides all the products and services you need, but with personalized customer care that the big-box banks can’t begin to compete with. Learn more at ubt.com. Investment products: Not FDIC Insured—No Bank Guarantee—May Lose Value.
Build Your Vision, Build With Quality
Independent Business Consulting LLC Hosted a Ribbon Cutting
On September 10th, Independent Business Consulting, LLC hosted a ribbon cutting and open house ceremony! They just finished moving in on the corner of 56th and South Streets, at Hampton Place located at 2120 S. 56th St. Suite 205. They celebrated with clients, other local business owners, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Center sphere, family and friends. Their move marks and new and exciting chapter in their mission to empower local businesses and fuel economic growth in the community. Feel free to stop by and say hello!
Independent Business Consulting’s mission (and expertise) is to assist businesses with planning, funding, resources, auditing, sustainability, continuity, compliance, connections and value-added services. Connect today to see what they can customize for you and your business. From business planning to data analytics and everything in between, they are here for you! Learn more about their business and what they do at independentbusinessconsulting.com.
SeptemberwasNationalPreparednessMonth
With September being National Preparedness Month, the important tips the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) highlighted about being prepared for disasters and emergencies can still be applied all year round.
“Nebraska has already experienced multiple significant weather events this year,” said NEMA Assistant Director Erv Portis. “It is crucial to either start now or update your emergency plan with your families during National Preparedness Month.”
Nebraskans should be using this time to communicate with one another and plan. You should have emergency supplies in place at home, at work and in the car. There are resources that can help you and your family get started. Community food banks are a potential resource for food-insecure families to stock their kits.
Emergency kits should include:
• Flashlight
• Batteries
• Phone chargers
• First aid kit
• Water
• Non-perishable food for at least three days
• Disinfectant
• Medical information for entire family
• Pet supplies
• Seasonal items such as extra water for hydration and bug repellant in the summer and warm clothes and sleeping bags for winter months
After you have put together or updated your kit, store it in a safe place. Don’t forget to tell your family members where you put it. You can find the entire Family Disaster Preparedness Kit on NEMA’s website, nema.nebraska.gov/assets/files/preparedness/ preparedness-kit.pdf.
Haymarket Park Named Leagues "Playing Surface of the Year"
Haymarket Park has been voted as the American Association’s “Playing Surface of the Year” for the 23rd time, the league has announced.
“We’re honored and very appreciative to receive the “Playing Surface of the Year” award as it is very rewarding to know that members of our league recognize Haymarket Park as the best playing surface in the American Association and one of the premier fields in all of baseball,” stated Saltdogs President Charlie Meyer. “I would like to thank and congratulate Kyle Trewhitt and his staff for their hard work and dedication to assuring the playing surface is in pristine condition year-round.”
Haymarket Park serves as the home field for the Lincoln Saltdogs and the University of Nebraska baseball teams. The total capacity is around 8,500, which includes 4,500 fixed seats and seating for around 4,000 people to sit in the grass berm areas along the 1st and 3rd base lines and the outfield areas. Haymarket Park also boasts a total of 16 luxury suites that provide guests with a climatecontrolled area with full catering options to enjoy Saltdogs and Huskers baseball games and a wide array of community events. Haymarket Park has an array of viable options to accommodate all event needs. The Pepsi Home Run Terrace and Picnic Pavilion serve as great areas for companies looking to show their appreciation for their employees, treat current clients or for entertaining prospective new clients, while also serving as a great opportunity for a night out with family and friends. To learn more visit saltdogs.com.
Central States Hydraulic Services in Focused on Quality and Growth!
Central States Hydraulic Services has been recognized and certified for achieving the ISO9001:2015 compliance standard. Organizations use the standard to demonstrate the ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements.
Chief Operations Officer Henry Augustine spearheaded Central States through the ISO process of certification which took over 10 months to build. Augustine said, “We are committed to providing a high quality & timely repair for our customers.”
Parts & Inventory Manager, Morgan Templemeyer was critical in her role of organizing the shop and building an inventory system to meet the rigorous inventory standards required for ISO9001 certification. Templemeyer said: “We work really hard and take pride in having an organized shop. Seeing the improvements we made and already hearing our customers recognize the changes when they stop in is all the validation we need to know that this positions us for future growth.”
Tehl & Kelsey Keslar, new owners of Central States are excited about the trajectory they are headed. “We are so proud of the hard work of all our team members over this past year. Our culture we have built is one where we are working to grow as a team and as a business. Our team fully bought into the changes and we have now taken a former “ma & pop” small business, added internal processes and systems that are starting to really position ourselves to be able to scale and take the business to the next level.” Tehl Keslar said.
Visit cshydraulics.com or call them for your hydraulic needs at (402) 438-5900.
NEW! Half-Day Preschool Options
SCORE Lincoln Hosts Workshop for Startups and Small Business Owners
SCORE Lincoln’s workshop helps startups and small business owners get answers to essential questions necessary to starting or running a small business. On Saturday, October 12 from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Turbine Flats at 2124 Y St., SCORE Lincoln will help you get an overview of all the things you need to be planning for and thinking about to create your successful small business. You will learn from experts to ask questions specific to your business interests.
Topics include:
• Business Plan
• Practical Accounting and Tax Considerations
• Financing Your Business
• Legal Structures for Small Business
• Marketing - traditional and digital
• Insurance Needs
The full-day costs $49 and includes lunch. Registration fee may be reimbursed by Community Development Resources upon attendance at the workshop. Registration is now open at score.org/lincoln/event/ whats-involved-starting-a-small-business-16.
At SCORE Lincoln, they offer free business advice, no-cost business training through webinars and workshops and numerous templates and tools to assist you in your journey to open your new business or grow your existing one. Learn more at SCORE.org./Lincoln.
Legacy Retirement Communities for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s October 6
Save the date for the Walk to End Alzheimer's at Haymarket Park (403 Line Drive Circle)! Join the Legacy Arbors team on October 6 as they help raise awareness for Alzheimer's. The site will open at 11 a.m. with a ceremony to follow at 12:30 p.m. The walk will commence at 1:00. Don’t miss out!
Legacy Retirement Communities is also excited to share that all the Legacy Retirement Communities have raised almost $15,000 for the Alzheimer's Association so far. Consider joining Legacy Retirement Communities’ fundraiser and donating to a great cause!
Through unwavering dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Legacy Retirement Communities has been committed to their mission of enriching the lives of each person in the community for more than 25 years. They are extremely grateful for those many years of serving the Lincoln community and for the incredible residents and enthusiastic staff that have been an integral part of their story.
Legacy Retirement Communities continues to provide Lincoln with award-winning elegance, superior care and countless reasons to live an enriched life. Independent living and assisted living are offered at three locations: The Legacy at 5600 Pioneers Blvd., Legacy Terrace at 5700 Fremont St. and Legacy Estates at 7200 Van Dorn St. Memory Care is offered exclusively at Legacy Arbors at 3777 N 58th St. Learn more at LegacyRetirement.com.
Veteran NFL Kicker Brett Maher to Open Lincoln's First Mathnasium Center
Mathnasium Learning Centers, an internationally known franchise with over 1,100 math-tutoring centers worldwide, is thrilled to announce its first location in Lincoln, Nebraska. The new center, located at 2901 Pine Lake Road, Suite E, is on track to open later this fall, and will be owned and operated by NFL veteran Brett Maher and his wife Jenna, who has a strong background in education.
Brett Maher, a five-year NFL kicker for the Dallas Cowboys, New Orleans Saints and Los Angeles Rams, transitions from the gridiron to the classroom with this new venture. The couple, originally from Kearney, Nebraska, has deep roots in education. Jenna is a former elementary school teacher who actively participates in her children’s PTA and serves as the communications coordinator for the local elementary school. Brett’s father is the Commissioner of Education for Nebraska, and his sister also works in the education field.
“Opening this Mathnasium center in Lincoln is a thrilling new chapter for us. As someone who’s experienced the dedication and discipline required in professional sports, I understand how important a solid foundation is for success, said Brett Maher. “I’m excited to bring that same level of commitment to helping local kids excel in math to prepare them for their future education and professional careers. It’s a fantastic way for Jenna and I to give back to our community and support the future stars of Lincoln.”
Mathnasium Learning Centers is North America’s leading math-only supplemental education franchise. Since 2002, the Mathnasium Method™ — the result of decades of hands-on instruction and development — has been transforming the lives of children in grades K-12 by offering comprehensive assessments, fully individualized learning plans and teaching true math comprehension. For information about Mathnasium’s visit mathnasium.com.
Willow Key Interiors Celebrates 10 Years of Design
Willow Key Interiors’ mission is to create a beautiful space for each of its clients that can be enjoyed in all chapters of life. Willow Key Interiors believes homes should reflect the client’s style yet be functional for their everyday life. Willow Key Interiors understands that no two projects are the same. Therefore, it has created a design process that gives every client a unique experience, tailored to individual needs.
The "Willow" in Willow Key Interiors represents the strength and gracefulness of a weeping willow tree. Owner & Lead Designer Natasha Lundy said, "I also had to pay homage to my son Will, who is the reason behind my being brave enough to take the leap into small business ownership in 2015. The ‘Key’ is that our design team is your key to a beautiful home!”
Natasha started her business in 2014 to pursue her love of interior design and to help clients create beautiful homes. Her passion is creating a comfortable, functional living space that is tailored to each client's personal taste and needs. She offers approachable, flexible design services that will cater to just about any design project, large or small.
“Hiring Natasha as we built our dream home was the best decision I ever made! Natasha did a remarkable job at making the process fun and enjoyable with her professional expertise! I would recommend her to everyone as I couldn't have imagined selecting everything on my own–I’m so grateful for Natasha!” said Willow Key Interiors client Keshia N.
To get in touch with Willow Key Interiors, visit inspiringhomesdesign.com.
EmpireNettingandFenceExpandsItsFamily withtheAdditionof HotKotePowderCoating Services
Empire Netting and Fence, a top-rated, locally owned and operated fence contractor in Waverly, Nebraska, is excited to announce the addition of HotKote to the Empire family. Known for their trusted powder coating services, HotKote highlights Empire's commitment to delivering high-quality products to their customers.
This partnership represents a union of friends coming together to strengthen both businesses. ESC (Empire Supply Company), part of the Empire family and known for its metal fabrication—including custom gates, handrails, guard rails, and shade structures—will now have the expertise of HotKote in their arsenal. As a satisfied customer of HotKote, Empire is pleased to bring their knowledge inhouse. By incorporating a state-of-the-art powder coating line into its operations, ESC will advance its capabilities, including sandblasting, painting, and powder coating.
Colleen Sorben from ESC shared her excitement, stating, "We are excited to welcome HotKote into the Empire family. Their expertise in powder coating will improve our processes, and we are looking forward to getting started". Empire is looking forward to this new chapter, confident that HotKote will bring added value to the Empire family.
For more information, please visit escfabricationshop.com, give them a call (531) 207-9329, or contact support@escfabrication.com.
VASA Fitness Voted Best Fitness Center
VASA Fitness, recently voted Best Fitness Center in Omaha in 2024, just opened a second Nebraska location in Lincoln. The beautiful, brand new, 62,000-square-foot facility is located at 4615 Vine Street.
VASA Fitness’ mission is to build and nurture fitness communities where all types of people at all stages in their fitness journey can go to get healthy, strong and happy and connect with others in a meaningful way. VASA Fitness offers amenities and programming for anyone, all under one roof.
VASA Fitness leads the industry in offering premium, on-trend fitness at an affordable price with its popular boutique-style STUDIO offerings, including its proprietary STUDIO RED High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) classes, STUDIO FLOW Infrared Yoga, group fitness, performance lifting and personal training. Not to mention, VASA Fitness also provides its customers with top-of-the-line equipment, exercise machines, free weights and a wide variety of amenities. These amenities include a steam and sauna room, affordable childcare and more!
VASA Fitness Memberships start at $14.99 per month. For more information about the VASA Fitness in Lincoln, visit vasafitness.com/ locations/ne/lincoln.
RevivalPharmsLaunchesNewSolidShampoo & Conditioner Bars
Revival Pharms is excited to announce the launch of its new solid shampoo and conditioner bars.
Designed to restore the natural beauty of the hair, Revival Pharms’ Hair Dots are ergonomically designed, crafted with non-toxic ingredients that will leave the hair feeling renewed like never before. These bars were the creative inspiration of Dr. Jeanne Greisen, RPh, when she realized many products on the market contained ingredients that are toxic, cancer-causing or can lead to early graying of the hair. Creating a product that was not only good for the hair but also environmentally friendly was the goal. The Hair Dot hair bars were just that.
Dr. Greisen created these bars with the least amount of ingredients necessary to craft an excellent product. Revival Pharms’ customers love these bars, and the bars have truly been a transformational hair-care product.
Revival Pharms Hair Dot solid hair-care bars launched at the Nebraska State Fair in August, debuting to people all across Nebraska. Since the launch, the bars can be found online at Revivalpharms.com, Amazon and Walmart online, and customers have been raving about how their hair has been changed for the better. With the use of these bars, the need for additional hair products has gone to the wayside.
Revival Pharms’ hair products are just one more way of making sustainable products that are not only good for overall health but that also has a less harmful impact on the world. For more information, contact Revival Pharms at revivalpharms.com or (817) 454-9750.
Elite Referral Network Celebrated Their First Anniversary!
On August 28, Elite Referral Network celebrated their first anniversary. With the help of the Talon Room, they were able to host all of the people that helped them get to this milestone and celebrate this achievement!
"We appreciate all of the members, potential members and friends who joined us for the Anniversary Celebration we hosted with Talon Room on Wednesday. We talked about the $30,000 we raised for our local nonprofits, the impact our ecosystem is having on our community and where we want to go to in the future!"
Within the Elite Referral Network, you will get access to the most elite referral group around. This is achieved through a combination of business education, a community of like-minded professionals and much more. You will get the privilege to do business with people you like, know and trust. They are here to help both you and your business grow. They believe in connecting elite professionals to enhance professional and personal networks for the growth of your business. Learn more about their mission at elitereferralnetwork.com.
Nebraska Assisted Living Communities Celebrate National Assisted Living Week
Assisted living communities across the state of Nebraska celebrated National Assisted Living Week last month. Established by the National Center for Assisted Living to recognize the role of assisted living in caring for America’s seniors and individuals with disabilities, National Assisted Living Week, was September 8 through 14.
To celebrate this year’s theme, “Inspiring Generations,” Nebraska assisted living communities held special events and activities throughout the week to celebrate the individuals they serve and to educate their wider communities about assisted living. These are a few events that happened across the state:
Kimball County Manor and Assisted Living in Kimball, Neb., kicked off the week crafting with local students. Other activities planned included puppy visitors for pet therapy and an annual steak dinner, a tradition started by Administrator Sarah Stull’s family when her own grandparents were in assisted living. The week concluded with a trip to the local museum with the opportunity for residents to try their luck at $1 bingo.
The Evergreen Assisted Living in O’Neil, Neb., held a Grandparent’s Day celebration on Sunday, followed by a visit from a former missionary who shared artifacts from her time in Africa. Residents also participated in $2 bingo, were treated to banana splits and took a trip to the local history museum.
The Lexington in Lincoln, Neb., celebrated National Assisted Living Week by giving residents “reverse passports” to recognize their heritage and the generations that have come before them. The community also had a quilt display and fashion show to highlight fashion influences throughout the years.
Nebraska Health Care Association is the parent to Nebraska Nursing Facility Association, Nebraska Assisted Living Association, Nebraska Health Care Learning Center and Nebraska Health Care Foundation. For more information on National Assisted Living Week, visit ahcancal.org/NALW.
BUSINESS NEWS
YP Week is Back!
Young Professionals Group announces YP Week is happening! YP Week is a series of carefully curated speakers, discussion panels, workshops and networking opportunities that celebrate the talent, insight and energy of young professionals (YPs) in Lincoln; while also exploring the intersection between culture and city. This years week is filled with right wonderful events, some free to attend and all too valuable to miss!
Those are:
• YP Week Kickoff Lunch
• YP After Dark
• Sip + Socialize
Second Annual Chase’s Drive to Survive at Western National Bank
Western National Bank is excited to be hosting the Second Annual Chase’s Drive to Survive Blood Drive this fall along with the Lavelle Family. Western National Bank will have a Nebraska Community Blood Bank bus at their Lincoln Branch (5931 S 58th St.) from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 8.
• YPGives at the Food Bank of Lincoln
• Face the Chamber
• Table for 10
• Young Lincoln Leader Awards
• Breakfast of Champions
All of these events perfect for a aspiring young professional to attend! Learn more at lincolnypg.com/events.
The Lincoln Young Professionals Group is dedicated to empowering young professionals with educational, leadership and networking abilities. Lincoln keeps its young professionals here by fostering a collaborative community enriched with a bolstering economy, connectivity and endless opportunities for its people to flourish. Learn more at lincolnypg.com.
This is an exciting event for their community to support as it is close to our heart. The drive honors Chase Lavelle, son of Vice President, David Lavelle and grandson of CEO, Brian Lavelle. When Chase was four months old he was admitted to Children’s Hospital of Omaha with E. coli poisoning and suffered complete kidney failure. Blood transfusions made a tremendous impact on his ability to fight his battle. He is now a healthy four year old that loves to keep up with his brothers.
Giving blood is a small-time commitment and it will help save a life, like Chase’s, here in Nebraska. Please consider signing up to participate in this drive.
To sign up visit bit.ly/chasesdrivetosurvive.
If one is not local, Western National Bank still encourages them to donate blood on this day. Visit one’s local Nebraska Community Blood Bank location and use code “Chase” to donate. With this code they will be counted towards Western National Bank’s total. Learn more at mywnb.com.
Stratum Productions is Hosting a Ribbon Cutting!
Join Stratum Productions for a ribbon cutting at Stratum Productions, located at 222 SW 31st St. The ribbon cutting is set to take place on Thursday, October 10, from 4 to 4:30 p.m. They are a full-service audio visual company that serves live events in the Lincoln and Omaha area and the surrounding areas as well.
Stratum exists to make the lives of their clients easier! At Stratum Live Event Production, they excel at bringing your vision to life and engaging your audience! From intimate gatherings to grand spectacles, their passion and expertise ensure flawless, stress-free AV solutions from start to finish. They tackle complex challenges with innovative approaches for webinars, breakout sessions, multi-day events, video production and more! Learn more at stratumpro.com.
the Lincoln Zoo for Trick-or-Treat Boo at the Zoo
The Lincoln Zoo is excited to host its trick-or-treat event Boo at the Zoo on October 26-30.
Boo at the Zoo is Lincoln's largest trick-or-treat event! The entire family will love stopping at trick-or-treat booths to get candy, coupons and more. All of the money raised during Boo at the Zoo directly supports the Zoo and its animals.
Zoo Members receive 48 hours of early access before tickets go on sale to the general public, and Zoo Members can get FREE tickets to Boo at the Zoo! Get tickets now! Learn more at bit.ly/LCZbatz.
Become a Zoo Member today to not only get FREE Boo at the Zoo tickets, but to also receive other great member benefits–including unlimited year-round Zoo admission, discounted tickets to Zoo Lights Powered by LES and more! Become a Zoo Member at bit.ly/ LCZmember.
Lincoln Children's Zoo is home to over 400 animals, more than 40 of which are endangered. Over 225,000 people attend the Zoo each year, making it the third most attended arts and science attraction in Nebraska. See more at lincolnzoo.org.
Summit Real Estate Hosted a Ribbon Cutting on September 25
Summit Real Estate hosted a ribbon cutting on September 25 from 10 to 10:30 a.m. The ribbon cutting took place at their new building at 2917 Pine Lake Rd. STE A and was a success! Summit Real Estate is very thankful for everyone who showed up and everyone who has continued to show up and support them through everything! They can’t wait for this new chapter!
Summit Real Estate is a boutique real estate brokerage founded in Grand Island. No matter where you are in your home ownership journey, their agents are ready to provide you with a personalized plan to reach your goal. Learn more and get connected with an agent at soldwithsummit.com.
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CityCelebrates50thLincolnontheMoveProject
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and Lincoln Transportation and Utilities (LTU) Director Liz Elliott today celebrated the completion of the 50th Lincoln on the Move project: improvements to 14th Street between Yankee Hill and Pine Lake roads.
“Since its inception in 2019, Lincoln on the Move has added nearly $78 million dollars to our city’s overall street investments, resulting in over 162 lane miles of new and resurfaced streets,” Mayor Gaylor Baird said. “Our Lincoln on the Move initiative is making it easier, safer and smoother for residents to drive to work, for children to get to school and for customers to support our local businesses.”
Improvements to 14th Street between Yankee Hill and Pine Lake roads include concrete median, shoulder, and curb repair or replacement, joint and crack sealing, public utility adjustments, pavement markings and inlet top replacements. Additional work with other funding sources includes upgrades to the existing curb ramps to comply with the Federal Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.
Elliott said LTU began the four-month-long project during the summer, which helped significantly decrease construction time and minimize impacts on travelers to Southwest High School. A mailing and open house helped prepare the neighborhood for the project and kept residents and businesses informed of project progress, she said.
“Thanks to the Lincoln on the Move initiative, South 14th Street is smoother and safer today,” Miller said. “Street improvements like this one help ensure the safety and productivity of our team members and enhance the experience for clients who visit us for solutions to help their businesses and nonprofits prosper.”
To read more about this project lincoln.ne.gov.
Holmes Murphy’s Growth Drives Expansion of Geographic Footprint
Holmes Murphy is excited to announce the opening of a new office in Lincoln, Nebraska. This new location will not only allow for more growth in its Nebraska footprint, but also allows Holmes Murphy to expand its business, attract new employees, and advance innovation within the insurance industry.
Prior to this new office, Holmes Murphy has had a location in Omaha for more than 23 years, serving its exceptional Lincoln clients from that location.
“Being born and raised in Lincoln, I know the city is a special place. We are excited to open a Lincoln office and build on our existing presence for the clients we already serve in the community,” said Cameron Burt, Nebraska Market Leader, Holmes Murphy.
The new office is a mile away from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus in the Nebraska Innovation Commons facility, located at 2021 Transformative Drive. This prime location allows Holmes Murphy to tap into the rich talent pool coming out of the university and also provides the company with the ability to recruit top talent in the Lincoln area. A great example of this is Kerra Grantski, who leads Holmes Murphy’s transportation sector.
“We are building something truly special in Nebraska, and we’re looking forward to seeing how this strategic investment elevates the work our team does each and every day for our amazing clients and the industry,” said Burt.
Counting its office in Lincoln, Holmes Murphy has 15 offices in 11 states across the nation. For more information, visit holmesmurphy.com.
(402) 625-6578
www.insuranceonpoint.com
by Krista Dittman Agent, Individual & Senior Benefits
Medicare Enrollment Starts in October–What’sNewfor2025
It’s that time of year when Joe Namath and Jimmy Walker are constantly on TV. Officially, this is called the Medicare Open Enrollment Period and it runs October 15 through December 7. This is what you need to know about how paying for prescriptions in 2025 is going to change.
What is M3P?
a. A mobile music device stored in a kitchen drawer.
b. The removal of the infamous “donut hole.”
c. The Medicare Prescription Payment Program.
While the donut hole does disappear in 2025, if you chose C, you are correct. M3P and the $2000 Rx Max Out of Pocket (MOOP) are the latest change to Part D Prescription Drug Plans mandated by the Inflation and Reduction Act (IRA).
There are two ways M3P could be calculated: with or without “smoothing.” Smoothing is an option to choose in 2025 that would spread Rx costs out through the entire year. If elected, the Plan would bill the Member for the monthly smoothing amount instead of the Member paying for their Rx at the pharmacy.
Smoothing will affect those individuals who have Rx costs over $167/ month. For people taking generics or insulin, M3P will likely not affect your experience at the pharmacy, as you will still have zero or low dollar copays and insulin will continue to be $35 for a 30-day supply.
Let’s consider a scenario where an individual has $500/month in Rx expense, and their Plan has a $0 deductible.
Without smoothing, the member will pay $500 / month at the pharmacy from January to April and then incur no further expense when getting refills. ($500 x 4 months = $2,000 Maximum Out of Pocket). With smoothing, the member will pay no more than $167 ($2000 / 12) in January. While this charge is not constant over the year (Medicare math is never simple) the overall cost to the member will also be $2000. If a member enrolls in smoothing, they will be billed from the Plan and NOT be paying at the pharmacy.
Take aways:
First, the infamous donut hole will be eliminated. Second, $2000 is the maximum cost a Medicare beneficiary will be charged for Rx expenses. Third, enrolling in the “smoothing” option will help spread the Rx expense out through the year and the Plan will be billing the member instead of the cost being paid at the pharmacy. Finally, the licensed insurance agents at On Point insurance Agency are here to help review options and make 2025 Part D prescription drug plan choices.
NEBRASKA’S MULE BAR Mug Rentals available for your Mule to-go!
STAR CITY SIX CODY
Cody Arnold LINCOLN AIRPORT AUTHORITY
Meet Cody Arnold, the Terminal Services Manager at Lincoln Airport Authority.
Tell us a little about your business. - As the Airport Authority at LNK we strive to give passengers the best experience possible while coming through our airport. With the recent remodel and our continued efforts to get another air carrier in we hope to provide a vital service for Nebraskan’s. While we’re a small airport, we work hard every day to bring the best travel experience to our passengers.
How did you get started in the business? - I got started in the Airline Business in 2016 when I became a ground handler for an airline out of LAX. While there, I made my way up to Training Manager before deciding to make the move to LNK as the Terminal Services Manager.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?While I was a training manager at LAX we hired and trained roughly 120 new employees over the course of four months following COVID. This was a very stressful time and over the course of several months we were able to get everyone completed and out on their own.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - I would have to say my biggest turning point was deciding to leave LAX and finally make the move to Nebraska. My dad’s side of the family all lives out this way along with my sister and I finally jumped at the opportunity for a great job at LNK.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I’m what you would call a homebody, on my days off I love to just hang out and relax whenever possible.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - My teeth are in a dental journal somewhere. When I was a child I had a fused baby tooth, when my adult teeth came in, the exact same tooth was fused once again. Apparently it’s a rare thing to happen and my dentist at the time asked for permission to use me as an example in a journal she was working on.
Who inspires you? - Bob McNally, Director of Operations for the Lincoln Airport. Bob is a wealth of knowledge and is always willing to assist and offer guidance.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Growing up, my father always told me something along the lines of, “People never have enough time to do it the first time, but always have time to do it a second”.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Dependable.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Somewhat close, but back when I lived in California I was working on getting my private pilot license. COVID hit and somewhat messed up those plans but I would have loved to have gotten the hours and become an airline pilot.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Lately I’ve been helping my sister out when she fosters animals through BRAVE rescue here in Lincoln. They help dogs and cats find forever homes and is the reason I ended up with two cats.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - If you count an audio book, I recently finished The Sandman by Neil Gaiman. If you spend a lot of time in the car on a drive it’s an extremely good listen.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(402) 458-2462 | C.arnold@lincolnairport.com | LincolnAirport.com
CHAD STAR CITY SIX
Chad McCarthy FARRIS ENGINEERING
Meet Chad McCarthy, a BIM
Implementation Manager/Senior Plumbing Designer at
Farris Engineering.
Tell us a little about your business. - Farris Engineering has been a leader in mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering since we started in Omaha in 1967. We’re an employee-owned company, which means everyone here is deeply invested in our success. Our team is skilled in a range of areas, including LEED certification, fire protection, geothermal and lighting design and energy conservation. We also specialize in technology systems and commissioning. We're headquartered in Omaha, but we have additional offices in Lincoln, Sidney, Colorado Springs, Sterling, Kansas City and Council Bluffs.
How did you get started in the business? - I started in the A/E sector nearly 20 years ago as a plumbing designer.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - My most significant professional achievement has been earning my CPD and GPD certifications through ASPE, along with my recent promotion to Business Development at Farris Engineering. Being involved with clients and helping them bring their buildings to life has been a major milestone in my career.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - On my days off, I love spending time outdoors and making the most of my free time with family. We often go camping together, which is a great way to unwind and enjoy nature. I also enjoy riding my motorcycle, which gives me a sense of freedom and adventure. In addition, watching movies with my family is a favorite pastime of mine as it’s a great way for us to relax and bond. Occasionally, I like to play a round of golf and engage in target shooting.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - An interesting fact about me that many people might not know is that I am a first-generation American. My mother’s family immigrated to the US from Indonesia, and I’m proud of my heritage and the rich cultural background it brings.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - If I could choose any other profession and be successful at it, I think I would love to build custom motorcycles. The craftsmanship and creativity involved in designing and creating unique bikes really appeal to me.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - One of my all-time favorite books is The Lord of the Rings.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - James Earl Jones.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - They can reach me via email at cmccarthy@farris-usa.com.
STAR CITY SIX KRISTIN
Kristin Walstad
TOBACCO FREE LANCASTER COUNTY
Meet Kristin Walstad the President at Tobacco Free Lancaster County.
Tell us a little about your business. - Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) is a local coalition that advocates for health by eliminating the use of and exposure to tobacco and e-cigarette products. It includes over 30 community partner agencies. We work on issues such as: promoting referrals to tobacco cessation education (or “quit smoking” groups), addressing vaping among youth and promoting the establishment of smoke-free housing. We also strive to respond quickly to changes in tobacco, e-cigarette and nicotine products to best protect our community. We believe that the Lancaster County area should be a tobacco and e-cigarette free community.
How did you get started in the business? - I first got started in advocacy related to tobacco and e-cigarette use while working at a local community health organization. I led regular “quit” groups for individuals receiving services. I learned a lot over the years of leading those groups – what did and didn’t work for people. Or why quitting felt impossible. I was also invited to collaborate with local government and other nonprofit organizations to better provide tobacco cessation services.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - In terms of my work with TFLC? – Nicotine! It’s a very addictive drug. There are so many people who I’ve met who want to quit, but struggle with the physical burden of nicotine dependence. The struggle to quit tobacco, e-cigarette and other nicotine products is real. And the companies that sell the products don’t help you stop using them.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I left the finance industry to work in mental health care. Best career decision I ever made.
Who inspires you? - I feel very lucky to work in healthcare. The people who inspire me most are the individuals I’ve served. Improving your health is no small task. Health setbacks can be overwhelming. It takes courage to address them. Success never happens because there’s some perfect person helping you. A person’s strengths and motivation change everything. It’s always a privilege to be a part of the journey.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - My grandmother once told me – “Don’t worry about how your job is going right now. You’ll work lots of jobs before you get old. You may even have four careers.” I think that’s true about many facets of life. Even more adventures await. Change is exciting. Having a life full of possibilities is unavoidable.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I currently work as the Program Director for the Nebraska office of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). NAMI Nebraska is another grassroots organization that promotes health and community. We advocate for individuals living with mental illness and their loved ones. The work is very rewarding. It’s all about empowering people to grow and flourish, despite the impact of a mental health condition.
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - I’ve been on the go a lot recently. Runza is always a great staple for lunch. Delicious and satisfying!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - The best way to contact me is to reach out to TFLC directly. TFLC can be reached by phone at (402) 441-8045 or by email at info@ tobaccofreelancastercounty.org.
TODD STAR CITY SIX
Todd Kraft ON POINT INSURANCE
AGENCY
Meet Todd Kraft, a licensed health insurance agent at On Point Insurance Agency.
Tell us a little about your business. - On Point Insurance Agency provides health insurance for individuals, families, and seniors. How did you get started in the business? - Krista Peeks Dittman has been helping people with their health insurance choices for six years. She decided to open her own agency and was looking for other agents to join her. I’ve been a truck driver for 11 years and decided it was time to get off the road. Helping people get the health insurance they need sounded like a rewarding endeavor, so I joined her team.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The health insurance industry is huge and complicated. There is a lot of information to digest and I had to learn to use a part of my brain that had been hibernating for quite some time. Thankfully I found out my brain capacity still had plenty of room.
Tell us a little about your family. - I have a 17 year old son who is a senior in high school. I have two cats, one who likes me, and one who tolerates me.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Without question the biggest turning point in my life was when I joined the US Navy. I graduated from high school and honestly didn’t know what I was going to do with my life. I couldn’t afford college and was working as a dishwasher, so my prospects were pretty grim. I knew there was a great big world out there and I wanted to see it, so I got off work one day, walked around the corner from work and joined up. My first plane ride was from Lincoln to Chicago for boot camp two months later.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - The older I get, the more I like naps. My favorite sport is baseball; I rarely miss a Braves game on the radio or TV.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I’m a pinball wizard.
Who inspires you? - Teachers, service men and women and 1st responders.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - In a relationship you can either be right, or you can be happy.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Trustworthy.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Teleportation. I still want to see more of the world but there are the small problems of airplanes and vacation.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I could have been an amazing front man for a rock band if not for stage fright and a lack of talent.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson.
What is your favorite TV show? - I don’t watch much TV, but back in the day I really liked NYPD Blue.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?O: (402) 625-6578 | C: (402) 525-3033 | Todd@insuranceonpoint. com | insuranceonpoint.com
Protecting Today
Building Tomorrow
STAR CITY SIX SHAWN
Shawn Owsley EMPIRE NETTING & FENCE
Meet Shawn Owsley, the Vice President of Operations at Empire Netting & Fence.
Tell us a little about your business. - I always tell people we are just a small-town fence company trying our best to do big things. There is no project too small or too big for us and I truly believe that is what makes us different. From residential to commercial, fencing to custom made press boxes, we do it all!
How did you get started in the business? - I had been working for another local construction company and was looking for a change. Never in a million years would I have guessed someday I would be working for a fence company, but it has been the best decision I have made outside of marrying my wife.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Learning how to change with the times and keep the next generation motivated in a positive way. You always hear the older generation talk about how the next generation just doesn’t have what it takes. I truly believe you have to adapt with change in order to continue moving forward.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Embracing the mindset of “being comfortable in uncomfortable situations.”
Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Heather is truly the reason for my continued growth as an employee, husband and father. She is a California girl who found herself in small town Nebraska. It took me a year to convince her to go out with me but being persistent paid off. We have two boys Tristan (five) and Turner (two) who keep us on our toes to say the least. I literally could not write my story any better than how it turned out. I am truly blessed.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Understanding that if I wanted more in life, it was up me to make that happen.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Golfing or hunting with the guys.
Who inspires you? - My father is who always inspired me growing up to be different and take risk.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “As you move though life you will have leaders with good traits and bad traits, only absorb their good traits because you will develop your own bad traits along the way” Sgt Sacasa USMC. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I know a bunch of facts and statistics that are completely irrelevant to work or daily life. My wife will say “how & why do you know that.”
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - My close friends and I are currently in the process of starting our own non-profit. I have been lucky enough to have a group of nine guys who have been extremely close since grade school. We unexpectedly lost two of those friends this year, so we are starting a foundation to raise money in their names for Tech school scholarships and youth outdoor programs as they were both very passionate about both. Keep an eye out for the "Pony Boy’s Foundation" as we will be doing big things locally!
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - The Green Gateau.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 682-7658
STAR CITY SIX RYAN
Ryan Onstad
FREDDY’S CUSTARD AND STEAKBURGERS
Meet Ryan Onstad, the Director of Brand Development at Freddy’s Custard and Steakburgers.
Tell us a little about your business. - We’re a “Fast-Casual” restaurant. We serve Custard, Steakburgers, Hotdogs, julienne cut fries and much, much more AND now offering Catering! We have four Lincoln locations. There are currently 15 Freddy’s locations in Nebraska and 520+ nationwide.
How did you get started in the business? - After seven years in telecommunications, one of my best friends Nat Crawford introduced me to Alex Carney one of our franchise owners. Alex and I hit it off quickly and the company was in the process of creating a brand champion position that fits my skill set perfectly.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
- Having to start over employment wise in different industries. However, with each job, I learn something that helped me add a fresh perspective to my next work environment.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
- At my previous job in telecommunications, I broke all my employers’ sales records. My original boss quickly promoted me to sales trainer and team lead. The thing that drove me was a quote from actor/ comedian Jamie Foxx which I will paraphrase; “If you work more than two years at a door-to-door job, it’s like getting an Associates Degree, no where else will you get that kind of real world direct customer experience and other employers will notice that.” He was right!
Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my wife Daryl for five years. We are newly parents to our son, Kylo, and our beloved dogs.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
- 2015, the first time I lost a job. I had worked there for 17 years and I probably would have stayed until I retired. The reality was, I was complacent. I lived the cubical work life. Deep inside I knew I wasn’t working somewhere where I was using my skill sets, talents and attributes. Losing that job and looking back on it, I believe God was setting me free to do other things with my life. I honestly believe He has ever since then.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Go to the Funny Bone comedy club in Omaha. I have been going there since I was old enough to get in! It’s a second home for my wife and me. We got engaged there. We even did our baby announcement pictures from there. The owner, Colleen Quinn, has been very generous to us over the years. We have experienced many great times and memories there.
Who inspires you? - I’m a card carrying Christian. So, if I don’t automatically answer “Jesus” am I going to get in trouble? But seriously, I’m drawn to creative people. People who are disrupters in industries. People who have thought of something no one else has. Those are the people that drive me to be original, to be different. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - This is from the late movie producer/talent agent Jerry Wientraub’s book When I Stop Talking, You’ll Know I’m Dead. I will paraphrase; “I love and live for the word ‘Maybe’” because I hear the word “No” all day in sales … but if I can get you to finally say “Maybe,” then I can certainly get you to say “Yes.”
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 450-0011 | ronstad@custardne.com | freddys.com
Choices Treatment Center is an outpatient treatment and recovery facility committed to helping individuals overcome problems related to gambling, substance abuse and mental health through a holistic approach so all co-occurring issues may be addressed. Their mission is to provide quality services in a caring environment by offering a full range of treatment options to individuals and families.
Choices specializes in gambling addiction. Their counselors are certified with the Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program. This program allows them to provide, at no charge to the client, assessments for problem/pathological gamblers, consultations/ interventions for problem gamblers and their families, financial counseling and individual treatment. All counselors at Choices are dually credentialed, thus able to offer services in the other areas listed as well.
Choices
Offers the Following Help...
• Free Assessments for Problem/Pathological Gamblers
• Free consultations/interventions for problem gamblers and their families
• Mental Health Assessments
• Individual, Family & Marriage Counseling
• Substance Abuse Evaluations and Treatment (court approved individual, outpatient & intensive outpatient)
• DUI/DWI Education Programs
• Budgeting Classes and Counseling
• Anger Management Counseling
Choices can help – take the first step towards recovery and call today.
Are you experiencing any of the following?
• Are you in a depressed mood most of the day?
• Are you feeling sad or empty?
• Do you find yourself tearful most of the time?
• Do you have diminished interest in activities you used to find pleasurable?
• Have you experienced significant weight loss when not dieting?
• Are you afraid to answer your phone because bill collectors are calling?
• Are you angry for no particular reason?
• Do you have low/no self-esteem?
• Are you dealing with relationship issues?
• Are you feeling shame or guilt?
• Are you spending more time away from the family to try and win back your losses?
• Are you lying to your family and/or friends to hide or cover up your gambling?
Choices staff is also available for presentations to schools, community groups, churches and businesses on the problems of gambling/gaming.
HBE Announces Recent Promotions
HBE LLP, one of Nebraska’s premier certified public accounting and consulting firms, is pleased to announce the following promotions:
• Lucas J. Post, CPA to Manager
• Andrew S. Jacob, CPA to Manager
• Bryce R. Holcomb to Senior Accountant
• Anne Marie T. Garcia to Senior Accountant
• Ashley L. Glasshoff-Gaskill to Senior Client Accountant
• Jessica R. Harden to Client Accountant
HBE has a staff of over 120 total employees focused on serving clients in Nebraska and throughout the U.S. Operating from multiple office locations in Lincoln, Norfolk and Omaha, the firm offers a complete range of financial management services for businesses, not-for-profit and governmental organizations, niche industries and individuals. These services include specialized advisory, tax, audit, data analytics, business valuations, outsourced accounting and CFO solutions, personal financial planning and wealth management. For more information, please visit hbecpa.com.
Investment advisor services offered through HBE Wealth Management, LLC.
HoriSun Hospice Expands Nursing Staff
HoriSun Hospice is pleased to announce the addition of Ashley Jurey, RN as Nurse Case Manager and Meesha Vollertsen, RN as On-Call Nurse to its team.
Jurey received her RN license in 2005. She worked at Bryan Medical Center for most of her nursing career, working in the Cardiac Progressive Care Unit, the Neuro/ Trauma ICU, the Gastrointestinal Lab and at Nebraska Internal Medicine before beginning in hospice in early 2024. Jurey loves getting to know patients and their families while being a part of their journey throughout their lives.
Vollertsen first began working as a CNA at Madonna Rehabilitation, working with patients who suffered spinal cord injuries and others with traumatic brain injuries. She received her RN license from Bryan School of Nursing in 1997. Vollertsen worked at Bryan Medical Center in a variety of specialties for 25 years and found herself most passionate about end-of-life patients. Meesha has always found it an honor to support patients and their families through what is often a difficult and stressful time in their lives. Meesha takes pride in being an advocate for patients and their family members.
HoriSun Hospice believes that hospice care affirms life. Its mission and promise to its community is simple–to provide the best care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for all whose lives are affected by a life limiting illness or condition. Comfort, compassion and care are HoriSun’s guiding principles. Learn more at horisunhospice.com.
Noreen Akoth Mwade was appointed as CEO of Phino Cleaning Services LLC from Lincoln
Phino Cleaning Services LLC, a leading provider of residential and commercial cleaning services, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Noreen A. Mwabe as its new Chief Executive Officer.
As CEO Ms. Noreen A. Mwabe will oversee the overall strategy and direction of the company driving growth and innovation in the cleaning industry. With five (5) years of experience in business management and a passion for delivering exceptional customer service, Noreen A Mwabe is poised to take Phino Cleaning Services LLC to new heights.
“I am thrilled to Lead Phino Cleaning Services LLC into its next phase of growth and success” said Noreen A Mwabe CEO. "Our team provides a top – notch cleaning services that exceed our customer’s expectations and I look forward to building our strong foundation and exploring new opportunities for this expansion."
Under Noreen Akoth Mwabe’s leadership Phino Cleaning Services LLC will continue to focus on delivering eco-friendly, reliable and personalized cleaning solutions to its client . To learn more about Phino Cleaning Services LLC please visit phinocleaning.com or email admin@noreenscares.com.
Noreen Home Care Has Selected their New Director of Client and Staff Development
Noreen Home Care proudly announces Deb Maguire, LPN as their Director of Client and Staff Development. Deb comes to Noreen Home Care with 40+ years of experience in the healthcare field as both a nurse and Assisted Living Administrator. Deb believes in the compassionate and caring values of seniors in the comfort of their own home. Throughout her career Deb has always had the passion for the elderly community by promoting their well-being and preserving their dignity.
Deb began her journey with Noreen Home Care on July 6 of this year. Here at Noreen Home Care, we strive to build trusting relationships, provide exceptional care, and support our clients on their life journey while living life on their terms. We not only “Care for you Like Family” but we are also your Senior Care Experts that help you take the guess work out of finding the appropriate services your loved one needs to remain wherever they call home, living life on their terms.
Noreen Home Care values communication, care, empathy, affection and community. Together, they can build a brighter future, filled with love, support and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re not alone. Call them today at (402) 925-4414 to connect with one of the senior care experts who can provide you with resource information. Learn more at noreencares.com.
MeetAngelsAmongUs’NewestStaff Member!
Angels Among Us recently hired Ashley! They are elated to have her join their team and can’t wait for their families and community to benefit from all the knowledge she brings to the organization. Ashley is the Event and Annual Funds Manager, where she assists in developing community partnerships and coordinating their fundraising events. Help welcome her to the Angels Among Us team by visiting their Facebook (@ myangelsamongus)
Angels Among Us provides financial and emotional support to pediatric cancer families living in or being treated in Nebraska. They strive to be the place a pediatric cancer families turn to in the state. Over the last 17 years, they have helped nearly 700 families with expenses totaling to close to $5 million. But most importantly, they have helped nearly 700 families read bedtime stories and play board game without the all-consuming worry of paying bills. Learn more about what they do at myangelsamongus.org.
Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Welcomes LaFollette, Lyons
and Schreiner
Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is pleased to introduce Alan LaFollette, Kristi Lyons, and William Schreiner as the newest members of their Omaha Mortgage Lending Team.
Alan LaFollette is a seasoned leader in home lending with 25 years of experience. Alan loves helping individuals and families achieve their dreams of homeownership while ensuring it aligns with their short- and long-term financial goals. For Alan, the joy of his job comes from the unique stories each customer brings. Alan can be reached by phone at (402) 493-5599 ext. 673 or by email at alafollette@lincolnfed.com.
Kristi Lyons joins Lincoln Federal Savings Bank with 25 years of experience in banking. Having started as a part-time teller in 1999, What Kristi loves most about her job is developing loan officers and creating long-lasting relationships with customers. She’s passionate about helping people achieve the American dream of homeownership. Kristi can be reached by phone at (402) 493-5599 ext. 677 or by email at klyons@lincolnfed.com.
William Schreiner, with 7 years of experience in the mortgage industry, has found his passion in helping customers achieve their lifelong dreams of homeownership. In addition to being active in the Omaha Area Board of REALTORS® (OABR), William volunteers as a coach for his daughter's sports teams and is a member of Overland Hills Church. William can be reached by phone at (402) 493-5599 ext. 670 or by email at wschreiner@ 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. Learn more at lincolnfed.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska
DISCOVER THE POSSIBILITIES with
Join us for refreshments and a tour of our mission and discover how Mosaic pursues opportunities for people with disabilities in our communities. Tours are held on the third Wednesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. –12:30 p.m.
mosaicinfo.org/locations/nebraska/southeast-ne
Contact Malindi at malindi.gabelhouse@mosaicinfo.org or 402.429.0088 for more information.
Lincoln CBMC May Luncheon to Feature Rob Kuhlman as Guest Speaker
Lincoln CBMC is excited to announce that Rob Kuhlman of Movement Academy will be the Lincoln CBMC Business Connection Luncheon speaker Thursday, October 24 at the Hilton Garden Inn in the Haymarket. The luncheon is open for anyone to attend and tickets can be purchased online at Lincoln.cbmc.com/events. Kuhlman began his career in fitness as a personal trainer in 2010 in Orlando where he earned his personal training diploma at the National Personal Training Institute (NPTI). In 2012, he continued his personal training career and professional development in New York City and started his personal training business in Tribeca for four years.
In 2016 Rob moved back to Lincoln to become a fitness manager at a local gym where he led and developed other personal trainers. He was passionate about growing a team dedicated to helping people pursue their fitness goals in a safe and effective way. After ten years of continuing to grow and excel in his field, Rob realized his goal of opening his own fitness club in Lincoln by starting Movement Academy in January 2021.
Rob shares a compelling story of the challenges of opening a gym and starting a business during COVID and how this impacted his life and faith journey. One of the outcomes of navigating these challenges was discovering a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Join us to hear Rob and network with other people in the business community and learn about applying principles of life, work and faith.
CBMC equips men in the marketplace to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually. Lincoln CBMC is part of a global ministry in over 300 cities in the U.S. and over 90 countries. For information about Lincoln CBMC, connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne), visit Lincoln.cbmc.com or call (402) 204-1997.
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 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.
HopeSpoke Announces New Board Members
Courtney East PhD Sharon Fenn and Kelly Medwick joined HopeSpoke’s Board of Directors July 1 2024
Courtney East, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Counseling at Doane University.
“As a Counselor Educator in Lincoln, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand the educational impact that HopeSpoke has had on my students as they train to become counselors, as well as the excellent services provided to our community members,” says Courtney. “I’m grateful to give back and support HopeSpoke's mission as it continues to provide our children and families with such important care.”
After a busy career, Sharon Fenn is currently a Consultant and a Certified Executive Coach. She says, “I am a strong advocate for helping all individuals, and especially children, in times of either acute or chronic mental health struggle. It is my honor to have an opportunity to support HopeSpoke and its vision for all children and families to be healthy and hopeful."
Kelly’s professional and community work has provided her with opportunities to serve as a connector, dedicated to creating positive outcomes. Through leadership roles at Nebraska Children and Families Foundation, regional businesses and volunteer efforts, she’s seen the vital role of mental health in building strong families and communities. She is excited to support HopeSpoke’s mission as a member of the board of directors.
A complete list of HopeSpoke board and leadership can be found at hopespoke.org
HopeSpoke has a big vision—for all children to be healthy and hopeful. Learn more at hopespoke.org.
Liz Davids is a Husker alumna who earned her Bachelor’s degree at UNL in 2002, married her husband shortly thereafter, and began her family here in Lincoln, “a wonderful place to raise children”.
She has educated children up to age 18 in a variety of settings, volunteered weekly at her local elementary school and has advocated and fundraised for educational philanthropic school and community projects.
For the past three years she has been attending SBOE and LPS meetings, listening to the concerns that were presented by community members and educational staff, learning about the systems and processes that are in place and occasionally speaking at those meetings. She felt called last fall to run for this public service position in order to address the most urgent concerns of our Nebraska schools.
Those include: shoring up the teacher certification and recertification process to address the public school teacher shortage crisis, addressing escalating student behaviors, the need to increase Career Technical Education (CTE) programs to meet the workforce demand, providing excellent phonetic reading program instruction, addressing our declining academic proficiency scores, ensuring that parents feel confident in the collaboration with public school teachers and administrators and providing transparency in public school funding for taxpayers.
Liz welcomes all inquiries at info@lizdavids.com and hopes to earn your vote on November 5th!
PERSONNEL NEWS
Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln Announces the Inaugural Members of New Advisory Council
Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln is proud to announce a new Advisory Council and welcomes its members. Comprised of community leaders and experts, the advisory council will work with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM) Board of Directors to serve as a link between the agency's Omaha and Lincoln locations.
Joining the Advisory Council are:
• Kyle Cartwright, Civic Nebraska (Board Liaison)
• Dr. Karen Kassebaum, Hudl (Board Liaison)
• Stephanie Dinger, Union Bank and Trust
• Elton Edmond, MentorPlus
• Emily Haney, City of Lincoln
• Randy Hawthorne, Filament Essential Services
• Kiersten Hill, Firespring
• Amy Killham, N2 Co.
• Jeffrey Owusu-Ansah, Rembolt Ludtke
• Valerie Perkins, Prairie Skies Dental
• Veronica Riepe, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
• Mark Russell, Millard Lumber
• Amanda Swenson, PureCare Carpet/Underfoot Flooring
The Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln Advisory Council will bring a unique perspective to advise the BBBSM Board of Directors on strengths, assets, needs, and opportunities in Lincoln related to youth services, philanthropy, and corporate partnerships. In addition, the council will work to support fundraising efforts and events.
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln, please visit BBBSLincoln.org.
For information about the Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln Advisory Council, please contact Amber C. Nore at anore@bbbslincoln.org or (402) 281-4899.
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. To volunteer, donate, or acquire further information about our initiatives, please visit bbbslincoln.org or contact them at (402) 330-2449, option 4. Stay connected and informed by following Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln (@bbbslincoln) on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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 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.
Independent Living Assisted Living Short-term Respite
SCIP Welcomes New School Coordinator
The School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP) Program has announced the hiring of Lilly Young. Lilly will serve as the School Coordinator for Regions 1, 2 and 6 and manage the administrative needs for the program.
Lilly is a native of Lincoln and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, with minors in philosophy and religious studies. In her position with SCIP, Lilly will work with existing public and private schools, of whom have implemented SCIP, and recruit additional schools and agencies. She will join Abbe Edgecombe, School Coordinator for Lincoln/ Lancaster County schools and Chris Ivory, School Coordinator for Regions 3, 4 and rural Region V.
SCIP is a program designed to bring together families, schools and the community to support student behavioral and emotional health. SCIP’s mission is to provide effective prevention education for schools, families and communities, equipping schools with early intervention tools for students with behavioral health concerns, so they may achieve healthy and productive lives.
SCIP is funded (16% or $50,000) from the Strategic Prevention Framework-Partnerships for Success States grant (5H79SP083671-01) & (55% or $168,837.71) from the SAPTBG (6B08TIO85820-01M002) through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, contracted through the NE DHHS, Div. of Behavioral Health. SCIP also receives (3% or $10,000) in state funding and (26% or $82,110) of funding from non-governmental sources, including United Way of Lincoln Lancaster County.
SCIP is a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership, 4600 Valley Road. To find out more about SCIP, visit scipnebraska.com, or call (402) 327-6843.
Where Seniors Thrive in Community
McGill Law is Thrilled to Welcome Andrea as New Associate Attorney
Born and raised in Omaha, Andrea graduated from the University of Nebraska Omaha and earned her J.D. and M.B.A. from Drake University School of Law.
Inspired by her adoption at age 10, Andrea focuses on Estate Planning and Probate, bringing positivity to her clients during tough times. She also participates annually in the Drake University Mark S. Cady Day of Public Service.
Outside of work, Andrea enjoys time with her family and two Yorkies, reading, working out and attending Kansas City Chiefs’ games. She also teaches Business Law Fundamentals at UNO as an Adjunct Professor. Welcome to the McGill Law team, Andrea!
McGill Law is a woman-owned and operated family law fi rm practicing collaborative law, collaborative mediation, mediation and litigation. To contact McGill Law, call (402) 548-5418 or email info@ McGillLawyers.com. For more information, go to McGillLawyers.com.
Waterford’s New Certified Dementia Practitioner
Waterford Wilderness Hills Memory Care is celebrating Sage Michael, their team member who has completed her Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) education through the Nebraska Health Care Association! This achievement highlights their commitment to providing the highest quality dementia care and shows Sage’s dedication to enhancing her skills and knowledge. The team at Waterford Wilderness Hills Memory Care couldn’t be prouder of Sage and the work she’s done.
Wilderness Hills Memory Care was created to assist those struggling with dementia, Alzheimer’s and memory loss, provide them a safe facility, and facilitate a daily care. They assure you that their caring goes beyond simply being a safe place with a list of amenities— they welcome and embrace your loved one into their family. They are their residents, not patients. Learn more about their mission at thewaterford.net/our-communities/wilderness-hills.
What’s Your Air Score?
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CountryHouseCongratulatesGabrielleLarson on Earning Certified Dementia Practitioner Certification
Country House is proud to announce that Gabrielle Larson, Sales & Marketing Assistant for all three Lincoln locations, has achieved her Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) certification. This prestigious credential reflects Gabrielle’s dedication to enhancing the quality of care and support for individuals living with dementia and their families.
As a CDP, Gabrielle has demonstrated advanced knowledge in dementia care and a commitment to applying best practices in her work at Country House. Her certification further equips her to guide families through the journey of memory care, ensuring they receive compassionate, informed, and personalized support. Country House is dedicated to providing the highest level of care, and Gabrielle’s achievement underscores the team’s commitment to excellence.
Gabrielle’s certification enhances the services offered at Country House, a leader in memory care in Lincoln. The team looks forward to continuing to deliver the specialized support that residents and their families have come to trust. For more information, visit countryhouse.net.
LibertyFirstCreditUnionWelcomesMcCollum and Promotes Morris and Ehmen
Liberty First Credit Union recently welcomed Matt McCollum as SVP Lending. Matt relocated to Lincoln from Piedmont, SD where he was the Head of Real Estate Lending/ Mortgage Manager for Black Hills Federal Credit Union. Matt brings with him 20 years of experience in all areas of lending, including mortgage, consumer and underwriting.
Liberty First Credit Union is also pleased to announce the promotion of Dillon Ehmen to SVP Operations and Ryan Morris to SVP Finance. Ehmen has been in the lending and branch manager role at Liberty First since 2016 and has 15 years banking experience. He will manage the day-to-day operations of Liberty First Credit Union including overseeing consumer lending operations.
Morris started his career in banking at Liberty First as a teller 20 years ago and steadily moved up through the organization. With his promotion, he will oversee the day-to day financial management, overall financial health of the company, and manage Liberty First Credit Union’s risk and investment strategies.
Liberty First’s field of membership includes family members, retirees, select groups of occupation and association, those living or working in Lancaster or Seward County, Nebraska, those related to a member or someone within their field of membership. They have continually expanded to serve those living in Nebraska and surrounding States with a wide range of financial products and services. For more information please visit, libertyfirstcu.com.
Transform Your Outdoor Space
| Ornamental Grasses | Landscape
I'veknownTomforalongtime!Always courteousandprofessional.Ournew treeslookgreat!!!!-ScottMausbach
TheBridgeBehavioralHealthWelcomesKyle Stroh
The Bridge Behavioral Health is thrilled to announce that Kyle Stroh is the newly appointed Director of Quality Assurance. Stroh has been working in healthcare administration for the last ten years and is excited to start a new chapter in behavioral health. He and his wife, whom also works in healthcare as a Registered Nurse, have lived in Lincoln for five years and are anxious to welcome their first child in October. Stroh’s tenure in healthcare has proven that his passion is working for a mission based, community integrated environment that aims to give back to those they serve. He is looking forward to partnering alongside local entities and to foster relationships with those working toward a common goal.
The Bridge is open 24/7, 365 days a year. Their mission is to provide hope and a strong foundation for recovery through substance use and behavioral health intervention. Programs include detox and medically monitored withdrawal, respite, residential treatment, outpatient counseling, and substance use evaluations. Learn more at thebridgenebraska.org
Patios | Walls | Water Features | Fire Pits | Trees | Shrubs | Annuals Perennials
Lighting | Potted Materials
“People
Wreck Their Cars
Midtown Body & Paint is Lincoln’s collision repair experts. Midtown Body & Paint specializes in collision repair, framework, and painting and technicians take pride in their work, always providing high-quality repairs and services to develop lasting relationships with their clients.
Midtown Body & Paint’s technicians are trained I-CAR Gold Class experts who ensure every vehicle is repaired safely, thoroughly and cost-effectively. No matter how complex or diverse the vehicle is, Midtown Body & Paint can serve even the most unique client needs, covering:
• Collision Repair
• Frame Repair
• Full Paint Service
• Paintless Dent Repair
• Glass Repair
• Headlight Repair
• I-CAR Gold Class Experts
• PPG-Certification
• Experienced Technicians
• Insurance Claim Assistance
• Shuttle Service
• Complimentary Detail & Wash
Is it too good to be true? Well, these reviews speak to the client commitment Midtown Body & Paint embodies:
“Dan answered all of my questions and did an amazing job on my SUV. I was also amazingly surprised when the interior of my car was spotless and vacuumed.”
- Andrea P.
“Great service, very professional, awesome turn-around time on work needed, and my car was cleaner than it’s ever been! I’ll never go anywhere else!”
- Shannon S.
“I took my 2017 Honda CR-V to Midtown after they were recommended to be by the Honda dealer. It had about $10k in damage after an accident and they did a great job! I can’t tell it was in an accident at all!”
- Tim M.
Clients can be assured that Midtown Body & Paint is more than just an auto body shop. Midtown Body & Paint helps its clients from start to finish. Their six-step repair process is straightforward, thorough and backed by friendly experts. Step one is to get an in-person estimate at Midtown, which usually takes only 15 minutes or so. Step two is to provide the insurance that will authorize the repairs, so Midtown can schedule them as soon as possible. Step three involves Midtown gaining insurance approval, then continuing to scheduling. In step four, Midtown’s I-CAR Gold Class experts will thoroughly dissasemble and repair the vehicle, so it looks and drives like new. Step five is where Midtown applies its high-quality, environmentally-friendly PPG automotive paint and reassembles the vehicle, and step six includes a final inspection, wash and detail!
Down Syndrome Association for Families of NebraskaAnnounces2024StepUpforDown Syndrome Walk
The Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF) is proud to be hosting Step Up for Down Syndrome 2024. The annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk brings together members, businesses, educators, families and providers throughout our community to support and raise funds for the benefit of people with Down syndrome. There will be live music, food, beverages, face painting, balloon animals, a raffle and a one-mile walk around the park that will be graced with posters featuring loved ones with Down syndrome and facts about this genetic condition. This event serves to raise awareness, funds and educate the community. The walk is set to take place on Saturday, October 5 from 8 to 11 a.m. Learn more about registration at ds-stride.org/dsafstepup, or contact (DSAF) at Director@dsafnebraska.org.
The Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska is committed to providing support and a positive vision for the future for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, friends, educators and professionals who share in their lives. Learn more at dsafnebraska.org.
Lincoln Council for International Visitors to Rebrand as Global Ties Nebraska
The Lincoln Council for International Visitors (LCIV), a local nonprofit with almost 60 years of fostering international exchange and citizen diplomacy, is excited to announce its upcoming name change to Global Ties Nebraska. This rebranding, set to launch in early 2025, aligns with the organization’s commitment to citizen diplomacy and its role as a member council affiliate of the Global Ties U.S. network, responsible for implementing the flagship International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) for leaders and professionals in other countries. Global Ties U.S. oversees more than 80 nonprofit organizations and serves all 50 U.S. states.
As a Global Ties U.S. member council, LCIV welcomes and connects emerging leaders from countries across the world who visit Nebraska as selected participants on the International Visitor Exchange Program. The organization was established in April 1966 when Mayor Dean Peterson sought to create a committee that would welcome international leaders and offer them a glimpse of heartland hospitality. In order to receive and distribute federal funding to support the hosting of these prominent international visitors, LCIV was established as the companion nonprofit to MCIF in 1997.
“We are thrilled to align more closely with the Global Ties U.S. network and to continue our important work under a new name,” said Crystal Bock Thiessen, Executive Director of LCIV. “This rebranding will allow us to better communicate our mission, expand our reach and create even more meaningful connections between Nebraskans and global leaders who have been chosen to visit us here in the Heartland.”
By hosting international delegations, coordinating professional meetings, and organizing cultural events, Global Ties Nebraska will continue to empower local citizens to become active participants in diplomatic and international relations. Visit lciv.org for more information.
GoodwillandGatewayMalltoHostHalloween Events in October
Empower the Next Generation: Volunteer with Junior Achievement
Goodwill and Gateway Mall are collaborating for another spook-tacular Halloween and offering three free events to the Lincoln community. First, on Saturday, October 12, they will host a Make & Take Workshop where attendees will receive craft supplies to create a bootiful Halloween garland. This workshop is made possible by Goodwill’s Bits and Pieces section in their stores that meet all crafting needs from jewelry to utensils and ribbon to glue. Then, on Saturday, October 26, four-legged friends are invited to the Howl-O-Ween Pet Costume Contest. Prizes and treats will be awarded. Finally, on Thursday October 31, join them for a safe and fun Halloween at the Candy Crawl Trick-or-Treat event. Participating stores will hand out treats to all kids ages 12 and under. Reusable tote bags will be available to collect candy. During the event, enter the DIY Costume Contest to win a prize. All events are located in the common area behind Scooter’s at Gateway Mall. To learn more about these events and how to register, follow them on Facebook @LincolnGoodwill or visit lincolngoodwill. org.
For 92 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. For more information, visit lincolngoodwill.org.
Are you a business professional looking to make a lasting impact on the future? Junior Achievement (JA) is calling on passionate individuals like you to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy. By volunteering with JA, you have the unique opportunity to share your knowledge and experience with students, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in their future careers.
Junior Achievement programs focus on financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness, providing students with the tools they need to achieve their dreams. Volunteers play a vital role in bringing these programs to life. The following makes Junior Achievement volunteers invaluable; volunteers: Give Back to the Community: Junior Achievement volunteers contribute to the growth and success of young people in the community.
Enhance Your Leadership Skills: Volunteering with JA provides a platform to hone leadership and communication skills.
Network with Other Professionals: Junior Achievement volunteers are a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to making a positive impact, so one has the opportunity to form long-lasting relationships with a purpose!
Anyone can inspire the next generation of business leaders. To learn more about how to get involved, visit engage.ja.org.
Together, we can empower young people to own their economic success and build a brighter future for all.
TheAlzheimer’sAssociationtoOpenLocation in Lincoln
The Alzheimer's Association has big news to share with the Lincoln community. The Alzheimer's Association is officially opening its doors in Lincoln! Get ready for more support and resources right here in Lincoln. Together, the community is one step closer to a world without Alzheimer's. Join The Alzheimer's Association as it celebrates this exciting milestone and takes action for a brighter future!
The Alzheimer’s Association takes pride in being a community-based, community-focused organization. Call The Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900 for reliable information and support, including the most up-to-date information on program opportunities in the local area.
Currently, over 36,000 people in Nebraska are living with Alzheimer's or dementia, and more than 40,000 people care for loved ones with the disease. The Alzheimer's Association is here to serve the families in Nebraska so no one has to face this disease alone. Serving the state of Nebraska, The Alzheimer's Association provides reliable information and care consultations, educational opportunities, funding for dementia research and advocacy efforts for public policy changes across the state. Learn more at alz.org/ nebraska.
Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska to Hold Third AnnualInclusionMattersDayatRocaBerryFarms
Glimmer of Hope Gala Features Operation Underground Railroad’s Matt Osborne as Special Guest Speaker
Seven years ago, Disrupting Traffick was founded to fulfill this mission: that every trafficking victim in Nebraska would feel like there was a place for them to go, that there was hope.
On Sunday, October 13, they will be hosting their Glimmer of Hope Gala to celebrate and share in the hope that Disrupting Traffick has been able to bring to the darkness of trafficking. The event will take place at Seven Willows Wedding and Events 7600 Panama Rd. from 4 to 8 p.m.
They’ve invited their friend and colleague Matt Osborne to share his experiences fighting child trafficking over the last 20 years. Matt served a 12-year career with the Central Intelligence Agency and US Department of State, where he worked issues related to terrorism against the homeland, illegal narcotics, organized crime, and human trafficking. He regularly provided secrets and analysis to US Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, senior cabinet officials, and the National Security Council. With OUR Rescue, Matt has led a total of 27 undercover operations that resulted in the liberation of 211 human trafficking victims and in the arrest of 72 suspected traffickers. His work was featured in the 2023 blockbuster movie, Sound of Freedom.
Disrupting Traffick’s efforts to fight trafficking in Nebraska can only succeed through partnership with the community, business leaders, church leaders and individuals like you. Please join them for this amazing event to celebrate with them, share in the impact and hear about ways to join the movement.
Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is hosting its third annual Inclusion Matters Day at Roca Berry Farm (16531 South 38th Street, Roca, Nebraska). This event is an opportunity for donors, sponsors, parents, guardians, staff and individuals Mosaic serves to celebrate everyone's presence on Earth, irrespective of differing abilities. Mosaic embraces and honors differences, uniting in recognition of the importance of inclusion. Donors, sponsors, guardians and friends of Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska can see its mission in action at this fun event!
Activities will include:
• One complimentary pumpkin
• Engaging activities
• Lunch
• Hay rack rides
Mosaic sees all people as unique, beloved and important, listening to what matters to each individual to help everyone lead a meaningful, healthy life. The Mosaic team consists of the best problem solvers and connectors, partnering with people to create meaningful lives in caring communities and to give a voice to people’s needs. Mosaic harnesses data, processes and technology to provide high-quality services to as many people in need as possible. Mosaic builds relationships to drive outcomes for communities, funders, families and, most importantly, the people it serves.
Mosaic serves nearly 5,000 people in more than 750 communities. Services are tailored to meet individual needs and goals, allowing people to be as independent as possible. Services are designed for people with disabilities, mental and behavioral health needs and autism, as well as aging adults.
To learn more about Mosaic and its mission, visit mosaicinfo.org/ locations/nebraska/southeast-ne.
To learn more about their mission, visit disruptingtraffick.org or contact admin@disruptingtraffick.org.
“
Make-A-Wish Nebraska Extends Its Gratitude
Make-A-Wish Nebraska thanks everyone who attended, donated and bid on auction items during the 2024 Lincoln Wine, Whiskey and Wishes event. Thanks to its generous donors, Make-A-Wish Nebraska’s event broke a record and rose over $87,000, which will go directly toward granting the wishes of local children battling critical illnesses!
Make-A-Wish Nebraska would like to give a special thank you to its title sponsor, Sutton Linder & Sutton and to its emcees, Christine Weeks and Sean Flattery from Eleanor Creative. Make-A-Wish Nebraska would also like to recognize its amazing Lincoln Young Leaders Council who helped plan the entire event! Make-A-Wish Nebraska is truly grateful for everyone involved.
Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. It is on a quest to bring every eligible child's wish to life, because a wish is an integral part of a child's treatment journey. Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a critical illness. Since its inception, Make-A-Wish Nebraska has granted more than 3,000 wishes across the state. For more information about Make-AWish Nebraska, visit wish.org/nebraska.
AmericanRedCrossElevatesFirePreventionWeek
During Fire Prevention Week (October 8-14), the American Red Cross reminds everyone that cooking is the leading cause of home fires and issues safety steps to follow to help avoid blazes.
“Cooking brings family and friends together, but this normal, everyday activity can also lead to disaster,” said Jill Orton, Region Executive of the Nebraska-Iowa Red Cross. “In fact, cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the U.S. To help keep your loved ones safe, it’s important to stay in the kitchen while you’re cooking.”
Follow these 10 steps to help stay safe while cooking:
1. Never leave cooking food unattended.
2. Don’t wear loose clothing or sleeves that dangle while cooking.
3. Check cooking food regularly.
4. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.
5. Keep kids and pets away from the cooking area.
6. Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.
7. Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
8. Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen.
9. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens and small appliances are turned off.
10. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, and use the test button to check it each month.
Download the Red Cross First Aid app at redcross.org/apps for quick, expert advice on what to do in case of an emergency.
Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 1,928 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign or how to get involved, visit redcross. org/homefires.
YMCA of Lincoln to Host Bids for Kids Auction October 22 – November 2
The YMCA of Lincoln is set to host its third annual Bids for Kids online auction October 22 —November 2. Bidding will open at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22 and conclude at 12 p.m. on Saturday, November 2.
Auction proceeds benefit the YMCA’s Annual Fundraising Campaign, which powers critical programs and activities that keep kids safe, people healthy, and families strong. Through the campaign, the YMCA ensures all families have access to Y programing regardless of financial limitations. In 2023, the nonprofit awarded over $670,000 in financial assistance to 6,500 individuals focusing on areas such as before and after school programs, senior activities, swim lessons, youth sports and more.
“We’re excited to showcase a variety of unique items and experiences, thanks to the generosity of many businesses and community members,” shared Dani Bryant, development director for the Lincoln YMCA. “The online format allows those near and far to not only bid on items, but support a great cause from wherever they are.”
For more information along with a current list of auction items, visit YMCALincoln.org/events. Auction item donations are being accepted through October 16, and can be made by contacting dbryant@ymcalincoln.org.
One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, 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, visit YMCALincoln.org.
THE OFFICIAL AIRPORT OF HUSKER ATHLETICS
In Nebraska Athletics, we see aviation as more than just a mode of transportation. The Lincoln Airport connects our athletes and coaches to fans and recruits worldwide, while staying rooted in the heart of Nebraska.
Troy Dannen University of Nebraska Athletic Director
United Way Mobilizes Volunteers for a Season of Service
During the months of November and December, United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County is mobilizing community members to volunteer at local nonprofit agencies across the community to close gaps and open opportunities for every resident in Lincoln and Lancaster County. This effort has been dubbed a Season of Service.
Any community member interested in signing up and taking part in this effort is encouraged to visit volunteerLNK.org to view all available opportunities. VolunteerLNK.org is a centralized site where individuals looking to make a difference can easily find opportunities to volunteer their time and talents. The platform simplifies the process of finding meaningful volunteer opportunities, and is tailored to each user’s unique interests, skills and availability.
Volunteer opportunities can be filled by individuals, families, church groups, high school and college students as well as retirees. The site also offers options for companies to get involved together.
Additionally, all 501(c)(3)s and qualified organizations in Lancaster County are encouraged to register on volunteerLNK.org, if they have not done so already, and post their volunteer opportunities.
For any questions, contact Kenzie Hansen at 402-441-7770 or khansen@unitedwaylincoln.org.
Vision Maker Media and The Ross Media Arts Center Native American Film Series 2024 to Screen Columbus Day Legacy and Urban Rez October 14
Vision Maker Media and The Ross Media Arts Center Native American Film Series 2024 are screening Columbus Day Legacy and Urban Rez. In Columbus Day Legacy, Navajo filmmaker Bennie Klain takes viewers into this very personal yet very public conflict about Columbus Day, asking tough questions about identity and history in America. Urban Rez explores the controversial legacy and modern-day effects of the federal government’s assimilation policies of the Relocation program.
The screening will take place on October 14 at 7 p.m. at The Ross Media Arts Center. Admission is free and open to the public. For all shows and times, visit theross.org or The Ross hot line at (402) 472-5353.
The Native American Film Series features artist profiles, musical performances, family stories and documentaries on historical figures and traditions. Screenings in this monthly series will take place the second Monday of each month in 2024.
The Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center brings independent, documentary, international and classic films to Lincoln and the University community. Located at 13th and R St., The Ross shows movies seven days a week and hosts events, including visiting filmmaker talks, post-show discussions, theatre and opera broadcasts and film festivals. Vision Maker Media envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. For more information, visit visionmakermedia.org.
The Combine is Your One-Stop-Shop for Agriculture Innovation
The Combine AgTech Incubator supports agriculture technology founders with the individualized support they need to lead in agriculture innovation. The Combine Incubator hosts food and ag tech companies progressing through The Combine Commercialization Program, monthly AgriFood Meetups, visits from the Combine Insights Producers Network and office hours from local and regional investors. The incubator is located on Nebraska Innovation Campus and offers private office suites as well as hot desk memberships.
The Combine is a statewide initiative supporting high growth entrepreneurs in food and agriculture. The program consists of commercialization support through mentorship and a capital readiness program, networking events, a network of partnering producers across the state, as well as incubation space on Nebraska Innovation Campus. From initial goal setting and idea assessment to preparation for a capital raise, The Combine Program is designed to assist entrepreneurs on an individual basis. Learn more at nebraskacombine.com.
A Time to Heal Cancer Foundation Provides Virtual and In-Person Classes for Cancer Recovery and Brain Fog
A Time to Heal Cancer Foundation is proud to announce upcoming classes available to cancer survivors and their caregivers: Survivorship 101 and Navigating Brain Fog. These classes are part of the organization’s mission to provide support, education and empowerment so cancer survivors and their caregivers may create their best lives.
Survivorship 101 is held once per week over nine weeks. This program was developed to help cancer patients recover and rebuild their health, reduce stress, boost hope and manage fear of recurrence. These weekly sessions provide guidance for next steps, including research-based advice on topics like nutrition, self-care, advocacy, exercise, intimacy and stress management. Best of all, survivors connect with other survivors and caregivers who understand their journey.
Navigating Brain Fog is a class held once per week over six weeks and was developed for cancer survivors who are experiencing “chemo brain” or “brain fog”. Nearly three of every four cancer patients experience brain fog. This class is taught in an informative, fun, and interactive way that improves thinking, feeling and functioning. COVID-19 survivors with brain fog are also welcome! Both classes are FREE and include a free workbook shipped directly to your door. New classes are starting in October and November, so sign up today and join others at our office OR from the comfort of your own home! More details and registration can be found online at atth.org (click on Survivorship 101 or Brain Fog) or by calling A Time to Heal at (402) 401-6083.
A Time to Heal provides support, education and empowerment so that cancer survivors and their caregivers may create their best lives. Learn more at atth.org.
compassionate, non-medical
that enables your loved one to maintain their independence and dignity.
BATHING/DRESSING
INCONTINENCE CARE
MEAL PREPARATION
LIGHT HOUSEKEEPING
ERRANDS & SHOPPING MEDICATION REMINDERS
NESC and Lutheran Family Services to Host Adult Driver Education for Refugees
WinterEssentialsDrive:WarmingHeartsandLives
Lutheran Family Services (LFS) and the Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) are excited to offer a comprehensive Adult Driver Education course, tailored for Lincoln's refugee community. This eighthour program is designed for individuals 18 years of age and older who wish to enhance their driving skills, develop safe driving habits and prepare for the DMV Driver’s License Exam. In some cases, completing this course may also help reduce insurance premiums.
John M. Lefler, Jr. shares, “Our collaboration with Lutheran Family Services aligns with our mission to bridge the gap and ensure that all Nebraskans have equal access to driver education. By empowering individuals to secure their driver’s licenses, we foster greater independence and open doors to new opportunities.”
Access to driver education is crucial for everyone. It lays the groundwork for safe driving practices and instills a strong awareness of responsible decision-making behind the wheel. This adult driver education course is an excellent opportunity for both refining existing skills and preparing for the state exam.
With over 145,000 immigrants and refugees residing in Nebraska, reliable and safe transportation is vital for maintaining employment and self-sufficiency. Nebraska Safety Council’s goal is to ensure that everyone can drive with confidence and independence and appreciates its partnership with Lutheran Family Services in making this vision a reality for all Nebraskans.
To learn more about upcoming courses or available partnerships to host Adult Driver Education classes, contact NESC’s Traffic Services team at (402) 483-2511 ext. 107, or email info@nesafetycouncil.org.
This winter, join CenterPointe in making a difference by contributing to their Winter Essentials Donation Drive. From October 1 to November 22 bring in new or gently used items to benefit CenterPointe individuals in service & other individuals in need.
Collecting the following donations:
• Coats
• Hats (preferred new)
• Gloves
• Hoodies
• Handwarmers
• Scarves
• Socks (white and black)
• Sheets
• Blankets
• Thermal underwear (new)
• Sleeping bags
The drop-off location is the Campus for Health & WellBeing at 2202 S. 11th St. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and on Tuesdays and Thursdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Donate to CenterPointe today!
Over the past 50 years, CenterPointe has grown to include over forty programs including mental health and substance use treatment, primary acre services, rehabilitation, medication management, 24hour crisis response and housing. Learn more about their mission at Centerpointe.org.
Lincoln Community Foundation Grants More Than $1.6M
Save the Date: 30th Annual Shop to Stop Family Violence
Thanks to the foresight of generous donors, Lincoln Community Foundation made grants in August of $1,640,027 for 231 nonprofit organizations, 139 of which were local. These grants came from designated funds created by donors to support their favorite nonprofits and houses of worship. Endowed funds provide annual financial support to the organizations specified by the donors, helping the community and the nonprofits grow and thrive forever.
Through partnerships and collaboration, Lincoln Community Foundation facilitates positive change for the common good. Since 1955, the Foundation has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. The Foundation has distributed more than $238 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that improve the lives of Lincoln’s residents. Lincoln Community Foundation is accredited by the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations®. Learn more at LCF.org.
Industry
Leader Joins
American
Heart Association to Save Lives
As the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, celebrates their centennial year, Kris Montgomery, leader of the Omaha region for McCarthy Building Companies has been named chair of this year’s Hard Hats with Heart Omaha.
Hard Hats with Heart is a construction industry-specific initiative from the American Heart Association to improve the cardiovascular health of Omaha’s construction workers. The campaign’s focus is to integrate health, well-being and prevention solutions into the industry’s culture by inspiring companies to implement initiatives to help employees improve health such as providing healthy food options, promoting physical activity during breaks, implementing stress-reducing programs, educating employees about the signs of heart disease and teaching employees CPR.
“Supporting the American Heart Association is about planting seeds of awareness,” said Montgomery. “Our team at McCarthy is sending a clear message that the health of our team matters. Every heartbeat counts, and every dollar raised for the cause supports research, education and prevention efforts. My family was one of the 695,000 families in the United States that loses someone every year to heart disease. Together, we can make a difference and save lives.”
McCarthy Building Companies agrees with Montgomery .
“It is an honor to work with Kris,” said Kelly Morris, American Heart Association Development Director. “McCarthy Building Companies is a leader in the industry when it comes to giving back and putting their employees’ health, safety, and well-being first.”
Workers in the construction industry are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. In fact, 343,000 construction workers (1 in 25) have already been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease
For more information on Hard Hats with Heart Omaha visit heart. org/omahahardhats or contact Kelly.Morris@heart.org.
To learn more about the American Heart Association, visit heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
Voices of Hope is thrilled to share the exciting news of their 30th Annual Shop to Stop Family Violence Event, scheduled to take place from October 19 to 25. During this week-long event, participating shops have generously committed to donating 2% of their sales to Voices of Hope, a crucial contribution that directly supports the delivery of essential services and much-needed support to individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, sex trafficking and other forms of abuse. To support this event, head over to the Voices of Hope Facebook page (@voicesofhopelincoln) to see the list of stores to support to donate to their cause.
Voices of Hope provides confidential 24/7 crisis intervention services to all genders who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and related forms of abuse. Their mission is to make sure that all victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as their families and communities, receive responsive, empowering services and support that meet their needs, both individual and cultural, through advocacy and education aimed at eliminating recurrence, challenging oppressive social institutions, and reducing violence and oppression. Learn more at voicesofhopelincoln.org.
Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach Increasing Access to Nutritious Food
Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is starting two new initiatives this fall to increase access to nutritious food among individuals and families experiencing homelessness or who are on the edge of homelessness.
The “Freshen Your Plate” project ensures every meal served at Matt Talbot includes a serving of at least one fresh fruit or vegetable. A paid student intern will work with kitchen staff and volunteer hunger relief teams to plan menus, provide education and coordinate with local growers to increase garden-to-table options. This effort to advance health equity in Lincoln is funded through a grant from the Community Health Endowment.
Matt Talbot also opened the “Fresh Choice Pantry” which is set up like a small grocery store with food choices that include meat, dairy, produce and canned or boxed items. Guests are able to sign up for a time to walk through the pantry and select the food they want. The Fresh Choice Pantry is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons.
“We are the main source of nutrition for many of our guests so it is critical that we provide healthy options,” said Alynn Sampson, Executive Director. “Being able to choose healthy foods for yourself and your household not only impacts health, but also offers a sense of control and dignity.”
The mission of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is to relieve hunger, overcome homelessness, address addiction and provide outreach and advocacy. Last year Matt Talbot provided over 250,000 meals and 50,000 homeless prevention services such as housing, drug and alcohol evaluations, life skills classes and help with obtaining vital identification documents. Learn more at mkto.org.
St. Monica's Celebrates 60 Years of Service
St. Monica's Home is celebrating 60 years of service with a luncheon completely open to the public!
The luncheon will take place Thursday, October 17, at the Country Club of Lincoln from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (3200 S. 24th Street).
This is a sit-down, plated luncheon with gluten free, vegetarian options. There will be a silent auction featuring a Sports Basket, a Local Basket, a Food Basket and a Beauty Basket. St. Monica’s will be giving away three awards: A Legacy Donor/Volunteer Award, A Client Achievement Award and an Inspirational Alumni Award. St. Monica’s can't wait to see where the next 60 years will take them! Register for the luncheon at secure.qgiv.com/for/60thanniversaryluncheon.
Since 1964, St. Monica's Home has been providing support and treatment to women in gender-specific residential facilities. St. Monica's has adapted their programs as the needs in the community have changed, while always remaining steadfast to the founders' visions of supporting women in home-like environments. By providing an integrated approach to women facing substance use disorders, behavioral health issues and reporting trauma, St. Monica's is able to empower the women they serve to achieve life changing recovery through proven treatment and critical support services.
Learn more about St. Monica’s at stmonicas.com.
Christian Record Services for the Blind Marks 125 Years of Transformative Service
In the heart of compassion and dedication, Christian Record Services (CRS) stands tall as it celebrates an incredible milestone—125 years of unwavering commitment to serving individuals worldwide who are blind and visually impaired. Since its inception in 1899, CRS has been a beacon of hope, breaking down barriers and providing life-changing services to individuals facing vision challenges.
In September, CRS celebrated their 125th anniversary with a special dinner and ceremony on the campus of Union Adventist University, which is where the ministry was first housed when moving to Nebraska! The event was attended by board members, former staff and many community supporters. In addition, proclamations from Governor Jim Pillen and Mayor Leirion Gaylord Baird were read.
“The organization’s founder, Austin O. Wilson, dreamed of more Christian braille resources for people like himself to learn more about God’s love for them. Reaching this monumental milestone demonstrates how his vision was fulfilled with the expanding services and programs offered through the years. We look forward to continued growth and meaningful service,” stated President Diane Thurber.
As CRS commemorates 125 years of service, it stands as a shining example of love, resilience and the transformative power of dedicated service. Here's to the past, present and future of CRS as it continues to illuminate the path toward a more inclusive, accessible world for the blind and visually impaired community.
Learn more at christianrecord.org.
The
Arc of Lincoln Wants You to Join Them for Harvest Moon 2024
Each year, The Arc of Lincoln hosts the Harvest Moon Live and Silent Auctions, auctions that are held to help support the advocacy and services provided by The Arc of Lincoln. The 2024 event will be held at The Grand Manse, 129 N 10th St., on the evening of Thursday, October 17 from 5:30 to 8:30, with time for a social hour, dinner and auction. Tickets for this event are $40 for individuals or $300 for a table of eight, plus processing fees. To register, call (402) 421-8866 or email director@arclincoln.org.
All are invited to this event! Come for fun, friends and for a live and silent auction. The Arc of Lincoln is always looking for sponsorships and auctions items! They can’t wait to see you there.
The Arc of Lincoln promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and development disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community through their lifetimes. Learn more at thearc.org.
YMCA of Lincoln to Hold Fourth Annual Coat Drive for People’s City Mission
WearYellowNebraskaAnnouncesItsConclusion
Wear Yellow Nebraska, an Omaha-based cancer charity, ceased operations on December 31, 2023. Treasurer Kenny Champoux and President Michael Merritt are finalizing the dissolution. All assets have been distributed to local charities supporting Nebraskans in the fight against cancer. The people at Wear Yellow Nebraska express gratitude to their volunteers, sponsors and event participants for their 20 years of support.
Winter weather in Nebraska brings hardships to the homeless, but once again, a familiar organization is stepping in to bring some warmth and relief from the cold to those who need it most. During the month of October, all four Lincoln YMCA locations will be participating in a coat drive to benefit People’s City Mission. In just three years, over 8,500 coats have been collected thanks to the generosity of YMCA members and the Lincoln community at large.
Community members that donate a new or gently used coat will receive a free pass to “Try the Y” for a week, which will be valid through the end of the year. Current YMCA members who donate coats will also have a chance to win a Free Y Membership for 2025!
“Nebraska winters can be especially challenging for those experiencing homelessness, and once again, we are committed to providing support through our annual coat drive,” shared Renee Yost, President & CEO of the Lincoln YMCA. “This effort is a testament to the strength and compassion of our community, and we are proud to partner once more with People’s City Mission to make a meaningful difference.”
The drive will take place October 1-21, with a kick-off coat distribution at People’s City Mission’s Help Center, starting at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 8.
Drop off coats at the following locations:
• Cooper YMCA – 6767 S. 14th St.
• Copple Family YMCA – 8700 Yankee Woods Dr.
• Fallbrook YMCA – 700 Penrose Dr.
• Northeast YMCA – 2601 N. 70th St.
Additional drop-off locations, as well as more information about the YMCA Community Coat Drive, can be found at YMCALincoln. org/events.
After two decades of dedicated service, they have gracefully concluded its remarkable journey of uniting cyclists and community members to support local cancer patients in accessing life-saving treatment. Their purpose from the beginning was to bring people passionate about cycling together to celebrate life and fight cancer, and their proud of the work they did reaching that goal.
Highlight Your Business and Support Cancer PatientsasaSponsorof theMardiGrasGala
The Heartland Cancer Foundation (HCF) believes no cancer patient should fall behind on treatment because they struggle to afford their everyday expenses.
Event sponsors directly support HCF’s mission to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in the community. Sponsorship ensures that these individuals can focus on what matters most, healing.
HCF’s signature Mardi Gras Gala is more than just an event—it's a celebration with a cause. This themed evening features keynote speakers, a premium auction and top-tier entertainment. As HCF’s largest fundraiser of the year, the gala’s success directly impacts the number of cancer patients they can serve, which was 339 in 2023.
The last Mardi Gras Gala raised $266,747 in proceeds, and HCF is committed to expanding their impact. In 2025, they plan to increase their grant size to $1,000 and extend services to additional counties in Nebraska. Sponsorships are vital to powering these efforts.
The 10th Annual Mardi Gras Gala will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at the Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln. This event will bring together physicians, medical and oncology staff, cancer survivors and community members.
This is a unique opportunity for businesses of all sizes to support the cancer community while gaining high-profile recognition. HCF offers a wide range of sponsorship opportunities, with benefits including tickets to the event and prominent acknowledgment in marketing materials.
To secure a sponsorship, email Chris Blum at chris@ heartlandcancerfoundation.org.
Theatre Arts For Kids to Entertain with Halloween Spooktacular October 27
ApaceCelebratesaSuccessfulRibbonCutting and Open House!
Theatre Arts For Kids is excited to host its Halloween Spooktacular event on Sunday, October 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Halloween Spooktacular will be an openhouse-style event, consisting of Booth or Treat, treat bags, creepy crafts and many games and prizes. Entertainment will also be provided by Screamers Staff and Theatre Arts for Kids. Family admission is ten dollars per family, and there will be a Screamers Lunch available. See more at facebook. com/Theatreartsforkids.
Theatre Arts for Kids is a challenging musical theatre arts program specially geared toward the young, aspiring performer interested in learning about, participating in and producing musical theatre. Through teamwork and workshops, performers gain lifelong skills as they build self-esteem and develop leadership ability. Instruction is focused on vocal technique, musicianship, dance, actor training and production professionalism. Special workshops in stage combat, performance artistry, improvisation and auditioning will benefit students in all of their artistic endeavors. Theatre Arts for Kids provides the total theatre experience. From auditioning, rehearsing, polishing and performing to warm-ups and exercises designed to enhance concentration and focus, the benefits of participating in TAFK are limitless. Learn more about TAFK at tafk.org.
Angels Among Us Receives Donation from Nebraska Blue Foundation
Angels Among Us (AAU) was honored to receive a grant through the Nebraska Blue Foundation in August. The foundation, which was founded by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) earlier this year, powers the company’s philanthropic initiatives.
The foundation announced its second round of grant funding in August. AAU was one of five nonprofit organizations to receive a $10,000 grant through the foundation in this funding round.
In addition to these gifts, BCBSNE employees had the opportunity to vote to direct an additional $5,000 grant to one of the five nonprofits that received funding through the foundation in August. AAU was selected by BCBSNE’s employees, receiving a $15,000 grant in total.
“We’re proud to support Angels Among Us and their work in uplifting children and families impacted by pediatric cancer,” says Jay Warren-Teamer, executive director of the Nebraska Blue Foundation and diversity, equity and inclusion.
AAU is grateful for this partnership as the organization’s need has continued to grow over recent years. The majority of financial assistance AAU provides is for rent and mortgage payments for pediatric cancer families. In this inflationary time, it is more important than ever for AAU to grow its capacity to meet the needs of families going through a devastating time. This simply could not be done without such partnerships.
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 Aly Goedeken at alyssa@myangelsamongus.org or by calling (402) 934-0999.
Apace would like to thank everyone who came out for their ribbon cutting and open house! They would also like to thank the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce for helping with the ribbon cutting, Innerspace Studios, BIC Construction, NAI FMA Realty, County Commissioners and the Lincoln community business members and anyone else they have missed who supported them!
They’re happy that they were able to create such a welcoming environment for all those who attended!
Apace’s vision is to ensure that each person is a valued member of their community with the resources they need to control their life. The foundation was created to support Apace and to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in Nebraska. Learn more about their mission and what they do at goapace.com.
Eventide Senior Living Communities to Combine with Tabitha Senior Care, Strengthening Commitment to Older Adults
Eventide Senior Living Communities and Tabitha Senior Care have announced plans to combine under an affiliation agreement. The affiliation is expected to become effective October 1, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the final agreement.
“We are excited to welcome Tabitha to the Eventide family. This strategic decision underscores our shared commitment to advancing senior care,” said Jon Riewer, President and CEO of Eventide. “Eventide and Tabitha are both non-profit, faith-based organizations, sharing similar missions and values. By combining our strengths and resources, we will create a stronger, more resilient organization focused on delivering high-quality care and enriching the lives of seniors.”
Brian P. Shanks, President and CEO of Tabitha, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Together, we will leverage our combined expertise to navigate industry challenges and enhance the services we offer.”
Through this partnership, Eventide will assume the role of the parent company. There will be no disruptions of services or care at Eventide or Tabitha.
“We look forward to the opportunities this partnership presents for our residents, clients, families, and staff,” added Riewer. “This integration will enable us to expand our reach and uphold our commitment to excellence in senior services.”
Combined, Eventide and Tabitha serve approximately 2,300 seniors daily, employ 2,200 and have a legacy of over 200 years of service. Both organizations share a philosophy of compassion and commitment to empower older adults, families and employees to thrive. In a time when dynamics in senior services are changing rapidly, provider organizations must adapt and evolve to ensure the best for those served. This partnership is a step toward a future where their impact will be better together.
For more information about Eventide Senior Living Communities and Tabitha Senior Care, visit their respective websites at eventide.org and tabitha.org.
Join No Footprint Too Small for Heartfelt Wave of Light Event
Join No Footprint Too Small for its heartfelt Wave of Light event on Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day to remember and honor those loved and have lost.
No Footprint Too Small’s global candle light event will take place simultaneously, across the globe on October 15 at 7 p.m. Attendees can expect a warm meal and beverage, live music and a candlelight ceremony–from 6 to 8 p.m.–at Creekside Barn at Roca Berry Farm (16531 S 38th St, Roca, Nebraska).
To help No Footprint Too Small plan accordingly, it kindly asks that all RSVP for this event. RSVP here: nofootprinttoosmall.com/.../ regist.../101597/tickets.
No Footprint Too Small believes that each and every loss is truly significant and needs to be acknowledged and celebrated–whether the loss occurred at eight weeks gestation or eight weeks outside of the womb–and that is the concept that gave the organization its name.
No Footprint Too Small is a 501c3 nonprofit organization, and its mission is to provide comprehensive perinatal support to mothers, fathers and families who are affected by pregnancy or infant loss.
Community sponsors and donors help No Footprint Too Small raise awareness and generate crucial resources to fulfill its mission. Contact No Footprint Too Small today to learn how to become a sponsor or donor at nofootprinttoosmall.com or (402) 318-3911.
Keep Nebraska Beautiful Celebrates a Successful 28th Annual
On September 12, Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) hosted its 28th annual “Golf for the Environment” tournament at Woodland Hills Golf Course in Eagle, NE. The event, which serves as KNB’s largest fundraiser, saw tremendous success with enthusiastic participation and generous support from the community.
Golf Tournament
Participants enjoyed exciting contests, raffle drawings, a live auction and plenty of food and drink. The tournament provided a fun and engaging atmosphere while raising critical funds to support KNB’s environmental initiatives.
Thanks to the sponsors, donors and participants, KNB raised substantial funds to continue its mission of promoting environmental conservation across Nebraska. These contributions will help sustain programs such as litter prevention, recycling initiatives and sustainability education.
Keep Nebraska Beautiful extends its heartfelt thanks to all the participants, volunteers and sponsors who made this event possible. Your generosity and dedication to KNB’s cause are vital to the organization’s continued success, and this year’s tournament would not have been the same without your support. The organization is already looking forward to its next tournament, scheduled for September 11, 2025.
For more information on KNB’s programs and how to get involved, visit knb.org.
Keep Nebraska Beautiful is a nonprofit organization with a mission 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.
Sunday | 11am - 9pm
Supporting Nonprofits: The Foundry AnnouncesAffordableSponsorshipProgram for Businesses
At the beginning of Q4, many companies are seeking ways to give back to their communities and make a positive impact.
In response, the Foundry is pleased to announce a unique sponsorship program designed to provide substantial support to nonprofits at an affordable price.
The end of the year often presents an opportunity for businesses to allocate remaining budgets, showcase their values and strategically position themselves for the upcoming year. Recognizing this, the Foundry's sponsorship program offers businesses of all sizes the chance to make a meaningful difference by sponsoring a BASE CAMP project for a nonprofit of their choice for just $650.
By participating in the BASE CAMP program, businesses can support nonprofits in boosting their capacity in crucial areas such as marketing, outreach, grant writing and data capture. This not only empowers nonprofits to better serve their missions but also creates opportunities for businesses to align themselves with the causes they care about.
Nonprofits who partner with BASE CAMP will benefit from unique projects and deliverables tailored to meet their needs and goals, enabling them to thrive and serve their communities more effectively and efficiently.
Tiffani C has of Linked2Literacy has stated “"Working with BASE CAMP was invigorating on multiple levels. [They were] intuitive, structured and ambitious- exactly what L2L needed to grow our organization from a branding perspective."
For businesses looking to make a difference in their communities and support nonprofits practically and tangibly, the BASE CAMP sponsorship program offers a compelling opportunity to create a lasting and meaningful impact.
To learn more about how businesses of all sizes can sponsor a BASE CAMP project and support a nonprofit of their choice, please visit thefoundry.co or contact hello@thefoundry.co.
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.
Defining Boundaries, Redefining Style
Curbing can single handily change your entire curb appeal and Liberty Edge Curbing is here to make sure that it’s a job done right. They can lay down concrete curbing borders for all budgets and styles. If you’re looking to enhance your landscape without breaking the bank, then they’re the perfect choice! With concrete curbing, unlike traditional landscape borders lie pavers or metal, their curbing won’t rust, fall over, or move out of place. Plus it effectively keeps grass and weeds at bay, ensuring your garden stays neat and tidy.
You can upgrade your outdoor space with a solution that’s both budget-friendly and built to last. Not only do they provide top-notch curbing solutions, but they always offer same-day installation of weed mats and your choice of rock or mulch right after the curbing is done! Elevate your garden’s look and functionality in one seamless visit!
Don’t let the time you spend on unnecessary lawn care grow as fast as your grass. Seamless concrete boarders are the perfect barrier to keep your yard in check.
Their workers are united by diverse skills and a shared passion; they aim to prioritize customer service and satisfaction as we collaborate with you to enhance your outdoor space with decorative concrete curbing.
Concrete curbs and borders are a professionally installed, permanent, and attractive solution for any landscape. This visually appealing concrete curbs offered by Liberty Edge Curbing enhance the look and increase the value of any home or business. They offer a variety of curbing styles, patterns and colors and we can help you create a unique design that is just right for you, your home or business.
Discover the surprising affordability of decorative concrete curbing. Your dream landscape is within reach, and they’re here to show you how.
FRIENDS
For Friends4Lunch we’ll be heading to Los Cabos on Tuesday, October, 8th from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Los Cabos is located at 8901 Andermatt Dr. at 84th and Nebraska Parkway. We really missed seeing everyone last month and look forward to seeing everyone and catch up over margaritas and eating way too many chips and salsa. We will say we are also very excited to try out their Burrito Los Cabos with grilled pineapple.
FRIENDS FRIENDS FRIENDS
For Friends4Drinks we have a super exciting event planned for October. We will be going back to Eagle Hallow Scream Park again this year on Friday, October 18th starting at 7:30pm. We had some much fun last year and can't wait to do it all again with everyone. Eagle Hollow Haunts will be offering half-price tickets for our guests, so make sure you snag that deal and join us! We’ll have a fire pit at 617 S 28th St., Eagle, NE. Come have a scary good time.
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.
The month of September we did take a break from our networking events because we hosted our 12th Annual Garden in the Party fundraising event benefiting Domesti-PUPS. Thank you all of our valued readers who attended, donated and/or sponsored the event. We couldn’t have done it without all of you. It was because of all of you, that this event was a huge success.
OCTOBER BUSINESS EVENTS
OCTOBER 2
Chamber Coffee | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
OCTOBER 4
GenLNK | LIBA
OCTOBER 5
Omaha Boots to Business - Reboot | Veteran Business Outreach Center
OCTOBER 6-13
Parade of Homes | Home Builders Association of Lincoln
OCTOBER 7
YP Week: Kickoff Lunch | Lincoln YPG YP Week: YP After Dark | Lincoln YPG
OCTOBER 8
YP Week: Sip + Socialize | Lincoln YPG DEIB | LincolnHR
OCTOBER 10
BizNet | LIBA
YP Week: Young Lincoln Leader Awards | Lincoln YPG
OCTOBER 11
Breakfast of Champions | Lincoln YPG
OCTOBER 12
Workshop for Startups and Small Businesses | SCORE Lincoln
OCTOBER 18
Start-up to Success Small Business Conference | Nebraska Enterprise Fund
OCTOBER 18
Coffee and Contacts | LIBA
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.
Your Brainchild is A1 Cabinet & Granite, LLC’s
“Let us combine our expertise with the service necessary to take your project from concept to completion,” says the A1 Cabinet & Granite, LLC team. “We’ll deliver what you need, on time!”
A1 Cabinet & Granite, LLC is the granite countertop and cabinet company Lincoln trusts. From cabinet and granite to sinks and faucets, A1 Cabinet & Granite, LLC’s staff is ready to turn any project into a vision of beauty.
A1 Cabinet and Granite offers high-quality cabinets and granite countertops at competitive prices. Clients can hand pick their actual granite slab from more than 60 colors and 400 slabs at A1 Cabinet and Granite’s warehouse. With so many options, clients are sure to find the perfect slab for their home. A1 Cabinet and Granite is more than happy to help clients pick out a slab that works uniquely for them. Bring in measurements for a free estimate!
A1 Cabinet and Granite is the cabinet company Lincolnites go to when they want high-quality cabinets that are sure to liven up their home. A1 Cabinet and Granite has full-extension drawers, plywood boxes, dove-tail and soft close drawers and much more! They come in many colors too, ranging from Expresso Chocolate Maple to Classic White. If one brings in measurements, A1 Cabinet and Granite can do a custom 3D drawing and estimate. Give A1 Cabinet and Granite a call, or stop in today, and see why A1 Cabinet and Granite is the cabinet company the Lincoln community prefers.
A1 Cabinet and Granite, LLC is a sister company of A1 Cabinet and Granite in Des Moines, IA. A1 Cabinet and Granite opened a location in Lincoln because of the large demand. A1 Cabinet and Granite has a mission to expand the business, so it can share its lower-priced, high-quality cabinets and granite to the greater part of Nebraska. In Lincoln, A1 Cabinet and Granite has a large showroom with several complete kitchen, bar and vanity setups and a large indoor warehouse connected to the showroom where it stocks its granite slabs. A1 Cabinet and Granite is open to the public, so stop by during store hours!
LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
by Jason Ball President
Elevating the Economic Vitality of Lincoln
With the last few months of the year upon us, I wanted to dedicate this column to highlighting the vital work of the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development (LPED). With a unified commitment to driving economic growth in Lincoln, I am incredibly proud of the work of the LPED team. Through innovative programs and strong partnerships, this talented team plays a crucial role in ensuring Lincoln remains a dynamic place to start or grow a business, live, work and thrive.
In September, I had the honor of traveling to Denver to accept the prestigious 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award from the International Economic Development Council. This award was bestowed specifically for LPED’s work in the talent development and retention category, recognizing the outstanding ongoing impact of the Lincoln Manufacturing Council (LMC) on our community.
LMC addresses the workforce needs of Lincoln’s manufacturers by increasing the number of individuals with the skills to work in the manufacturing industry. The program’s success can be attributed to a strong partnership between LPED, the City of Lincoln and members of Lincoln’s manufacturing industry, including the Lincoln Manufacturing Council’s chairs – Nick Cusick and JC Stiles of Bison, Diane TemmeStinton and James Warren of TMCO and Jim Townsend of Kawasaki.
LPED’s talent development and retention efforts also extend beyond the manufacturing sector. This summer, LPED’s talent team successfully concluded another year of MyTern, a program designed to connect hundreds of interns from a variety of Lincoln businesses with networking opportunities and an introduction to life in Lincoln after graduation. Through four signature events, participating interns were positioned to expand their networks, exchange ideas, connect with members of the Lincoln Young Professionals Group and explore the rich opportunities that Lincoln offers.
On October 22, the LPED team will host the inaugural Talent Connect Conference to unite business leaders, human resource professionals, educators and community stakeholders to explore the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in talent development and workforce strategy. This exciting new half-day summit will feature a keynote speaker, interactive panel discussions on topics such as workforce attraction and retention, the future of work and strategies for building a resilient pipeline. Learn more at lcoc.com/events.
LPED’s support and leadership for Lincoln’s startup community also remains strong. This summer, five early-stage companies participated in an exclusive 60-day coaching partnership with Ripcord Strategy, positioning participants to achieve significant milestones, illustrating the importance of targeted support for high-growth local businesses. Exciting plans are also underway for the first Silicon Prairie Startup Week, a celebration of the entrepreneurial and startup community in Nebraska, scheduled for November 11 - 16.
Stay tuned for additional updates from the LPED team in the months ahead, including ongoing opportunities for businesses to connect with job seekers through CareerPathway.com and application dates for the LaunchLNK grant program. In the meantime, please visit selectlincoln.org to learn more about LPED’s work and programs.
AR Solutions Inc. is a licensed, bonded and insured Collection Agency in Lincoln. AR Solutions understands that it’s time for a new approach, one with real answers and results. Most people don’t have time to waste, in Accounts Receivable or in managing multiple vendors. They offer solutions and the time you need to balance the completing demands of patient care and critical receivable management issues. They help you recover by giving you the time to focus on your core competency.
AR Solutions Inc. is most proud of their innovation. Now that they’re leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), the company can set up process flows, which can make your life a lot easier. They’re making your life more convenient by
DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION
by Todd Ogden, President
(402) 434-6900 www.downtownlincoln.org
10 New(ish) Businesses in Downtown Lincoln
Downtown Lincoln is experiencing an exciting resurgence with the addition of several new and unique spots. The downtown area has something for everyone, from dessert havens to custom apparel shops. These new establishments offer a variety of delicious treats, trendy fashion options and great entertainment, making them must-visit destinations for locals and visitors alike. Here are ten new businesses to visit!
1. Misfits on O
Located on Centennial Mall and O Street, Misfits on O replaced DP Dough, but don't worry, the calzones are here to stay. They also serve bone-in and boneless wings. Enjoy a late-night snack at Misfits on O to satisfy that midnight craving. Misfits on O is open Tuesday and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. and Wednesday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 3 a.m.
2. Sweet Things by Marcy
Sweet Things by Marcy is a new dessert spot that exemplifies Southern comfort. Founded by Marcy Haas in October 2020, it offers authentic Southern desserts, including banana pudding, Kentucky Butter Cake, peach cobbler and sweet potato pie.
With roots in Alabama, Haas ensures each dessert is a masterpiece of flavor and quality.
Sweet Things by Marcy is located on 14th and N Street and is open Monday, Tuesday and Saturday by appointment only and Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
3. Underground Printing
Underground Printing is a custom-designed apparel and promotional item print shop on 14th and P Street. It offers custom screen printing, embroidery and digital printing to suit anyone’s needs. No amount is too small. Whether one is looking for a single item for a birthday present or new swag for one’s business, look no further than Underground Printing.
Underground Printing is a licensed University of Nebraska Apparel Supplier and Greek-licensed vendor. It is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
4. RAYGUN
The Greatest Store in the Universe is now in Downtown Lincoln! RAYGUN opened its doors on 12th and P Street in early August. RAYGUN is more than just a t-shirt shop; pop culturerelated tchotchkes, like pins, magnets and baby bibs, cover all surfaces. Dominating the Midwest with its tenth location, RAYGUN is open to ideas for those who envision a specific custom shirt. It is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
5. Status Haymarket
Status Haymarket strives to give authentic luxury handbags and accessories a second chance. Committed to selling the best in sustainable luxury, all handbags are certified by a third-party partner. It is located on Canopy Street and O Street.
Status Haymarket is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays through Fridays and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Stop in today!
6. Waffle Cone Haymarket
The Waffle Cone opened its doors at the beginning of the year. Sandwiched between 3 Daughters Boutique and Forever Faithful Boutique, it brings bright colors and flavorful ice cream to North 8th Street.
The Waffle Cone gets all of its sweet treats from Ashby's Sterling Ice Cream, which is famous for its creamy, award-winning ice cream. The Waffle Cone changes its unique flavors monthly but keeps the classics like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry stocked at all times.
Look for the Ice Cream Nachos–three scoops of ice cream of your choice, waffle cone chips and any toppings they offer. These are the perfect items to order when you just can't decide! On Sundays through Fridays, stop in between 12 and 10 p.m., and on Saturdays visit any time between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.
7. Tank’s Country
Tank's Bar and Guitar opened a new location in the Railyard called Tank's Country bar. Put on your cowboy boots, head down to the Railyard for drinks and enjoy live music and entertainment. Tank's Country is the perfect place to tailgate.
Tank's Country is open Monday through Thursday from 3 to 11 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 11 to 1 a.m.
8. Mama Bear Nutrition
Located on 13th and O Street, next door to Birria Boss, Mama Bear Nutrition brings nutrition, energy and community to Downtown Lincoln. It is a smoothie, tea and juice stop for body-conscious people. It offers healthy shakes to help energize one throughout the day. Mama Bear Nutrition is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed on Sundays.
9. Lil JJ Hooligan’s
Well-loved dive bar JJ Hooligan's has added a new bar to their family, Lil JJ's. Replacing DB Cooper's Highjacker's Lounge, Lil JJ's is another take on the fan-favorite Haymarket bar it's named after. Enjoy a vapor shot at either location. Located on 11th and L Street, Lil JJ's is open daily from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
10. Snack Korner
Snack Korner brings something to the table that no other restaurant downtown does, a ramen bar. One can choose his/her favorite ramen and ask for any toppings of choice. It's the perfect place for an after-class snack. All ramen is imported from Korea, with ramen makers in-house. All you have to do is choose the package and add water.
Snack Korner offers a variety of unique snacks as well. It is the perfect one-stop shop for grabbing a meal on the go. Snack Korner is next to the Rococo Theatre on the corner of 13th and P Street. It is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Foundedin1967,theDowntownLincolnAssociationprovidesservicesandchampionsinitiativesfor maintainingandenhancingourvibrantdowntown.Ourvisionistocreateanenergeticdowntown environmentwherewelive,learn,work,investandplay.DLAhasevolvedintoamulti-faceted organizationsupportingawiderangeofprogramsandactivitiesincludingmaintenance,economic developmentandadvocacy.Foracompletelistingofdowntownbusinesses,eventsandresidences visitdowntownlincoln.org.‘Like’usonFacebookatfacebook.com/downtownlincoln.
Amplifying curb appeal is a fail-safe solution to increasing home resale value and making it the talk of the town. Spicing up the exterior of a home with a simple coat of paint can do wonders for the home’s overall impression. As everyone knows, first impressions are everything!
(402) 730-1781 | walterpaintinginc.com
Paint has the power to completely change the look of any room or house. A fresh coat of paint is invaluable and is sometimes all it takes to make a house look like new again. One can’t beat the ease and convenience of a quick paint job, whether it transforms a home’s interior or exterior. Walter’s Painting Inc. is a local business that can make those transformations come to life. Walter’s Painting offers efficient and reliable service and is especially helpful to those with a busy schedule, minimally disrupting the client’s daily routine. Painting projects don’t have to be expensive or take up valuable time, and Walter’s Painting can ensure that is the reality!
Walter’s Painting offers free estimates and high-caliber prep work, and to guarantee the painting job is satisfactory to the client, consultation is available after the first coat of paint.
“Painting can take up precious time that could be spent elsewhere when clients attempt to do the tedious painting work themselves,” says Jeff Walters, owner. “Today’s fast paced lifestyle means most people simply don’t have the time for even easy improvements such as painting or plastering, especially the prep work that naturally comes with the process. For that reason, we strive to make the process stress and worryfree, so clients have one less thing to keep them up at night. Our goal is to provide premium quality products and services that produce the most outstanding results.”
Walter’s Painting is willing to go the extra mile. Their mission is to make certain that all clients love their finished product and are completely satisfied with the results!
by Travis Filing Executive Director
(402) 432-1370 www.liba.org
6 Strategies to Grow Your Customer Base
Small businesses are the backbone of our community, creating jobs and providing goods and services that large businesses often overlook. However, thriving in a competitive marketplace requires a focused approach to marketing and sales. Here are six strategies to help your business grow its customer base and increase sales.
Understanding Your Market - Knowing your target audience is the key of any successful marketing strategy. Start by identifying who your ideal customers are, what they value and where they spend their time. I know this sounds obvious, but markets and consumer wants/needs change and you need to continuously conduct surveys, analyze customer data and gather feedback to create detailed buyer personas. This understanding will enable you to tailor your marketing messages and sales tactics to resonate more effectively with your audience.
Leverage Local Connections - One of the most significant advantages of being a small business is the ability to connect deeply with the community. Participate in local events, sponsor activities and collaborate with other local businesses. This visibility helps build trust and brand recognition among residents, making them more likely to choose your business over a non-local competitor.
Embrace Digital Marketing - While local connections are crucial, digital marketing is equally vital for reaching a broader audience. Establish a solid online presence by keeping your website current, engaging in social media and using email marketing to stay in touch with your customers. Additionally, investing in search engine optimization (SEO) can help your business appear in local search results, driving more traffic to your website.
Network and Build Relationships - Networking is essential for small businesses. Join local business associations, like the Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA), to connect with other business owners, share ideas and collaborate on marketing initiatives. Building strong relationships with other businesses can lead to referrals, partnerships and opportunities to expand your reach.
Focus on Differentiation - Identify what makes your business unique and communicate that clearly to your customers. Whether it’s the quality of your products, your exceptional customer service, or your commitment to sustainability, highlighting your unique selling points (USPs) will help you stand out in a crowded market.
Keep Adapting - The business landscape is constantly evolving, and so should your marketing and sales strategies. Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies and changing consumer preferences. Be willing to experiment with new approaches and adjust your strategy as needed to stay ahead of the competition.
Marketing and sales for small businesses require a blend of creativity, community engagement and strategic thinking. By leveraging your local connections, embracing digital marketing, and focusing on providing exceptional customer experiences, your business can thrive and grow in today's competitive marketplace. Remember, the Lincoln Independent Business Association is here to support and guide you every step of the way. Together, we can strengthen our local economy and build a vibrant business community.
For more tips and resources on marketing and sales, or to join our network of local businesses, visit the Lincoln Independent Business Association's website LIBA.org or contact us directly. Let's build a brighter future for Lincoln, one small business at a time!
LIBA studies and promotes these types of issues that are important to businessesandourcommunity.Ifyouhaveaninterestinjoining,pleasecall LIBAat(402)466-3419.LIBAmembershipisnotrestrictedtojustbusinesses. Wealsohave“individual”membershipsforthosewhowanttohelpinfluence ourlocalgovernmentdecisions.
Thank You!!
Thank you to all who attended, sponsored, donated to, and volunteered at the 12th Annual Party in the Garden on September 6th! We are so thankful to be a part of a community that supports such a great cause.
SPONSORS & PARTNERS
FOOD & DRINKS
In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of holistic health has never been more critical. Holistic health focuses on the balance between mind, body, and spirit, empowering individuals to take control of their well-being. It goes beyond treating symptoms, encouraging a proactive approach to health by nurturing all aspects of life—physical, emotional, mental, and social. By adopting holistic practices, you can improve your quality of life, prevent illness, and create lasting health habits. In this feature, we explore how embracing holistic health and working with these local practitioners, will allows you to take charge of your wellness journey and live a balanced, fulfilling life.
Nebraska LTC Pharmacy truly is a concierge pharmacy. Their customer service and attention to detail far exceeds that of retail pharmacies. They offer top notch customer care with innovated services that go beyond those of big box pharmacies.
Their goals are always to provide individualized patient care that increases safety and prolongs patients’ independence. They want to avoid the use of multiple drugs to treat a single condition and increase communication among healthcare professionals. The people at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy want to put your health first, but also your time. They want to make your trip to the pharmacy is as quick and as easy as possible. It’s important to them to stay away from polypharmacy. Why use five medications when one medication will work just as well.
Nebraska LTC Pharmacy works to reduce medication errors and hospitalizations with the use of adherence packaging.
“We work to provide a ‘small town’ level of customer service,” says Owner Shannon Schultz . “We don’t use any automated systems, just great care provided by a great team. We serve over 300 clients, but each is special and we make sure to make them feel that way!”
Kimberly Hoffa, D.C.
Shannon Schultz Nebraska LTC Pharmacy
And to make your medication even easier to access, they offer medicine reconciliations! It’s their favorite thing to do. They offer many different medicine packaging options to fit your lifestyle.
Collaborative Medical Alternatives is here to make sure that both your body and your mind are in peak condition, but only you can make that change. Collaborative Medical Alternatives is here to address every aspect of one’s being—physical, mental and emotional—they take time to listen and get to the root of the problem, both physical and spiritual.
Getting better and feeling more fulfilled in your life is a long process!
Collaborative Medical Alternatives encourages you to make small sustainable steps.
Stefanie Leyden Collaborate Medical Alternatives
“If someone takes on too many changes at once—it’s an easy way to fail,” says Owner Stefanie Leyden. “Start with walking as a family each evening, limiting substance use, increasing magnesium intake, listening to music or an audiobook that’s not work related.”
Getting better is not a one-step process and many people find things, like digestive concerns, are often improved with a combo of medicine, supplements, diet changes and anxiety management. When you feel the difference from being out of balance to how good you feel once they start working together—you are self-motivated to continue!
Being in-tune with your body and mind is easier once you experience discomfort from not keeping up with good health practices.
“A lot of the time I hear ‘I forgot to take “x” for a couple of days and I knew right away,’” states Stefanie. Getting healthy and happy is hard, but the important part is maintaining that health and Collaborative Medical Alternatives is here to help!
Our whole body health starts with our toes and ends with the tops of
HEALTHCARE REIMAGINED
NATURAL HEALTH Alternatives
our heads. Every little detail about our bodies matters. In order for our body to feel good, it must be equipped to tackle everything we face in a day – including the shoes we wear as we do it.
At Lincoln Running Co. they understand the importance of a great pair of shoes perfectly fitted to your feet. Not only does the right pair of shoes set your body up for success, but your mind as well. To them, holistic health is a run every day where you see the sunrise or the sunset. There is nothing like going for a run in nature for your whole body and mind health.
“Whole body mind and health is an easy one for Lincoln Running Co.,” shared Ann Ringlein. “Just lace up, step out the door, feel the sun on your skin, seek out those moments of “awe” and feel the sense of accomplishment of completing that loop on the trail, or to simply breathe in some fresh air.”
Having great relationships with the medical professionals in Lincoln and surrounding areas, Lincoln Running Co. knows feet better than anyone else around – and they know how important it is to share that knowledge with the community. Locally owned and operated, Lincoln Running Co. is committed to helping the community find the right shoes to start their holistic health journey.
Regain your health with the qualified health experts at Revival Pharms Leading the way in education, natural alternatives and cannabis as a natural alternative, Revival Pharms is dedicated to bringing top quality hemp products grown, processed and formulated right here, in Nebraska, to the market helping people achieve the optimum health they are striving for. The pharmacists at Revival Pharms are dedicated to treating root cause issues and being guides on the journey to optimum health.
Ann Ringlein Lincoln Running Co.
info@revivalpharms
DR JEANNE GREISEN R
Revival Pharms has been a true revival for coowners Ward and Jeanne Greisen. Getting back to their roots of "growing and creating" has ignited a new passion for life-long learning, a ministry of healing and stewardship for our environment, which is essential for overall wellness.
Revival Pharms is passionate about helping people heal from toxic chemicals and providing a line of clean personal care products is part of their business. From natural soap products, to hair, nail and skin products, Revival Pharms is bringing naturally health, toxic-free products to Nebraska and beyond. is the of Nebraska-grown hemp formulations, hair care products and skin care products. Start your journey to healthier living by checking out their natural products.
Healing Hands Chiropractic provides chiropractic care, corrective exercises, spinal correction, back pain, neck pain, gonstead technique and chiropractic therapies services. Owner, Dr. Kim Hoffa is a truly exceptional chiropractor. She helps treat the problem, not just quell it for a limited time. Their equipment at Healing Hands Chiropractic is perfect for any amount of pain you might be in! There here to listen to your problems and find the best fit to make sure you’re feeling your best as soon as you finish your appointment!
“Every day movements can affect your spine, ribs, knees and joints and throw everything off just enough to cause chronic pain,” says Owner Kim Hoffa. “So we make that not only is every part of your body being treatment when you’re at your appointment, but that we give you tips and tricks to make sure to minimize pain as you’re going about your day.”
Healing Hands Chiropractic is here to make sure that you get scheduled for an appointment to make your life so much easier and healthier.
Their staff knows what they are doing and are here to put your needs and lifestyle first!
Dr. Kim Hoffa has 19 years of experience and she’s here to make sure that your pain is a distant memory!
At Aletheia Integrative Medical, experienced family medicine and direct primary care provider Jaime Dodge, MD and the team provide personalized integrative medicine to individuals and families throughout Lancaster County.
Founded by Jaime Dodge, MD, Aletheia Integrative Medical is a full-service, direct primary care practice. Paying a small monthly fee gives patients 24/7 access to the team, including functional medicine, cutting-edge restorative treatments and primary care.
The team at Aletheia Integrative Medical is caring and compassionate and they’re here to make sure you receive personalized care in order to be as healthy as possible. They integrate technology, nutrition, holistic and conventional methods to develop individual care plans that optimize your body’s resources to promote healing, regeneration and wellness.
“I’m dedicated and devoted to providing each of my patients with personalized care and ensuring their true health,” states Dr. Jaime Dodge, MD.
With over 20 years in family medicine, hospital medicine and emergency medicine, Dr. Dodge understands the importance of building a trusting relationship between him and his patients.
Aletheia offers a different approach towards sustainable health and wellness by redefining the doctor and patient relationship. In order to bring back the control of your health care to you and your physician, they leave out the insurance middlemen. For less than the average cost of a cell phone bill, you will have unprecedented, direct access to your doctor on your schedule and tailored to your needs. Whether you are looking to prevent illness, treat acute conditions, optimize your health or find the root cause of a problem, you deserve the best. You deserve Aletheia.
The gym can be an intimidating place to commit to when starting your health journey. If you aren’t comfortable or motivated in the space you’re working out, you will never want to go. Luckily, there are places in Lincoln that are ready to help you take control of your exercising experience.
Capital City Fitness & Performance is a co-ed fitness boot camp in Lincoln that specializes in large- and small-group personal training. They are home to the only Training for Warriors (TFW) affiliate in the city, which is a group training program that encompasses signature warmups, speed training, strength training, endurance training, flexibility work and nutrition with a unique motivational approach and welcoming family environment.
The a results-driven fitness center has helped hundreds of Lincoln residents lose thousands of pounds of body fat, but it’s not about what you lose; it’s about what you gain by being a part of their exclusive program.
“We consider each person as a member of our boot camp family, and we strive to be the best part of our members’ day, every day,” said Owner Mike Bevard.
Through their philosophy of “Bringing Out the Warrior Within,” they motivate their members through coaching and a systematic approach to training. Not only will you get great lessons in physical training, but you will also be armed with valuable life lessons that will improve all areas of your life. They believe that everybody has the ability to do great things, and the coaches at Capital City Fitness will give you the strategies to bring out your inner warrior and dominate life!
Jeanne Greisen Revival Pharms
Dr. Jaime Dodge - MD Altheia
Mike Bevard Capital City Fitness & Performance
Dr. Stefanie Leyden
Holiday Planning
What is the best way to make sure that your company is ready and excited for the holiday season? Start planning an event now! The holiday season will be here before you know it, and to make sure that your, Halloween, Thanksgiving or Christmas party is one to remember, keep one of these businesses in mind! There are so many things to keep in mind when you’re trying to plan a party. Where should you host the party? Who will provide the food? Let these local businesses take the wheel and the weight off your shoulders and contact them today!
daVinci’s & Greenfield’s catering is ideal for gatherings of any size, whether it’s a holiday party, graduation, office meeting, or employee celebration. daVinci’s offers gourmet pizzas, baked pasta packages, and hoagie trays, while Greenfield’s provides delicious options like breakfast burritos, chicken and biscuits, egg casseroles, and more.
Plan a Holiday Party Bus
What screams holiday fun more than a glowing, bass-pounding party bus? Tailored Dreams Limousines and Party Buses goes all out every time, providing the perfect opportunity to host the most memorable holiday event any family member has ever seen!
In 2012, Tailored Dreams Limousines was started with just one limousine. They have since grown their fleet to include party buses that have offered countless memories to the Lincoln, Omaha and nearby communities–whether it be for a wedding, birthday, just a fun night out with friends or a holiday extravaganza!
“Tailored Dreams has been privileged to offer party bus services to the Lincoln and surrounding communities for 12 years,” shared Tailored Dreams. “We look forward to being able to continue providing you with the service to make your party bus activities and holiday planning a success.”
Their reputation for delivering a fun time has spread. Take it from one of their recent clients:
“We just wanted to extend a huge thank you for making our party bus experience so phenomenal. The chauffeur was amazing, and the experience was nothing short of a blast. They kept the party bumping when we couldn’t decide on music and kept everyone having a great time.”
Tailored Dreams Limousines specializes in holiday outings and much more, so contact them to plan an undeniably unforgettable holiday season!
Holiday Sweets
Anyone and everyone should consider treating their family–or just themselves–to the most delectable taste bud experience this holiday season with a treat from Sweet Things by Marcy.
Sweet Things by Marcy offers an exceptional dessert experience that captures the essence of Southern culinary traditions. Founded by Marcy Haas in October 2020, Sweet Things has evolved from a cozy home-based operation to a bustling commercial production kitchen, responding to the soaring demand for its authentic Southern desserts. However, Sweet Things’ delectable treats don’t ever lose that homemade taste and feel, which is ideal for the upcoming holiday season, especially if one is trying to redeem oneself from a previous holiday baking disaster. It is rare one is able to live such a thing down, but Sweet Things by Marcy can certainly help!
Marcy’s Alabama roots inspire all Sweet Things creations, including banana pudding, peach cobbler, Kentucky butter cake and sweet potato pie, perfect for uncovering holiday nostalgia or teaching the younger generations what true comfort food tastes like. Sweet Things takes pride in using only the finest ingredients, ensuring each dessert is a masterpiece of flavor and quality. What more is to be said? Sweet Things by Marcy is a must for any holiday gathering or event!
Holiday Blow Out
Who doesn’t want to look their best during the holidays? The holiday season means catching up with friends, visiting distant family and mailing holiday cards. It is vital that one looks and feels their best, and Drybar can help one look fresh and fancy just in time for the “most wonderful time of the year.”
Named one of the top “100 Brilliant Ideas of 2010” by Entrepreneur Magazine and New York Magazine’s Boom Brands of 2013, Drybar is based on one simple concept, blowouts. The idea was a natural one for curly-haired, Drybar Founder Alli Webb, a longtime professional stylist, who constantly found herself overpaying for blowouts at traditional salons.
Today, Drybar’s growing product line, created specifically for achieving the perfect blowout, is sold through Drybar franchise
Marcy Haas Sweet Things by Marcy
shops, Sephora, Nordstrom, Ulta, Macy’s and online. No matter the location, DryBar and its products mission are to provide happiness, confidence and empowerment to people of all hair types.
“At Drybar, our philosophy is simple, focus on one thing and be the best at it!” says Owner Julie Rhule. “For us, that’s blowouts. With that purpose in mind, we are focused on providing the best professional quality beauty products, tools and services to create and maintain the perfect blowout for all individual hair types, so anyone can look amazing this holiday season.”
Wonderful Wine
"It's the most wonderful wine of the year..."
That's not quite how the song goes, but the approaching holidays definitely call for a restock of spirits–in both liquid and emotional form. This holiday season, enjoy a warm atmosphere at 2001 West Raymond Road in Raymond, Nebraska, where wine, cider, beer, spirits and delicious grilled food items will make the holidays that much more cozy. Consider sharing that feeling with family and friends by purchasing one of James Arthur Vineyards' pristine wines.
Since James Arthur Vineyards’ (JAV) establishment in 1996, it has hosted thousands of visitors from all over the world. Throughout the year, visitors are able to sample JAV’s wide variety of wines, stroll the grounds or sit under the covered deck by the cascading waterfall. Visitors can also count on a warm, crackling fire in the tasting room during the cold winter days, perfect for a holiday tasting!
James Arthur Vineyard
JAV is Nebraska’s largest winery, surrounded by nearly 20 acres of grapes and supplemented by local Nebraska grape growers. JAV continues to produce award-winning wines right here in Nebraska and is built on passion, dedication and oldfashioned, hard work.
Located just north of Lincoln, JAV is an exceptional location for any special occasion, family gathering or holiday party. One can also stop by JAV’s tasting room in its From Nebraska Shop, located in the Huber Building at 8th and Q St. in the Haymarket, to check off that holiday shopping list.
A Vibrant Venue and Catering for the Holidays
Talon Room is more equipped than ever to execute the holiday hosting of its clients’ dreams! Talon Room has a variety of price ranges to fit every budget and event type and offers services to help its clients host any kind of get together–such as full-day meetings, luncheons, trainings, client appreciation events and most importantly, holiday parties! As Talon Room likes to say, “We set it up, and you make it a party!”
From venue setup and teardown; tables, chairs and linens; event coordination, full-service catering and bar services to decoration packages, Talon Room is equipped to handle any and all event needs and go above and beyond to create an unforgettable holiday event! Conveniently located in downtown Lincoln, entertaining clients doesn’t have to start nor end at the Talon Room–the possibilities are endless!
With Talon Room, clients can expect to step into a world where timeless elegance intertwines with modern character. Let Talon Room’s award-winning venue and catering take entertaining clients to the next level.
Talon Room’s accommodations include:
• Start-to-finish event management
• A downtown Lincoln historic venue
• Convenient parking and hotel options
• 250-guest capacity
• A wedding suite
Jim Ballard
Holiday Bowling Break
• A dedicated event team
• Tables, chairs and basic linens
• Venue setup and teardown
• Fully-integrated A/V: six 65” screens, a sound system and wireless microphones
• Lighting and decoration packages
“Whether you need a venue for your wedding weekend or company gathering, the Talon Room will go above and beyond to make your event special–that’s our promise,” says Owner Matthew Rogge.
Sun Valley Lanes & Games wants its customers to allow the Sun Valley Lanes team to do all the work! During the holiday season, to-dos can slip through the cracks. With Sun Valley Lanes & Games, it’s as easy as choosing a date and arriving for fun!
Sun Valley Lanes has helped those hosting for the holidays for almost half a decade now and encourages its customers to get the ball rolling now. It’s never too early! Dates fill up fast, and people make other plans. It’s just one less thing to have to plan in an already busy time.
“Having fun doesn’t have to be expensive,” notes Sun Valley Lanes & Games Event Coordinator Jen Miseno. “Let me know your budget, and I can give you options that fit your needs.”
The secret to stress-free holiday planning is to be proactive, not reactive. Pre-plan, if possible! Don’t wait until the last minute to decide to do something. By then, it’s a struggle to find a date that works with
everyone and a rush to get it done, so everyone is happy. Look no further than Sun Valley Lanes & Games.
Sun Valley Lanes & Games is Lincoln’s go-to spot for endless fun, mouthwatering dining and friendly competition, right here in the heart of Nebraska! Step into Sun Valley Lanes’ modern facilities, including 32 top-notch bowling lanes, each outfitted with state-of-theart Hyper Bowling technology, a massive 175-feet wide Neoverse video wall and an expansive redemption arcade. Sun Valley Lanes & Games also has laser tag, a Lucky Putt indoor mini-golf course, sand volleyball courts, an outdoor green space with corn hole courts and fire pits and a spacious bar and grill to round out the experience!
Holiday Cleaning and Tidying
Too embarrassed to host for Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Years because of the state of the house? Look no further than Phino Cleaning Services! With five plus years of experience serving the Lincoln community, Phino Cleaning Services prides itself on its commitment to transparency, honesty and quality of service. Phino's team of professionals is dedicated to providing its clients with the best possible cleaning experience, and they stand behind their work with a satisfaction guarantee. Whether you need a one-time cleaning or regular service, Phino is there, which is perfect for both pre-party and post-holiday part cleanup. Fully enjoy holiday break, and don't lift a finger thanks to Phino Cleaning Services!
Phino Cleaning Services is offering exclusive holiday offers including, a discount and promotion for loyal clients, free consultation for new clients, holiday themed cleaning packages and partnerships with local businesses for co-promotional opportunities.
The holiday season is the time of year to reflect, be grateful and give to others. On this note, Phino Cleaning Services has an additional, exclusive holiday offer where
Jen Miseno
Sun Valley Lanes & Games
Noreen Mwade PHINO
Matthew Rogge Talon Room
one can donate cleaning services to a local non-profit or charity. Sometimes actions speak louder than words, and Phino Cleaning Services can help gift the blessing of a stress-free holiday season by providing its services to one thanks to the donation of another. On top of cleaning, this might mean providing a personalized holiday cleaning consultation or a checklist for clients.
Whether used as a resource or donation, Phino Cleaning Services is essential to consider this fast-approaching holiday season!
Stress-Free Holiday Catering
As the holiday season approaches, businesses and families across the city are getting ready to host their annual gatherings. These events are a great way to show appreciation and love, but planning them can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where Greenfield's Café and daVinci’s come in. They provide the perfect catering solutions to ensure each party is a success with delicious food, affordable options and a stress-free experience.
When planning a holiday party, it’s important to ensure that the event goes off without a hitch. From delicious menu options to seamless service, Greenfield's and daVinci’s offer everything one needs to keep the event stress-free and enjoyable for everyone involved! Greenfield's Café offers mouthwatering breakfast and brunch spreads–ideal for a morning or midday holiday celebration. Their menu features savory breakfast burritos, hearty egg casseroles, fresh salads and comforting chicken and biscuits, which are guaranteed to please the whole team or family. Whether it is a casual brunch or a more formal affair, Greenfield's has something for every occasion.
On the other hand, daVinci’s, caters to lunchtime and evening gatherings. With their delicious gourmet pizzas, baked pasta dishes, hoagie trays and fresh salads, they offer satisfying meals that will keep everyone fueled and ready to enjoy the festivities. Their salad offerings include classics, such as Caesar and Garden salads, which are perfect as standalone options or sides to complement the heartier dishes.
Whether one is holiday planning for a sit-down lunch or a more casual family gathering, Greenfield's Café and daVinci’s provide options that are sure to impress!
It’s never too early to start planning your holiday parties! Start contacting these local businesses today and let their work speak for themselves. Give back to your employees and co-workers by supporting these local businesses and they’ll give back to you by giving you an event to remember!
• 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
Improving your home’s value doesn’t just benefit you when it’s time to sell—it can also enhance your day-to-day living experience. By making strategic upgrades, you can increase the market appeal of your home while enjoying greater comfort, functionality, and style. Whether it’s updating your kitchen, enhancing curb appeal, or adding energy-efficient features, these improvements not only boost your home’s resale value but also make your space more enjoyable and personalized for you and your family. In this feature, we explore ways to increase your home’s worth, while creating a space you love to live in. In addition, we will discuss the importance in working with a real estate professional to maximize your sales price.
Making Kitchens Beautiful
Jeremy Day started Remy Refinishing in 2015 and has been providing Lincoln with quality refinishing for nine wonderful years! They started by doing all types of painting work including exterior painting, commercial painting, handyman work and more. Though, when he was introduced to cabinet painting, he fell in love!
Remy Refinishing loves making kitchen beautiful and they would love to make your kitchen fit your style and vision to give new life to your kitchen, especially when you’re looking to sell! Because their painters are so skilled at painting oak and other types of wood they also tend to paint all the other wood items in your home. They’ve painted tons of staircases, fireplace mantles and surrounds, baseboard trim, window trim doors and door trim. They, of course, paint walls as well, just no exterior projects anymore. Don’t underestimate what a fresh coat of paint can do to make your house get the value it deserves!
Whatever wood needs a new coat of paint in your home, Remy Refinishing is here for you! They offer a very unique painting service that will make your home look vibrant and new. A simple change in color can dramatically change the look and feel of your kitchen. They use paint products and techniques that will help your home stand the test of time and still look great.
Creating Beautiful, Functional Spaces
Having successfully transitioned her renowned tile business from California to Lincoln in 2022, Lizett NissensonMendonza has embraced a broader vision for home design that transcends tile alone. Partnering with longtime friend and design expert Linette Bradley, the duo has quickly become a powerhouse in the local design scene. Maven Tile and Home Design is not just about tiles; it’s a holistic approach to creating beautiful, functional spaces. With a commitment to quality and creativity, Lizett
Jeremy Day Remy Refinishing
Linette Bradley Maven Tile & Home Design
and Linette bring a wealth of experience and a keen eye for detail to every project. Their passion for design is evident in the stunning transformations they’ve accomplished, tailored to meet the diverse needs of Lincoln residents.
What sets Maven apart is its collaborative ethos. Working alongside designers, architects and homeowners, Lizett and Linette ensure that every project reflects the unique vision and lifestyle of their clients. Whether you’re looking to update your home into the dream space you’ve always desired or preparing to sell in a competitive market, Maven’s team is dedicated to bringing your ideas to life.
Understanding that design should be accessible, Maven Tile and Home Design prides itself on offering solutions for every budget. The duo’s expertise allows them to create stunning spaces without compromising quality. From luxurious upgrades to practical enhancements, they make it possible for everyone to achieve their design goals.
With Maven, the journey of home design becomes an exciting and collaborative experience. Lizett and Linette’s commitment to understanding their clients’ needs ensures that every project is not just a design—it's a personal expression of style and functionality.
In a rapidly evolving design landscape, Maven Tile and Home Design stands out as a beacon of creativity and professionalism. For those in Lincoln and the surrounding areas, the dream of a beautifully designed home is just a consultation away!
Constructing Beautiful Spaces
Willet Construction has been your trusted home remodelers since 1995! When you’re remodeling your home, it’s important to choose an experienced team committed to delivering the quality craftsmanship your project deserves. Willet Construction has proudly offered personalized remodeling solutions that Lincoln-area residents have trusted for over 25 years.
Their design-and-build remodeling company has a team of knowledgeable, reliable designers and carpenters who work closely with each client to develop a detailed plan complete with 3D renderings to help you visualize your space before construction begins.
Don’t put off your home remodel! The more you wait the more the job is going to feel rushed! Get started on your home project by contacting their remodeling specialists.
Their team ensures a smooth, stress-free process from start to finish, treating your home as though it were their own throughout your remodeling experience. Their remodelers use dust walls, dust filtration systems, floor protectors and other protection products to keep your home clean throughout construction.
Working with the highest-quality products, they ensure lasting designs that withstand the test of time. The team at Willet Construction works carefully with each client to identify the styles, materials and fixtures that speak to their tastes, remaining within budget without sacrificing quality.
They are dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service from the moment you contact the team for a remodeling consultation. They strive to ensure a stress-free experience for you. They don’t just construct beautiful spaces. Willet Construction creates dream homes perfectly tailored to your household’s unique lifestyle.
Making Well-Loved Furniture Looks Its Best
Cleaning your house is only half the process when you’re making sure that your house is picture ready for sale. When potential buyers are walking through your house, they’re going to notice if your furniture is not up to par! That’s why Larkspur Upholstery is here to make sure your furniture is looking as pristine as your house! When you’re planning walk-throughs, your furniture and personal items will be in-home. Always make sure to remove clutter and consider staging
Jason Willet Willet Construction
Jayson
furniture. Making repairs to upholstered pieces, vacuum them for odor removal and consider a professional cleaning for your furniture! Larkspur Upholstery is here to help!
“We offer reupholstery, repair and furniture waxing/polishing and refinishing services to make your furniture walkthrough ready and to give it new life in your new home!”
Says so-owner and Lead Upholsterer Amy Ainsley. “We also sell responsibly new, high-quality seating furniture for when you’re ready for an upgrade on that new home.”
Cleanliness, clutter and staging make a huge difference in your home’s performance on the market! Potential buyers want to envision themselves living in your home, and if you have a lot of furniture or clutter, that can make it difficult. Make sure to vacuum your upholstered furniture and book a professional waterless cleaning, like PureCare. Make repairs to upholstery, show wood/metal or glass. Polish any wood, metal or glass surfaces on your furniture before every walkthrough.
Larkspur Upholstery wants to make sure that your well-loved furniture is looking its best as it will make your home walk-throughs so much more successful!
Transforming Your Home Inside and Out
Concrete Craft of Lincoln offers hand-crafted concrete resurfacing, including stamping and staining and concrete repair at half the cost of other materials. And because most projects are a concrete overlay over existing concrete, jobs go quicker, with a lot less mess and upheaval, When you’re ready to transform your space—for either you or the next homeowner—choose the people with experience as solid as the materials they use!
“We stand behind our work and raise the bar on excellence by providing our clients with quality one-of-a-kind decorative concrete solutions,” says Matt Firestone at Concrete Craft of Lincoln. “We treat our clients like family and enjoy being a part of transforming their homes inside and out!”
They’re more than just a concrete company in Lincoln. They are your craftspeople who take great pride in beginning artistry to the industry. When It comes to choosing new paving for your patio, driveway, walkway or pool deck—including interior floors like basement and garages—you can count on Concrete Craft of Lincoln. They have an extensive variety of stamping, resurfacing and staining options to create just about any look you dream of to make sure that your home is ready to be sold.
New concrete can bring your home a new updated look making it a hot item on the market! Trust Concrete Craft of Lincoln with any of all of your concrete needs.
Bring Your Home and Landscapre a Fresh Look
Black Label Built builds custom decks, pavilions, pergolas, docks and more to bring your home and landscape a fresh new modern look! Licensed and insured with more than 35 years of experience, their projects leave a lasting impression, sure to make your home’s resell value skyrocket. They are your local custom construction company!
All of their products are built to perfection and they make sure you, the homeowner, are here and involved every step of the way. Building a deck isn’t a laborious job; it’s
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Amy Ainsley
Larkspur Upholstery
Matt Firestone
Concrete Craft of Lincoln
Lance Roach Black Label Built
one that requires your insight to make sure that your custom design turns out exactly how you wanted it to. From paint color to design, you have the opportunity to build your product with them from the ground up, to make sure your remodel or resell is going perfectly how you pictured. If you can dream it, they can build it.
They don’t just talk the talk, they walk the walk. While many construction companies promise a seamless experience, they deliver on it, consistently. They’re not just here for the project; they want to build relationship with their clients. They aim to be your trusted construction partner for life. From clear and concise quotes to regular updates and prompt responses, they keep you informed every step of the way.
Keeping Your Home Safe
Empire Netting and Fence specializes in providing and installing residential and commercial netting and fencing solutions throughout Nebraska. With a top-quality fence from Empire, you can create the perfect environment that will last for years to come. Their expert team ensures every project meets your unique needs, guaranteeing both functionality and style.
Empire provides a wide range of options to improve your home. Whether you want a wood, aluminum, vinyl, chain link or composite fence, they have the perfect style to match your home and boost its resale value.
Their streamlined process, combined with the free quote tool on the website, ensures timely installations with minimal disruption to your daily life. They offer flexible scheduling, clear communication and a commitment to meeting deadlines. Empire takes care of everything from start to finish, ensuring a smooth and easy experience.
Make your home safe while increasing its resale value in just three easy steps! First, use the online quote tool to measure your property. Next, select a fence style, and have Empire handle the delivery and installation for you. Talk to a fence expert at (402) 682-7658 for assistance! Empire Netting and Fence proudly serves Nebraska, offering an extensive selection of fence types and styles while delivering unparalleled customer support for all your fencing needs.
Transfor Your Ourdoors
Enhance your property’s curb appeal and value while turning the neighbor’s heads with Liberty Edge Curbing. To them, customer experience is always their top priority. They want to up your resell value all while adding beauty to your home! They want to do a job everyone can be proud of! They offer completely custom landscape boarders to the Greater Lincoln area. Transform your outdoors with stunning curbing!
Are you ready to elevate your landscape and add that perfect finishing touch to your yard? Their professional concrete curbing services are here to bring your landscaping visions to life. Modernize your home and make your house the talk of the town with boarders that will not rust, rot, move or fall over like other boarders. These are completely customizable with many styles and colors to match your home’s aesthetic.
Not only will it take your home from great to amazing, it also couldn’t be simpler to install! Liberty Edge Curbing offers same-day install and finish with styles and types to fit any budget. Trust Liberty Edge Curbing to keep weeds and grass out of your garden.
Whether you want to define your space or add a touch of elegance, their team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results that everyone will love for years to come. Ready to get started? Contact them today!
A Fresh Coat of Paint
Before pitching that “For Sale” sign, Walter’s Painting is here to make sure that all the chipped or peeling paint is removed. No
Scott Klienbeck Empire Netting and Fence
matter if it’s on the exterior or the interior, they want to make sure the paint in your home is looking pristine. They want to make sure all those cracks are patched up and repaired. Walter’s Painting knows that your home is in their hands, so they always make sure your home is looking new, fresh, clean and presentable.
“We are ready to give all our customers the ultimate customer experience. By listening to the customers’ wants and needs and striving to achieve everything they need or want done,” says Jeff Walters Owner of Walter’s Painting.”
No matter if you’re staying for as long as you can, or just remodeling, they want to ensure that you are going to love what colors you choose for as long as you want.
For those reselling, they still ensure that the new home buyers will love the color, and if not, a color change will always be quick and easy and always making sure the home buyers needs are top priority.
If you have a project in mind, do not hesitate to give them a call today! Remodeling is a big job, but it’s one that’s never completed without a fresh coat of paint, that new color could change the entire feel of the room! Their professional painters will work diligently to ensure the quality of their work. They offer full service painting, staining and special coatings application, including power washing.
With so many painting companies to choose from in Lincoln, Walter’s Painting stands out from the rest by consistently completing projects in an efficient manner at fair rates! They use only top quality projects and quality painting crews experienced with helping clients make the most informed decorating and painting decisions. Walter’s Painting Inc. will always make sure their work is exceptional. Book an estimate today with Walter’s Painting and transform your home into something new and beautiful!
A Roof That is Built to Last Neemann & Sons are your trusted local experts in roofing and exterior services. Your roof is one of the most critical parts of your home, providing essential protection from Nebraska's harsh weather year-round. With over 40 years of experience, Neemann & Sons is the local business you can rely on for all your roofing needs.
A solid roof on your home will significantly boost your home’s resale value by not only increasing the curb appeal and energy efficiency, but also giving inspectors and home buyers that extra bit of confidence in choosing your home to buy.
Family-owned and operated, Neemann & Sons is committed to offering top-quality products and ensuring complete customer satisfaction on every project. Their fully licensed and certified team can handle any exterior project, whether residential or commercial, including roofing, siding and gutters. Plus, they provide free estimates to get your project started.
"We build our business on honesty and trust," says Owner Chris Neemann. "We take the time to understand your specific needs, budget and schedule to deliver customized solutions and high-quality finishes. Our goal is to exceed expectations on every project, backed by a 5-year Workmanship Warranty."
Neemann & Sons has helped countless families, homeowners and businesses enhance and redesign their properties. Their dedication to top-quality products and exceptional service ensures you can trust them for your roofing needs. Whether your project is large or small, Neemann & Sons is here to help. Let them increase your home’s resale value and ensure your roof is built to last.
Alicia Chrastil
George Simmons
Jeff Walters Walter’s Painting
Chris Neemann Neemann & Sons
Certified and Experienced
ABC Electric has been your residential electrical experts for 92 years! Dealing with electrical issues can be dangerous work. Repairing faulty wiring or installing complicated lighting systems should only be done by a certified and experienced residential electrician, and that’s what ABC Electric is here for! With decades of experience in the industry, they can provide you with comprehensive electrical services for your home. If you know you’re going to be moving soon and want your electric system to be up to date and safe for the new homeowners, ABC Electric is here for you!
Not only do they offer help for remodelers, they also offer 24hour emergency assistance! Electrical problems can happen at any time. If you are stuck without power in the middle of the night, you can always count on the team at ABC Electric for fast, professional assistance. They can provide a 24-hour emergency call-out service throughout Lincoln!
If your lighting is too dim, too bright or you have a higher-thanexpected electricity bill, you should call an experienced residential electrician right away!
ABC Electric is here to make sure your move is simple and concise and they stand behind their work! If they make a mistake, they will fix it no charge! They’re perfect for new homeowners, or expectant movers who want to make sure they’ll be getting their money’s worth.
Premium Electrical Service
Oak Electric is as strong as an oak and prides themselves on being a reliable full-service electric contractor providing electric services in Lincoln and the surrounding southeastern Nebraska area. They strive to give you top-notch service from start to finish. A bad electric system can drive down the price of your home if you’re trying to sell it, so Oak Electric is here to help you make sure that your home’s electric system is ready for the next owner.
With over 20 years of experience, they have the knowledge and
expertise to get your job done on a budget and in a timely fashion. Licensed and insured, they strive for a safe environment for your home or workplace. They also offer free estimates!
Their mission is to provide premium electrical services at a competitive price while we strive to create the best customer experience; they keep a small and dedicated team to ensure quality control with a focus on safety.
Updating your home can be daunting, but Oak Electric loves to develop working relationships and friendships with their clients, making the process so much less intimidating. From kitchen remodels to basement finishes and everything in between, they can help you with all things electrical.
Reducing Costs with Water-Usage Efficiency
Striving for water-usage efficiency is not only environmentally responsible, but also a smart way to cut costs in both residential and commercial settings. By promptly fixing leaks, installing lowflow fixtures and adopting smart irrigation systems, you can significantly reduce your water usage, having a positive impact on the environment and your water bill.
To cut down on your water usage, Hunt Irrigation Inc., The Water Smart Company, recommends improving your existing irrigation system with Wi-Fi controllers, pressure-regulated sprinklers and drip zones. Utilizing rain sensors can also reduce your water consumption.
To prevent future issues stemming from the water system in place at your commercial
Matt Collins Oak Electric
Jeremy Hunt Hunt Irrigation Inc.
or residential property, Hunt Irrigation recommends proactively preventing backflow by having their operators annually test your backflow to ensure everything is operating correctly. Backflow prevention is not really understood by most, but is an important component of water conservation. Water backflow is the undesirable reversal of the flow of water in a plumbing system, and can result from an outdated irrigation system.
Not only can upgrading and updating your water systems help prevent future issues, but immediately impact your water usage and water bill – something we like to call a win-win situation. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Hunt Irrigation to start planning improvements today.
A Commitment to Customer Service
There are a lot of plumbing contractors in Lincoln to choose from—but there’s only one ICON. At ICON Plumbing, they put their customers first every step of the way. With a passion for the efficiency of your home, their team goes above and beyond to make sure your plumbing is always flowing smoothly.
ICON Plumbing is here to make sure that the plumbing in your home is up to par for both you and potential new owners! When you need water leaks stopped, drains unclogged, water heaters replaced or fixtures repaired, you can count on the plumbing company that has served Lincoln for years!
When it comes to choosing a plumbing company to entrust your home and family to, it can be daunting. That’s why ICON Plumbing owners Gunther and Holly Baker are determined to create a relationship with each customer that is built on trust. After working for other plumbing companies for over a decade, Gunther was sick of tired of doing work as quickly as possible; he wanted to provide quality services that actually match the needs of his customers.
If you’re looking for a plumbing company that you trust in your home, the search is over! With trained, licensed team members and a commitment to customer service, you can count on ICON Plumbing for all your plumbing services. They’re not just in your home to do a job—they’re there to make a life-long connection of service for your family. Contact them today to make sure your plumbing system is up-to-date.
Perfect Home Away From Home
Annabell Gardens knows that there’s a lot to think about before you sell your property, but they’re here to make sure that process is as easy as possible by sharing some advice!
“It’s important to stay up to date on the always changing latest trends. Especially open floor plans, family rooms and kitchens,” says Ty Wright of Annabell Gardens.
To make sure that you can take your home from good to amazing without breaking your budget, Annabell Gardens says you should get multiple quotes from a number of trusted companies. Lincoln, of course, has some great companies. And always make sure to ask important and specific questions to find one that aligns with your vision and budget.
No matter how large or small their remodel job, whether it’s fresh paint, restaining cabinets, sanding or restaining wood floors, any improvement in any room in the house will have it looking like a brand new home.
Annabell Gardens is here for you, that’s why they provide “staycation” locations to make sure that you feel perfectly comfortable away while your home is being remodeled. Many times, most remodel or construction companies prefer you to be out of your home and out
of their way. This can save you the stress of construction dust, the smell of lacquer, stain or paint. Staying at Annabell Gardens can make the remodelers’ job quicker and easier without having to work around you and your family, which can save you money in the long run. Whether your stay is short or long, Annabell Gardens offers many different sized suites, discounted rates and upgraded amenities with all the comforts of home plus more to make your stay comfortable and the perfect home away from home. You can make the perfect staycation while waiting for your exciting return to your new space.
A Pre-Listing Inspection
King’s Home Inspections are here to help you! Home Inspections are a good idea when doing a resell-remodel. Why? Because although a remodeler can put in new cabinets, carpet and paint and make the house very eye-appealing, it is still important to know and understand the condition and age of other components in the home. Equipment such as furnaces and air conditioners, water heaters etc. have a life span. If your “fresh” house has a 15 year old water heater, and an HVAC system over 25 years old, you can expect some fairly significant repairs/replacements in the first five years of ownership. Same goes for the shingles, as they are seldom replaced as part of a remodel. It is important to know where you are in relation to those average life spans.
“A pre-listing Inspection is of benefit in putting a home on the market. It assures the potential buyer that an independent set of eyes has looked over the house, uncovered major issues and identified where equipment is at in its average service life,” says Randy King of King’s Home Inspections. “It also helps you to review the more seldom-seen aspects, such as insulation levels, foundation condition, past presence of Wood Destroying Insects and any latent damage from those.”
Gunther Baker ICON Plumbing
Ty Wright Annabell Gardens
Randy King King’s Home Inspection
The number one challenge in putting a home on the market is overcoming buyers fear. A pre-listing Inspection does that.
One reason it is good to get an Inspection when purchasing a used house is, to identify where you are at in the life span of various components. Equipment such as dishwasher, microwaves, ranges, water heaters etc. have a finite lifespan, and will need to be replaced at some point. Knowing the ages of various components can help you plan so that you aren’t facing thousands of dollars in replacement all at the same time. When a house has been remodeled to sell, it often has new carpet, paint, sometimes doors and trim, so these things shouldn’t need upgrading for some time. This allows you to concentrate on other upgrades, such as replacement windows, a new HVAC system or water heater, etc.
Deferring maintenance is never a good idea on a house. A Home Inspection will quickly identify if that is the case. The market in the Lincoln area is rapidly changing. Right now, houses are selling “as-is” with few or no repairs. Still, no one wants to buy a clunker. Even if it is evident the home will need upgrading, remodeling or improvement, continuing maintenance on a home is always a good idea. Even simple things can prevent problems, such as cleaning your gutters, keeping long extensions on your down spouts. It moves the water away from the house and prevents a wet basement. Changing your furnace filter regularly also helps, as does keeping the A/C unit fins cleaned. Exterior maintenance of plants, shrubs and lawns keep your property looking nice, gives it good curb appeal. That is quite important when you put it on the market. Regular maintenance to your underground sprinkler system is also important; it prevents wasting water and can reduce or eliminate the need for repairs, which can be costly. In the winter, keeping drives and sidewalks cleaned also gives the impression of caring for a property, makes potential buyers less anxious when they can see that it is being cared for.
Making the Home-Selling Process Seamless and Stress-Free
Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group is here to make sure you’re in the right hands when it comes to putting your house up for sale. These realtors know what they’re doing and they know how to make the sale process as simple and enjoyable as possible.
Before putting your house on the market, tackle a few quick fixes to boost its appeal. Depending on what needs attention, the professionals at Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group can recommend addressing necessary repairs and making the home as move-in ready as possible to maximize your sale price whenever feasible. These small steps can make a big impact!
Clients can elevate their homes by focusing on affordable upgrades like a fresh coat of paint, updating light fixtures or improving curb appeal with simple landscaping,”
says Alicia Chrastil with Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group. “Simple staging and borrowing furniture from friends can create a stylish, eye-catching look without a hefty price tag. Small, cost-effective improvements can make a big difference without stretching the budget too far.”
The biggest factors in a home's market performance are its condition, pricing and presentation. While you can't control market variables like interest rates, you can ensure your home is well-maintained, priced appropriately, and presented attractively to attract more buyers and sell faster.
The people at Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group specialize in making the home-selling process seamless and stress-free for everyone, especially seniors. They offer personalized guidance and maintain clear communication with clients and their families. From repairs and staging to packing moving assistance, and emotional support, they handle every detail from start to finish. Their top priority is addressing the clients’ needs and ensuring they feel supported and informed throughout the process, while they expertly manage their real estate needs.
Alicia Chrastil Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group
Professional Realty Group is dedicated to providing progressive, quality real estate services in Lincoln and its surrounding areas.
Professional Realty Group’s services include helping residential buyers/sellers, the sale of existing homes, new construction, condos, developments, and more. It has specialists available for relocation/ transplants, acreages/land, commercial real estate, leasing (landlord or tenant), all types of investments, and other niche markets. PRG literally covers it all!
Professional Realty Group’s award-winning (Local and National) real estate agents are dedicated to servicing its sellers and buyers and committed to maintaining an open line of communication–providing information on market data and trends, and creating that allimportant trust between client/agent. Clients can expect absolute transparency with Professional Realty Group’s quick and automated home value estimates, easy-to-use home search tools to conveniently compare listings side by side and mortgage calculator–all of which can be found at prg-ne.com where there's tons of helpful content.
“We look forward to helping you sell your home or find that dream home you have been looking for,” says Real Estate Agent Ben Bleicher. “We believe in each other and ourselves. We understand that trust is earned and that good professional service is an essential part of that.”
PRG welcomes existing and future clients to reach out about WHEN and HOW to update their property for the greatest enjoyment and maximum value add. Kitchens and bathrooms (plus adding legal bedrooms) adds the most value, but there are tons of other little things that can be tackled at a slower pace, that add not just extra value, but significant increase desirability. We do not charge for this advice and absolutely want to give it to you. DO NOT hesitate to reach out with questions about these topics. You deserve to know what you should do. We also have tons of resources to get the things needing work accomplished. It's a big part of our business to have good contractors who offer great work, timely, at competitive prices.
Professional Realty Group has many qualified agents to meet any of their client’s needs, regardless of the style, price or age of the property one is looking for, and conducts its business with the highest regard for good business ethics, fair housing practices and a fundamental belief in the right to own real property. Reach out. They answer the call.
Dependable, Authentic Agents
BancWise sells more homes on average per agent than any company in town. BancWise is committed to guiding its clients through the entire buying process and ensuring the experience meets and exceeds all of one’s expectations. BancWise are innovators dedicated to developing unique marketing strategies to seamlessly navigate every transaction, creating long-lasting relationships that value people over production.
“Working with an agent can only benefit you, our customers,” says Realtor Jayson Becker. “We are a team of listeners. We hear you.”
BancWise's expertise benefits its clients every step of the way. Determining market value is key to creating effective momentum at the beginning of the process, which can be confusing for those without prior experience. Not only does BancWise make the selling process look easy, but it also makes searching for a home feel like second nature. Don't believe it? Explore BancWise's personal, high-quality listings by searching
BancWise's map where one can sort by listing date, price, type and more. BancWise understands that there are many unknowns when buying a home, which is why it is important to them that its clients have a deep understanding of each step of the buying process. BancWise does this by minimizing risk, listening to its clients and by carefully navigating its clients from the beginning to the end.
BancWise has helped close 6,500 plus homes, averaging just 12 days on the market. BancWise’s Real Estate Specialists are well known in the Lincoln community for getting results for sellers and buyers, but they are also known for their commitment to helping local neighborhoods thrive. BancWise Realty is committed to its clients and will save them time, money and minimize stress.
Listening to the Client’s Needs
Deb Wagner with Nebraska Realty has years of experience helping clients determine whether staying in their home is best by making changes to their current home, or considering it is time to make that move. By listening to her clients needs, she helps them through the process of their true wants. She can assist if they want to update their home, especially if staying in their home is where they are happiest. Remodeling may be the answer. She has recommendations to help them make the changes that can turn the home into one they love, as well as names of contractors. She advises not to over improve more than they should for their neighborhood. If a move is the better choice, she is prepared to help them too! She also assists Seniors transition through their life changes as well.
Ben Bleicher Professional Realty Group
Jayson Becker BancWise
Deb Wagner Nebraska Realty
Women-Owned Businesses
There are so many unsung female heroes in the world of business. Everyday there are women fighting, working, and pushing to achieve success for their business. Starting a business is such a personal endeavor. Businesses become like family members. You nurture them, care for them a day in and day out and hopefully watch them grow. All of these women have done just that and done it well. They are each proud of their accomplishments and rightfully so. According to the U.S. Census, “The number of Women-Owned Employer Firms increased 0.6% from 2017 to 2018.” That number is continuing to trend up! Seeing more and more women enter into business ownership is something Strictly Business wholeheartedly wants to continue to foster!
Since its founding by Abby McLeay in 2017, Zen Coffee Company has been a beloved Omaha coffee shop. Abby has always loved coffee and the fastpaced atmosphere of working in the industry.
She started her undergrad journey in counseling but quickly fell in love with the idea of owning her own business, so she changed her path to an MBA. Luckily for her employees, her initial education has contributed to her relationships with teammates and customers, bringing compassion to her work.
After discovering an amazing roaster in Cannon Beach, Oregon, Abby knew she had to bring the “zen” back to Omaha. “We had a goal to create an inclusive and positive work environment while also merging the traditional specialty type shop with what Omaha has grown to love–all the flavorful concoctions and fancy beverages,” said Abby.
The motivation behind Zen is the people as Zen supports nonprofits continuously within their business model. It prioritizes giving back to the community by working with several local nonprofits monthly. By switching up who it work with, its reach goes far, and more people get exposure to different organizations.
Visit Zen Coffee Company to try its nationally-viral Coffee and Toast flights, over 40 drink options and its full pastry and toast menus. It has two walk-in locations in Omaha, one at 133rd and Center and one at 25th and Farnam, and a drive through is located next to Trader Joes. Zen Coffee Company just recently opened a huge walkin location in Lincoln on 13th and O! Be sure to check out the new location for good vibes and great coffee! Visit zencoffeecompany. com for more information.
Oak Electric, your local premium contractor, is 100% owned and operated by Crystal Collins. Did you know that less than 10% of electrical contractors nationally are owned by women (according to NECA)? Oak Electric is proud to be the most reviewed contractor in the city of Lincoln.
As the leader of Oak Electric, Crystal has intentional focus on her team to ensure everyone has what they need to be successful. This includes anything from a new tool in the field to skills and safety training to administrative support.
What sets Oak Electric apart from other contractors is not only the belief, but the initiative, that if you take care of your employees, the employees will take care of your business.
As Richard Branson said, “Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don’t want to.”
Oak’s team of experienced electricians not only care about precision and craftsmanship, but value the real relationships that come with working with their customers. Oak Electric prides itself on delivering quality customer service on every single job. Electricity, done right, guaranteed! Learn more online at oakelectriccompany.com or call (402) 440-5969.
Marci Hanshaw made her dream a reality in June of 2008 when the sign lit up for Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar in the quiet little area of Pioneers Woods Shopping Center, located on 70th and Pioneers.
“I was a very young entrepreneur back then at the age of 28,” said Marci. “In a sense, Carmela’s and I grew up together.”
Marci’s vision was to bring an elegant bistro with extraordinary food and wine to Lincoln. She was excited and nervous to join the ranks of all the other amazing restaurants in town, which were predominately led by men at the time.
“I was aware that restaurant industry was a strongly male-dominated space,” said Marci. “I was prepared to roll up my sleeves and do what I needed to do in order to be successful. Carmela’s was well received by Lincolnites, and we are still going strong after 16 years!”
Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar features date nights on Monday and Tuesday evenings, which includes a three-course meal for two and a bottle of wine for only $60! There are also Wine Down Wednesdays and First Thursday Wine Tasting events. Another highlight is the Chef Created Brunch Menu every Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. To view the full menu and hours, visit carmelasbistroandwinebar.com or call (402) 489-0005.
Jackie Svoboda, the owner of Luxury Landscape, is here to make sure your outdoor living space is right for you! Her previous career of 28 years was in Physical Therapy, with the last 10 of those years as a Rehab Director. Her and her husband Ken always dreamed of owning their own business together and launched Luxury Landscape six years ago!
“We have grown to approximately 15 employees with one of them being a full-time office manager. In the last six years I have obtained my Landscape Design Degree & my Interior Decorating Certification,” says Co-Owner Jackie. “I have a passion for designing and creating beautiful landscapes customized to each client’s wants and needs.” Their business includes retaining walls, paver patios, water and fire features, pergolas, edging, rock, mulch and planting all the amazing flowers, shrubs and trees! This last year, Jackie launched DECK-orations by Luxury Landscape. Jackie designs and decorates living spaces for her clients. This includes all the fun things like patio furniture, tables, outdoor rugs and all the great décor that enhances an outdoor space specific to the customer’s style.
Jackie loves being able to offer a client a full space that they can relax in or entertain that's all their own!
Sherri Tafoya founded of Custom Blinds & Design 24 years ago, in 2000. Sherri was on a quest for something that truly fueled her passion while supporting her family, and voila—a creation from scratch. Blinds have consistently been the pathway, but the ultimate aim has always been to honor and glorify God. Shining their light with their team and their clients is always front and center. Sherri empowers the Custom Blinds & Design team to make someone’s day joyful. What started as a part-time business from home has morphed into two showrooms (Lincoln and Omaha), and 19 team members in place to make your day. Sherri treats her team like a family! They’re all in this together and are united by a shared goal: to make sure you get custom treatments, made simple. Selecting the right window treatments is exciting, and they’re here to guide you through your options so you have window treatments you love—while having fun in the process. Custom Blinds & Design will be celebrating 25 years in business in 2025 and they can’t wait to spend many more years giving you the custom treatment you deserve! To learn more visit customblindsdesign.com or stop by their Lincoln showroom at 6101 S. 56th St.
Wax Buffalo Pure Soy Candle Co. is a beloved womanowned home goods brand nestled in the heart of the Midwest. Our mission is simple yet profound: to create beautifully imperfect small batch, handmade products for the modern home. Scent, emotion and memory are beautifully intertwined, creating an intimate connection that can transport you back to another time. This is why our tagline proudly declares: We believe scent is a powerful thing. And trust us, we really do. It’s what sets us apart. We’re dedicated to creating products that are clean, safe and sustainable. Our products are vegan, cruelty-free, phthalate-free and petroleum-free. If we wouldn’t burn it in our own homes, we wouldn’t want you to either.
Be the maker in our two locations! At our onsite Candle Lab, you can create your own gorgeous candles and even sip on a beautiful glass of wine or a fun and flirty cocktail. We promise it's some of the best shopping in town! From bubble bath and candles to unique bottles of wine and spirits, it's a darling place to find new brands you'll adore. Come visit us anytime at the Haymarket location on 727 O St. or the Prescott location at 4723 Prescott Ave. Learn more online at WaxBuffalo.com.
You may have heard of the mind-body exercise called Pilates. It is one of the fastest growing exercise modalities in the US, but did you know that Pilates is rapidly rising as a method of rehabilitation from injury?
Many injuries are caused by muscular imbalances within our bodies. Many things cause these imbalances — our posture, the way we walk, bend over, sit, lie down or work out — basically the way we move. Most of us move incorrectly in some way or another, which puts too much pressure on some muscles and weakens others, causing an imbalance.
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 along with the muscles closest to the spine. Pilates also stresses spinal and pelvic alignment, which is critical in getting us to move the way we’re supposed to move to avoid injury.
“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 surgery after being released by your doctor,” says Owner, Christine Krueger. “This allows you to become responsible for your own injury recovery.”
Club Pilates also works with Medicare Plan B to allow you four sessions that will be paid for by insurance. Call us today to find out more at (531) 500-1456 for our North Studio or (531) 249-1912 for our South Studio.
Natasha Lundy, owner of Willow Key Interiors, is a Lincolnbased interior designer whose focus has always been to create spaces that clients will love for years to come. The business was established in 2014 and specializes in residential new construction, remodel and furnishing design projects.
“My passion is creating a comfortable, functional living space that is tailored to my client’s personal taste and needs,” said Natasha.
At Willow Key Interiors, it’s not just about creating beautiful spaces— it’s about designing homes where life truly happens. We believe everyone deserves a space they love. Life can be overwhelming & to have one place that feels safe and cozy is the best feeling in the world. Seeing our clients’ reactions when they walk into their new space for the first time is a reward beyond words. For us, this is more than design; it’s about crafting homes that reflect who you are & a home where you can feel at peace no matter what life throws your way!
To learn more about Willow Key Interiors and get in touch with Natasha and the other talented team members visit Willowkeyinteriors.com and fill out a contact form! Follow their design journey on Instagram (@Designwithgrace) to see fun projects and inspiration!
Jilly's Socks 'N
Such is a vibrant, woman-owned business led by the incredible Lori Goff! Known for its fabulous selection of fun, funky and fashionable socks, Jilly's offers so much more than just socks. From kitchen accessories, jewelry, a kid’s section, pet goodies, purses and bags, Husker gear, cards and stationery and even a men’s section, there’s something for everyone at this unique shop!
Lori’s passion for all things colorful and creative is what sets Jilly's Socks 'N Such apart. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your wardrobe with bold patterns or find the perfect gift for any occasion, this store has got you covered. Need something practical but still playful? Jilly’s even offers stylish compression socks that mix comfort and fashion!
Lori’s mission is to make everyday essentials fun, while offering a welcoming space where everyone can find something that speaks to their personality. So, if you’re ready to support an inspiring, womanowned local business and discover a variety of unique finds, stop by Jilly's Socks 'N Such today. You’re sure to leave with a smile — and maybe a few new treasures in your bag!
Business Consulting, started in 2018 by
Belinda Hagen, MCRP, B.S.
Her local company is committed to providing top-tier business consulting services and deliverables to help you achieve your business goals and grow your business to the next level!
As an example, she has helped a recent client manage over $1M in portfolio assets, standardize onboarding, created systems management and supporting training materials that amounted to hiring a new employee and achieving greater than $530K in passthrough equity for this organization in 6-months.
Belinda was born and raised in Lincoln and comes from humble beginnings enabling her to meet her clients where they are in business. She moved out at the age of 15 and did not finish high school. She defied odds as a teenage mother, and again as a non-traditional student, completing her Bachelor of Science and later her Master’s Degree in Community and Regional planning with limited outside support.
“I am built to set goals and work hard,” says Owner Belinda Hagen. “I love serving other people and have leveraged my experience to work with clients- no matter where they are in business, get started in a way that avoids pitfalls or costly mistakes, streamlines operations or achieves compliance.”
Belinda has extensive experience in environmental, safety and transportation regulations, chemical and product manufacturing, permitting, reporting, training, education and consulting. In the past, she worked for the State of Nebraska NDOT and NDEE and has taught at University of Nebraska-Lincoln for the last five years in Community & Regional Planning Program, College of Architecture including a course on the pandemic when numbers of COVID were at their highest.
Belinda has skills to connect with others when a need arises outside of her company’s expertise and a passion to make other people’s lives better by creating lasting business legacies. She is professional, kind and open to supporting all business types! She is setting goals for hiring employees and building partnerships locally and abroad. With Independent Business Consulting’s extensive market experience, resources and client-centric focus, you can’t go wrong by working with them today!
Shannon SchultzHammerschmidt is the owner and founder of Nebraska LTC Pharmacy. Shannon has spent her entire life in Nebraska and has worked in many different pharmacy settings before settling into her passion here at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy.
“Here at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy, everything is about YOU,” said Shannon. “We are a locally owned ‘concierge’ pharmacy that specializes in compliance and adherence as well as simplifying the medication process from start to finish. Our attention to every little detail decreases hospitalizations while prolonging our patients’ independence by keeping them at home. We offer a free in-home consultation, free blister packaging of medications, and free delivery. We accept all insurance plans, so what is not to love about our program!” There is no better time to join the Nebraska LTC Pharmacy family than now. Learn more online at www.neltcpharmacy.com or call the Lincoln office at (402) 328-0231.
Nursing is a critical field, and it's important to find the right person for the job. Nurses are in high demand, and finding the right nurse for a facility can be difficult. Capital Care Staffing can help, specializing in placing healthcare personnel in hospitals, assisted living facilities and long-term care facilities.
Capital Care Staffing was founded by Samantha McAtee and is the top choice for nursing staffing agencies in Nebraska. Capital Care Staffing has a rigorous screening process that ensures it only places qualified nurses in facilities.
Capital Care Staffing is the solution for any healthcare staffing need because it values the following:
• A thorough employment process. Capital Care Staffing has a thorough recruitment and employment process to ensure that it provides only the best healthcare professionals and workers for its partners and their customers. The hiring process includes an extensive background check, license/certification quality check, education and skills assessment and overall professionalism.
• Competitive rates, keeping the community in mind. Capital Care Staffing provides a partnership at a competitive rate, utilizing local Nebraska healthcare professionals and workers at its forefront. Those who partner with Capital Care Staffing will be provided with highly-skilled healthcare professionals and workers at most importantly, a comfortable, affordable rate.
• Personal customer service and support. Capital Care Staffing provides unmatched customer service and support, ensuring its partners find the nurses and aides they need–when they need them.
• A quick and easy fulfillment process. Capital Care Staffing’s simple, three-step fulfillment process ensures that clients can quickly assemble the best healthcare team. Capital Care Staffing’s team is dedicated to making its clients’ jobs easier, so they can focus on what’s important–providing top-notch patient care.
Setting Capital Care Staffing apart from its competitors, it trains in areas for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, COVID testing, acute nursing, skilled care and more! Whether one needs fulfillment assistance daily, weekly or monthly, Capital Care Staffing can provide a solution for anyone’s staffing needs.
Women business owners exhibit unparalleled bravery as they navigate a landscape often marred by gender biases and systemic challenges. In the face of societal expectations and institutional barriers, these entrepreneurs courageously carve their paths, challenging stereotypes and reshaping industries. Their bravery extends into all facets of their business ownership, as they juggle multifaceted roles, balancing professional ambitions with personal responsibilities. In the pursuit of their dreams, they defy odds, championing innovation and fostering inclusive workplaces. Through resilience and determination, women entrepreneurs not only build thriving businesses but also inspire future generations to embrace their own potential, leaving an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial landscape.
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