Strictly Business Lincoln - November 2024

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MICHELLE

Lincoln Location OPENING SOON

A Paige From My Notebook...

Dear Readers,

As the holiday season begins, I am reminded why November is one of my favorite times of the year. Thanksgiving provides a meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect and express gratitude for the many blessings in our lives. At Strictly Business, we are honored to dedicate this issue to recognizing those who make a difference in profound ways.

First and foremost, we pay special tribute to our veterans. Their sacrifices allow us to enjoy the freedoms we hold dear. In this issue, you’ll find a special feature honoring veteran on page 78. We are grateful for their courage, dedication and service, and we hope this tribute serves as a reminder of the respect and gratitude they deserve year-round.

With the season of giving upon us, we’ve also curated some great ideas to make your gift-giving more meaningful this year with a special emphasis on buying local. From

thoughtful presents to holiday planning strategies, this issue is packed with inspiration to help you create your perfect holiday story. Whether it’s organizing festive events or preparing for time with loved ones, now is the time to plan and celebrate the moments that matter.

At Strictly Business, we are grateful for our clients, partners and readers who continue to inspire us throughout the year. As we prepare for the holidays, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your own blessings and to give back where you can.

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with joy, gratitude and meaningful connections!

Warmest regards,

Paige Zutavern President, Strictly Business

Why Choose Traditions Health?

When the time comes to make decisions about end-of-life care for a loved one, every question becomes a quest for the exceptional. This is where Traditions Health stands out. Founded in 2008 on compassion and clinical excellence, Traditions Health has grown to become a trusted in-home hospice care provider across 18 states, including in Lincoln, Nebraska.

A personalized approach, an unwavering commitment to comfort and dignity, while embracing each patient’s unique needs are at the heart of the hospice services we provide. Navigating injury or illness can be frightening, but our team meets you where you are with the specialized care you need in the place where you’re most comfortable—at home.

What Sets Traditions Health Apart?

Experienced Care Teams

We’re passionate about building relationships with patients and their families. Our care teams are made up of a wide range of professionals and volunteers who care for the whole person, which means that we recognize and address emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs.

Joint Commission Accreditation

Joint Commission accreditation is the gold standard of clinical quality for hospice providers, and we’re proud to have earned this distinction. Joint Commission accreditation isn’t mandatory. It’s a voluntary commitment and it demonstrates our dedication to meeting and exceeding industry standards for patient care, safety, and outcomes.

PRODUCTION TEAM:

Director of Operations Kacey Russell – Kacey@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Art Director Jayda Lyon – Jayda@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Editorial Interns: Rowan Havranek and Avery Carl SALES TEAM:

President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com

We Honor Veterans

We are proud to partner with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization’s (NHPCO) “We Honor Veterans” program – a collaboration between NHPCO and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Whether assisting with VA benefits, holding pinning ceremonies, or connecting patients with veteran volunteers, Traditions Health is uniquely equipped to address the endof-life needs of our nations’ heroes with respect, compassion, and acknowledgment.

Specialty Programs

At Traditions Health, we understand that each patient’s journey is different. That’s why we offer specialty programs for those with specific diagnoses. Our expert team members have specialized training in caring for patients with cardiac disease, dementia, respiratory disease, ALS, cancer, complications from Alzheimer’s, and more. Our patient-focused approach ensures that every patient receives the specialized care they need.

Choosing a Hospice Care Provider

Selecting a hometown hospice provider requires a careful evaluation combined with a reliance on the heart. It’s about more than vetting accreditations and services. It’s about uncovering values that echo the values of you and your family.

To learn more about Lincoln, Nebraska’s hometown hospice, Traditions Health, visit traditionshealth.com/locations/lincoln-ne/.

Kacey Jayda Rowan Avery

Liberty First is Now in La Vista!

Liberty First Credit Union is excited to announce their new La Vista branch location, located at 12702 Westport Parkway

STE 100. The new branch, Liberty First Credit Union's seventh location, opened on September 4. The La Vista location will cater to the community’s banking needs by offering both in-branch and digital solutions and will provide a wide range of products and services including Kasasa Checking and Auto, Personal and Mortgage Loans.

“We’re proud of our commitment to serve local communities since 1935 and are thrilled to join the La Vista community”, said Frank Wilber, President and CEO. “We look forward to continued success as we serve and support our valued members in Nebraska and the surrounding states, building strong relationships and supporting the community every step of the way.”

Liberty First Credit Union continues to be an active member of the community, volunteering over 1,700 hours each year and supporting several local causes including Habitat for Humanity, American Cancer Society, Down Syndrome Association of Nebraska, Autism Family Network, Nebraska Sports Council and the Siena Francis House.

Liberty First has 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 or contact them at (402) 465-1000.

Center Sphere is Hosting a Network-Wide Social Hosted by Qdoba

On Thursday, November 14 from 4 - 6 p.m., Center Sphere is hosting a network-wide event at the Qdoba at 211 N 12th St., all members and guests are invited! Set yourself up for success! Just like with any networking event, the more prepared you are, the more likely you are to succeed.

1. Bring Your Confidence: There is no denying the influence someone has when they walk into the room totally confident and in control. Let this be you!

2. Know What You’re Going to Say: Have talking points already picked out, including small talk as well as your elevator pitch.

3. Share Your Contact Info: For in-person events, be sure to have a good supply of business cards to hand out to those you connect with. Meeting virtually? No problem! Simply type your contact info into the chat bar.

4. Come Early, Stay Late: It doesn’t matter if it’s an in-person social or a virtual collaborative. The real connections are almost always made before or after the event. Use this time to get to know someone and in turn, they’ll want to know more about you!

5. The Key is in the Follow Up: Networking doesn’t end when the event is over, or at least it shouldn’t. Never underestimate the power of authentic follow up with those you connect with. Whether it’s shooting them a quick email or sending them a handwritten note, the extra effort will be noticed.

Center Sphere can’t wait to see you there.

Center Sphere’s mission is to be a catalyst for growth for individuals. To learn more about networking events please reach out to Ashley Hinze, Director of Membership, at ashley@centersphere.com, call (402) 690-4434 or visit centersphere.com.

Freddy's Season of Giving

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers® locations in Lincoln will be participating in two month-long partnerships with local organizations, City Impact and Matt Talbot Kitchen.

Through the month of November, Freddy’s will collect bathroom items for City Impact, a faith based non-profit organization that empowers under-resourced communities by providing youth, family and neighborhood development programs and services. Guests who donate body wash, body spray or body scrub will receive a free mini one-topping sundae.

The giving continues for the month of December, as Freddy’s restaurants will collect for the Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach and their new “Choice Pantry” area to help defeat hunger and homelessness. Guests who bring in a cereal box will receive a free mini one-topping sundae.

Donation barrels will be located at all four Freddy’s locations in Lincoln:

• 2711 S. 48th St.

• 5717 O St.

• 8510 S 30th St.

• 3220 N 27th St.

For questions or more information please contact: Ryan Onstad, Director of Brand Development at (402) 450-0011 or by email, ronstad@custardne.com

Salt Creek Senior Living is Now Open!

Dial Senior Living, located in Omaha, is excited to announce they’ve added another beautiful community to the Lincoln metro. Salt Creek is conveniently located at the 27th St. exit and I-80, making it easy for commuters to visit their loved ones. They specialize in independent living, assisted living, memory care and short-term respite. At Dial Senior Living, one of their core values is “family serving family” and they can’t wait to welcome new family members to their beautiful community.

Salt Creek Senior Living welcomed their first residents on Monday, September 30. They're excited to celebrate at their Grand Opening Party taking place on Thursday, November 7 from 4 to 6 p.m. They will kick off the celebration with a ribbon cutting is at 3:30 p.m. followed by hors d’oeuvres, spirits and live music. The event is set to take place at 7360 Husker Cr. and the public is welcome!

Salt Creek stands as a tranquil haven, nestled adjacent to the Saline Wetlands within the encompassing Salt Creek watershed. The wetlands, serving as a picturesque backdrop, create a peaceful sanctuary for the residents it serves. Within the community, Salt Creek’s open floor plan, modern furnishings, floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning dining views offer more than aesthetics – they provide an immersive opportunity for residents to connect with nature, promoting a healthy environment. Salt Creek is more than a senior living community; it’s a harmonious fusion of natural beauty and the comfort of caring and vibrant environment.

If one would like to learn more how to join the Founder's Club and save $6,000 for a limited time, please reach out to Joe Bohac at (531) 278-8965 or visit saltcreekseniorliving.com to set up a private tour of the community.

On Point Insurance Hosted its Open House!

On Point Insurance Agency hosted its Open House on September 27! Tours of the building were given and refreshments shared by the licensed insurance agents and their guests. This event also was an early kick off for the beginning of the 2025 Medicare enrollment season which starts Tuesday, October 15 and ends on Saturday, December 7. The Licensed Insurance Agents at On Point also help individuals and families with ACA enrollments from Friday, November 1, through Wednesday, January 15, 2025.

On Point Insurance is a locally owned agency. They are independent agents that work for you! Their priority is to find the right solutions for your unique needs. The people at On Point Insurance help find health insurance solutions for individuals, families and seniors. Learn more at insuranceonpoint.com.

SavvySeniorsEmpowermentSeminarSeries:

Upcoming Sessions on Navigating Life After Loss and Understanding the Aging Brain

A1 Automotive

Hosted a Groundbreaking Ceremony for Their Second Location!

On October 18, A1 Automotive hosted their second groundbreaking ceremony for their newest Lincoln location, located at 5110 State Hill Dr. This event took place from 12 to 12:30 p.m. and they’re incredibly grateful for everyone who came in attendance.

A1 Automotive is locally owned, and has proudly served the Lincoln community for years offering reliable, honest and high-quality repairs and services for all makes and models of vehicles including Porche, Land Rover, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Tesla, Audi, Jaguar and Volvos along with Fords, Chevrolet, Nissan, Dodge and many more.

Growing up in a village of 90 people, Owner Kendall Warnock understands the value of relationships and fostering trust in the community. As they expand with a second location to serve south Lincoln, they look forward to continuing to support the community by providing exceptional service and building lasting relationships with their customers. They take great pride in supporting local organizations including the City Mission, Catholic Social Services and LPS lunch programs. Learn more at a1autolincoln.com.

Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminar is pleased to announce the topics for its upcoming monthly seminars. Held every first Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. at Suite One Eleven in the Clocktower shopping area, 70th and A St., these seminars will focus on helping seniors navigate the emotional and cognitive aspects of aging.

The November seminar, scheduled for Wednesday, November 6, is titled "Going from WE to ME" and will address the emotional and practical challenges of adjusting to life after the loss of a spouse or partner. Participants will learn coping strategies; ways to rebuild social connections and how to find new purpose and joy. Expert panelists will share compassionate advice on how to navigate this difficult time and embrace life’s next chapter.

On Wednesday, December 4, the seminar will focus on "The Aging Brain," exploring how aging affects cognitive health. This session will cover topics such as memory, brain function and ways to promote mental sharpness. Experts will discuss the normal aging process and provide strategies to maintain brain health, as well as address common concerns about dementia and memory loss. Attendees will walk away with practical tips for keeping their minds sharp and engaged as they age.

In addition to these informative seminars, Savvy Seniors continues to offer its newly established Downsizing Club, which helps seniors manage the often overwhelming process of downsizing their homes. The club offers practical advice, emotional support and resources to make the transition smoother.

Participants can register for these upcoming seminars by visiting NESavvySeniors.com. Early registration is encouraged, as space is limited and these sessions tend to fill quickly.

For further information and to register for the seminars, please visit NESavvySeniors.com or contact Alicia Chrastil at (402) 499-8147. Join Savvy Seniors for these engaging and informative sessions as they continue to enrich the retirement journey for seniors in the community.

Lincoln YPG Announces Seven Winners of the Fifth Annual Young Lincoln Leader Awards

Lincoln Young Professionals Group is proud to announce the seven recipients of the 2024 Young Lincoln Leader Awards (YLLA), honoring the outstanding contributions to the Lincoln community. The award ceremony was held on Thursday, October 10 at DelRay 817 during YP Week, an annual celebration of young professionals in Lincoln.

Individuals between the ages of 21 and 40 were nominated for a YLLA in six categories and organizations were nominated in one category to comprise this year’s list of seven winners:

• Young Professional of the Year – Kelly Ross

• Young Citizen of the Year – Brodey Weber

• Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Brandon Akert

• Young Nonprofit Professional of the Year – Mary Choate

• Emerging Leader of the Year – Natalie Becerra

• Diversity and Inclusive Excellence – Rose Cat Coffee

• Next Generation Workplace – ALLO Fiber

An external nominating committee of six leaders in business, nonprofits, public service and education assembled to evaluate and select the finalists and winners in the seven categories.

Other YP Week events held October 7 through October 11 included inspiring speakers, discussion panels, workshops and networking opportunities to celebrate the talent, insight and energy of YPs in Lincoln. Corporate sponsors for YP Week 2024 include Sampson Construction, Union Bank & Trust Company, Ameritas, Nelnet and Lincoln Industries.

The Lincoln Young Professionals Group is dedicated to empowering young professionals with educational, leadership and networking opportunities for its nearly 1,000 members. To learn more or join, visit LincolnYPG.com.

FNBO Sponsors Family Events at SouthPointe

ThisHolidaySeason,IncludingVisitswithSanta

FNBO (First National Bank of Omaha) is pleased to celebrate the spirit of the holidays by sponsoring a variety of familyfriendly activities in the Lincoln area.

At SouthPointe Pavilions, FNBO is the presenting sponsor of Visits with Santa and Holiday Tree Lighting. The celebration includes a celebration on Saturday, November 30, at 6 p.m., when Santa and his head elf will flip the switch on one of the area’s biggest Christmas trees. Join Santa as he kicks off the festivities with a holiday sing-along and enjoy refreshments from SouthPointe Pavilions local restaurants! Children can visit with Santa and have their photos taken him after the tree lighting celebration at Von Maur. FNBO will play an active role in the festivities, with representatives speaking at the event and distributing holiday-themed items to attendees. Santa will be available for visits on select dates: November 29-December 1, December 6-8, December 13-15 and December 20-22.

At FNBO’s SouthPointe Pavilions branch, children can drop off their letters for Santa in the Mistletoe Mailbox. In addition, SouthPointe Pavilions is facilitating an Enter to Win contest. Participants can submit their entries at the Santa Visits at SouthPointe Pavillions for a chance to win a gift card.

FNBO is the great big, small bank and for more than 165 years, they’ve been with you where you are. Visit fnbo.com for more information.

Lincoln Airport’s Exclusive Frequent Flyer’s Club Lounge

Lincoln Airport introduced its new Frequent Flyers Club Lounge in 2023, and it’s taken off, attracting over 300 members. Located just past TSA, the lounge offers not only a breathtaking view of LNK but also a peaceful, private space where you can unwind or catch up on work before your flight.

As a Frequent Flyer, you'll enjoy some fantastic perks. Complimentary beverages and snacks are just the beginning. You can even order Graband-Go meals and drinks from N-Flight Pub and Market without leaving your cozy spot—your food and drinks will be delivered straight to you from the kitchen. The lounge also offers free Wi-Fi and printer access. Plus, there’s a TV, so you can catch up on the latest Huskers game! If you're traveling with someone, members can bring along one guest to enjoy the lounge, too.

Becoming part of the LNK Frequent Flyers Club is easy—and free! If you fly from LNK at least eight times a year, you’re automatically eligible—all you need to do is apply. Visit their website at lincolnairport.com/flyersclub.

Frequent Flyers Club members travel from all over the United States, and internationally. The lounge has become an essential part of their travel experience, offering a welcoming space for frequent flyers to relax and recharge before their next journey. What makes the lounge even more exclusive is that it is run and operated by Lincoln Airport, not an airline, ensuring a more personalized experience every time you fly out of LNK.

The Lincoln Airport is the official airport of the Huskers. Learn more and book your next flight at lincolnairport.com.

Ashley Freese & Associates has Moved Locations!

Ashley Freese & Associates just moved to a new location and to celebrate, hosted a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting ceremony! The event took place on October 24 at 2 p.m. at 8200 Cody Dr. at STE H, at their new building. They would like to thank everyone for attending and for supporting this next step!

After working for 8 years as an office manager for an American Family Agent, Ashley Freese is excited to start a career as an agency owner here in Lincoln! Now with her new office, she looks forward to connecting with you and helping to provide you with the best coverage for your needs. If you need home, auto, life and business insurance, Ashley Freese & Associates is here for you!

Her team is here to serve. Their unique backgrounds, training and experience have prepared them well to help meet your insurance needs. Additionally, as residents of your community, they understand how important it is to be there for you—their trusted friends and neighbors. Together, they are building strong partnerships that help everyone succeed. Learn more at amfam.com/agents/nebraska/ lincoln/ashley-freese.

NebraskaCommunitiesPlayhouse/Hickman Theater Season Subscriptions and Corporate Sponsorships Available for 2025 Season

The Nebraska Communities Playhouse in Hickman, Nebraska recently announced their 2025 season, and is now offering season subscriptions and corporate sponsorships for the upcoming year. With a show lineup that includes familiar favorites, the world premiere of a new musical and a holiday classic, the season is sure to be celebration of quality entertainment for all ages.

The 2025 season will kick off in February with Rodgers and Hammerstein's Oklahoma, followed by Next to Normal in late April and Seussical in June. The second half of the season includes Pirated in August, followed by the world premiere of Walnut Ridge in October, the first work to be presented as part of the theater's new Development Series. The season concludes with the familiar classic, A Christmas Carol in December.

"The season subscription passes allow patrons to purchase tickets for multiple shows at a discounted rate and offer four-show, five-show, and six-show options,” said NCP Board president, Corby Stolcpart.

“It’s the perfect time of year to purchase our season subscriptions because they make wonderful holiday gifts for the theater lover in your life. It truly is the gift that keeps on giving!"

Stolcpart also says businesses should also consider the local community theater's Corporate Sponsorship program. "As a season sponsor, you receive amazing benefits which include up to 300 complimentary tickets to a show, recognition in our printed programs and on our interior monitors during productions, as well as mentions in our e-newsletter and on our website." All donations are tax deductible.

More information on season subscriptions and corporate sponsorships can be found on the organization's website at neplayhouse.com or by emailing info@neplayhouse.com.

BUSINESS NEWS

AR Solutions Launched EBook

AR Solutions' Founder and CEO has launched an eBook and online videos! Every Tuesday and Thursday on LinkedIn, AR Solutions posts a video educating people on accounts receivable solutions. During multiple business meetings, Owner Aaron Newell noticed significant industry changes and opportunities for improvement in communication technology and consumer interaction channels. There are also various regulations that businesses need to comply with, as well as strategic uses of electronic communications. Aaron has written an easy-to-read eBook and posts short video clips to spread awareness and offer tips to help businesses increase their bottom line. The videos can be found on gosubnow.com/aaronnewell and go.arsolutionsinc.com/ the-cashflow-formula.

AR Solutions, founded by Aaron Newell in 2005, aims to provide professional, ethical, and innovative collection solutions for all clients. The company handles retail, commercial and has a specialized medical collection division. Learn more at arsolutionsinc.com.

SCC Fall Enrollment Up 9%

Southeast Community College saw a significant fall enrollment increase, exceeding 10,000 students for the first time in over a decade. This milestone marks resounding growth from the previous fall semester, demonstrating SCC's unwavering commitment to meeting the demands of the skilled workforce by providing transformative educational opportunities.

“Our enrollment increase is a powerful reminder of the importance of ensuring everyone in our service area has access to the life-changing benefits of higher education,” said Dr. Paul Illich, SCC president. “SCC’s transformative efforts would not be possible without the support of community and industry leaders.”

For the first-time in SCC’s history, student housing is available on its Beatrice, Lincoln and Milford campuses. Woodhaven Hall is the first residence hall on the Lincoln Campus which opened in the Spring 2024.

“Many of our student housing facilities are at full capacity, including our newest residence hall on the Lincoln Campus,” Illich said. “This development is consistent with our vision to create destinations and the highest quality learning climates.”

Since Illich’s arrival in 2014, SCC has made significant strides to improve its academic programs, campus infrastructure and student support services. Highlights include:

• The addition of 26 new programs and awards from 2015-2021.

• Successful conversion from a Quarter to Semester Calendar system in Fall 2019.

• Implementation of an enrollment management model that involves building course schedules based on course demand.

• Opening six learning centers throughout the 15-county service area.

• Incorporating a capital advancement function at the institution to build new facilities and improve current structures. Some facilities include the new Health Sciences Building in Lincoln, the Crete Carrier Diesel Technology & Welding Center in Milford and the Academic Excellence Center in Beatrice.

Learn more at southeast.edu.

CommuteAir Grows at Lincoln Airport –Maintenance Opportunities Available

CommuteAir, which operates more than 50 aircraft under the United Express brand, established a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility (MRO) at its Lincoln Airport (LNK) maintenance hangar in June 2024. This milestone development marked a significant stride in the airline's growth trajectory and commitment to fostering economic prosperity in the Lincoln community.

To support the growth and welcome individuals interested in aircraft maintenance, CommuteAir is offering its innovative 30-month aircraft maintenance technician apprenticeship program. Candidates without FAA certifications can "earn while you learn," with the company providing tools and covering the entire cost of the training program, while earning attractive wages. Apprentices will enjoy full-time employment status with CommuteAir, inclusive of benefits such as free air travel on United Airlines’ global network for employees, spouses and eligible family members, medical and dental coverage, life and short-term disability insurance, a 401k match and more. In addition, positions are available for already-licensed aircraft technicians, sheet metal technicians and parts warehouse clerks.

"The expansion of our operations in Lincoln is a testament to the unwavering support we have received from this community since we first opened our maintenance hangar in August 2021," said Rick Hoefling, CommuteAir President & CEO. "We look forward to making Lincoln a hub of possibilities for our extended CommuteAir family."

To learn more about CommuteAir’s aircraft maintenance technician and apprentice opportunities in Lincoln, visit commuteair.com/careers/ lnk-mx or email mxrecruiting@commuteair.com.

BBBMidwestLaunchesaConsumerNewsletter

To advise safe holiday shopping practices, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Midwest Plains has launches a newsletter.

The 2024 holiday shopping season is upon us, and BBB is here to help consumers shop safely. With American Thanksgiving occurring later this year on Thursday, November 28, many retailers are preparing by extending store hours and offering early sales to maximize shopping days. Deloitte projects holiday retail sales to increase by up to 3.3%, reaching $1.59 trillion, though inflation may still affect purchasing power.

As online shopping continues to grow—potentially by 9%—so does the risk of online scams. BBB Scam Tracker reported that 41% of scams in 2023 were related to online shopping. Shoppers need to be vigilant, especially with the possibility of product shortages.

BBB is launching a new consumer newsletter offering practical tips for safe shopping, including:

• Always verify the BBB Seal at BBB.org.

• Research products and retailers, and read customer reviews.

• Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.

• Look out for fake websites and ensure URLs start with “HTTPS.”

• Use traceable payment methods, such as credit cards, for extra protection.

• Report any suspicious or unsatisfactory purchase experiences to BBB. org or BBB Scam Tracker.

This holiday season, stay informed and stay safe by signing up for BBB’s newsletter and following their expert guidance for a stress-free shopping experience: bbb.org/mwpnewsletter.

BBB’s mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. Learn more at bbb.org.

Hartland Homes Celebrates 40 Years

Hartland Homes started in November 1984 when then top salesman Duane Hartman purchased a home building company that was leaving the Lincoln market. At that time, interest rates were in the high teens, inflation was out of control and there were gas shortages. It was not a good economy. Duane took a leap of faith. He believed in providing affordable, quality homes and loved finding ways to help his customers. Fast forward to 2010 - Duane's health was failing, they were in a recession and the housing market was SLOW. Duane decided it was time to retire. We wanted to carry on his legacy, so we kept the doors open and have continued to build. Hartland Homes has now built over 2,850 homes since 1984!

Hartland Homes believes everyone should have the opportunity to own a brand-new home. They have continued to pay closing costs, to build their homes to meet VA and FHA guidelines, to hold costs down through volume and positive relationships with our subcontractors and business partners and to build their homes with quality, energy efficient products. Hartland Homes is proud to continue Duane's legacy and will continue to provide a high quality, affordable home - making home ownership a possibility for 40 years!

Check out their website for their special anniversary buyer packages valued at $6,000 at hartlandhomes.com/40th-anniversary.

Everyone should have the opportunity to work with a home builder in Lincoln like Hartland Homes. For more information and to get started on planning your dream home, visit hartlandhomes.com.

TruthPapersisNowOpenatUnionBankPlace

Truth Papers is Union Bank & Trust (UBT)’s new pop-up shop tenant. Now until the end of December, Truth Papers will have a location at Union Bank Place, the Downtown location at 13th and O St. The shop hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Lindsay combines her graphic design background, quirky and punny quotes, whimsical and unique illustrations and old-school letterpress techniques to create products for all occasions, like cards, notepads, stickers and other prints. If you’re looking for someone to make a card for a birthday, or to make business cards, coasters, product tags and more for your up and coming business, put your trust in Truth Papers! Make an impression and have your brand stand out with letterpress printing. Lindsay looks forward to getting to know you and your creative vision! Visit truthpapers.com to get your stationary vision made into a reality.

UBT is a local, family-owned bank that provides all the products and services you need, but with personalized customer care that the bogbox banks can’t begin to compete with. Visit ubt.com to learn more.

PhinoPromotesSpecialActivitiestoPromote Community Cleanliness

Phino cleaning services LLC has professional cleaning solutions and is excited to announce series of special activities for this coming holiday season that is aimed at promoting community cleanliness and environmental sustainability. Community senior clean up event

Join them on the date of Friday, November 8, to sign up any senior resident you know that needs house to be cleaned under residential cleaning this is a free residential cleaning event for seniors. This event is designed to bring seniors in the community a healthier environment and reduce risks of fall and injuries and reduce exposure to allergens and pollutants as well.

Free Cleaning Workshop

Phino cleaning services LLC will be hosting a series of free cleaning workshops where attendees will learn about the latest cleaning techniques, eco friendly products and sustainability practices.

The workshop will be held on the date of Friday, December 13 at the residence in at 12 to 3 p.m.

Sparkling Home With Smiling Family Contest

They are also launching a social media contest where participants will share their clean homes and smiling faces enjoying quality time together. A winner will receive free deep cleaning and one-time professional organization and a gift basket filled with our cleaning products.

Partnership with local schools and senior communities

Phino cleaning services LLC is partnering with local schools to educate children about the importance of hygiene and clean environmental sustainability. Their team of professionals and volunteers will be providing interactive presentations, hands-on activities and educational materials to promote healthy habits. For more information about Phino cleaning services LLC and their special activities please contact them at (402) 805-2190 and email address noreenkhor@yahoo.com.

FIRE PROTECTION

Our team of fire protection engineers have decades of experience and work closely with the full design team to ensure all aspects of life safety and fire protection are properly integrated into all

The Gathering Grove’s Ribbon Cutting was Phenomenal!

On Wednesday, October 16, The Gathering Grove celebrated their ribbon cutting and grand opening. During this event The Gathering Grove had a number of interactive stations, including essential oils, personality tests, bars, herbal tea tasting, tarot card readings, mindfulness and gratitude stations, vision board stations and more!

Along with a lovely atmosphere, there was a live band that started playing at 6 p.m. to celebrate and bring the party to a full swing once the ribbon cutting was over. It was a great way to welcome the community to their new space! The Gathering Grove is very thankful to everyone who came and help celebrated this milestone!

At The Gathering Grove, they strive to provide a unique and tranquil setting for events and wellness activities. Their space is designed to offer a harmonious blend of nature and comfort, fostering an environment that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Learn more at tgglincoln.com.

ALLO Business Revolutionizes Communication with Cloud Voice Solutions

ALLO’s Cloud Voice offers flexible, future-proof communication tools to keep your business agile. Whether in the office or remote, their secure, high-quality voice service lets you stay connected with customers and your team on any device, from anywhere. No more dropped calls or expensive infrastructure—just reliable, crystal-clear communication.

In today’s fast-paced world, effective communication is the backbone of any successful business. With ALLO Business Cloud Voice, companies can streamline their communication with a platform that adapts to their needs, offering an exceptional user experience while growing their business.

Cloud Voice Features:

• Advanced Call Management: Businesses can efficiently manage every aspect of voice communication, from automatic call distribution to customized call routing and voicemail transcription.

• Scalability & Flexibility: Whether your business is just starting out or rapidly growing, Cloud Voice can easily scale to meet your changing needs.

• Seamless Integration : Integrates effortlessly with other communication platforms, offering a unified approach to voice, video and collaboration tools.

• Security & Reliability : Your business communications are protected with cutting-edge encryption and redundancy, ensuring uptime and peace of mind.

Whether you’re managing remote teams, handling customer inquiries or ensuring clear communication across multiple locations, ALLO Business Cloud Voice is here to support and elevate your operations. For more information on ALLO’s voice options and other business solutions, visit AlloBusiness.com/Voice or contact their sales team at (844) 560-2556.

John Berry Unveils Veteran Led: Leadership Lessons from the Trenches on Veterans Day

In honor of Veterans Day, John Berry, CEO of Berry Law and former U.S. Army platoon leader, proudly announces the launch of his new book, Veteran Led: Leadership Lessons from the Trenches . This timely release offers a unique blend of military wisdom and business acumen, providing actionable leadership insights for organizations across industries.

Veteran Led distinguishes itself by drawing on Berry's extensive military background, emphasizing real-world experience over traditional theoretical models. The book demonstrates how military principles such as discipline, preparedness and resilience can empower businesses to thrive and dominate their markets.

Key Themes and Takeaways:

• Navigating Business Challenges: Berry shares strategies for managing threats, opportunities, and constraints—all inspired by military practices.

• Building High-Performing Teams: The book provides a roadmap for identifying and nurturing talent, emphasizing the importance of equipping team members to excel.

• Urgency and Efficiency: Berry highlights the critical role of urgency in client relations and hiring, teaching leaders to be resourceful with available resources.

• Mastering Fundamentals: Leaders are encouraged to master basic skills before advancing to complex strategies, a lesson drawn from military training.

• Consistent Routines: Berry advocates for maintaining a "battle rhythm" in organizations, similar to military routines, to ensure alignment with goals.

• Leadership Boundaries: Successful leaders know when to delegate and empower their teams, rather than micromanaging.

This book is not just for Veterans. It is for anyone looking to elevate their leadership approach with principles rooted in discipline, efficiency and adaptability. Whether you are an aspiring leader, a seasoned executive, or someone navigating organizational change, Veteran Led offers insights and lessons that transcend industries.

Veteran Led will be available on Veterans Day, on Amazon and other retailers. For more information, visit Veteran Led: John Berry Captures Essence of Military Leadership at ptsdlawyers.com.

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.

Concrete Craft of Lincoln Has Trained its Team on a New Concrete Restoration Solution

HBALRaisesOver$6.2KfortheLincolnHome Builders Care Foundation

Concrete Craft of Lincoln is always looking to fulfill its customers' needs and find cost-effective solutions to their problems. They understand the importance of finding new products and solutions, but more importantly, training their people on the benefits to their customers and how to properly install the products. Their newest offering is what they call DRS (Driveway Restoration Solutions). This innovative system allows them to restore the concrete surface (Yes, more than just driveways) and provide protection to the surface from things like salt and the ice melt used by the city that can cause premature decay of the concrete, left unrepaired or untreated it will result in the need to replace the concrete at a greater cost and more considerable inconvenience. They brought individuals from the Concrete Craft Corporate office and the product manufacturer to provide hands-on training in repair, application and touch-up to ensure a lasting installation.

Concrete Craft’s Driveway Restoration Solution is great for just about any concrete surface including sidewalks, porches, steps and parking lots that is spalling or pitting, has damage from salt or is discolored.

Other benefits include superior chemical and ice melt resistance and added traction to areas that may be slick when wet.

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, choose the people with experience as solid as the materials we use. Choose Concrete Craft. Contact them at concretecraft.com/Lincoln-NE, or call (531) 333-5225 for more information.

The Home Builders Association of Lincoln’s (HBAL) annual Sporting Clay Shoot was held on October 18, at Oak Creek Sporting Club. The event rose over $6,200 for the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation.

Top Individual Shooters:

• 1st Place: Brayden Bliss (Nebraskaland Siding & Windows)

• 2nd Place (tie): Simon Wells (Lynch Contracting), Dalton Blaha (Nebraskaland Siding & Windows) and Ben Swanson (Nebraskaland Siding & Windows)

Top Teams:

• 1st Flight: Nebraskaland Siding & Windows

• 2nd Flight: Lincoln Winlectric

• 3rd Flight: Lincoln Winair

The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation's mission is to support the educational and charitable activities of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln. The Foundation strives to support the community by contributing to community service projects focused on housing, as well as providing scholarships for students pursuing a career related to the building industry and providing funding for other industryrelated educational and research programs.

Since 2010, the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation has distributed over $377,000 through community projects and scholarships. Learn more and support at hbal.org.

What’s Your Air Score? Technology

�s a leading ��ilding Control contractor, Engineered Controls’ goal is to �ro�ide c�sto�ers �it� �rod�cts and ser�ices to create e��icient, sa�e� and co��orta�le ��ilding en�iron�ents�

Engineered Controls o��ers t�e latest and �ost ad�anced air ��alit� �onitoring sensors to �ee� �o�r ��ildings �ealt��� �et �o�r indoor air ��alit� s�ea� �or itsel�� ���ices in ��a�a and �incoln, �E�

LaunchLNK Wants to Help Your Startup with a $20K Grant

Do you own a business? Are you looking for something extra to give you the fuel you need to get your business running? Money is the oxygen for a business, and LaunchLNK wants to give you the opportunity to fan those flames. Qualifying startups can take advantage of a $20,000 grant to put towards the growth of their startup.

Apply for a shot at the $20,000 grant, connections to potential sources of additional capital, mentors and introductions to local corporations who may become early customers or partners. Apply by Monday, November 25 at 12 p.m. CST at launchlnk.com. Only six recipients will be chosen from a competitive applicant pool of over 100 people. The $20,000 cash grant is payable to the startup company, and will be distributed when the company meets milestones that are defined with the Program Manager.

Let LaunchLNK help you take your business a step further! If you’re a high-growth startup who wants to build and grow your company in Lincoln, you could be awarded this grant!

LaunchLNK offers startups a catalyst for growth through grant funding, connections to additional capital and relevant corporations and assistance with locating in a vibrant, supportive and affordable city. Learn more about the startup scene in Lincoln at startuplnk.com.

OctoberwasNationalPhysicalTherapyMonth!

Every October, Husker Rehab celebrates National Physical Therapy Month to raise awareness about the many benefits of physical therapy. This year’s theme was falls and fall-related injury prevention and awareness, and while National Physical Therapy Month is officially over, the team at Husker Rehab wants to remind you that you can take actions you can take.

1. Maintain mobility and improve strength. Stay active by doing physical activities that you enjoy to help maintain strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance. It also can reduce your fear of falling. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends physical therapy (with exercise) focused on balance, stability and the ability to perform everyday tasks to help prevent falls.

2. Get a falls screening. Ask your physical therapist or primary care provider about a falls screening. A physical therapist or other trained health care provider can assess your falls risk and work with you to find ways to decrease your risk of falling.

3. Mind your medications. If you take more than four medicines (prescribed or over the counter), your risk of falling is higher. Many drugs can cause you to be dizzy, lose your balance, have blurry vision and much more. Review your medications with your health care provider if you have any of these symptoms.

4. Eliminate hazards around your home. Look around your home to identify anything that could cause you to trip or slip. Stairs with no railing, throw rugs, clutter, poor lighting and even wobbly furniture or handrails could cause a fall.

5. Improve home safety. Add a secure grab bar in the tub or shower and next to the toilet.

The professionals at Husker Rehab are experts and can help you build your strength and balance program to prevent falls or recover from a fall related injury.

Visit huskerrehab.com.

THE OFFICIAL AIRPORT OF HUSKER ATHLETICS

The Waterford Communities Teams Up with Pulse Finders for Yearly Course!

The Waterford Communities had their Medication Aides and Caregivers take a CPR/ BLS course through Pulse Finders. It was extremely helpful for the staff and especially for the students currently enrolled in nursing school by providing the proper documentation for school. Instructor Matt Mankhey, who has over 25 years of real-life experience performing CPR and first-aid, held two courses at Waterford College View. He provided a great education for the team on how to properly perform CPR on adults and children.

Pulse Finders was very helpful with the staff at Waterford Communities, and even got them set up with and AED in each building, making each building in the community safer than ever.

Waterford Communities is an Assisted Living community where they provide a home-life atmosphere and environment with countless amenities and activities. What sets them apart from the rest is the team of professionals that serve and support their residents. Learn more at thewaterford.net.

“ “

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

Celebrating 60 Years of SCORE: Empowering Small Businesses Nationwide

Celebrating its 60th anniversary, SCORE stands as a testament to the enduring power of mentorship and entrepreneurial spirit. Since its founding in 1964, SCORE has grown into the nation’s largest network of volunteer business mentors, dedicated to helping small businesses succeed. This milestone not only marks six decades of invaluable service but also highlights the organization’s ongoing commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering small business growth across the United States.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), SCORE has provided free mentorship and resources to over 17 million entrepreneurs. These services have been crucial in helping businesses get off the ground and navigate the various challenges of the business lifecycle. The organization’s vast network of more than 10,000 volunteers comprise seasoned business professionals who generously donate their time and expertise to guide the next generation of business owners.

Last year alone, SCORE helped launch over 127 new businesses in Nebraska and nationwide over 30,000 new businesses, creating more than 150,000 jobs. Nationally, SCORE clients who received three or more hours of mentoring reported higher revenues and increased business growth.

For business owners, working with SCORE means tapping into a legacy of success and accessing a wealth of knowledge and resources that can help them achieve their goals.

Here’s to the next 60 years of innovation, growth and the continued success of small businesses, all made possible by SCORE’s unwavering dedication and the selfless contributions of its volunteers.

To learn more, request a mentor or volunteer to be one, visit score. org/Lincoln or call (402) 870-1821.

Boot Barn is Opening on North 27th!

The Boot Barn is hosting a ribbon cutting on Friday, November 15! The event will take place at 4730 N 27th St. from 12 to 12:30 p.m. and they hope to see you there!

Boot Barn started in 1978 and has since become the largest western and work wear retailer in the nation. They say that their customers feed America, build America and protect America. With an uncompromising desire to support the local communities they serve, they proudly offer the broadest selection of cowboy boots, work boots, western wear, workwear, western-inspired fashion and outdoor gear. Boot Barn is honored to support the varying lifestyles of the people who make the country so great. Boot Barn’s vision is simple: to offer a piece of the American spirit. Learn more and shop at bootbarn.com.

Tobacco Free Lancaster County Encourages Community Support for the Great American Smokeout

Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) invites you to join the local Great American Smokeout (GASO) campaign this November! This annual event, pioneered by the American Cancer Society, takes place on the third Thursday in November and challenges people nationwide to take their first step toward quitting nicotine, highlights available resources for staying quit and encourages support from all sides. In true Nebraska spirit, TFLC has expanded the campaign locally for the entire month of November. And while the name may say “Smokeout,” TFLC encourages quitting all forms of tobacco and nicotine—whether it’s smoking, vaping, chew etc.

Quitting isn’t easy, but it’s worth it! Nicotine addiction impacts not just physical health, but also mental health, relationships, finances and the environment. That’s why creating a community that supports quitting is important.

By signing up at TobaccoFreeLancasterCounty.org/GASO, you can be part of this movement to help build a stronger, healthier Lancaster County. TFLC offers a variety of FREE resources for everyone to participate in the campaign, including quit kits (with helpful items like gum, mints, fidgets, and stress balls), educational tools, posters, flyers, yard signs, social media graphics and more—TFLC has everything you need to get involved, show support and spread the word!

Access these resources today and join us in supporting a nicotine-free Lancaster County. Together, we can help more people quit for good and create a community where everyone thrives!

Funding is provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program through the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement. Learn more at tobaccofreelancastercounty.org/GASO.

& COOLING

Monarch Integrative Care Expands Services with Grand Opening Celebration

On July 31, Monarch Integrative Care and Monarch Counseling celebrated their expansion with a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting at 620 N 48th St., attended by friends, family and the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and community members.

Rooted in compassion, growth and connection, Monarch Counseling and Monarch Integrative Care aim to be a vital resource for the community. They offer a comprehensive continuum of care, including mental health counseling, telehealth services, psychiatric care, naturopathic consultations, acupuncture, massage, esthetics, yoga, reiki and sound bath classes.

To mark their expansion, they hosted the Monarch Market, featuring 20 local vendors, musicians, artists, DJs and food trucks. They extend a heartfelt thank you to those who contributed raffle prizes. Although strong winds cut their celebration short, it was inspiring to witness the community come together in support.

Monarch Integrative is excited to announce the second annual Monarch Market next fall, along with monthly vendor pop-ups to continue our cherished collaborations.

Founded by Loene Hollis in 2010, Monarch Counseling and Monarch Integrative Care promote a supportive mental health community. In February 2019, Jaci Pekarek and Melissa Rohrig acquired the business, and are dedicated to carrying on Loene's visions of expanding holistic treatment options with the support of business manager Katie Frickel.

For more information, visit them at monarch-counseling.com or call (402) 489-6196.

MURAL: A New Catalyst for Downtown Lincoln’s Growth

White Lotus Group, a vertically integrated real estate development firm, is excited to announce a transformative mixed-use development, MURAL, in the heart of downtown Lincoln.

Situated on the site of the former Pershing Auditorium, MURAL is set to become a cornerstone of Lincoln’s revitalization efforts. Its prime location, adjacent to Centennial Mall and near the State Capitol, key state offices, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus, the Historic Haymarket district and the Telegraph District, offers unparalleled convenience and connectivity. The development's name, MURAL, pays tribute to the iconic mural that once adorned Pershing Auditorium. MURAL will feature a mix of residential and commercial spaces. Floors two through five will house 90 affordable apartments for various income levels, along with a furnished community room and exercise equipment. The first floor will include the residential lobby and a variety of commercial spaces, including healthcare services. Additionally, the project will offer 47 underground parking spaces, accessible via a ramp off M St. These elements together make MURAL a community hub designed to stimulate growth and development in downtown Lincoln.

Founded in 2003 by Arun Agarwal, White Lotus Group is a vertically integrated real estate development firm specializing in turn-key projects from concept to delivery through a creative management process. Known as the leader in optimizing complex real estate projects, the award-winning White Lotus team has spearheaded projects within the real estate and healthcare markets, as well as a variety of other projects including industrial, mixed-use and commercial, multi-family, hospitality, government and self-storage facilities. To learn more, visit whitelotusgroup.com.

AlphaZedisHostinganIn-PersonWorkshop

On Tuesday, December 3, Alpha Zed Business Services is hosting the “Preparing Your Business for Automation” workshop for business owners who know that automation can help them be more efficient and better serve their customers.

It’s a challenge to manually keep track of all the things in business. Things like booking appointments, following up after a sales call, ensuring that customers are paying their bills and ensuring that team members are in the know about next steps for a client. It’s too easy to miss steps and forget to follow up.

The solution? Automate where you can. But you can’t automate chaos! First, it’s necessary to understand and map out processes. This workshop is going to help you work through that activity. There will be a framework to follow, important points to consider and time to get your thoughts organized.

The “Preparing Your Business for Automation” workshop will be held Tuesday, December 3, 3-4:30 p.m. at The Urban Farmhouse Room, 3900 Yankee Hill Rd. STE 127.

Alpha Zed Business Services is a systems superhero, providing strategy, setup and support for all of your small business systems. Learn more at systemssuperhero.com, or contact them today by calling (531) 530-9390, or email them at kim@alphazedservices.com.

ExcitingFallandWinterEventsattheHubCafe

The Hub Cafe, known for its commitment to locally-sourced ingredients and vibrant community atmosphere, is excited to announce a variety of events and activities to carry us through the fall and winter seasons.

Friday Night Pizza with Live Music

Every Friday from 5 to 9 p.m., The Hub Cafe invites guests to unwind with a rotating menu of housemade pizzas and creative small bites. Each month will feature new, inventive flavors inspired by local ingredients. Guests can enjoy their food alongside live performances from local musicians, making it the perfect way to kick off the weekend.

Open Mics with Roots Music Shop

Starting in November, The Hub Cafe is teaming up with Roots Music Shop to bring musicians another chance to shine in Lincoln! On the first and third Thursdays of each month, musicians and singers of all skill levels are invited to sign up for 20-minute performance slots at the new open mic night. Enjoy a delicious meal made from locally-sourced ingredients while supporting amateur musicians in a welcoming, laid-back environment.

The Holiday Hub Pop-Up Bar

Get ready to step into a winter wonderland with The Holiday Hub, a special pop-up bar that will transform the Jayne Snyder Trails Center into a kitschy holiday paradise. Beginning the day after Thanksgiving and running through January 4, 2025, visitors can gather with friends to enjoy festive cocktails, local brews and a specially curated holiday menu by The Hub Cafe’s kitchen. The Holiday Hub will be open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 5 to 10 p.m. For those planning private holiday celebrations, the space will also be available to rent on other evenings throughout the season. For more information, visit hubcafelincoln.com.

THE MERCATO & SHOOT 360

ON THEIR GRAND OPENINGS

SIPNebraskaHasAnnouncedTheir2025Dates

Early bird tickets and lodging open up in early November, and trust SIP Nebraska—you’ll want to book fast because lodging will disappear quickly! Stay tuned by liking the event on Facebook for the latest updates.

Event Highlights

• Friday, May 9 from 4 to 9 p.m.

• Saturday, May 10 from 1 to 9 p.m. (Early Access Entry at 11 a.m.)

Sip Nebraska isn’t just an event—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss! Get tickets to their spring festivalsnow.

Every spring, SIP Nebraska brings together a passionate community of local wine, craft beer, spirits and their fans to celebrate Nebraska's beverage industry. Join them next year and start your spring off right!

SIP Nebraska is your local wine, craft beer, spirits and hard cider tasting experience. Learn more at blurevents.com.

Farris Engineering Celebrates Employee OwnershipMonthanditsEmployee-DrivenFuture

Farris Engineering, a leader in engineering design and consulting services, proudly celebrated Employee Ownership Month last month. As an employee-owned company, Farris Engineering emphasizes the importance of fostering a collaborative, innovative, and empowered workforce that shares in the company’s success and future growth.

Employee Ownership Month is an annual celebration that highlights the benefits of employee ownership, encouraging businesses to acknowledge the positive impact that employee-owners have on the company’s culture, performance, and long-term sustainability. At Farris Engineering, this philosophy is embedded in the company’s DNA, with employees holding stock in the company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

“We believe that employee ownership creates a strong sense of responsibility and accountability, not only towards our clients but also towards each other,” said Michael Wallace, President and CEO of Farris Engineering. “This model allows us to build a culture where everyone’s contributions are valued, leading to higher levels of engagement, job satisfaction, and innovation. As we continue to grow, our employee-owners are empowered to take an active role in shaping the future of Farris Engineering.”

Through its ESOP program, Farris Engineering provides employees with a direct stake in the company’s success, aligning their interests with the business’s goals. This culture of ownership has led to enhanced productivity, higher quality work, and a greater sense of pride in every project.

Farris Engineering is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering, with additional expertise in fire protection engineering, lighting design, building commissioning services, technology systems design and life safety systems engineering. To learn more, visit farris-usa.com.

(402) 625-6578

www.insuranceonpoint.com

by Krista Dittman Agent, Individual & Senior Benefits

2025 Enrollment Readiness

What Open Enrollment season runs between November 1 and January 15?

a. The ACA (Affordable Care Act)

b. The Marketplace

c. Obamacare

d. All of the above

Choosing “D” is correct! The Federally Facilitated Marketplace, originally dubbed Obamacare, but also known as the Affordable Care Act, features an Open Enrollment period annually between November 1 and January 15. Here are some questions heard every Fall: Who can enroll in the Marketplace? Anyone who does not qualify for Medicaid, Medicare, or does not have access to affordable employerbased coverage.

I’m planning to retire in March, do I need to enroll in a plan now? No. Whenever someone leaves an employer-sponsored plan to retire or start a new job that doesn’t offer coverage, they will have a Special Enrollment Period to choose a plan on the Marketplace at any point during the year.

My COBRA is really expensive, can I switch to Marketplace coverage now? Yes. This is when you are able to voluntarily leave your current COBRA plan by choice and begin what is often a more affordable plan option for January 1 or February 1.

My employer covers the premium for my plan but not for my spouse and dependents. Can any of us enroll in MP coverage? Yes. However, there is an Affordability Test that determines eligibility to receive the Advance Premium Tax Credit to offset the monthly premium expense. In 2025, if the employee’s premium, or the premium to insure a spouse and dependents exceeds 9.02% of the gross household income, then it is considered unaffordable and either the employee and/or the spouse and dependents would be eligible to receive the tax credit.

Will I be penalized for not having health insurance? In 2019 the penalty for not having coverage was eliminated. In 2023 the fixed income limits to qualify for a tax credit were expanded to align with the Affordability Test. The more income a household has, the less tax credit they are eligible to receive. The tax credit is later reconciled on the tax return for the year the household had MP coverage.

MUST I renew my plan every year? Technically, no. However, every year insurance companies sunset any number of plans so you may be assigned a new plan that may not provide you with the benefits or network access you wanted. There could also be new plans with better coverage or benefits and lower premiums available. We advise updating your application annually to ensure you have the plan that best suits your needs.

For answers to your questions about the Marketplace or help with your enrollment, contact a licensed insurance agent at On Point Insurance Agency. We are here to help!

STAR CITY SIX SAMANTHA

• Residential

• Residential

• Commercial

• Commercial

Samantha Kingsley MAVEN TILE AND HOME DESIGN

Meet Samantha Kingsley, Showroom Assistant at Maven Tile and Home Design

Tell us a little about your business.Maven Tile and Home Design is a full design studio with specialty tile for your special projects, bringing amazing design to Nebraska! How did you get started in the business? - I’ve always loved arts and crafts, fashion and curating my spaces. I’ve been doing a lot of home projects recently which led me to Maven to find the perfect vintage inspired bathroom tiles. I had such a nice time talking with Lizett and Linette and it ended up with me joining the Maven team! So while I’d never done design as my career before, they recognized the design life inside me.

Tell us a little about your family. - I grew up in Lincoln, the only full Nebraska Cornhusker in my (immediate) family. My parents are a retired surgeon and RN who are still in town, helping out in the community in various ways. I have an older sister who is creating art and community spaces in New Mexico, and an older brother who merges business/technology and art here in Lincoln. I also have an amazing sister-in-law, and incredible nephew and niece that light up my life! No kids for me, but I have a wonderful boyfriend and a giant, floppy Newfoundland and two very snuggly cats.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Moving to Austin, Texas for six years after undergrad did a lot for me. Moving somewhere new alone really helped me to gain more self confidence and find who I am as just me. I met so many great people, gained a lot of awesome skills and just generally grew so much. I came back to Lincoln with a stronger voice and excitement to continue that journey.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love working on various art projects- building elaborate faux cakes for my walls, nail art, painting my house or furniture, sewing clothing, all the projects! What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I kind of follow the Barbie lifelearn all the things and try all the jobs. I got my bachelors degree in International Studies, then I went to plant based culinary school (fun fact- I’ve never eaten meat in my entire life), then went to school again and became a 6th grade social studies teacher. I’m back in school now, toying with the idea of human rights law next. For now though, I’m loving Tile and Home Design Barbie™.

Who inspires you? - I’m inspired by so many- my family are all such incredible people that combine unending thirst for knowledge and unceasing kindness; I look up to all of them forever. I’m also so lucky to have an abundance of amazing friends who all do such different things and have different journeys but they all make the world a better place. I’m a lucky lady!

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Sparkle.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?- I would be 100% fluent in every language and dialect in the world, ancient and current. Life would be so cool if you could communicate clearly with anyone anywhere, and read anything exactly as it was written. The dream!

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - CASA, the Cat House, Lincoln Bike Kitchen, Friendship Home, Voices of Hope- they’re all doing really important work!

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - @maventileandhomedesign on Instagram!

MICHELLE STAR CITY SIX

Michelle Williams

SARTOR HAMANN JEWELERS

Meet Michelle Williams, the General Manager at Sartor Hamann Jewelers.

Tell us a little about your business. - I am so proud to work for Sartor Hamann Jewelers. We are a family owned jewelry store that has been in business for 119 years, and we take great pride in serving our clients. Not only do we carry beautiful jewelry, but we educate our clients so that they can see with their own eyes what makes us the best. We are a full service company that can do anything from simple repair work on a client's special piece, to custom designing beautiful jewelry from the ground up. We also do appraisals, and can even help clients get set up on insurance for their special pieces. I have been in the industry for 31 years, but have been with Sartor Hamann for 21 of those years, and am proud to manage our Southpointe location.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Working through Covid was, at least in the beginning, a pretty big challenge. It was a little unsettling to not know how our business would do in such unforeseen times. Not only was I worried about all of my teammates' health, but also their ability to keep working in order to support their own families. The Hamann family was incredibly good to all of us through those uncertain times, and it really made me realize how blessed I am to be working for them.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married for 29 years to the love of my life. We have a blended family together and have six kids between us, along with seven grandchildren whom we adore!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I am a person that always seems to be on the go, so when I get a day off, where I can actually stay at home and spend time with my husband, my kids, my grandkids or my two adorable dachshunds......that is the best!! I also love to garden and sing with the Lincolnaire Chorus!!

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I guess it would be that I am musical. I majored in voice in college and when I lived in New York for a few years, I even did a musical. That was a blast!! Living in New York was a great experience for me, but I learned quickly that my heart and soul missed my roots in Nebraska. I moved back to be closer to family, and without planning for it, stumbled into the jewelry business which I became passionate for, almost immediately. 30+ years later.....I can honestly say....I love what I do!!

Who inspires you? - Without a doubt.....my family! Especially my parents. They are both gone now, but the love they shared for 54 years, and the commitment they had to one another, their children, their community and above all else, to God, has helped direct my life in more ways than I can count. I was very blessed to be raised in the family I was.

What is your favorite movie? - I am a HUGE Ryan Reynolds fan, so anything with him in it. But my favorite movie would have to be The Proposal. I love romantic comedies!

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Lincoln has so many great local restaurants that it would be hard to pick just one, but I would have to say MoMo’s is at the top for me.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Honestly, for me, it wouldn’t be a famous person. I would choose to have dinner with my parents and grandparents. I was pretty young when my grandparents passed, so I would love to ask them questions about our heritage, etc. and I would give anything to hug my parents again!

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - mwilliams@sartorhamann.com | (402) 802-7088

STAR CITY SIX RACHAEL

Rachael Wells ON POINT INSURANCE AGENCY

Meet Rachael Wells, a Licensed Agent at On Point Insurance Agency.

Tell us a little about your business. - On Point Insurance is a locally owned agency that helps people find insurance solutions for their specific needs. The staff can help individuals, families and retirees with marketplace insurance for those without cover from an employer, seniors needing Medicare options and adventurers needing travel insurance! We help people all over Nebraska and a few other states including: SD, IA, MO, KS, TX, WY, AZ and FL.

How did you get started in the business? -After working in the regulatory field where I read and wrote lots of reports, I was interested in a career that focused more on directly working with and helping people. I really value connecting with people and problem solving, so insurance seemed like a good fit to use my past skills to fulfill that desire.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Moving and living overseas was very challenging. It was a fun adventure, but it required me to learn about a new culture and a new way of life. Professionally, this meant starting over from scratch and without anyone knowing who I was!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - If there isn’t a contra (folk) dance going on that day, I can be found gazing at clouds or stars in one of the many beautiful parks that Lincoln has to offer. If the weather is terrible, then I am inside working on a new painting or planning my next art market appearance.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I am a dual US & Australian citizen. People don’t understand why I chose to live in Nebraska. I love the prairie (and my family) just as much as the ocean!

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Genuine.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Breathing under water. I love snorkeling and find water very peaceful. There is a whole other world full of beautiful plants and creatures that I would be able to explore more easily!

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Painting. When I was young, I wanted to be an artist as painting came very naturally to me. I feel very fortunate to have a good work life balance where I can spend my spare time studying and painting nature. It is a relaxing hobby that helps me unwind after a day’s work and it seems to make other people happy too!

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - An art therapist. I enjoy supporting and watching people discover how talented and capable they are. It is amazing how completing a creative task can translate to increased self-esteem in other areas of one’s life.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - This is a tie between Blue Orchid and The Oven. Both have created very nice atmospheres in their restaurants. I love foods that are full of flavor, and I can’t ever get enough rice!

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - insuranceonpoint.com | (402) 625-6578.

TRENNA STAR CITY SIX

Trenna Rager

LINCOLN COIN & BULLION

Meet Trenna Rager, Operations Manager and Bullion Trader at Lincoln Coin & Bullion, LLC.

Tell us a little about your business. - We are a full-scale Precious Metal Bullion Dealer that serves those purchasing and selling three to seven figures of Gold, Silver, Platinum and Palladium Bullion. We also deal in Historic Currency Collections (numismatic coins and bills), including providing quotes and paid appraisals. We do both bullion and currency collections; often if someone has one, they have the other.

How did you get started in the business? - Originally, I was hired as Lincoln Coin & Bullions bookkeeper. That was a year ago already! What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - One of my biggest professional challenges is my strong sense of loyalty. While it helps me build strong relationships and maintain commitment, it can also make it difficult for me to make necessary changes that need to happen for me and my family.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband and I have been married for almost 10 years. We have three children who are nothing short of busy! We moved to Lincoln in 2020 and have been thriving ever since!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - One of the biggest is getting to marry my high school sweetheart (12 years late, but who’s counting…) He is the love of my life and I’ve known it since I was 17 years old.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - My favorite thing to do on a day off is work more, or literally do nothing. It is hard to take a day off and not do any work. In between not working, I do enjoy sand volleyball, golfing, watching my children play sports and hanging out with family and friends.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I love to sing (karaoke too!) and embarrass my kids in the car, on purpose.

Who inspires you? - Everyone. There is no human that isn’t interesting on their own and I think they all are inspirations on some level.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Work hard, play hard.” And recently, a new one, “every second matters.”

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Funny.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I am an artist, with a pencil and also with acrylic paint.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - A math teacher.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Dream Daughter by Diane Chamberlain. What is your favorite movie? Julie & Julia

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - I do not have a favorite, as I am still pretty new to Lincoln, but Norm’s on 48th has a killer smash burger! My family and I have a laundry list of restaurants to try, though.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? -Jesus Christ

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Readers can call or email me at (402) 327-2853 and trenna@ lincolncoinandbullion.com

Protecting Today

Building Tomorrow

STAR CITY SIX LUKE

Luke Heidenreich KRUEGER DEVELOPMENT

Meet Luke Heidenreich, an Architectural Designer at Krueger Development.

Tell us a little about your business. - Krueger Development is a real estate development firm that has been contributing to Lincoln’s residential and commercial for over 30 years. We specialize in developing residential communities, commercial spaces, retail centers and multi-family residences. In my role, I work closely with our engineers, architects and contractors throughout the design development process all the way to project completion. I also work directly with our tenants on their interior buildouts, ensuring they get the spaces they envision when they rent from us.

How did you get started in the business? - I got started in the business because of my grandpa, who was an architect. As a kid, I was obsessed with tree houses. Whenever I went to visit my grandparents, I would make my grandpa draw them, each time telling him the different ways I wanted them to look. When it came time to choose what I wanted to do, I knew architecture was the way to go. After earning my bachelor’s degree, I sought a position where I could continue to learn and grow, that’s when I discovered Krueger Development, where I get to work on a bunch of different projects every day.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am the middle child of a family that lives all over the place. My parents are currently living in Toronto, Canada. My older brother is currently living in California working for a company called Gallo, and my younger brother is in Georgia going to school at Georgia Tech.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - On my days off, I like to spend time with friends and do stuff outdoors. Whether it’s going camping, playing sports or hanging out at the pool. My ideal day would be golfing in the morning then going to a Husker football game at night.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - If I had a superpower, it would be the ability to teleport. I have family spread out all over the place so I’m always driving or flying to visit them. If I could teleport, I could save on a lot of time spent traveling.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would like to host a game show. The idea of showing up to work every day to play games sounds like a fun time.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am currently pursuing my Master of Architecture at the University of Nebraska Lincoln, where I am collaborating with Professor Jeff Day and project partner Jessica Scheuerman from Partners for Livable Omaha on an initiative called “OurStory.” This project, led by Partners for Livable Omaha—who also manage FACT’s Omaha Mobile Stage—aims to design an attainable, age-ready house. Our focus is on addressing the local market’s demand for constructible and financeable designs that can function as standalone small homes, accessory dwelling units, or as part of dense cottage courts and cluster communities. This fall we will be holding a public exhibition of this work at Omaha by Design.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - My favorite books are the six books in the Red Rising series by Peirce Brown.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - LeadBelly in the Haymarket, the food is always good.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - LukeH@Kruegerdevelopment.com

STAR CITY SIX MEGAN

Megan McKay

NEBRASKA LTC PHARMACY

Meet Megan McKay, a Pharmacist at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy.

Tell us a little about your business. - Nebraska LTC Pharmacy is a retail pharmacy that specializes in bubble packing medications. We also have a cool gift shop and everyone is welcome to stop in!

How did you get started in the business? - I started working as a pharmacy technician my junior year of college and I've been working in pharmaceuticals ever since then. I love working with people and helping them with their medications.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I struggled to pass one of my licensing exams to become a pharmacist. I have always been a good student so failure was new for me. I have learned the skill of perseverance through tough times. Everything will be okay and failing is just part of like sometimes.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Graduating pharmacy school and moving back to Lincoln to work with the best pharmacy team ever!

Tell us a little about your family. - My parents divorced when I was in elementary school which definitely impacted me and how I grew up. But now I am part of an amazing blended family and I get to love twice as many people than I did before!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Deciding to go to pharmacy school and dedicate my life to the medical field.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy reading and watching TV. I also like to do some baking with I get a chance. Who inspires you? - My grandpa. He has been fighting cancer for the past few years but he has never let it affect his positivity. He is one of the strongest people I know and I would love to be more like him.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - "Attitude is everything." We can't change certain things in our lives but we can always choose to have a positive attitude.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Caring.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - The Friends theme song, "I'll Be There For You," because I'm always there for the family and friends that need me.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I love any organization that helps the environment.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The last book I read was Masters of the Air by Donald L. Miller. It's about the pilots during World War II and it was a very interesting read. They also made a great TV show about it on Apple TV! What is your favorite movie? - Top Gun (both of them).

What is your favorite TV show? - It's hard to pick just one but I've seen The Office more times than I can count.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Mexican good is my favorite and currently my favorite place to go is El Potrero.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - neltcpharmacy.com | 3901 Normal Blvd, Suite 203

The team here at Strictly Business was able to dine in with Director of Brand Development, Ryan Onstad, at the Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers located at 56th and O St.! After a brief introduction and an update regarding his newborn son, Kylo, we were able order and sit down at in their comfortable dining area.

The food came out quickly, staying true to their brand category “fast casual.” Our team immediately dove into the food starting with the Grilled Cheese Steak Burger, signature Chili Cheese Fries and their popular Chicken Tenders; all of which were made-to-order and seasoned with their branded seasonings. Freddy’s seasonings and fry sauces (regular and spicy) are available at Hy-Vee grocery stores. As we ate our meal Ryan shared where the company hopes to take Freddy’s as a whole.

At Freddy’s they continue to keep it simple. They are starting to implement new equipment which cuts cook time in half, both for their convenience and yours, while still keeping that amazing Freddy’s quality.

Lincoln warmly welcomed Freddy’s, breaking several sales records at the first location. The company has opened four locations over the past eight years to serve Lincoln and seven additional stores across Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota. Ryan reports all of the stores are performing very well. Freddy’s development in our area is testament to the fact it is one of top 10 fastest growing franchises according to Forbes.

As we moved on to the desserts we ordered—a Pumpkin Pie Shake, Signature Turtle, Dirt ‘N’ Worms Sundae and Caramel Apple Pie Concrete all of which have a base of custard, a creamier, thicker and richer frozen desert than traditional ice cream—Ryan talked about how the company wants its restaurants to be a destination for people of all ages to hang out.

“After COVID, dine-in experience was largely replaced by drive-thru operations. Most restaurant services are done through the drive-thru with only 30 percent of orders being dine-in,” says Ryan “We want our stores to have a welcoming, fun atmosphere where people can come and hang out like we all did when we were kids.”

To achieve this goal and to support families and the community, Freddy’s gives back with “kids eat free” every Tuesday. If your child is 12 or younger, every Tuesday night, from 4pm to 8pm, they can get a free kid’s meal with purchase of adult meal. Additionally, first responders, nurses and teachers get 25 percent off their orders and veterans get 10 percent off their orders every day.

Freddy’s also offers catering services for corporate and personal events and celebrations. This new offering is only six months old, but it’s already taking off. Ryan mentioned that Freddy’s recently catered a wedding featuring their signature frozen custard treats. A unique and fun offering for a sweet occasion!

Ryan knows that synergy is so important when running a business; you have to build a relationship between the brand and the consumer, which is why the company believes in giving back to its community. In the past six months, Freddy’s has hosted 30 different fundraisers, with many more planned, all to give back to worthy organizations in the community.

We highly recommend Freddy’s for delivering a consistently great value dining experience and for its commitment and investment in supporting our local community.

THE TASTE THAT BRINGS

HopeSpoke Welcomes Wendi Anderson as Executive Director

The HopeSpoke Board of Directors is excited to announce that Wendi Anderson has been selected as the new Executive Director. Having previously served as their Outpatient Services Director, Wendi’s leadership, dedication and compassion have made a lasting impact on the children and families in the Lincoln community.

HopeSpoke is fortunate to have someone with such a deep understanding of their agency and the needs of the organization guiding them forward. Wendi’s experience and commitment to their mission will be invaluable as we work to enhance their services and facilities to meet the needs of those they serve.

The Board is looking forward to working closely with Wendi to continue providing hope, healing and support for children and families. Please join them in welcoming Wendi Anderson into this new role at HopeSpoke!

HopeSpoke inspires healthy futures for children and their families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. For more information, visit hopespoke.org.

Exciting Leadership Changes at The Bridge Behavioral Health

The Bridge Behavioral Health is thrilled to announce two key additions to their leadership team, setting the stage for an exciting future in their mission to support individuals on their journeys from addiction to sobriety.

In August, they proudly welcomed Kyle Stroh as their new Director of Quality Assurance. With a wealth of experience in quality management, Kyle is poised to play a crucial role in elevating our standards of care. His commitment to maintaining high-quality programs and services ensures that their clients receive effective and compassionate support at every step of their recovery. They are absolutely thrilled to have him on board!

In June, Miranda Ienn stepped into the pivotal role of Nursing Supervisor. A true asset to both their clients and nursing team, Miranda has already made a profound impact through her compassionate care and exceptional leadership. Her dedication to ensuring top-tier medical support for their clients is instrumental in guiding them on their paths to recovery. Miranda’s ability to mentor and inspire her team has fostered a positive, collaborative atmosphere within our nursing staff.

Together, Kyle and Miranda will strengthen The Bridge’s commitment to delivering the highest quality care. Their combined expertise and leadership will not only empower their staff but also enrich the experiences of their clients as they navigate their recovery journeys. The Bridge Behavioral Health looks forward to the positive changes they will bring to their organization and the lasting impact they will have on the lives they serve.

The Bridge Behavioral Health is a nationally-accredited substance use and mental health treatment facility. Learn more about what they do at thebridgenebraska.org.

The Mediation Center Elects a New Board Member

At The Mediation Center’s annual meeting held in June, the Board of Directors elected Dan Metzler as its newest board member. The Center is excited to welcome Dan to the Board!

Dan Metzler is a Transitional and Independent Living Coach where he helps young people develop adult living skills to empower them for their futures. Dan has 25 years of social work experience, including over 20 years working in the foster care department at CEDARS and five years working at Central Plains Center for Services.

When he’s not working, Dan spends time with his wife of 23 years and their three children, two daughters and a son.

The Mediation Center fills a unique and important niche in the Lincoln community. With a professional staff possessing expertise in the areas of conflict resolution, consensus building, and collaborative strategies, alongside the commitments of more than 70 extensively trained, highly skilled mediators, the Center serves thousands of Nebraska families each year. The Mediation Center is proud of the quality and breadth of its programming and is committed to increasing the community’s use of mediation as an effective dispute resolution strategy accessible to all. Learn more at themediationcenter.org.

McGillLawWelcomesNewAssociateAttorney & Mediator!

McGill Law is happy to welcome Caitlyn Clary, their new Associate Attorney and Mediator, to the McGill Law & McGill Mediation team at their Lincoln office!

With expertise in family law, juvenile law, criminal law and mediation, Caitlyn brings both passion and experience to helping families through challenging times, as a child of divorce, Caitlyn is dedicated and passionate about looking out for the minor children and preserving the family during confusing and difficult times.

A Creighton Law graduate, she’s already making a big impact with her thoughtful approach and dedication.

Outside of work, Caitlyn enjoys spending time with her family and crafting. McGill Law is really excited to have Caitlyn on board! Help congratulate her by reaching out via email, Caitlyn@McGillLawyers. com.

McGill Law specializes in helping women through family issues like divorce, separation and child custody. They fully understand the stress and difficulty women often face when considering a legal process that involves their family. McGill Law is the female focused firm. They are dedicated to guiding you through your legal process with compassion, integrity and respect. You can depend on them. Visit mcgilllawyers.com to learn more.

A Time to Heal Cancer Foundation has Welcomed Three New Professionals!

A Time to Heal Cancer Foundation is proud to announce that they have welcomed three amazing new people to their team!

Emily Densberger, Director of Programs, is responsible for overseeing all A Time to Heal programs, outreach and partnerships with health providers, as well as educational planning for our annual conference/events and measuring the impact of our services. Emily has nearly seven years of experience at RTG Medical as a recruiter, compliance specialist and training/talent development coach. Her expertise in talent development, strategy and enhancing the participant experience will bring valuable insight to ATTH’s mission of supporting survivors and caregivers as they navigate their unique journeys.

Kathy Leidal, Program Manager, is responsible for helping survivors determine the right program for them, maintaining and enhancing our programs, and supporting our education events. Previously, Leidal worked for the Mayo Clinic as the Community Engagement Specialist in Albert Lea, MN. She collaborated with community stakeholders, implemented program and participated in initiatives to improve community health and address the social determinants of health. Leidal is a graduate of Walden University in Minneapolis.

Renae Vermaas, Executive Assistant, supports the Executive Director and their entire office, including managing accounts payable, processing donations, directing their social media, helping plan their conference and fulfilling office needs. Renae was previously Program Director/Assistant to the Executive Director at Millard Public Schools Foundation, where she prepared communications and reports, streamlined processes and implemented efficiencies, maintained accounts payable and receivable and provided support in many other areas. In addition to these many talents, she is also a licensed realtor.

A Time to Heal is excited to work with these incredible new professionals.

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. 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.

Build Your Vision, Build With Quality

It’s been a remarkable year for Kingery Construction Co. as we celebrate 100 years. Our ongoing commitment to excellence propels us forward as we eagerly embrace future opportunities and nurture partnerships.

With a focus on the future, we’re primed to embark on new ventures, innovate projects, and further enrich Nebraska’s communities. Our dedication and partnership focus ensures a sustained positive impact for years ahead.

Expect the following when working with Kingery Construction:

• Clear processes and communication with Owners

• Accountability

• Understanding of your vision and expectations

• A 100 year record of reliability

Kingery has the ability to figure the ins and outs of a project at a very early stage in the delivery process. With a “no fear” attitude, we can out-think everyone else. The team approach to problem solving is well developed and has a track record of success. This permits us to offer accurate estimates, offering comprehensive construction solutions and precise estimates. Our knack for developing and maintaining relationships sets us apart, enabling seamless project implementation and strong community involvement.

Noreen Home Care Welcomes Sue Maxwell to their Team!

Ameritas Names Senior Vice President Chief Actuary and Underwriting

Noreen Home Care is excited to announce that Sue Maxwell, LPN, has joined their team as their Care Coordinator. Sue has a wonderful history of caring for seniors. She has worked with seniors through home health care for 20 plus years. She is also an expert in assisted living and memory care after working for 13 years doing acute care. During all of her experiences, she has always loved caring for the seniors the most. Sue states that she loves the connections and conversations while working with seniors. “They have such interesting stories about what things were like when they were growing up and about how much things have changed during their lives,” says Sue “Their wisdom is priceless to those who take the time to listen.”

When asked what the rewards are for Sue in caring for Noreen Home Care’s beloved seniors, Sue shared that she loves to make them smile and feel she has made a difference. Noreen Home Care is so blessed to have such a caring heart join their team and we are excited about all of the growth and experiences they will have as a team.

Noreen Home Care is driven by a deep-seated belief that everyone deserves exceptional home care, delivered with compassion and open communication. That's why they go above and beyond, providing 24/7 support and services tailored to each individual's unique needs. Learn more at noreencares.com.

Ameritas announces that Jennifer Wooster has been named Senior Vice President, Chief Actuary and Underwriting. She will oversee the financial arm of the group division, including leading the actuarial and underwriting areas.

“She has helped the group division grow through her financial management expertise; disciplined leadership approach; and straightforward, effective coaching,” said Kelly Wieseler, Executive Vice President, Group Division. “She built the compensation system into a consistent and effective tool for helping our sales team grow.”

Jennifer Wooster has been a Group Actuarial Associate at Ameritas since 1997. During her career, she has held various actuarial titles and most recently has been Vice President, Actuarial, for the past 11 years. She has a four-year degree in actuarial science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and a Member of the American Academy of Actuaries. Wooster volunteers with the United Way and has previously served as Chair of the United Way Women in Philanthropy steering committee. She is also a member of the Nebraska Actuaries Club, where she has served previously as Chair and President.

Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These include life insurance, annuities, individual disability income insurance, group dental, vision and hearing care insurance, retirement plans, investments; asset management and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services. Learn more at ameritas.com.

McGillLawAnnouncesNewAssociateAttorney!

Meet Robert Wankmuller, the newest Omaha based Associate Attorney at McGill Law! With a strong legal background and a commitment to client advocacy, Robert has already made significant contributions to the team.

A Creighton Law graduate with honors, he’s passionate about achieving positive outcomes for every client he represents. Before joining the McGill Law team, Robert gained expertise in Social Security Disability Law, which has strengthened his ability to navigate complex legal challenges.

When he’s not in the office, Robert enjoys spending time with his wife, family and dog, diving into sci-fi and horror films at the Alamo Drafthouse, and nurturing his love for gardening. They’re so happy to have Robert on board and can’t wait to see the great work he’ll continue to do!

McGill Law specializes in helping women through family issues like divorce, separation and child custody. They fully understand the stress and difficulty women often face when considering the legal process that involves their family. Learn more at mcgilllawyers.com.

TabithaAppointsMcGinntoLeadFoundation

Tabitha announced Jeffrey McGinn, CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) as Vice President of the Tabitha Foundation.

McGinn returns to Nebraska after recently serving as the Executive Director of Advancement, Annual Giving and Membership at the University of Missouri.

As a 2019 Midlands Business Journal “40 Under 40” Award winner, McGinn’s career has spanned several senior-level fundraising, outreach and advocacy roles. He has served as a board member with Phoenix Academy and College Possible in Omaha.

As he leads Tabitha’s fundraising efforts, McGinn will cultivate and nurture relationships with community donors and direct fundraising efforts to support seniors in the Nebraska counties that Tabitha serves.

“I’m honored to put my experience to work with such a well-respected community resource,” said McGinn. “We have great opportunities to shape the future of care for older adults in Nebraska. Together, we will continue Tabitha’s strong legacy as Nebraska’s answer for senior care to ensure those who came before us get the quality care they need and deserve.”

“We are thrilled to have Jeff join the Tabitha team with his community building talents,” said Brian P. Shanks, Tabitha President & CEO. “He brings a multitude of skills, along with a vast knowledge of philanthropy and a fresh perspective that is a great fit for Tabitha. There is no better time to have Jeff take charge in opening new avenues and strengthening much-needed support for seniors through Tabitha and building upon our purpose: empowering people to live joyfully, age gratefully.”

Shanks added, “The senior healthcare arena is challenging; we face a shrinking pool of healthcare professionals and unpredictable governmental support that leaves Tabitha with a major financial gap, as the amount reimbursed does not begin to cover the full cost of care. We need the community’s engagement.”

Learn more and give today at tabitha.org.

At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.

Willet Construction’s main goal is to provide clients with an enjoyable remodel experience to create clients for life. Over 55% of Willet’s jobs each year are for repeat clients. They do both interior and exterior projects including kitchen, baths, basements, whole house remodels, decks, siding, windows, doors, sunrooms, additions, garages, outdoor kitchens and many other projects on existing forever homes.

Imagine the possibilities and spark inspiration for your custom design when you explore the amazing projects that Willet Construction has completed during their almost three decade career. Their team of in-house designers provides top quality service through a simple design process. Don’t wait to make your dream remodel your reality. They are proud to serve families throughout the Lincoln region and surrounding areas. They work with you wherever you are to make sure your home is your version of perfect.

Every employee and trade partner is expected to meet Willet’s standards in customer care, that’s why every employee that works at and with Willet is professional and responsive, the perfect things you need to make sure your remodel goes as smoothly as possible. One of the primary reasons homeowners repeatedly choose Willet Construction is the detailed project schedule they receive, coupled with the team’s consistent success in adhering to it. Willet Construction has been transforming homes in the Lincoln area since 1995. Their second-generation family-owned business is your one-stop shop for home remodeling services. With designers and carpenters on staff and complete interior and exterior work available, there’s no need to hire any other contractor when you have Willet Construction.

Since they opened their doors nearly 30 years ago, they have been dedicated to serving every client with a SMILE. This means you can expect great Service, Management, Integrity, a Love-your-job attitude and Excellence at every turn.

Melissa Neater Has Been with Big Brothers Big Sisters for 25 Years!

Melissa Neater is a Senior Match Support Specialist and has been with Big Brothers Big Sisters for 25 years!

Through her position, she provides support and resources to their matches as they develop and maintaining strong relationships. Since she has been with the agency for 25 years, she’s had the opportunity to watch youth grow and learn from their Bigs.

Some youth are matched with their Big from grade school through high school graduation and beyond. One of Melissa’s biggest highlights is seeing a Little come back to the program and become a Big as they wanted to do for another youth as their Big did for them.

Big Brothers Big Sisters celebrate Melissa and her 25 years and are excited to celebrate many more anniversaries with her!

Big Brothers Big Sisters helps children realize their potential and build their futures. They nurture children and strengthen communities. Learn more about their mission at bbbsmidlands.org.

Union Bank & Trust Promotes Wischhof

Union Bank & Trust (UBT) recently promoted Sarah Wischhof to the position of Vice President – Head of Marketing.

Wischhof brings more than 20 years of experience in marketing and communications to her role as the head of UBT’s Marketing department, in which she will shape marketing strategy across the organization, guide internal and external partnerships, drive digital innovation and support the bank’s continued expansion in new and existing markets.

Wischhof started at UBT in 2018 as a marketing manager, working primarily with the bank’s Wealth Management division. Since then, she has grown in her role overseeing the Marketing department’s account management, community outreach and education teams and managing large branding projects with both internal and external partners. She also played an integral role in the opening of UBT’s new Omaha location and its downtown home at Union Bank Place. Prior to joining UBT, Wischhof served as the director of marketing for United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County.

Wischhof, a Lincoln native, earned her degree in Journalism from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. She is an active volunteer in the community and serves on the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools board, the Lincoln East Booster board, the Inspire Awards advisory board, the Eastridge Pool board and also as a professional in residence for UNL’s Buoy program.

Union Bank & Trust is a privately-owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. The bank has 34 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $8.5 billion and trust assets of $51.1 billion as of June 30, 2024. To learn more visit ubt.com.

Lincoln YPG Recognizes Brodey Weber as Lincoln’s Young Citizen of the Year

The Lincoln Young Professionals Group (YPG) recognizes the outstanding efforts and contributions of individuals and organizations in the community during its annual Young Lincoln Leader Awards Gala. The ceremony is held annually in October during YP Week. Professionals between the ages of 21 and 40 are eligible to be acknowledged in multiple categories. Applicants are assessed and selected by a diverse panel of community members, in conjunction with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.

This year, Brodey Weber, candidate for Lincoln City Council, was recognized as Lincoln’s Young Citizen of the Year! Brodey is a lifelong resident of Northwest Lincoln, and is the current Vice President of Client Relations for Mid America Casing Supply, LLC in Airpark.

Weber states, “I feel so fortunate to live in and serve a community that celebrates its young leaders!”

The Lincoln Young Professionals Group is dedicated to empowering young professionals with educational, leadership and networking opportunities. Learn more at lincolnypg.com.

At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha. com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.

• Enhance the look and value of your home

• Choose from a variety of styles, patterns and colors

• Will not crack like plastic, rust like metal or shift and move like pavers and rocks

Defining Boundaries Redefining

Style

Legacy Retirement Communities is excited to share that Emily Sherman was selected as a $1,000 scholarship recipient by the Coalition for Older Adult Health Promotion (COAHP). Emily has worked with seniors for two years. She is a second-year nursing student at Bryan College of Health Sciences. She currently works as an RA/CNA at Legacy Arbors, assisting residents with daily tasks and activities. Her personal mission is to “provide a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment for residents” at Legacy Arbors.

Emily says that being able to give back to the senior community is a special opportunity as seniors have such wisdom and character to share. Emily received two letters of recommendation, including one from Renee Pickerel, Executive Director at Legacy Arbors. Renee wrote, “Emily is an individual who is not only compassionate and caring, but also has an incredible knack for navigating difficult situations. She is self-assured and genuinely interested in helping others. She provides excellent patient care and is always looking out for the patient and their rights.” She says she plans to use this scholarship to help pay for her nursing degree, as well as broaden her service for seniors.

Legacy Retirement Communities believes that people make the Legacy. Learn more about them at legacyretirement.com or contact them at (402) 436-3000.

Food Bank for the Heartland Welcomes Their Newest Team Member

Food Bank for the Heartland wants to give a warm welcome to their newest team member — Calib Miller! Calib joins them as the new Vice President of Community Impact.

As VP of Community Impact, Calib says he will be able to “connect and build relationships with all allies against hunger including board members, partners, donors, staff, volunteers, vendors and neighbors. This role includes oversight of Distribution and Warehouse, Transportation, Quality Assurance, Network Relations, Public Benefits, Volunteer Center and Food Sourcing departments. “I am so pleased to work with a group of hunger heroes that have a meaningful impact on the lives of others each day. Together we thrive!”

When asked what got Calib started with food banking, he said “I’m drawn to this work because I was a hungry kid, and I want to do what I can to make sure other households do not have to worry about their next meal.”

If Calib could only have one meal the rest of his life, he is choosing the “Skyline 5-way (spaghetti, chili, cheese, beans and onions), a coney dog (cheese, onions and mustard), an iced tea half sweet/half unsweetened (no lemon), and an apple crisp if dessert is an option.”

Food Bank for the Heartland is so excited to welcome Calib!

Food Bank for the Heartland’s mission is to eliminate hunger in the Heartland by ensuring consistent access to healthy foods through community partnership. In everything they do, they serve with respect, integrity and urgency. Visit foodbankheartland.org for more information.

HoriSunCongratulatesBeccaHenryon10Years!

Please join HoriSun Hospice in celebrating their Community Relations Coordinator, Becca Henry’s, 10 year anniversary with HoriSun team! They are so thankful for her immense amount of contributions she has made to patients, families, staff and their wonderful partners in the community. HoriSun is incredibly grateful for Becca Henry and has so much gratitude for all her hard work over the past decade. Help HoriSun wish her a wonderful milestone anniversary!

The mission of HoriSun Hospice, Inc. is to deliver the highest level of holistic hospice care with honor and respect for patients and their families. Their vision is to be the most respected, compassionate and utilized hospice care provider, serving all people. HoriSun's purpose is to ensure the delivery of quality, safe, and costeffective hospice services to patients and their families. Learn more at horisunhospice.com.

Higgins Joins Nebraska Community Foundation and Olson Promoted

Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) recently added a new staff member and promoted another, strengthening its team and mission to build stronger communities.

Chloe Higgins joined NCF as Youth Engagement Specialist, a new role that supports the organization’s 1,500 volunteer community leaders in their efforts to invite, include, engage and unleash the goodness of youth and young adults.

Higgins is a beneficiary of NCF’s investment in young people, starting in seventh grade with a Youth Philanthropy Grant from the Nebraska City Community Foundation Fund, an affiliated fund of Nebraska Community Foundation. She served as the inaugural Hometown Intern in 2019 and the Hometown Intern Coordinator in 2020.

Higgins graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business in 2022 with a major in economics, and she is currently enrolled in UNL’s Rural Economic and Community Vitality Certificate. Prior to joining NCF, she served as the Workforce Development Coordinator at the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development.

Additionally, Nebraska Community Foundation promoted Anders Olson to Director of Affiliated Fund Development, a role that creates, coordinates and administers education, training and technical assistance for NCF affiliated funds. Olson will lead NCF efforts to grow community endowments and catalyze positive community impact with the payout of those endowments.

Olson previously worked for NCF as an affiliated fund development coordinator for communities in northeast and north central Nebraska before returning in 2022 as Director of Peer Learning. He obtained his undergraduate degree and his Master of Business Administration from UNL.

NCF unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Visit nebcommfound.org for more information.

“Personal

Banking Like You Remember” is putting you and your family first.

NeighborWorksLincolnAnnouncesNewTeam Member

NeighborWorks Lincoln is thrilled to announce the newest addition to their team: Real Estate Development Associate, Dillon Murman!

Dillon has education in planning, urban studies, philosophy and biology. He most recently received his Master of Science in Spatial Planning from Utrecht University in the Netherlands but also has degrees from the University of Nebraska-Omaha and the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

Dillon's passion for housing, economic development and land use policy is the energy boost their Real Estate Development team needs. Dillon's expertise and enthusiasm will bring new dimensions to their projects and initiatives.

Please join them in welcoming Dillon to NeighborWorks Lincoln!

NeighborWorks Lincoln was founded to combat economic inequities in your neighborhoods and build healthy communities. They strive to embrace diversity and always lean on their core value of inclusion. NeighborWorks Lincoln is a non-profit community housing development organization that actively partners with residents, businesses and public officials to increase the supply of affordable housing and strengthen neighborhoods. Learn more at nwlincoln.org.

B&R Stores Announces Mark Griffin as New CEO

Mark Griffin has stepped into the role of President and CEO of B&R Stores. Mark has been with B&R for eight years and has been instrumental in helping them grow into the company they are today.

“I’m incredibly honored to take on the role of CEO and continue building on the strong foundation Pat and his family has created. The success we’ve had—opening 18 new stores—is a testament to the hard work and dedication of this amazing team,” says Mark Griffin “I’m excited about what’s ahead for B&R Stores.” Pat Raybould will be stepping down as CEO but will remain Chief Strategy Officer. In this role, he’ll focus on growth opportunities like acquisitions and real estate, while continuing to serve as Chairman of the Board.

Mark has over 40 years of experience in the food industry. Before joining B&R, Mark held leadership roles at SpartanNash, Associated Food Stores and Affiliated Foods. His industry expertise and leadership have been keys to their expansion and success.

Pat has deep roots at B&R. His father, Russ Raybould, co-founded B&R Stores in 1964. Over the years, Pat has helped them grow from a single location to 34 stores and has always prioritized their 2,500 employees and the 22 communities they serve.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with Mark for the past eight years, and I’m confident he’s the right person to lead B&R into the future,” says Pat Raybould. “Mark has done an incredible job helping us open new stores and grow our company, and I’m excited to continue working alongside him as we look for new opportunities. I know B&R is in great hands.”

B&R Stores, Inc is a family-owned company and includes several supermarket banners including Russ’s Market, Super Saver, Apple Market, Allen’s, Cash Saver, C&R Markets and Joe’s Market located in Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri.

Please Help Lincoln Select Real Estate Group Welcome Alina Vetsalo!

Alina Vetsalo recently joined the team at Lincoln Select Real Estate Group! Aline grew up in Minnesota, but recently made a life decision to get married, pack her bags and move to Lincoln, where her husband is from.

Real estate has always been a passion of Alina’s, but before getting into real estate, she worked in the medical field for over six years. For four of those six years, she worked at a Retina Eye Clinic where they helped people with their vision. She’s been in the business of helping people for years, but now, instead of helping people with their vision, she helps people create a vision of their dream home which, with her help, can become a reality.

Outside of real estate, she loves to spend time with family and friends, travel, spend time outdoors, attend sporting events and basically anything that makes life exciting.

She is also fluent in Russian, so whether you’re looking to buy or sell, she would love to help. Call Alina today, and she’ll be happy to schedule a consultation. Together, you can take the first steps toward achieving your real estate goals.

Lincoln Select Real Estate Group sells five times more on average than others in Lincoln and is the perfect choice for both selling and buying a home. Learn more at lincolnselectrealestategroup.com.

MadonnaRehabilitationHospitalsCelebrates Dr. Ruthri Goodwin!

In October, the Nebraska Hospital Association honors the state’s most caring and dedicated hospital and health system employees. They were proud to recognize Dr. Ruthri Goodwin from Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals. Dr. Goodwin is the Medical Director for Madonna’s Cancer Rehabilitation Program and is among “The Caring Kind Award” 2024 recipients.

Accolades co-workers use to describe Goodwin include: patient advocate, servant leader and the very definition of a caring and kind human being.

For two years Goodwin has coordinated care plans for patients living with cancer and visited with them daily about their recovery journey, earning both the trust of her patients and the respect of her co-workers. One nominator writes, “Patients trust her with their care because she advocates for them every day and has such a positive aura that is contagious.” Another nominator adds, “Dr. Goodwin exemplifies teamwork. She is a standout leader and is the glue for her therapy team … Dr. Goodwin comes to work with a smile on her face every day. She shares her knowledge and kindness with everyone she meets.” A third nominator writes, “I cannot think of anyone more deserving than Dr. Ruthri Goodwin for ‘The Caring Kind’ award.”

Goodwin has always aspired to be a caring, compassionate and kind doctor. And while she’s always felt a connection to the patients she serves, she says being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022 has only strengthened that connection and commitment to those she serves during their rehabilitation journey.

The NHA’s The Caring Kind Award, now in its 45th year, has honored nearly 2,900 of Nebraska’s most caring and dedicated hospital and health system employees. Congrats, Dr. Goodwin!

Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals are Catholic, non-profit hospitals that provide physical medicine and rehabilitation services to children and adults nationwide. Learn more at madonna.org.

Midwest Bank is Excited to Partner with Nebraska Basketball Player Britt Prince!

Midwest Bank is proud to announce their partnership with Nebraska basketball player, Britt Prince. As an incoming freshman, they are excited to see Britt make her debut out on the court, representing her home state of Nebraska.

Britt has a stellar high school record and several honors and accolades to her name already. But it wasn’t Britt’s record that drew Midwest Bank to partner with her, it was her reputation of a strong work ethic, outstanding character and commitment to the values and beliefs of her home state. They are same values and beliefs that they have at Midwest Bank. Midwest Bank is thrilled to partner with Britt as she starts her collegiate basketball journey.

Midwest Bank values local. They have a strong tradition of family, initiative, integrity and community. Learn more about their mission and values at midwest.bank.

Kelly Ross of ECHO Collective Announced as 2024-2025 Obama Foundation Leader

Kelly Ross was announced that she is among 205 leaders selected to join the Obama Foundation Leaders program. The program trains participants around the world in leadership development and civic engagement to help build their skills and scale their work across public, private and nonprofit sectors. Ross will be one of just 100 Leaders participating in the Leaders United States program.

Kelly Ross, a Lincoln, Nebraska native, graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in Spanish and has spent her career supporting refugees and immigrants as a caseworker, paralegal and educator. Her passion for helping New Americans navigate complex barriers inspired her to found ECHO Collective in 2020, a nonprofit empowering women entrepreneurs through business education and mentorship. Under her leadership, ECHO has helped over 50 women successfully start or grow their businesses, fostering economic independence and community impact. In 2023, Ross’s work earned her the prestigious Inspire Founders Award, recognizing her visionary leadership and dedication to serving underserved communities.

As part of the six-month program, these dedicated changemakers will convene virtually each week for interactive sessions designed to help them drive change by honing their leadership skills, building deep relationships with their peers, and engaging with thought leaders and members of the Obama Foundation community. They will also have an opportunity to participate in various virtual experiences and special events, including one-on-one conversations with experienced mentors in the Foundation's global network.

The Obama Foundation Leaders USA Program, now in its second year, was inspired by the leadership values and approach of President and Mrs. Obama. The program draws on the Foundation’s ‘Hope to Action’ curriculum to support Leaders in engaging diverse perspectives, building collective power and making tangible, sustainable progress towards a better world. The Leaders USA Program has a particular focus on strengthening democratic culture.

The Obama Foundation Leaders program is designed to further inspire, empower and connect emerging leaders from Africa, AsiaPacific, Europe and the United States to change their respective communities and the world. To learn more, visit obama.org/leaders.

The REALTORS Association of Lincoln Celebrates New Committee Members

Congratulations to these dedicated REALTORS® who have been appointed to their new roles on National Association of REALTORS® 2025 Committees!

These appointments not only recognize your hard work and achievements but also your commitment to excellence and service in the real estate industry!

• Leighun Brabec - HOME Real Estate

• Pat Ohmberger - HOME Real Estate

• Tami Lambie - Woods Bros. Realty

• Arla Meyer - Nebraska Realty

• Connie Burleigh - CJ Burleigh Real Estate

• Amy Gewecke - Woods Bros. Realty

• Julie Joeckel - Woods Bros. Realty

• Darlene Starman - Woods Bros. Realty

Congratulations to all those who were appointed!

The National Association of REALTORS® is a leading force in organized real estate, dedicated to its members' success. They offer you the chance to build your expertise and position yourself as an ethical professional your clients and community can rely on. Learn more at nar.realtor.

The Lymphedema Clinic Welcomes Sydney to Their Team!

Meet Sydney! She is an OT student that will be with The Lymphedema Clinic for 12 weeks! Sydney goes to Creighton University and is pursuing a Doctorate of Occupational Therapy. She is from a small town in Nebraska called Geneva.

“I always knew I wanted to help people get back to things they enjoying doing and that is what drew me to OT,” says Sydney

Though lymphedema therapy is something different from what she’s used to, Sydney is stepping up to the plate with confidence, getting out of her comfort zone and gaining more knowledge on her path to her doctorate.

The Lymphedema Clinic strives to treat conditions of swelling (edema) to help people live their lives to the fullest! To learn more or book an appointment to make sure you’re feeling your best, visit llotnebraska.com.

CEDARSAnnouncesChildCareWorkerof theYear

CEDARS Family Partner, Peter, was recently named Child Care Worker of the Year by the Nebraska Association of Homes & Services for Children.

This award is presented to a direct-care staff member that goes above and beyond in their service to children and families. They stand out from their colleagues in dedication and service to youth and lead by example.

Thank you, Peter, for all you do for the kids and families in Nebraska. CEDARS is grateful to have you on their team!

CEDARS’ mission is to help children and youth achieve safety, stability and enduring family relationships. Each day, CEDARS provides this mission-focused work to over 1,000 kids through an array of programs. In the last year, CEDARS supported 2,531 kids and families. Learn more at cedarskids.org.

BrainInjuryAllianceof NebraskaCelebrates Peggy Reisher

Congratulations to Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska’s Executive Director, Peggy Reisher, for her award from National Association of State Head Injury Administrators - NASHIA last month!

Peggy Reisher was one of the first organizational leaders to develop partnerships with the juvenile justice system in her state, providing training and education related to youth and brain injuries. She entered NASHIA’s leading practices academy to expand this work into a sustainable program that is now supporting many justiceinvolved youths with brain injuries. She has also expanded this work to support adults in the criminal legal system, survivors of intimate partner violence and other vulnerable populations.

Through its Friend of NASHIA Award, NASHIA recognizes an individual who has consistently provided professional expertise and assistance to ensure that NASHIA offers quality information, materials, training and other opportunities to help states incorporate “best practices” into state programs and services, as well as to provide training to brain injury program administrators.

Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska says they’re lucky to have Peggy Reisher as their Executive Director and they love seeing her hard work recognized!

Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska’s mission is to create a better future for all Nebraskans through brain injury prevention, education, advocacy and support. Visit biane.org for more information.

United Way of Lincoln is Celebrating Staci Hass!

United Way of Lincoln was honored to present Staci Hass, departing Chair of Women United, with the Women in Philanthropy Visionary Award for her commitment to giving back and her dedication to furthering the mission of Women in Philanthropy and Women United!

The award recognizes those that consistently promote the constant awareness of health and wellness and serves as a model of how individuals, commerce, government or industry in the health sector interact to improve the quality of life for those in the community. Congratulations Staci!

United Way of Lincoln’s mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of Lincoln and Lancaster County. When a child succeeds in school, the benefits can be seen throughout the entire community. They are making the community stronger for everyone. Learn more and support their mission by visiting unitedwaylincoln.org.

CountryHouse Hires a New District Culinary Manager!

CountryHouse would like to announce and thank their new District Culinary Manager, Chad Vanek, for all his hard work so far! Chad has a strong background in the culinary world and is always bringing his excellent ideas to their menu. Chad has a passion for connecting with the residents at CountryHouse and the team is consistently excited to see what he brings to the plate every day! He is always blessing the residents with new and exciting tasty meals. Thank you Chad! CountryHouse provides exceptional memory care, primarily for those with Alzheimer’s disease and related types of dementia. Most importantly, CountryHouse feels like home. Their mission is to treat all of those in their care like family. Since the 1990’s, they’ve been helping families coast to coast, and now they are 13 communities strong. Learn more about their mission at countryhouse.net.

E & A Consulting Congratulates Zach on 20 Years!

Zach Jilek joined E & A Consulting in 2004 to start the environmental services team as an army of one. Now in 2024, Zach oversees a team of environmental scientists and is a shareholder at E&A. E&A thanks Zach for his many years of dedication.

"What I have loved most about my career at E&A has been the opportunity to expand our environmental services and grow a team from the ground up,” says Zach. “It has been incredibly rewarding to grow our services and build such a talented group of professionals. Watching them thrive while providing exceptional services to our clients has been a highlight of my journey.”

Zach is proud of his work as the Environmental Services Department Manager and E&A is grateful to have him on their team!

“I never would have imagined this when I started in 2004 as an army of one, offering just one service: SWPPP Inspections. I take immense pride in the team and department I’ve built over the past 20 years."

E&A is a planning, engineering, environmental and field services company with roots planted firmly in the Midwest. Learn more at eacg.com.

With winter right around the corner, it’s important to make sure that your heating system is up to date and powerful enough to help you brave the Nebraska chill. That’s why Custom Cooling and Heating Inc. wants to remind you to prepare with the Daikin FIT for the ultimate heating performance. Stay warm with a Daikin FIT system, and contact Custom Cooling and Heating today to learn more about their available air conditioner, dual fuel applications and, most importantly, their heat pump!

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, cooling and heating account for about half a home’s energy usage. High quality heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems are critical to managing energy consumption. At Custom Cooling & Heating, they provide memberships to ensure your home is using its energy efficiently. Plus, according to the American Lung Association, 90% of people’s time is spent indoors. Air quality is crucial to your health. Poor air quality impacts everyone, disrupts your daily life and can even lead to health problems.

Daikin FIT is revolutionizing indoor comfort throughout your entire house. It has state-of-art heat pump heating, ventilation and air conditioning system that won’t compromise on comfort and connects to houses existing air ducts.

When you purchase an installation of a Daikin FIT system through Custom Cooling and Heating Inc., you’re investing in a system technology developed to help you meet budget and efficiency goals. By continuously running at low energy conserving levels, the air is consistently filtered; the Daikin Fit will help drastically improve your comfort level by also controlling humidity.

At Custom Cooling & Heating, they ensure the air you breathe indoors is as healthy as it can be. They can help you achieve consistent home comfort, bring you peace of mind and create a healthy environment for your family, and make sure you stay warm all winter long.

Their mission is to exceed your expectations daily. Serving Lincoln since 1982, Custom Cooling & Heating has been a trusted name in home comfort for generations. They’ve built a reputation for excellence by focusing on quality workmanship, exceptional customer service and changing their neighbors’ lives!

This Giving Tuesday, Help Cancer Patients Without Leaving Your Home

HopeSpoke Seeks Warm Coats for Youth this Winter

This holiday season, you don’t have to attend an inperson event or fundraiser to make a meaningful difference for cancer patients in need. On Tuesday, December 3, the Heartland Cancer Foundation (HCF) will be participating in Giving Tuesday, a unique opportunity to show virtual support by making a gift of any size to help neighbors who are struggling with transportation and housing costs during their cancer treatment.

Everyday bills like utilities and fuel should never be barriers for those facing cancer, yet many in the community struggle to afford them alongside mounting medical expenses. Your donation can ease these burdens; ensuring patients get the care they need without the added stress of financial worries.

Small contributions make more of a difference than you might think. For example, just $25 covers a roundtrip ride to a critical treatment session.

By participating in Giving Tuesday, you directly support HCF’s mission of providing practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in our community who need extra support. Whether it’s $25 or $100, every donation helps remove the barriers to care, so patients can focus on healing.

Visit heartlandcancerfoundation.org on or near December 3rd to contribute. You can support those bravely battling both cancer and financial hardship. Your compassionate contribution could be the spark of hope they desperately need.

The Heartland Cancer Foundation believes no cancer patient should fall behind on treatment because they struggle to afford their everyday expenses. Their mission is to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in the community so they can focus on what matters most: healing. Reach out and donate through their website at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

The Junior League of Lincoln is Hosting a 2024 Holiday Home Tour

Join The Junior League of Lincoln for the second annual Holiday Home Tour fundraiser! You’ll be able to enjoy Lincoln’s historical Country Club neighborhood and be inspired by the beautiful holiday decorations, curated by a variety of Lincoln designers. This event takes place on Saturday, November 16, 1-4 p.m. This is a great opportunity to view stunning historic homes and be inspired by a variety of design styles while supporting a great cause!

There are two types of tickets available:

1. General Admission Ticket: Tour four stunning holiday homes in the Country Club neighborhood from 1-4 p.m.

2. VIP Ticket: After you tour the homes, the fun continues at the Country Club of Lincoln with our exclusive VIP after party from 3-5 p.m. This ticket includes general admission to all homes on the tour and admission to the VIP event. Only 75 available!

Purchase your tickets today at lincoln.jl.org/events/2024-holidayhome-tour.

This event specifically supports the programs and mission of The Junior League of Lincoln. The Junior League betters the Lincoln community through voluntarism and developing women into civic leaders. The Junior League’s unique programs include the Lincoln Diaper Bank, which provides diapers in the Lincoln community to those in need and the Homestart Program, which offers household goods for young adults transitioning to independence. Learn more at lincoln.jl.org.

HopeSpoke seeks community help to provide warm winter gear for teenage boys who are receiving residential mental and behavioral health treatment at HopeSpoke’s Therapeutic Group Home.

Donations to the Warm Coats campaign will allow each boy to select a new coat, boots, hat and gloves for the coming winter, and will help to purchase new clothing for youth in need all year long. Many teens come to the residence with little to no clothing or possessions

“The kids who come to us don’t have coats, and some have never had a new coat,” said Pat Sailors, HopeSpoke’s Director of Crisis and Residential Services. “It’s hard to describe the way a kid’s face lights up when they get to pick out a new coat that’s all theirs.”

HopeSpoke’s Therapeutic Group Home provides a holistic, traumainformed, strength-based approach to mental and behavioral health treatment for boys ages 13-18. Residents are involved in a structured routine of individual, group and family therapies to address their treatment goals.

To support the Warm Coats campaign, make a gift online at www. hopespoke.org/donate; mail donations to HopeSpoke at 2444 O St.; or contact Suzy Thompson, at sthompson@hopespoke.org.

HopeSpoke’s founders had a big vision—for all children and families to be healthy and hopeful. And together with strong affiliations, they’ve been moving forward and making it happen ever since. Visit hopespoke.com for more information.

ChristianRecordServicesAnnouncesChanges to Membership Enrollment Process

Domesti-PUPS is Opening a New Location

Christian Record Services (CRS) is excited to announce the implementation of a more efficient membership enrollment process. Anyone who is blind, visually impaired or has difficulty holding or focusing on printed materials should be encouraged to email services@christianrecord.org or call (402) 488-0981 Option 3 to become a member and gain access to free online resources.

The resources include free Bibles in large print, braille and audio formats, a correspondence Bible School, Anne Lowe scholarships awarded annually to qualified undergraduate students, a lending library with more than 2,000 resources, a summer camp program with locations across the United States, and PhoneFaith, offering daily dial-in presentations. All online resources are available to members around the world.

"I am proud to be part of a ministry that constantly strives to serve each of its members to the highest capacity,” says Diane Thurber, President of CRS. "Sometimes we make decisions that shift how we serve, but, in the end, our focus and vision remain the same. Together, we are committed to the blind community, enriching every life journey through inspirational, educational and informative programs and resources.”

For more information about Christian Record Services, visit christianrecord.org.

Vision Maker Media and The Ross Media Arts Center Announce Native American Film Series 2024 on November 11

Vision Maker Media and The Ross Media Arts Center Native American Film Series 2024 are screening What Was Ours. A story of a young journalist and a teenage powwow princess traveling with an elder in search of missing artifacts in the Chicago Field Museum’s archives. They discover a trove of ancestral cultural objects, setting them on a journey of repatriation and hopeful reconnection.

The screening takes place Monday, November 11, 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 are 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.

Domesti-PUPS is opening a new location at 4630 Y St.! To celebrate this, they will be hosting play groups the first and the third Saturday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Their new building has a larger space which allows them to provide more public training classes and additional training options for their service and therapy dogs. The new space is perfect training new and old pups. Their mission has always been to improve the quality of life for persons with special needs through the assistance of animals and to promote awareness through education, and with their new space, they can do this more efficiently than ever!

Domesti-PUPS is 501c3 community organization based in Lincoln. They provide therapy dogs, service dogs for persons with disabilities and obedience trained rescue dogs. They believe that dogs can help everyone in a variety of ways. Learn more about their mission and adopt a dog through their website at domesti-pups.org.

Ignite Lincoln Partners with The Foundry

For over 15 years, Ignite Lincoln has been a beacon of inspiration within the community. This event has always been organized by the community, for the community and has served as a vital community fundraiser, contributing over $100,000 to support local nonprofits.

As Ignite Lincoln looks forward to their next event, Ignite Lincoln 16 on Thursday, April 17, 2025, they are thrilled to announce their partnership with The Foundry Community. Their collaboration with The Foundry represents a deeper commitment to collaborate with the Lincoln community. The Foundry recognizes that those who work closely with community issues are best positioned to guide them in taking this event to the next level of robust support.

The Foundry is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting, educating and empowering Nebraska's purpose-driven community. Foundry develops innovative programs and events to help community members address the needs and concerns that impact them most through nonprofit support, incubation, training and more.

As they continue their journey, Ignite Lincoln remains a powerful testament to the community's spirit, bringing them together to be inspired and to invest in the collective future. The Foundry will be crucial in curating speakers and shaping content around the most urgent and impactful opportunities for supporting the Lincoln community.

Ignite Lincoln are excited to embark on this partnership with The Foundry. They are confident that together, they will create an unforgettable evening that embodies the spirit of community, inspiration and Lincoln.

Ignite Lincoln 16 is on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the Rococo venue. The community is invited to join in igniting their passions and coming together to uplift and celebrate the Lincoln community.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit ignitelincoln. org. Contact Beth Sachtjen at hello@ignitelincoln.org or beth@ thefoundry.co for any questions.

Free Thanksgiving Meals Served at People’s

City Mission

People’s City Mission (PCM) doesn’t want anyone to be alone on the holidays. They will once again be serving a full Thanksgiving meal to not only all of the homeless in Lincoln, but to anyone who would otherwise be alone on Thanksgiving and could use a meal. They start serving at 11:30 a.m. and will go until 1:30 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. They expect to serve around 700 meals.

Five Years of Nebraska Youth Survey Data Reveal Strong Preference for Rural Communities

PCM’s Help Center will also be giving away 500 Thanksgiving meal baskets to those in need. Giveaway will take place on Saturday, November 23, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., or until supplies run out.

If you would like to help, they are accepting donations of frozen turkeys, pies, plus ingredients for side dishes (no prepared sides, please). Donations can be dropped off at the Shelter at 110 Q St. or at the Help Center at 6800 P St. Preferably by Wednesday, November 20.

One more way to help: You can buy just one meal for a homeless person. It only costs the Mission $2.77. You can go to their website at pcmlincoln.org and click DONATE. For more information, call (402) 475-1303.

The People’s City Mission is to be a witness for Christ among the poor and homeless, to serve their needs and to advocate their cause to the community at large. Learn more at pcmlincoln.org.

Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame Dinner & Auction: A Night to Remember

The inaugural Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame Dinner and Auction, held on September 27 at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, was an inspiring evening celebrating local business leaders and supporting youth entrepreneurship.

Five visionary laureates—Marc LeBaron (Lincoln Industries), Nick Cusick (Bison, Inc.), Tom Smith (D.A. Davidson), Dan Remigio, and Earl Hatfield—were honored for their contributions to the business community. Their stories of success and generosity deeply inspired the audience.

The night included a silent auction, delicious dinner and remarks from special guest speakers, all highlighting Junior Achievement’s impact on students in Lincoln. Attendees enjoyed bidding on exciting auction items, with proceeds going directly to support JA’s educational programs.

The evening's highlight was the induction of the laureates, whose wisdom and stories underscored the value of mentorship and community support.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees and sponsors, the event raised over $141,000, supporting JA’s mission to prepare young people for success. Junior Achievement is excited for the future as they continue shaping tomorrow’s business leaders—one student at a time.

Junior Achievement is dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their future and make smart academic and economic choices. Through volunteer-delivered, experiential learning programs, JA empowers students to dream big and reach their potential.

More than 4,000 students representing 43 schools across Greater Nebraska have overwhelmingly indicated their penchant for small communities according to five years of cumulative data released by Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) and the Center for Public Affairs Research (CPAR) at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

NCF and CPAR began the Nebraska Youth Survey initiative in 2020 in an effort to better understand the priorities and perspectives of middle and high school students living in communities from Diller (population 260), to Norfolk (population 25,928).

Feedback has remained consistent over the past five years, often with increasing favorability for rural communities over time. Key findings taking into account all 4,063 responses gathered since 2020 include: Students prefer small towns and report no stigma attached to living in rural places. When asked about ideal community size, students most often answer “small like my hometown.” A staggering 73% said there is no negative stigma with returning to or staying in the place you live now.

Their safety is a top priority. Students have selected safety from violence and theft, good schools and proximity to family as the top three most important factors, in that order, for five consecutive years. Bullying (both online and in-person) is a common occurrence among Nebraska youth with a cumulative 44% reporting they have experienced it.

Many Young Nebraskans want to remain in the state. Of the over 4,000 students surveyed, 59% say they are somewhat or extremely likely to live in the area they live now as an adult.

Findings from the Nebraska Youth Survey have been used extensively over the years by Nebraska Community Foundation’s network composed of 270 communities and 1,500 volunteers. For instance, only 34% of student respondents have agreed with the statement “I play a role in this community” since the survey began. In response, volunteers across the NCF network have been devising numerous strategies to better engage young people.

“Our extensive youth survey work is helping NCF and the thousands of leaders we work with build communities of choice for the leaders of tomorrow,” said Jeff Yost, president and CEO of Nebraska Community Foundation.

For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.

It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You!

At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the 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.

The First NARCAN Vending

Machine in Nebraska Installed at CenterPointe

On September 24, a NARCAN Vending Machine was installed at CenterPointe! NARCAN is now more accessible in Lincoln, thanks to a partnership with Region V and the Nebraska Pharmacists Association. The NARCAN Vending Machine includes:

• Narcan: A life-saving medication that can reduce an opioid overdose

• Deterra: a drug destruction bag

• Safe sex kits

• First aid kits

Anyone can now go into the CenterPointe Campus for Health and WellBeing lobby, located at 2202 S 11th St., and access these items at no cost, with no questions asked. This machine is the first of its kind in Nebraska!

The NARCAN Vending Machine is another element of CenterPointe’s Compassionate, Harm Reduction approach: meeting people where they are in their journey of recovery.

Over the past 50 years, CenterPointe has grown to include over forty programs including mental health and substance use treatment, primary care services, rehabilitation, medication management, 24hour crisis response and housing. Learn more about them and their mission at centerpointe.org.

NebraskaDiaperBankHandsOut8Millionth Diaper to Lincoln Mom

Nebraska Diaper Bank (NDB) celebrated a major milestone by distributing its 8 millionth diaper to a mother in need at the Center For People in Lincoln. This special ceremony highlighted the organization’s efforts to address diaper need in the community and across the state.

Tegan Reed, Executive Director of Nebraska Diaper Bank, emphasized the impact of this achievement and the ongoing need for support to help families facing financial challenges. “We know there are 4,100 babies in Lincoln who need diapers. To meet that need, we would need to provide 3.2 million diapers just in Lancaster County,” said Reed.

Trinity, a mother of four, explained how crucial the diaper support has been for her family. “It’s just harder trying to keep up with diapers, especially with the prices and sometimes when you have to get the really cheap ones, it’s just not the best quality and can irritate my kids’ skin,” she shared.

Clean diapers are essential for the health and well-being of babies, yet many families struggle to afford them. Last year, NDB distributed over 2.8 million diapers to 10,784 babies, and they're on track to distribute 3.4 million in 2024.

NDB has a high need for businesses to volunteer or host a diaper drive. Gather coworkers, collect diapers and raise awareness. Download the toolkit on Nebraska Diaper Bank’s website at nebraskadiaperbank.org.

For more information, call (402) 557-8205 or email mikaela@ nebraskadiaperbank.org to schedule a diaper wrap or mobile wrap.

The Arc of Lincoln Thanks the Sponsors and AttendeesandHoneySundayonNovember3!

The Arc of Lincoln’s Harvest Moon Award Banquet and Auction was a success! Congratulations to Self-Advocate Carrie O’Brien, Community Housing Advocates Drew Stange and Derek Zimmerman, Education Advocates Sam Klemme, Tom Thorpe and Michael Wiess, Community Advocate Partners Lions Lincoln Star City Club, Community Advocates Becci Olander and Family and Saltdogs Team lead Kanai Kuhnel, and Shane Tritz and Community Advocate Partners UNL Athletic Department represented by Keith Zimmer and Katy Frazier.

The silent auction went off without a hitch and they have the sponsors and the attendees to thank for that. The Arc of Lincoln shares a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this event possible. And now it’s time to look towards the future!

Now, The Arc of Lincoln announces 2024 Honey Sunday on November 3. This was originally started in Grand Island, NE to raise funds to hire special education teachers. To purchase your Honey Bears please call The Arc of Lincoln office at 402-421-8866 or email director@ arclincoln.org. The Arc of Lincoln is a nonprofit advocacy organization that serves people of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Learn more at advocacypartnership.org.

KeepNebraskaBeautiful’sMaterialsExchange Program Wins Waste Diversion Award

Keep Nebraska Beautiful’s Materials Exchange Program was recently named the Waste Diversion Project of the Year at the Nebraska Recycling Council’s annual Fall Conference on Tuesday, September 17. This prestigious recognition highlights the program’s critical role in reducing landfill waste across Nebraska.

Since its inception in 1994, the Materials Exchange Program has diverted over 181,000 tons of materials from landfills, helping businesses and industries across 284 Nebraska communities save $6.9 million in dumping/hazardous waste disposal fees and repurpose or recycle by-products such as plastics, rubber, metals and more.

In the last five years alone, the program also successfully helped 232 schools and nonprofits receive over 10,000 donated items like printers, chairs, file folders and other supplies, saving nonprofit or school participants significant purchasing costs and diverting 290,000 lbs of items from Nebraska landfills!

The Materials Exchange Program is a free service that connects businesses looking to either source or discard reusable materials. Through this initiative, Keep Nebraska Beautiful helps facilitate sustainable partnerships that promote waste reduction, ensuring materials are either repurposed in production or recycled for other uses.

The program’s impact is not only a testament to Keep Nebraska Beautiful’s commitment to sustainability but also a reflection of how collaborative efforts can lead to significant environmental and economic benefits.

Watch their acceptance video here, nrcne.org/2024-nrc-conference or visit knb.org for more information.

Final Catholic Social Services Monthly Warehouse

Sale of the year set for Friday, November 22

Voicesof HopeInvitesYoutoAdoptaFamily this Christmas

For the final time this year, Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) will open up its warehouse to the general public for a Warehouse Sale. The CSS warehouse is located at 1300 North 14th Street. The final sale of 2024 is slated for Friday, November 22 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. You can help CSS sustain “Hope in the Good Life” while getting great deals on gently used appliances, new and gently used clothing and gently used shoes, books and toys. There’s a great selection of dressers and all living room chairs are priced at just $25.00! Shoppers are asked to bring their own bags; cash and checks not accepted, payment by card only. All proceeds from the CSS Warehouse Sale go to support the work of the agency.

Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all people regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their services cover 24,000 square miles offering charitable assistance through the Family Support Services, providing crucial financial assistance; the St. Gianna Program; Food Market and Meal Services; Refugee Resettlement; Immigration Legal Services and Employment Services. Learn more at csshope.org.

An Evening Among Angels: Black Tie Affair Raises $510,000 for Angels Among Us

This Christmas, give the gift of Hope and adopt a family that Voices of Hope is serving this holiday season. Each year, Voices of Hope pairs with 100 families, which equals about 300 women and their children, with generous donors that adopt them for the holidays, and now it’s that time of year again! For more information on adopting a family, please contact their Children’s services coordinator Kendra at Kendra@voicesofhopelincoln.org.

You can also contribute to their holiday drive by donating gifts, gift cards or any financial contributions that will help spread the holiday cheer.

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 two-fold:

To provide services to victims and their significant others who are faced with the traumatic aftermath of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, incest and childhood abuse and

To provide information about these crimes for the purposes of citizen awareness, prevention and to enhance the sensitivity and professional understanding of those who may work with individuals with these problems.

Learn more at voicesofhopelincoln.org.

On October 4, Angels Among Us (AAU) hosted its annual gala at A View West Shores. An Evening Among Angels: Black Tie Affair was a night to remember: an unprecedented 600 guests united to raise over $510,000 for the pediatric cancer families residing and/or being treated in Nebraska.

The elegant evening brought together community leaders, advocates and pediatric cancer families from across Nebraska and western Iowa. Attendees enjoyed a night of luxurious views, a decadent dinner experience provided by Salted EDGE and palpable generosity in the room.

The night would not have been possible without the support of Jeremy and Renee Vokt, longtime supporters of AAU, who served as honorary chairs. AAU would also like to thank signature sponsors Aflac, Fusion, KLC Logistics, Renaissance Financial and Truck Center Companies for their contributions to the event.

AAU thanks the generous donors who attended the gala and continue to champion their mission. With increasing costs in everyday life, it’s imperative that AAU assist the pediatric cancer families of Nebraska so that they can take care of what matters most.

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. Since 2006, over 720 families have been supported with over $5 million in financial support. If you are interested in learning more about AAU’s mission, please contact Ashley McMurchie at ashley@ myangelsamongus.org or by calling (402) 934-0999.

16th Annual YMCA of Lincoln Turkey Trot Returns to Downtown Lincoln November 28

The YMCA of Lincoln Turkey Trot presented by Union Bank & Trust returns for its 16th year as one of the highly favored traditions on Thanksgiving morning. Held on Thursday, November 28, this year’s family friendly event heads to the streets of downtown Lincoln in the Railyard, and features a 5K Race along with a One-Mile Fun Run/Walk and free Tot Trot. Early registration is available online at YMCALincoln.org/ turkeytrot24 through Sunday, November 24, however turkey trotters can register onsite as late as Thanksgiving morning.

Proceeds from the Turkey Trot support 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, swim lessons, youth sports, senior activities and more.

The registration fee for this year’s race is $20/person for the OneMile Fun Run/Walk, $35/person for the 5K or $72 for a family (up to five members) to participate in the Fun Run/Walk either in person or virtually.

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.

Mosaic Announces Third Annual “Coco and Carols” Event

ShinetheLightonHungerandHomelessness with Matt Talbot

Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is thrilled to announce the third annual “Coco and Carols” holiday event at Southwood Church. The event aims to bring together their esteemed donors, sponsors and community partners for a joyous occasion. Attendees will be treated to hot cocoa, holiday carols and the chance to interact with their dedicated staff and the people they support. This heartwarming event provides a unique opportunity to hear from their Executive Director, Nate Panowitz, as he shares exciting updates on Mosaic’s impact on Southeast Nebraska and their vision for the future. “Coco and Carols” is not just a holiday celebration, but also a time for them to come together and reflect on the lives they’ve touched and the meaningful work that lies ahead. They are eager to strengthen their connections with their donors, sponsors and supporters as they strive to create more opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling lives here in Lincoln.

Mosaic recognizes that people with intellectual disabilities desire and deserve greater independence and closer ties to the community. By developing and expanding community connections, they create new social, volunteer and employment opportunities. Learn more and support their mission at mosaicinfo.org/locations/nebraska/ southeast-ne.

Christian Businessmen’s Connection Launches Powerful Online Resource Platform

Lincoln Christian Businessmen’s Connection (CBMC) is excited to announce the launch of the newly designed “Advance” website.

For more than 90 years, CBMC has created resources and training programs to empower individuals to represent Christ globally in the workplace and personal life. CBMC Advance is an interactive digital platform that enhances the functionality and accessibility of these resources. Small group evangelism training options like Living Proof Adventure and the established discipleship tool, Operation Timothy, can now be easily accessed digitally across all technology platforms. An overview of the new system can be found at advance.cbmc.com/public/eng/about.

By embracing the ever-evolving landscape of technology, CBMC Advance provides a dynamic space where individuals can hone their skills, deepen their faith, and make an impact in their professional and personal lives. Through this innovative platform, individuals are not only equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive as Christ-followers, but also connect and build impactful relationships with others to help them grow in their Christian faith. CBMC is a movement of men who believe God has called them to take Christ to the marketplace. CBMC equips men to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually. Lincoln CBMC is part of a global ministry in 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.

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is November 17-23. This is an annual program where people come together across the country to draw attention to the problems of hunger and homelessness. This year, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is asking local businesses and community groups to hold blanket drives. New and gently used blankets are needed year-round for individuals experiencing homelessness, but the need is especially great during the winter.

Individuals and groups can also join Matt Talbot in shining the light on hunger and homelessness in Lincoln by participating in their second annual Shine the Light Walk on Sunday, December 8. The one-mile family-friendly walk at Antelope Park allows community members to imagine what homelessness feels like in the winter and learn how to help.

“One of our core values at Matt Talbot is compassion,” said Alynn Sampson, Executive Director. “We invite the community to join us to genuinely understand and help alleviate the suffering associated with homelessness, especially during the cold winter months.”

Contact Lori Wellman at lori.wellman@mtko.org for more information about holding a blanket drive.

Learn more and register for the Shine the Light Walk at mtko.org.

GoodwillAchievesThree-YearCARFAccreditation

Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been informed by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitative Facilities (CARF) that it has earned accreditation for a period of three years for its Retail Organizational Employment (ROE) program. This outcome is the highest possible level of accreditation and is awarded to organizations that show substantial fulfillment of the standards established by CARF.

Among its areas of strength, Goodwill received high praise from CARF surveyors for its welcoming atmosphere, mission-driven team and genuine respect for program participants.

“Current participants, previous participants, and partner agencies spoke highly of the assistance received,” the report said. “One participant stated she wished she had found employment sooner because her co-workers have become her second family.”

In the CARF exit meeting, one surveyor said that she would feel comfortable sending a friend or relative to receive services from Goodwill. She also said that she would feel welcomed and want to work for Goodwill herself.

Goodwill uses revenue generated by its retail stores to enhance its employment services and programs and meet the needs of job seekers in the community. An organization receiving a three-year CARF accreditation outcome has put itself through a rigorous peer review process and has demonstrated that its programs and services are of the highest quality, measurable, and accountable.

The latest action marks the 11th consecutive three-year accreditation outcome awarded to Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. by CARF, an international accrediting body.

Learn more at lincolngoodwill.org.

LincolnBikeKitchenHostedaRibbonCutting!

Help welcome Lincoln Bike Community to their new home in the historic Muny Building, located at the treat of Lincoln’s trails system and the community they serve! With more space and a central location, they can continue their important work and preserve this special Lincoln landmark. The City is providing this space free of charge to LBK in exchange for 250 bikes each year that they will distribute for free to children through the Community Learning Centers. Thank you, Lincoln Bike Kitchen staff and supporters, for helping Lincoln pedal toward a larger goal: to become the quality-of-life capital of the state!

The Mission of the Lincoln Bike Kitchen is to transform lives by making cycling available to everyone. They are a community-building organization that advocates for utilitarian bicycling as a vital part of a healthy, equitable and sustainable community. They connect cycling to broader environmental and social issues through outreach and education. Learn more at lincolnbikekitchen.org.

The DWFI and Invest Nebraska have Released Their 2024 Nebraska AgTech Innovation Ecosystem Map

HonortheVeteransinYourCommunityatthe Lincoln Veterans Parade

Come celebrate the service members, veterans, their families and this great community at the sixth annual Lincoln Veterans Parade on Sunday, November 10. See local veteran service organizations, military units, youth organizations, supportive businesses, classic cars and marching bands. This year the Lincoln Veterans Parade is honoring the service members who've made the ultimate sacrifice and those families carrying on their memory.

Parade route starts at S 21st and K St., moves westbound to S 14th St. Free street and lot parking is available along the route. Both the parade line at S 21st St. and opening ceremony at the Capitol Building, starts at 2 p.m. The Lincoln Veterans Parade will be broadcast live on LNKTV local programming and YouTube.

Learn more at lincolnveteransparade.org.

Since 2021, The Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute and Invest Nebraska with The Combine has watched Nebraska grown with each “Nebraska AgTech startup ecosystem map”. Since its inception, more than 10 new AgTech startups have been founded in Nebraska and the broader innovation system has grown, contributing heavily to the economic development.

The new 2024 map looks at the evolving and expanding entrepreneurial landscape in Nebraska and breaks it down into five categories:

1. Robotics and Automation startups offer value propositions intended to reduce manual labor and to undertake dangerous or unpleasant jobs. This group of startups relies heavily on in situ hardware and telemetry including sensors and autonomous vehicles

2. Farm Management and Precision Ag startups use data-driven approaches to improve decision making about crop or animal management. Both software and hardware products are used to assess crop health, detect diseases and to fine-tune the application of inputs such as water, fertilizers and chemicals.

3. Ag Marketplace startups use software solutions to facilitate the buying and selling of agricultural products, equipment and services

4. Ag Fintech startups offer a range of financial services to meet agricultural producers’ needs around accessing working capital and managing risk.

5. Ag Biotech startups use genetic engineering to deliver innovations applying beneficial microbes, improving animal or crop breeding or preventing disease.

This map helps the startups get the help and support they need within Nebraska’s broader entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The Combine AgTech Incubator supports agriculture technology founders with the individualized support they need to lead in agriculture innovation. Learn more at nebraskacombine.com.

Global Ties Nebraska to Host International Delegation in November

Global Ties Nebraska (formerly known as the Lincoln Council for International Visitors) will be hosting a distinguished delegation of international leaders as part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), November 13-19. The group will welcome educational leaders from Burma, Greenland, Israel, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Uganda and Ukraine as part of a three-week exchange program focused on Education in the Digital Age.

The IVLP is the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program, bringing together current and emerging foreign leaders to the United States to foster mutual understanding and establish long-term professional relationships. Selected by the U.S. Embassy in their respective countries, the visiting delegation includes key figures in education who are working to shape digital learning in their nations.

During their time in Lincoln, participants will engage in professional meetings, collaborative discussions and site visits tailored to their interests in education and technology. These meetings align with the United States’ foreign policy objectives, offering participants the opportunity to learn from local education experts, explore innovative practices and share insights from their home countries.

“We are excited to host this exceptional group of leaders and provide them with a meaningful exchange experience in Lincoln,” said Crystal Bock Thiessen, Executive Director of Global Ties Nebraska. “This visit reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering international collaboration and building connections that benefit both our local community and the world.”

Global Ties Nebraska is dedicated to creating opportunities for international exchange and promoting cultural understanding within the Lincoln community. To learn more about how you can get involved—whether by hosting international visitors, attending events or volunteering—visit lciv.org or follow Global Ties Nebraska socials for updates.

CASAforLancasterCountyisCelebratingtheir 25th Anniversary!

Since 1999, CASA for Lancaster County has been working to train and support volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children. To celebrate this incredible milestone, they had a special dinner— open to the public—on October 24! Attendees were able to enjoy a delicious meal, support CASA and help the staff in celebrating 25 brilliant years providing a voice for abused and neglected children in the community and giving them the support they need to thrive.

The dinner was filled with great food and inspiring stories, with awards being given out in support of the hard work of CASA volunteers. CASA also honored retired Juvenile Court Judge Linda Porter with a CASA Champion award for her support of CASA and her work on behalf of at-risk children in Lancaster County.

When everything else in a child’s life is in chaos, a CASA is a stable adult presence giving the child a fighting chance to gain a voice, achieve safety and stability and develop a sense of self-worth. Learn more and support them at casa4lancaster.org.

2024 Awardees Announced at Nebraska Recycling Council Annual Conference

The Nebraska Recycling Council (NRC) held its Annual Conference on Tuesday, September 17. This event recognizes the accomplishments of member organizations and provides learning and networking opportunities for resource management professionals.

Dr. Elizabeth Chapman, Executive Director of Recycle Colorado shared insights on Colorado's journey to pass Extended Producer Responsibility Legislation for packaging. Attendees learned about the challenges and successes faced by industry peers in Colorado as they worked to pass and implement this ground breaking legislation. The luncheon offered inspiration for the future of recycling and waste management in Nebraska. The conference also featured four sessions related to problem materials, legislation, compost and biochar, and recycling markets. Vendors in attendance included Nebraska Chapter of SWANA (Solid Waste Association of North America), First Star Recycling, and Casella Waste Systems.

The 2024 award winners are:

• Waste Diversion Product of the Year- Keep Nebraska Beautiful Materials Exchange Program

• Green Team of the Year- Crossroads Mission

• Advocacy Champion of the Year- Senator Jana Hughes

• Commonwealth Award- Upper Loup NRD

• Member of the Year- Willa DiCostanzo and the City of Lincoln

• End Market of the Year - Prairieland Dairy

Executive Director, Kimberly Carroll Steward, shared that the award recognition is well deserved and applauds the innovation, expertise and commitment of awardees and all attendees.

Awardee highlight videos can be found on the NRC website, nrcne. org/2024-nrc-conference.

The Nebraska Recycling Council is a statewide, member-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Their mission is to maximize the economic and environmental benefits of resource recovery in Nebraska. Learn more at nrcne.org.

Adopt a Resident

As the holiday season approaches, we invite you to join us in a meaningful initiative: adopting a resident from Fresh Start! Many women arrive at our door without a home, feeling discouraged and broken. Your help in providing a joyful experience will make a difference in their lives.

At Fresh Start, we provide a nurturing environment where women can stay for up to a year, offering support, guidance and essential life skills. We help them find employment and secure housing, empowering them to build independent lives. One resident shared, “Staying at Fresh Start has been invaluable. I’ve learned to be a person I never imagined I’d become.”

Together, we can make a profound impact, reducing homelessness and supporting these women in their journeys. During the holidays, many may not have anyone with whom to celebrate. Your thoughtful gifts can bring them joy and warmth, reminding them they are valued.

This year, requested items include gift cards to Walmart and Bath and Body Works, VISA cards, movie tickets, slippers and fuzzy blankets. We also can provide a list for a specific resident. Another option is for you or your group to sponsor the food for the holiday party.

If you’d like to make a difference this holiday season, please contact LaCresha, our development coordinator, at (402) 475-7777 or Lacreshab@freshstarthome.org.

Community Action Hosts Ribbon Cutting, Building Dedication

On October 3, Community Action held a ribbon cutting and building dedication at the Bansal Family Home for Head Start located at 1821 K Street in Lincoln, following completion of its $3.55 million capital campaign to renovate the space. Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and Senator Deb Fischer both shared remarks at the event, speaking to the importance of early childhood education and the unique role Head Start plays in the community.

Renovations throughout the past two years have transformed the center from a facility designed for adult education into one suited for young children and their families.

“Lincoln needs access to quality, affordable early childhood education services like those provided through Head Start,” said Heather Loughman, Community Action CEO. “We are incredibly grateful for the community investments made into this space and are honored to name our building in honor of the Bansal family. The generosity of our many donors allowed us to create a space in which every child and family will have access to the opportunities they need to live well, now and for generations to come.”

Community Action partners with the community in fearless pursuit of anti-poverty solutions so everyone has the opportunity to live well. Learn more at communityactionatwork.org.

City Impact’s Annual “Gift of Love” Registration Starts November 1

Mark your calendars!

In-person registration for City Impact’s annual Gifts of Love beings Friday, November 1. Shopping time slots fill up fast, so registration hours will be shortened when slots are full! In-person registration dates:

• Friday, November 1, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

• Saturday, November 2, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• Friday, November 8, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

• Saturday, November 9, 9 a.m. – 1p.m.

All registration takes place at City Impact’s building at 1035 N 33rd St. Registration times will be shortened when shopping time slots are full. Be sure to visit cityimpact.org for additional details.

Through a Christ-centered biblical worldview, City Impact empowers and equips kids and families to rise above vulnerable circumstances, radically transforming into who God created them to be. Learn more about their mission at cityimpact.org.

Branched Oak Observatory Hosted Their Incredible First Wedding!

Branched Oak Observatory had an exciting first today, as they hosted their first wedding! They were thrilled and honored to provide a unique venue for the happy couple. The couple, Sarah and Silas went stargazing on their first date, so having the ceremony at an observatory seemed perfect. The wedding party and many of the guests wore moon and star inspired clothes and jewelry.

Congratulations to Silas and Sarah!

If you also want to have your event at the Branched Oak Observatory, contact them today! Their space is perfect for more intimate weddings, birthdays, club events, corporate events, special gatherings and more!

Branched Oak Observatory’s mission has always been to inform and inspire the public about astronomy by sharing the wonders of the night sky in an entertaining and educational way. Learn more at theboo. org and on Facebook at facebook.com/branchedoakobservatory, or contact their event planner Tracy directly at events@ branchedoakobservatory.com.

FreshStart’sProjectFunwayisOnlyaMonthAway!

Project Funway is almost here, and Fresh Start couldn’t be more excited! This vibrant fashion design competition and runway show is held in collaboration with talented students from UNL's Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design program and community designers. Participants in this event are challenged to creatively transform thrifted clothing and materials into stunning, one-of-a-kind designs that reflect their unique artistic vision.

These innovative designers will showcase their talent on the runway, presenting an array of extraordinary styles that celebrate sustainability and creativity. Each piece tells a story, highlighting the beauty of reimagining what was once discarded.

Proceeds from Project Funway will go to Fresh Start, a vital transitional shelter dedicated to providing a safe, structured and alcohol- and drug-free environment for women. Fresh Start supports those who are committed to becoming independent and healthier members of the community, making a profound impact in their lives.

Don’t miss out on this spectacular event! Purchase your tickets today at secure.qgiv.com/event/freshstarthomeauction/register and be part of a meaningful night that combines fashion with purpose.

To contact Fresh Start to learn more about their services, request a speaker or explore other ways to get involved, email lacreshab@ freshstarthome.org or call (402) 475-7777. For more information about Fresh Start services please visit FreshStartHome.org or find them on Facebook (@FreshStartHomeLincoln).

Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska Announces “Cooking with Kristi”

Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska is proud to announce a new cooking class titled “Cooking with Kristi!” The class is designed to meet the needs of neuro-diverse students. The goals of the class include:

• Preparing meals: tools & ingredients using visual aids

• Food safety: checking for expiration and freshness of ingredients

• Kitchen tools: using appropriately & safely

• Cleaning dishes & workspaces

The classes take place on Mondays and Tuesdays at Newman United Methodist Church, 2242 R St.

Visit dsafnebraska.org/event-5837427 to register for the date you plan on attending! Contact Director@dsafnebraska.org if there are any dietary restrictions.

The mission of the Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska is to improve the lives of individuals with Down syndrome, by empowering them as well as educating and supporting their families and the larger community. Learn more at dsafnebraska.org.

Nebraska Safety Council Now Has Two Locations!

October was Disability Employment Awareness Month!

If you or your business is in need of safety training in Lincoln, look no further than Nebraska Safety Council! They now have two convenient locations in Lincoln, with their newest location opening at 3270 Folkways Blvd., STE 201. Their office hours are 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, so stop in if you need safety training!

National Safety Council was founded in 1924 as the “Omaha Safety Council” by a group of businessmen who concluded that 75% of workplace accidents could be prevented. Over time, they have changed their name and expanded to serve the entire state of Nebraska.

Nebraska Safety Council is a private, non-governmental, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization and the only National Safety Council chapter in Nebraska. As part of the National Safety Council they are committed to promoting their top strategic initiatives including Workplace Safety, Distracted Driving, Teen Driving, Prescription Drug Abuse, Fatigue and Safe Communities. To learn more about what courses they offer visit buff.ly/408hMqE.

TeamMates of Lincoln and Runza® Celebrate MentoringwithAnnual“TeamMatesRunza®Day”

For the 15th consecutive year, Runza® supported TeamMates Mentoring with their annual fundraiser, TeamMates Runza® Day, donating 10% of sales from 11 of their stores in Lincoln. This one-day fundraising event provides significant financial support and brand awareness for TeamMates of Lincoln.

“This year was our best year yet with almost $6,500 raised," said Jim Bennett, Lincoln TeamMates Coordinator. "This generous donation helps us match and support many mentors and mentees."

TeamMates of Lincoln serves more than 1,300 students and is the largest chapter in the national TeamMates Mentoring program, which has 192 chapters in five states.

“We are so grateful to Runza® for supporting TeamMates here in Lincoln. Once again, they demonstrate their dedication to mentoring and this community. TeamMates and Runza® are two organizations founded in Nebraska and we are honored to partner together,” said Bennett.

Runza®’s ongoing support assists in fulfilling TeamMates’ mission of positively impacting the world by inspiring students to reach their full potential through mentoring. TeamMates thanks Runza® for making community youth a priority.

If your business would like to learn more, please visit LincolnTeamMates. org or call (402) 436-1990. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a mentor, you can scan the QR code to check out the application process.

Apace is happy to announce that Governor Jim Pillen signed a proclamation declaring October 2024 Disability Employment Awareness Month! He encouraged everyone to focus on an all-inclusive community that affirms access and equity for all, including those with disabilities.

This milestone helps raise awareness and highlight the vital work happening in the community across Nebraska that helps people live better and more accessible lives. You can help raise awareness by promoting job opportunities in your community and by sharing stories and testimonials that demonstrate how peer support fosters a culture of recovery, empowerment and hope within our Nebraskan communities.

Apace’s mission is to provide desired education and support to individuals with disabilities, promote safety and respect and advocate for dignity and inclusion within the community. Apace is by-your-side support for people with disabilities. Learn more about their mission and how to support by going to goapace.com.

This is Me! Talent Showcase is Coming to Omaha!

This Is Me! is a talent show that celebrates the passions and strengths of individuals with disabilities. The show is open to ages five and up to participate. Talents of all variety are welcome and encouraged, including individual and group acts. Performances may include: art, dancing, singing, karate, poetry, sports skills etc.! Acts will be limited to two minutes per individual/ group. Props, music, costumes etc. will be coordinated with event staff prior to the show. The talent showcase takes place Sunday, November 24, 4-6 p.m. at The Garden Theater, 3125 Oak View Dr. in Omaha. Participants are encouraged to arrive at 11 a.m. for Dress Rehearsals. Entry fee is $25 and includes a participant t-shirt.

Participants of the talent show will be paired with a volunteer crew member that will ensure they have a positive and enjoyable experience! Roll out the red carpet—each participant will be treated like the super star that they are! Families and friends are encouraged to come cheer on all the acts! Additional tickets will be sold at the door for $10 per person. Proceeds will go to Special Olympics Nebraska and Angel Guardians. Register at form.jotform. com/ChampionsRun/2024-this-is-me-talent.

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.

We provide technical assistance to improve your business’ tobacco-free policy.

We educate youth, adults, and families on preventing tobacco and nicotine vape use in the first place.

TFLC will work with you to determine what specific steps your business may be ready for to improve or implement a tobacco-free campus policy These kind of voluntary policies are one of the best ways to support tobacco cessation and create a tobacco-free social norm.

We offer assistance and resources supporting smoke-free multi-unit housing policies.

Over 90% of Nebraskans want to live in a smoke-free home, including renters If you own or manage properties, TFLC can develop and support a plan to transition your community to become smoke-free If you ’ re already smokefree or looking for a smoke-free rental property, you can visit our website to search our map of smoke-free options in Lancaster County.

Our work with schools, youth organizations, and community events helps young adults understand the risks of tobacco/nicotine use and provides resources to help them quit We also share resources with parents and other adults who interact with youth on identifying possible signs of e-cigarette use and how to be of help

Businesses can participate in the local Great American Smokeout Campaign and get FREE resources for employees.

Whether you feel your business has high rates of tobacco use or if you feel like you ’ re a tobacco-free champion, the annual Great American Smokeout campaign provides education, resources, and community support for individuals quitting tobacco TFLC provides readyto-send emails, flyers, social media, and more - all for FREE, Learn more and register at: TobaccoFreeLancasterCounty org/GASO

Businesses and organizations throughout Lancaster County play a vital role in creating tobacco-free environments for employees and customers. Contact us today if you are interested in joining the coalition or if you need assistance with your tobacco-free initiatives.

STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS

FRIENDS FRIENDS

A HUGE thank you to everyone who joined us at Los Cabos for our October Friends4Lunch event! It was such a great turnout and we loved sharing one of our new local go-to spots. Yes, we did eat way too many chips, but how can you not because the smells are just so good! Those smells did not disappoint. Los Cabos is located at 8901 Andermatt Dr. at 84th and Nebraska Parkway.

We hung out at Eagle Hollow Haunts Scream Park for Friends4Drinks and the screams did not disappoint! It was so much fun to hang around a fire pit enjoying the Scaryoke, then screaming our way through their three haunted attractions. Eagle Hollow Haunts is located at 617 S 238th St., Eagle, NE.

FRIENDS

FRIENDS

NOVEMBER

BUSINESS EVENTS

NOVEMBER 1

GenLNK | LIBA

Lincoln Circle - Select Lincoln: LPED | LinoclnHR

NOVEMBER 6

Chamber Coffee | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

NOVEMBER 8

Nebraska Veteran Small Business Panel and Resources | Veteran Business Outreach Center

Friends4Drinks at The Post| Strictly Business

NOVEMBER 12

LincolnHR Program: Updates & Trends in Labor and Employment Law | LincolnHR

NOVEMBER 13

Face the Chamber: Christie Stukenholtz | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

Woods Aitken - 2024 Labor & Employment Law Seminar | LincolnHR

For Friends4Drinks in November we will be heading to The Post on Friday, November 8 from 4 to 6 p.m. The Post is a mixology lounge that is the place to unwind after work, watch a game or celebrate special occasions. We are looking forward to gathering with everyone over their handcrafted cocktails to meet, socialize and build relationships. The Post is located in the Telegraph District at 2001 N St and M. As always these events are free to you - you only pay for what you order! We’ve been loving the energy you all have been bringing to our events lately, and we can’t wait to see you and friends at the next one. If you have any questions, reach out to editor@ strictlybusinessomaha.com or call our office at (402) 466-3330.

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.

NOVEMBER 14

Lincoln Network-Wide Social Hosted by Qdoba | Center Sphere BizNet | LIBA

NOVEMBER 26

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!

PROVIDING SUPERB PLUMBING SERVICE

At ICON Plumbing, they’re all about preventive maintenance and plumbing at a discount you’ll love. They want to remind you to disconnect hoses from exterior hose bibs and to winterize irrigation systems because inside your backflow preventer there are several plastic parts that can freeze or crack or split easily. If you forget and something goes wrong, no worries, ICON Plumbing is here to help!

Call them to take care of those issues you may have been putting off or need fixing so they don’t keep you up! There may be many plumbing contractors in Lincoln to choose from—but there’s only one ICON.

provide quality services that actually match the needs of his customers.

ICON was formed with the building blocks of authenticity, passion and professionalism. To add on to that, they’re offering their amazing plumbing services at a 5% discount when you use the coupon on their website!

When it comes to choosing a plumbing company to entrust your home and family to, it can be a bit daunting. Owners Gunther and Holly Baker are determined to create a relationship with each customer that’s built on trust. After working for other plumbing companies for over a decade, Gunther was sick of doing work as quickly and cheaply as possible. He wanted to

Your home is made up of quite a few plumbing systems and fixtures, all of which can be effected by the cold weather. From toilets and showers to sinks and appliances, every aspect of your plumbing system should be operational and efficient throughout all four seasons. That’s why ICON is proud to offer a wide range of plumbing services to satisfy your home’s needs, all at 5% off!

Plus, the plumbing doesn’t just end at the walls of your home! In fact, the most important processes are located outside of your home, so make sure to have every single part of your plumbing systems checked this holiday season.

DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

by Todd Ogden, President

(402) 434-6900 www.downtownlincoln.org

Beware of the New Spooky Pop-Up Bar in Downtown Lincoln

For those who enjoy spooky things, join us at Apparition Lincoln–a bar that’s for the dead, by the dead.

Apparition Lincoln is a secret speakeasy with thirteen signature cocktails located in the Lincoln Cornhusker Marriott.

Owner Edward Schmalz describes this space as being for all to enjoy.

“Instead of a tiki bar, it’s a creepy bar,” Schmalz said. “Instead of a speakeasy, it’s a spookeasy!” Apparition Bar started in Kansas City above a movie theater and has expanded to two other locations, including Omaha and Lincoln.

“I came up with the idea after seeing Christmas pop-up bars [in Kansas City],” Schmalz said. “My buddies and I decided to start a Halloween pop-up bar for those who enjoy the holiday.” Starting in 2019, pop-up bars began growing in popularity. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, some permanent bars struggled to keep their doors open. Schmalz would help by setting up a pop-up bar inside to keep business going.

And so Apparition Lincoln, a Halloween-themed space, came to be. “Apparitions is for the dead, by the dead, and is only for the living for a short amount of time where our veils that separate the worlds are the thinnest around,” Schmalz said.

Upon entering the Cornhusker Marriott, in order to get to the spooky location, enter into a coffin, where you will be given a lantern as you walk down a candle-lit hallway with a purple glow. Then, you reach the Apparition.

Once inside, visitors can choose between a handful of spooky specialty cocktails.

“We try to do drinks you can’t find anywhere else,” Schmalz said. “They're not your average cocktails; they’ve got more of a punch. Some are very weird and alien, so the goal is that you get to Apparition, where you’ll find drinks that aren’t usually put on the menu of a bar that's open all year round.”

Some signature cocktails include Death by Envy, a green drink made with absinthe, creme de cassis, and prosecco; The Sinful Sangria, a sangria that is bloody red from amaretto and red wine and blackberries; and the Black Agave made with black simple syrup and a black sugar rim.

“As you sip your cocktails and explore the shadowy corners of our bar, be prepared to be enchanted by the tales of the spirits that linger,” Schmalz said. “ Each night holds a new adventure, filled with surprises that will keep you at the edge of your seat.”

Apparition Lincoln is only available by reservation. Book your reservations today!

If you’re looking for a great business to help you with your health needs and checkups, look no further than the team at Access Family Medicine and their Direct Primary Care Package. For employee groups of five or more, the monthly cost is only $57 per employee per month!

With this membership, they offer health care as opposed to health insurance. Health and wellness benefits are critically important to employees – both current and prospective – and being able to offer those benefits will decrease your employee turnover and increase loyal employees. It will also allow you to keep your employees healthy, which means less sick leave…leading to a healthier, happier workforce.

The long list of benefits includes:

• Affordable health care for all your employees.

• 24/7 access to the health providers at Access Family Medicine.

• No copays or co-insurance costs for office visits.

• Available virtual visits through video call, email, text message or phone call.

• Increased employee loyalty and satisfaction.

• An on-site pharmacy at wholesale cost, many times at a fraction of the cost a traditional pharmacy would cost.

• The ability to provide a competitive benefits package.

• Wholesale tests available in-house and contracted options available.

Since employees aren’t saddled with hefty premiums, copays and deductibles, they’re much more likely to actually go to the doctor, as opposed to trying to “tough it out”. This leads to healthier employees because they’re actually getting the care that they need in a timely fashion and without having to worry about what the bill is going to do to their pocketbook. Combine that peace-of-mind with the fact that they are able to fill many prescriptions right there in the office (meaning no more waiting in line at the pharmacy!) - often times at a fraction of the cost - employees are able to miss less work and get better faster!

The goal at Access Family Medicine is to work with you and your employees to keep you healthy, out of the emergency room and out of the hospital. Their physicians believe that excellent health care can only be achieved with adequate one-on-one interaction, so they’re doing just that.

by Travis Filing Executive Director

EssentialStepstoScaleYour Small Business

Scaling a business is often a challenge, especially for small enterprises with limited resources. Of course, growth is essential to the long-term success of your business. To scale effectively, small business owners need a strategic approach that focuses on infrastructure, processes and leadership. Whether you are a brand-new, one-person business or a third-generation 100-employee operation, these steps are continuous and will need to be done, redone and continuously honed until you either retire, sell your business or hand it off to the next generation.

First, solidify your business processes. Streamlined operations help minimize inefficiencies, allowing your team to focus on growth opportunities. Whether it's refining your supply chain, improving customer service or automating repetitive tasks, tightening your operations is key.

Second, build a scalable infrastructure. This includes technology and human resources. For instance, cloud-based solutions offer affordable, scalable tech options for everything from data storage to customer management. Additionally, as you grow, hire the right talent that will not only meet your current needs but can also adapt as the business expands.

Third, prioritize customer retention. It costs less to retain a client than to acquire a new one, so maintaining strong relationships with your existing customer base is crucial for sustainable growth. Build loyalty by delivering consistent value and engaging regularly with clients through newsletters, social media and events.

Fourth, enhance your offerings. This can mean expanding your products and services based on consumer demand. But this can also mean dropping less profitable and more time consuming products and services and focusing your efforts on specializing a specific niche in the marketplace.

Finally, keep an eye on your financial health. Ensure you're reinvesting profits into areas that will fuel growth, such as marketing, technology or talent acquisition. Scaling should be done thoughtfully and with a focus on long-term success rather than short-term gain.

Remember, your business is a “living, breathing” organism. It takes constant refining and course correction. If you need help scaling your business or overcoming hurdles in your company, please reach out to us. We are an organization of hundreds and hundreds of Lincoln businesses that have been through the same trials and tribulations. We’re here to help you through this process.

LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE full-service

by Jason Ball President

Lincoln’sDynamicEcosystem for Entrepreneurial Success

It’s no secret – Lincoln is a thriving hub for entrepreneurs and startups. With a strong network of resources that span from valuable strategic partnerships to crucial financial support, Lincoln has positioned itself as a community where innovation thrives. This fall, two key programs clearly illustrate this commitment to connecting entrepreneurs with the tools they need to scale, succeed and make a lasting impact on the business landscape of Lincoln.

Earlier this month, the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development announced the opening of the application cycle for its LaunchLNK Grant Program. Since the program’s inception in 2018, LaunchLNK has become a game-changer for early-stage companies, providing essential financial backing and connections to help startups scale rapidly in Lincoln. I am so proud of the success of this program, which awards six startups with $20,000 grants, as well as access to a network of investors, mentors and business leaders each year. This combination of funding and support positions entrepreneurs to accelerate their growth and take their businesses to the next level, right here in our community.

In addition to the notable value LaunchLNK provides, the program also has a clear track record of success. Program alumni such as Senior Care Finder, Pawlytics and BasicBlock have gone on to secure significant follow-on funding and achieved remarkable success. Collectively, the program’s alumni have raised nearly $100 million in follow-on funding, underscoring the pivotal role that LaunchLNK plays in driving economic growth in Lincoln. By helping startups succeed, the program not only fosters innovation and productivity but also strengthens the local economy, creating new jobs and opportunities for the community. Applications for the 2025 LaunchLNK cohort are open through November 25. Visit LaunchLNK.com to apply and to learn more about this program benefiting aspiring entrepreneurs.

Another clear indicator of the vibrancy of Lincoln’s entrepreneurial community is the recent expansion of the city's annual Startup Week. Formerly known as Lincoln Startup Week, the event evolved in 2024 to become the Silicon Prairie Startup Week, reflecting the interconnected nature of the region’s entrepreneurial communities. This expansion now includes Omaha, Ashland and Council Bluffs, creating a regional dialogue among entrepreneurs across Nebraska and Iowa.

Silicon Prairie Startup Week is a true celebration of entrepreneurship, dedicated to uniting founders, investors and innovators to share insights, discuss emerging technologies and build lasting relationships. The series of events that comprise Silicon Prairie Startup Week each play a vital role in fostering connections and highlighting the wealth of talent and opportunity in the region. For Lincoln-based startups, this expansion provides greater visibility, increased access to resources and the ability to tap into a network that expands beyond the borders of our community. Silicon Prairie Startup Week will run November 11 – 16 this year, with the full week’s agenda available at siliconprairienews.com.

With initiatives like the LaunchLNK Grant Program and the events scattered throughout Silicon Prairie Startup Week, Lincoln is continuing to position itself as a destination for innovation. I believe in the power of entrepreneurship and am eager to watch Lincoln’s strong startup ecosystem continue to evolve in the years ahead.

End of Year Business Spending

As the fiscal year comes to an end, it is important to develop and adhere to an end-of-year business spending strategy to create an optimal start to the New Year, a year of financial growth with minimal tax liabilities. Businesses should explore diversifying investments in equipment, technology or infrastructure as these businessexpense deductions can reduce taxable income. Strategies to reduce taxable income can pay off in the form of additional employee bonuses or end-of-year incentives that boost company morale and a workplace environment of innovation and highquality talent.

Finding a balance between being proactive with expenses and avoiding unnecessary expenditures is difficult, investing only in that which will achieve long-term business goals and further the mission of the company. One just has to find the right strategy to fit one’s unique business goals. The following pieces of advice from Lincoln business experts point to the best options for end-ofyear spending strategies that will help businesses both maintain tax liability and position themselves for financial advancement this coming fiscal year.

No one wants to pay more in taxes. It is extremely important for business owners to sit down with an accountant to look over the company’s financial situation, so they know exactly how their business is doing. Look to Cruise & Associates’ accountants who provide reliable suggestions and strategies to minimize the amount of taxes due.

Lincolnites should heed Cruise & Associates’ following pieces of advice to not only save money, but capitalize on the coming year’s potential!

• Invest in people to get the business ahead of the game going into the new fiscal year. In business, November and December can be slower months. This is the perfect time to focus on training staff to improve customer service and other job duties. Making people better employees will pay off in the long run, and customers will know the business is good at what it does–and more customers will want to do business!

• Evaluate expenses and analyze why items increased over last year. Decide if it still makes sense to keep those expenses. Business owners sometimes do the same thing every year because that is what has always been done. A good example of this is advertising in the yellow pages. This used to be a good way to get information out to the public. Now, most people don’t use a phonebook, instead using Google, so it is no longer effective. So, take the time to discern which expenses should be kept or possibly increased!

• Replace outdated equipment. Try to use cash for updating purchases rather than borrowing money. This new equipment can help the businesses efficiency and productivity, which will allow for even more growth in the coming year. Consider whether the purchase is really necessary. Do not make an investment just to get a tax write-off. It is not always a smart business decision for the amount the business ultimately receives.

Cruise & Associates practices what it preaches, which is why it is one of the most committed and relied upon business spending services in Lincoln!

Basic Business Spending

If there is one area to which a company should always direct and allocate its budget, it’s business safety.

General Fire and Safety of Lincoln is a trusted leader in providing comprehensive fire protection and safety solutions for businesses, as well as organizations and individuals. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on innovation, General Fire and Safety strives to ensure the highest level of protection against fire hazards and other safety risks.

At the core of General Fire and Safety’s mission is the protection of lives and property. They offer a wide range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of their clients, including fire alarm and detection systems, fire suppression systems, emergency lighting, fire extinguishers and more. Their team of highly trained professionals works closely with clients to assess their specific requirements and develop customized solutions that prioritize safety and compliance with relevant regulations and standards.

General Fire and Safety places a strong emphasis on quality and reliability in all aspects of their operations. They partner with leading manufacturers and suppliers to source the most advanced fire protection products and technologies, ensuring optimal performance and durability. Additionally, their technicians undergo rigorous training and certification to ensure that they possess the knowledge and skills needed to deliver superior service and support.

In addition to their extensive range of products and services, General Fire and Safety is committed to ongoing education and awareness initiatives aimed at promoting fire safety within the community.

Rob Cruise Cruise & Associates

Lincoln • Grand Island • Hastings • Kearney • Aurora • Gibbon • Burwell • Central City

© 2024 Nedelco, Inc.

offer training programs and resources designed to empower individuals and organizations to prevent fires, respond effectively in the event of an emergency and minimize risk to life and property.

With a legacy of excellence spanning several decades, General Fire and Safety has earned a reputation for professionalism, integrity and unparalleled customer service. Whether safeguarding a small business or a large industrial facility, Lincoln business owners can trust General Fire and Safety to deliver innovative, reliable solutions that provide peace of mind and protection, making it an obvious addition to end of year business spending.

Trustworthy Business Transitions

The cost of renting a commercial space, such as an office, storefront or any other type of facility is typically tax deductible for businesses. This deduction can help reduce a company’s taxable income, which can lead to lower tax liability, while also setting the business up with an improved place of operation in the next year. If a business is considering expanding or relocating to a larger space, investing in commercial real estate can be a strategic financial move.

Whether the company is a start-up looking for a new home or an existing company needing to expand, relocate, open an additional location or enter into a lease renewal, Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate has the market knowledge and industry experience to ensure all business needs and requirements are satisfied. Greenleaf assists with site selection, site tours, cost of occupancy analysis, space planning, lease and terms negotiations, tenant improvements, comparative lease analysis and letters of intent. This type of support can save a business money and time as it transitions into a new year.

“At Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate, our approach revolves around comprehending the distinct circumstances and objectives of each client, enabling us to customize a strategy that aligns with your specific goals. We prioritize open communication and unwavering accountability throughout the entire journey, aiming to not only meet your expectations, but exceed them. With our team of

seasoned professionals, we are dedicated to assisting you in achieving your vision for your business and contributing positively to your community. Trust and confidence are the cornerstones of our client relationships, and we are committed to earning and maintaining yours every step of the way,”

shared Adam Lowney , Senior Sales Associate.

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate’s commitment to its clients makes it a staple of the Lincoln community.

Target Tech Needs

Businesses preparing and planning for the upcoming year should be sure to include technology budgeting. Whether it’s hardware, such as business phones or building security, or software, such as reviewing networks for upgrades and cyber security protection, working with an expert is the smart choice. Expenses related to technology can vary greatly and usually fluctuate from year to year, so it is critical for a business to review its budget and plan ahead!

Working with a Managed IT service provider and internal IT staff members will allow a business to put together a roadmap for needs that may arise in the New Year. With these IT assistances, any business can identify new technology requirements and incorporate them as part of their business planning strategies. Additionally, Managed IT professionals can help make a business aware of any tech gaps throughout the company, so it can work on closing those problem areas.

This planning doesn’t have to involve hours of calls or meetings. As a Managed IT service provider, Hamilton can do the heavy lifting, ensuring businesses don’t stress more than necessary during an already stressful time of year. Hamilton future proofs a business’ budget and gets it set up and ready for planned business growth.

Adam Lowney Greenleaf Commerical Real Estate

“Hamilton encourages business owners to check for any leftover money in the budget this time of year,” notes Hamilton Business Development Manager Ryan Wineteer . “Should that be the case, it’s a perfect time to implement a year-end project for potential tax advantages. Those upgrades–ranging anywhere from camera systems in your facilities to firewalls for protection from cyber attacks–benefit both the business and the bottom line.”

Wineteer adds, “As you know, cyber attacks and thefts are costly to both your wallet and your reputation. It is better to be proactive about protecting your business and its assets. It costs less to prepare for these situations upfront than to try to clean it all up after the fact.”

Hamilton makes budgeting for technology simple, offering a fixed-fee bundle, so businesses don’t get hit with unexpected costs throughout the year—something the accounting department will appreciate! Ultimately, this type of service offering allows businesses to make more educated financial decisions.

Brilliant Business Support

End of year business spending is the perfect time to reevaluate costs that can be tax deductible, but tax planning and tax prep is not for the faint of heart. Thankfully, SP Group P.C. of Lincoln has experts that know just how to help!

SP Group pours all of its energy into getting to know its clients, so it can provide the best tax planning, tax prep and business support services.

SP Group believes in the power of positive relationships, and the firm’s simple beginnings have kept it humble. SP Group takes great pride in the success of its clients and the path it has traveled together as it has grown alongside them.

The following exhibit the four cornerstones of SP Group and its certified public accountants:

• Relationships. SP Group creates and fosters long-term relationships to help develop a deeper insight into who its clients are and what drives them to succeed.

• Power of Team. SP Group serves clients most effectively and efficiently by combining the unique talents of each member of its staff into one strong cohesive team.

• Life/Work Balance. SP Group’s professionals aim to give the same energy to serving their clients as they would devote to their own personal interests, family and friends and community.

• Competitiveness. SP Group is a team that likes to win–its competitive sports-minded culture makes SP Group’s firm better at achieving success for clients at large.

This foundation is why SP Group should be a Lincoln business’ go-to for tax planning, tax prep and business support services. SP Group wants to talk about businesses’ financial futures, and end of year spending is just that!

Supportive Software Services

End of year spending forces companies to look for ways to improve and expand in the New Year. Keeping this growth in mind, Alpha Zed Business Services aids business owners in implementing systems like Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software and automation, enabling streamlined productivity from the core.

According to Systems Strategist Kim Hazelton , business owners often underestimate the complexities of managing various tasks and data. They may delay implementing systems, thinking

Helping you grow more than wealth

The Anderson Schueth Kenny Group Ashley Schueth, CFP® (402) 465-3805 ashley.schueth@rbc.com

or email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com for

it’s unnecessary at the early stages. However, setting a strong foundation facilitates smoother growth.

Alpha Zed Business Services helps companies ensure they have good back-office processes in place and automate those processes where possible, allowing operations to run more efficiently. Alpha Zed Business Services understands the efficiency they help implement has a positive impact on the bottom line in these ways:

• Businesses don’t have to pay as many staff members, or they can pay their employees to perform revenue-generating tasks rather than admin tasks.

• Businesses are less likely to lose money due to their missing important follow-up dates.

• Businesses can rely on automation to track and send out reminders for late payments.

Automation, a rapidly expanding field, holds great potential for businesses. Yet, navigating it can be daunting. Alpha Zed serves as a guiding partner, helping business owners embrace new technologies rather than fearing them.

"Take a look at the various software tools you’re using. Have you been piecing together a mish-mash of tools to handle your systems? Are they still serving your needs? Consider an all-in-one process automation platform that can support things like your website, CRM, marketing, sales funnel, booking, email marketing and team and customer communication," says Hazelton.

For business owners lost on where to improve their business spending, planning ahead with Alpha Zed will ensure a solid foundation for growth!

Full-Service Investments Firm

“Business owners are busy toward the end of the year. They are managing cash flow, daily operations and trying to grow their business by attracting new customers while retaining current ones–not

Ryan Wineteer Hamilton

Kim Hazelton Alpha Zed Business Services

to mention the holiday parties, meetings and sending client gifts. Our goal is to help take some of the burden and stress off of their plate by offering solutions and ideas,” says Ashley Schueth CFP®, a Financial Advisor with The Anderson Schueth Kenny Group at RBC Wealth Management.

Schueth initially spends time with business owners to educate them on different investment vehicles, retirement plans, insurance solutions and other options, so they can feel well informed and comfortable before making decisions. What kinds of strategies does the Anderson Schueth Kenny Group have to share?

Businesses should invest time in training employees on the customer experience. A business can stand out from its competitors by focusing on aspects like the website construction; marketing and high-quality customer service with an efficient processing timeframe can make a huge impact. Schueth focuses on the relationship with the client as the number one priority. It doesn’t matter what industry one is in, high quality customer service drives positive results.

Owners should re-evaluate their employee benefits package every year, specifically the retirement plan, helping ensure it benefits both the employer and employee. This is where the Anderson Schueth Kenny Group comes in! They sit down with owners and look at different retirement plan ideas, ranging from solo practitioner plans to large-company, 401k plans. It is vital that each plan fit the needs of the owner and his/her employees. Once a plan is chosen, Schueth will meet with each employee and talk about their specific financial goals. The Anderson Schueth Kenny Group is able to help with many investments: stocks, individual bonds and CDs, mutual funds, ETFs, annuities, life insurance and more.

Full Service Commercial Real Estate

Owners should also consider that spending money on the business with the intention of getting a tax deduction in the short term may not always be the best plan. Here, Schueth works with its client’s tax professional to discuss new ideas and tax strategies. Having a growing pool of liquid assets on the sidelines can allow owners to take advantage of different financial market opportunities. The Anderson Schueth Kenny Group wants nothing more than for people to succeed, and success starts with good end of year planning!

Investment and insurance products offered through RBC Wealth Management are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency, are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, a bank or any bank affiliate, and are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested.

RBC Wealth Management does not provide tax or legal advice. All decisions regarding the tax or legal implications of your investments should be made in connection with your independent tax or legal advisor. No information, including but not limited to written materials, provided by RBC WM should be construed as legal, accounting or tax advice.

RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, registered investment adviser and Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

High-Speed Internet Solutions

The need for internet is not going away any time soon, so fast, efficient internet is indisputable business expenditure. End of year business spending presents the perfect opportunity to upgrade to fiber internet, and ALLO Fiber is perfect for the job!

ALLO Fiber provides cutting-edge technology solutions that empower businesses to stay competitive in an increasing digital world. ALLO’s services are perfect for running businesses, even from the comfort of one’s own home. ALLO offers high-speed fiber internet, advanced cybersecurity and cloud-based applications such as the ALLO Smart Business app. These solutions are designed to help businesses seamlessly integrate technology into their operations, enabling businesses to enhance productivity, optimize workflows and stay ahead of industry trends. By offering scalable and reliable technological solutions, ALLO ensures that businesses of all sizes can adapt quickly to the demands of a technology-driven market.

Prioritizing technology in the end-of-year budget can help a business go from good to great! Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction. For example, with ALLO Fiber’s technology solutions, businesses can ensure that their communications are uninterrupted, their data is secure and their services are delivered efficiently. This reliability and responsiveness build trust with customers and leads to higher satisfaction and loyalty.

ALLO Fiber offers a range of resources designed to support businesses in their technology journey. ALLO’s team of experts provides personalized consultations to help businesses identify the right technology solutions for their needs. Additionally, ALLO offers educational content, including webinars, whitepapers and how-to guides, covering various topics such as cybersecurity, cloud services and network management. The ALLO Smart Business App provides a user-friendly platform for managing and optimizing technology services, making it easier for businesses to implement and utilize advanced technology in daily operations.

Overall, ALLO Fiber is the perfect network to consider during end of year business planning!

At the end of the year, knowing how to re-delegate the business budget while also avoiding unnecessary expenditures is difficult, but these Lincoln services can help one invest only in that which will achieve long-term business growth and hone in on the business’s unique goals!

Ashley Schueth

The Anderson Schueth

Kenny Group at RBC Wealth Management

Holiday Cheer

Whether one is a seasoned planning pro or a amateur wanting to adopt a few new fancy tricks this holiday season, Strictly Business’ Company Celebration Checklist and suggestions for Elevated Hosting can help anyone at any skill level shape his/her dream event, an event sure to be overflowing with holiday cheer!

The following tips and tricks aren’t meant to add to one’s already busy holiday schedule, rather these suggestions can be utilized to help one prioritize holiday planning and step into the holiday mindset now, so one can enjoy the relaxation and camaraderie of the holidays to its full extent later. Decorate early; ask, shop and budget early for gifts; make a meal plan and cooking timeline; set the guest list; embrace the chaos by setting an Ugly Sweater theme; or don’t be afraid to simply scale back! Consider adopting this holiday planning mantra, “Early is on time, and on time is late!”

Local Lincoln businesses are not only capable of ensuring one’s holiday planning happens early and efficiently, but they are also delighted to contribute to holiday festivities in any way, shape or form. Take advantage of the talent and expertise right here in Lincoln!

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.

Sleigh Bells & Spirits to Quell

The approaching holidays definitely call for a restock of spirits–in both liquid and emotional form. Businesses should consider encouraging company morale at James Arthur Vineyards this holiday season. Bosses and associates alike can 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 taking that feeling home to family or 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!

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.

Versatile Holiday Venue

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 holiday event needs and is perfect for holiday company celebrations. Talon Room goes above and beyond to create an unforgettable atmosphere every time! Conveniently located in downtown Lincoln, hosting company festivities doesn’t have to start nor end at the Talon Room–the possibilities are endless. As Talon Room likes to say, “We set it up, and you make it a party!”

Talon Room is more equipped than ever to execute the holiday events of its clients’ dreams. With a variety of price ranges to fit every budget and event type, Talon Room is a reliable resource for business owners, and its focus is even on corporate events–such as full-day meetings, luncheons, trainings, client appreciation events and of course, holiday parties.

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: startto-finish event management; a downtown Lincoln historic venue with a 250-guest capacity; convenient parking and hotel options; a wedding suite; a dedicated event team; tables, chairs and basic linens; venue setup and teardown; fully-integrated 65” screens; a sound system; wireless microphones; and 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

Jim Ballard James Arthur Vineyards

Matthew Rogge Talon Room

Heroic Holiday Catering

As the holiday season approaches, businesses–small and large–across Lincoln are getting ready to host their annual gatherings. These events are a great way to show appreciation, but planning them can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where Greenfield’s Café and daVinci’s can help! They provide the perfect catering solutions to ensure each holiday soirée is a success with delicious food, affordable options and a stress-free experience.

When planning any 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.

“Our family has been catering for over 46 years, serving Lincoln's families, businesses and fun events. Thank you, Lincoln, for all the wonderful times we helped you with your events,” says The Knudson Family.

Whether one is holiday planning for a meal in the break room or a more formal business dinner, Greenfield’s Café and daVinci’s provide options that are sure to impress! It’s never too early to start planning a holiday business party, so start contacting these local businesses today to let their work speak for themselves.

Wonderland-Worthy Drinks and Events

As the season of giving approaches, why not treat your associates to a night out on the town? The holiday season is the perfect time to enjoy a drink or two, or four, with some friends!

The Post brings a funky and light twist on the cocktail bar experience. With a mixologist’s frame of mind, The Post creates unique syrups and puts new spins on classic drinks, offering a fresh take on the cocktail scene.

On select Sundays, The Post hosts Sunday Southern Brunch, featuring breakfast food from one of three local businesses: Lila Mae’s Southern Kitchen & Lounge, Sweet Things by Marcy and Deeply Root’d. Southern hospitality is a key part of The Post experience, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere during the hectic holiday season.

The Post invites businesses, friends and families to join in the festivities this holiday season. Special event nights are a staple, including “Motown Mondays,” where you can enjoy classic Motown hits while sipping on your favorite cocktails.

Additionally, The Post hosts a chess club every Thursday night, open to the public, and First Saturday, a monthly event showcasing local artists’ work. Community is a cornerstone of The Post, and the approaching holidays make it an even more exciting time to visit and enjoy the camaraderie.

This holiday season, schedule a Holiday Cocktail Party at The Post! Our trained mixologists will teach you and your guests how to make three festive holiday cocktails while you celebrate with coworkers and friends.

Join us at The Post this holiday season and make unforgettable memories with friends and family!

Now, one might not be the CEO of a company, but one can certainly be the CEO of the house! Take initiative and take this season’s holiday hosting to the next level.

Host-Worthy Hair

Who doesn’t want to look their best during the holidays, especially if one is the host or hostess of the occasion? 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 to “deck the halls.”

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. Those hosting for the holidays can rely on Drybar for a reasonably-priced ‘do that will make one want to perform an Ariel hair flip.

Today, Drybar’s growing product line, created specifically for achieving the perfect blowout, is sold through Drybar franchise 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 while they host this holiday season.”

Holiday Ice

One should make it a priority to dazzle this holiday season, particularly if one is planning on hosting! Luckily, Sartor Hamann Jewelers can help one look absolutely sparkling just in time for the “most wonderful time of the year.”

Kevin Knudson Greenfield’s Café and daVinci’s

Since 1905, Sartor Hamann Jewelers has been the place where Lincolnites go for the finest jewelry. Sartor Hamann Jewelers was Lincoln’s first fine jeweler, and now, as a fourth-generation, familyowned and operated company, it is service driven and known for its cutting-edge style, fashion and innovation.

Sartor Hamann Jewelers carries stunning engagement and fashion jewelry collections from top designers, exceptional diamonds, dazzling gemstones and fine Swiss watches. Sartor Hamann Jewelers’ friendly, highly trained and certified staff is there to help anyone make their jewelry dreams come true, which is perfect for this holiday season’s gift exchanges.

The Sartor Hamann experience is truly unique and is one of the reasons it has been voted “Best of Lincoln” and “Lincoln’s Choice Jeweler” for decades. It has served generations of families for over 100 years and treats its customers as friends. Sartor Hamann Jewelers invites clients to browse its gift guide on the website and stop in to any of its three showrooms, so the team can welcome clients to the Sartor Hamann family!

"At Sartor Hamann Jewelers, we pride ourselves on providing a truly unique shopping experience unlike any other,” says Sartor Hamann South Pointe Assistant Manager Sarah V. “We offer an exquisite collection of one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces that you simply won’t find at big box stores. We understand that selecting the perfect gift for your loved ones is about much more than just the item itself—it’s about the meaning behind it. That’s why we offer personalized service to each and every customer.”

Make a loved one’s holiday one to remember with a dazzling new piece of jewelry from Sartor Hamann Jewelers.

Heavenly Holiday Goodies

Santa Clause and the little ones he visits have one thing in common…a love for cookies! Treat the kids–or the parents–to the most delectable taste bud experience this holiday season with a goodie 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 brick and mortar building downtown Lincoln at 1413 N Street (formerly the Korn Popper/Colby Ridge building), 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. Now, that’s the kind of goodies every holiday host needs on the table.

What more is to be said? Sweet Things by Marcy is a must for any holiday gathering or event!

‘Tis the Season for Tailored Party Buses

Everybody has a childhood memory of that one sparkling tree,

Sarah V.

Sartor Hamann Jewelers

Marcy Haas Sweet Things by Marcy

holiday dessert or house with the best play room at a family function that just made it the best night, right? BE that host, be that holiday memory with Tailored Dreams. Tailored Dreams Limousines and Party Buses goes all out every time, providing the perfect opportunity to host the most memorable holiday gathering any family member has ever seen!

In 2012, Tailored Dreams Limousines and Party Buses started with just one limousine. They have since grown into a fleet of party buses of various themes, offering countless holiday memories to the Lincoln, Omaha and nearby communities–whether it be for a holiday wedding, family Christmas or just a fun night out with friends!

“Tailored Dreams has been privileged to offer party bus services to the Lincoln and surrounding communities for 12 years,” shared the Tailored Dreams team. “We look forward to being able to continue providing you with the service to make your party bus activities a success!”

Tailored Dreams Limousines and Party Buses’ reputation for delivering a great holiday time has spread. According to one of their recent clients, the Tailored Dreams experience is unmatched;

“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 is ready to help Lincolnites become the most sought after host and hostesses of the year!

Master the Holiday “Game”

Sun Valley Lanes & Games helps alleviate the responsibility and stress of holiday hosting. The Sun Valley Lanes team does all the work! During the holiday season, to-dos can slip through the cracks, but with Sun Valley Lanes & Games, it’s as easy as choosing a date and arriving for fun! With a multitude of activities to choose from, family members of all ages will be entertained at Sun Valley Lanes & Games.

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. Don’t wait until the last minute to make plans. By then, it’s a struggle to find a date that works for everyone and a rush to get it done, so it’s never too early. During the holidays, it’s become the norm to cram the whole family in one home or a space that is simply too small for the wear and tear of kids. What better way to help the kids expend some energy than Sun Valley Lanes & Games bowling or laser tag! Both the host and host’s furniture will benefit!

“At Sun Valley Lanes & Games, we are fortunate to be in the business of fun,” says Sun Valley Lanes & Games Event Coordinator Jen Miseno. “It is our job to help people enjoy themselves, and that starts when your family walks in the door. We’ll be ready to give you an exciting holiday environment.”

Cheerful Cleaning

Sun Valley Lanes’ modern facilities, including 32 top-notch bowling lanes, each outfitted with state-of-the-art Hyper Bowling technology, a massive 175-feet wide Neoverse video wall and an expansive redemption arcade are sure to elevate one’s hosting. Between Sun Valley Lanes & Games’ laser tag, Lucky Putt indoor minigolf course, sand volleyball courts, outdoor green space, corn hole and fire pits and spacious bar and grill, families will be begging their host to host year after year!

Who’s hosting for the holidays? Now, who’s confident their home is ready for extended family members’ eyes? Right… Don’t be embarrassed; 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,

Straight from the HEARTLAND

What Better Way to Say “Happy Holidays” Than With a Gift From Nebraska? Choose from a great selection of Nebraska made products for unique gifts for employees, clients or business-to-business.

Also Featuring: James Arthur Vineyards Tasting Room

Fro

Jen Miseno

Sun Valley Lanes & Games

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.

Phino Cleaning Services is providing 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. Whether one needs a onetime cleaning or regular service, Phino is prepared, making Phino perfect for both pre-party and post-holiday part cleanup. Holiday host and hostesses deserve to fully enjoy holiday break, so don’t lift a finger; call Phino Cleaning Services!

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 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. Even the smallest donation can mean the world to a neighbor. In addition to Phino’s cleaning services, donations can even provide friends or loved ones with a personalized holiday cleaning consultation and checklist.

Whether used as a resource or donation, Phino Cleaning Services is essential to consider this fast-approaching holiday season, especially those planning to host!

Post-Celebration Carpet Cleaning

Hosting is flooring and carpet’s worst nightmare. From sugary holiday sweets and drinks, to rowdy children and pets, carpets take the worst of it during the holidays. Treat the house to a revival with PureCare Carpet.

PureCare Carpet Lincoln’s Dry Carpet Cleaning and Service provides the environmentally-friendly, all-over clean its customers expect. PureCare Carpet’s values are centered on creating a meaningful relationship with customers, providing topnotch service and upholding its status as not just the greenest, but also the cleanest!

From PureCare Carpet’s employees to its customers, creating a family environment is one of the most important aspects of its mission. PureCare Carpet believes it should know its industry better than anyone. Only then can it pass its knowledge along to both customers and employees.

PureCare Carpet follows a “never stop learning” philosophy and loves sharing what it knows to help make Lincoln’s homes and businesses cleaner. PureCare’s best processes came about through years of experience and expertise in the market. Those processes ensure quality, detailed service every single time. That's PureCare’s promise.

PureCare Carpet won’t run from a difficult job. In fact, it believes that accepting challenges creates an opportunity to improve. This is music to any holiday host or hostess’ ears! Being customer obsessed is the basis of PureCare’s services. PureCare communicates with transparency and honesty and is always willing to go the extra mile for its customers.

"Our continued success from one generation to the next can be attributed to the Schlisner family’s tradition of integrity, providing the highest quality carpet care possible on every job,” says PureCare Carpet Co-owner Cory Schlisner. “Let us prove it to you this holiday season!"

Holiday Entertainment Holiday break seems to go by too fast for students but feel like

Noreen Mwabe Phino Cleaning Services

Cory Schlisner PureCare Carpet

decades for parents. If this is the case, get the kids out of the house to The Nebraska Communities Playhouse. Kids can enjoy some holiday entertainment, and parents can enjoy a day of less chaos, especially if the house needs tidying for holiday hosting!

The Nebraska Communities Playhouse (NCP) strives to enhance the quality of life in the southeast Nebraska communities that it serves by providing quality theatrical and other performing arts experiences to local audiences and patrons from across Nebraska and the greater Midwest.

NCP knows that seeing isn’t the only the thing that will entertain your kids this holiday season, which is why they also provide the youth program the Y.A.C.H.T Club—Young Artists Collective-Hickman Theater. Y.A.C.H.T exists to provide opportunities for area youth to engage in a variety of artistic disciplines and participate in live theatrical performances. Their monthly workshops are for ages seven to 17 and meet every second Saturday of the month for 10 months! It’s $30 per workshop, or $250 per year!

So much has happened with NCP lately and they cannot wait to share it with you! Their team has been practicing their performance of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas which is set to premier on December 6-8 and 12-15. Tickets are available at neplayhouse.com or by phone at (402) 792-8882 and they can’t wait to see you there!

"The holiday season is a magical time in the theater and The Nebraska Communities Playhouse is no different,” says NCP Events Coordinator Gina Boe. “Between our performances of White Christmas and gearing up for the launch of our 2025 season and our new youth program, we provide several ways to celebrate the season. We have gift certificates for the theater lover in your life, and a performance of White Christmas is a perfect way to gather with family and friends!”

Adhere to Strictly Business’ Company Celebration Checklist and suggestions for Elevated Hosting to create a holiday event that will be remembered by associates or family members for the next decade!

Happy Holidays

www.strictly-business.com

Senior Memory Care

Senior memory care is foundational to the individualized and compassionate care required of those in senior living. Memory care addresses the challenges faced by seniors and their families coping with cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Senior memory care facilities and in-home care professionals provide supportive and structured environments, so each individual senior is cared for in a way best suited to his/her unique needs.

Senior memory care assistance supports seniors and their families with empathy during a time of mental and emotional stress, aiding in daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal prep and even in the managing of medication to ensure every

senior and his/her unique condition is well taken care of. Senior memory care supports the mental and emotional strain inflicted on seniors and their families by emphasizing cognitive engagement with activities like reminiscence therapy, art therapy and music therapy, all of which are designed and integrated to help maintain cognitive function, seniors’ social lives and to reduce stress and anxiety.

Senior memory care assistance promotes a sense of dignity while comforting residents and their families during a time of distress, prioritizing seniors’ wellbeing with specialized care that supports both physical and psychological needs. It is possible for seniors needing memory care assistance to maintain their independence and individuality, which is something Lincoln’s professionals take to heart.

Compassionate Senior Communities

“Cedarhurst wanted to up our game in terms of memory care to be a best-in-class memory care provider,” says Director of Education & Engagement for Cedarhurst, Tara Powell.

In the fall of 2023, Cedarhurst launched an initiative with the goal to train staff in memory care across its 50 plus senior care communities within one year, and it did just that! Cedarhurst is setting a new standard in dementia care. To date, Cedarhurst has trained 300 Certified Dementia Practitioners.

Tara Powell Cedarhurst

Powell is one of four Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainers (CADDCT) rolling out specialized training to staff. In addition to the CDP certification, Cedarhurst has developed its own dementia training curriculum that has been approved by the Alzheimer’s Association.

Even Cedarhurst’s sales team undergoes dementia training to guarantee they engage with potential residents or long-term Cedarhurst inhabitants with empathy and understanding in every interaction.

Cedarhurst is committed to resident satisfaction. Cedarhurst understands that it does its best work when it’s listening to those it serves, which is why one will find the Cedarhurst team members always asking for residents’ experiences. Cedarhurst is there to learn and make innovative changes to its communities, so it can serve its residents even better. Cedarhurst’s plan goes beyond annual resident satisfaction surveys. Instead, it makes assessing satisfaction a part of its daily interactions.

“We also target all levels of care, not just memory care. Assisted and independent living managers also receive training because seniors may be living with dementia in all levels of care,” notes Powell.

It is this open-minded, comprehensive approach to care that makes Cedarhurst’s communities trusted homes for Lincoln seniors and gives peace of mind to their loved ones.

Calm Memory Care Communities

Founded in 1995, Legacy Retirement Communities have been distinguished as leaders in the senior living industry and have earned numerous local and national awards for their elegant communities, as well as their world-class service and programming. Legacy Retirement Communities believes in care, convenience, and enrichment, and have been voted Best of Lincoln for 26 years in a row.

Legacy Arbors Memory Care strives to ensure all its residents experience personal and purposeful care. For this reason, The Legacy is thoughtfully designed to promote the independence, dignity and individuality of each resident through Legacy’s person-centered approach to care. The Legacy’s staff is specially trained to work with the complexities of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Stimulating wellness programming and social opportunities enrich the lives of residents, while they are provided with 24/7 personalized assistance for bathing, dressing, medication and more.

The Legacy was the first of its kind in Lincoln and sets the standard for all to follow. Located on the corner of 56th and Pioneers Boulevard, the stunning Pioneer Legacy brick, wildlife and waterfall sculpture sits at the entrance to the property, adding grace and culture to grounds already rich in visual beauty. Seniors needing memory care can cultivate a life of serenity with quiet walks through the gardens or reading in the sunroom, which overlooks the Koi pond. As a Lincoln community landmark, the Legacy is rich with history, stability and thus, amazing senior memory care.

At Legacy Retirement Communities, seniors can expect to embrace an enriching lifestyle, whether they’re an adventure-seeker, a life-long learner, an eager volunteer or all of the above. Legacy is proud to be a family-owned and operated business and is grateful for the opportunity to serve the Lincoln community and its families for years to come.

Empowering Seniors: The liveMORE Approach at Salt Creek Senior Living

Salt Creek Senior Living is dedicated to ensuring a smooth transition into senior living, recognizing that finding the right community allows families to focus on their relationships rather than caregiving duties. The community's liveMORE memory care program is thoughtfully designed to enhance cognitive abilities while enriching daily life. This program is grounded in the understanding that while individuals with dementia may forget specific details, they remember how they were treated.

liveMORE adopts a holistic approach, encouraging meaningful connections between residents and caregivers. It emphasizes resident

choice and offers tailored learning opportunities, fostering a sense of belonging among peers. Drawing from established philosophies and contemporary research, liveMORE integrates five wellness pillars: physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual and social. Residents engage in exercise for at least 30 minutes daily and enjoy culinary options that nourish both body and soul.

The program promotes emotional well-being through activities that encourage engagement with social causes and intergenerational connections, as well as providing tranquil spaces for relaxation. Intellectual stimulation is prioritized with innovative educational programs and excursions designed to enhance cognitive function. Spiritual wellness is nurtured through ecumenical worship and opportunities for reflection, creating connections among residents, staff and families.

Social wellness is cultivated through common areas that promote interaction and community events, establishing Salt Creek Senior Living as a premier choice for memory care services in Lincoln and its surrounding areas. Joe Bohac, Senior Living Advisor at Salt Creek Senior Living, underscores the importance of seeking assistance: "I want seniors and their families to recognize that they cannot handle everything alone; it truly takes a village. Caregiver burnout is a serious issue, and it is perfectly acceptable to ask for help. Above all, we must prioritize ensuring that seniors receive the quality care they deserve."

Sincere Senior Care

Seniors facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementia need a safe, nurturing environment, so Sumner Place specializes in individualized programs designed to reduce seniors’ feelings of confusion, fear and agitation and offer meaningful, enjoyable activities that stimulate the mind and body. Sumner Place’s services focus on residents’ wide range of abilities, and Sumner Place welcomes and encourages family involvement. Sumner Place has been enhancing residents’ lives since 1975, enjoying visits by students from its nearby Prescott Elementary School, who visit during the school year to connect with residents.

Sumner Place prides itself on providing resident-focused care, independence and a home-like atmosphere. Sumner Place has three households and a walk-out entrance and patio for its Alzheimer’s residents in the secure Memory Support household. Sumner Place works hard to create a living environment that continuously enriches each resident’s life.

Sumner Place’s excellent staff strives daily to serve the residents and their family’s needs, while also maintaining dignity for all residents, families, visitors and caregivers.

“Our commitment is to deliver innovative, individually-focused care,” says Admissions and Public Relations Coordinator Megan Herter . “We can provide what you need today and the security of knowing that there are options for tomorrow. We are more than happy to discuss the many different living possibilities available to help you make an informed decision on which option is right for you. In select areas, we can also bring the care to you with our home health care.”

Sumner Place takes specialized senior care to the next level, so Lincoln seniors and their loved ones can feel assured they are surrounded by senior memory care experts who genuinely care.

Joe Bohac Salt Creek Senior Living

Megan Herter Sumner Place

Memory Care Communities

Memory loss can be a deeply sensitive time during a senior’s life, so Waterford Communities prioritizes making patients feel safe and loved. Waterford Communities understands the role consistency plays in memory care and provides stability for residents by ensuring residents are cared for by the same staff members time after time to develop familiar and trusting relationships. The Waterford Communities staff strives to be an extension of the family, a team that can be trusted to pay attention to the positive milestones and displays of joy by the resident. Staff always uses the residents name, a smile and eye contact when engaging with a resident to further develop that sensation of familiarity and thus, stability.

If one starts to notice that his/her loved one is having difficulty remembering recent events or conversations, confused about times or places or is unable to find the right words to articulate feelings or thoughts, it is a good idea to seek memory care assistance or communities like those of Waterford.

These changes can be disheartening, but Waterford encourages those with a family member or family members who are starting to show signs of memory loss to be patient, be present and seek help. This doesn’t have to be overly complex. Seniors and their families can even benefit from Waterford’s short-stay or day services, whether the need is for just one day or a few weeks. Day services include care throughout the day while short stays involve the senior’s moving into the community temporarily. This allows caregivers the time to make personal appointments, run errands or just have a break. No matter the severity, memory care assistance can be helpful for anyone and any family!

High-Quality Health Care

Meeting the complex and ever-changing care demands for people with memory care needs can be challenging, and care giving often falls on the shoulders of family members and friends. While care giving can be rewarding, caregivers often burn out and experience greater health problems themselves.

Noreen Home Care can help and focuses on client routines and safety, allowing seniors to stay in the comfort of their own home. The little things matter, so Noreen Home Care ensures grab bars are in place or throw rugs are picked up/tacked down. Noreen cares for seniors by providing a supportive environment with reminders, clear communication and consistent routines and encourages seniors to consistently see a doctor for evaluations and treatment options.

“If you have a family member experiencing early signs of memory loss, it's important to approach the situation with patience, understanding and open communication; encourage them to seek medical evaluation; be supportive; maintain a positive attitude; and consider utilizing memory aids like calendars and lists,” suggests Noreen Health Care’s Professional Staff. “You should also consider seeking out support groups and information from healthcare professionals, so you don’t feel isolated in trying to navigate this challenging time.”

Noreen Home Care ensures the burden of caring for a loved one with memory loss doesn't fall solely on seniors’ family members by offering trained caregivers to provide respite care options to give family members breaks, coordinating with healthcare providers to manage medical needs and providing emotional support and education to family members about

Dan Klein Jr. Waterford Communities

Virginia Cole Noreen Home Care

TJ Chrastil

Alicia Chrastil George Simmons

managing dementia-related challenges at home. Lincolnites can be sure that Noreen Home Care will share the responsibility of senior memory care, allowing family members to maintain their quality of life while still being involved in their loved one's care!

Memory Support Assistance by Caring Friends

Heedum Caring Friends InHome Care

It can be a scary and emotional to see a loved one undergo mental changes and decline. Caring Friends In-Home Care encourages the family and friends of the loved one needing memory care to educate themselves on best practices that can be implemented to support those who need memory assistance.

There are many community support programs and senior health professionals that can help, like those at Caring Friends. Professional Caregivers at Caring Friends In-Home Care meet their clients’ needs as they change. They understand some clients have minimal needs at the start of care, but those needs may increase over time. The team adjusts care plans regularly to accommodate the needs of their clients to ensure each client is always safe in his/her home.

Repetitive stories, changes in mood or behavior, lack of recall for familiar items or names and forgetting appointments are examples of a changes in cognitive behavior. Reach out to your medical professional for advice and guidance to support you and your loved one. Being aware and supportive of loved ones throughout these changes is important. Avoiding confronting, or provoking behavior, instead try redirecting conversations or supportive reassurance in a gentle, positive way.

Caring Friends supports the Lincoln and greater part of southern Nebraska by offering non-medical in-home care services, which support both the client and their family. These services can alleviate the burden of navigating support of memory care alone. Additionally, Caring Friends connects with local community members who provide additional support to its clients and their families.

Angelic Senior Care

At Visiting Angels, client safety and comfort is the priority. Before Visiting Angels even selects a caregiver to visit the client’s home, it gets to know the client and his/her individual needs to make a match according to experience and personality. This deep understanding helps build relationships and start them on the right path.

“If you’re noticing a pattern of your loved one having trouble finding the right word to describe something basic, this is an early warning to seek a memory care assistance provider like Visiting Angels,” says Brand Advocate Jenny Fisher. “They might describe the object as everything but the correct word or dance around the topic until you help them say the right thing. When this happens, remember to notice how often this is occurs and find a pattern of the occurrences.

You should then call your loved one’s doctor and try to get a neurologist’s evaluation.”

Visiting Angels doesn’t want seniors’ loved ones to shoulder anything alone. Visiting Angels suggests taking the time to go to a support group, where one can find comfort in sharing one’s experience with others who understand and are walking in the same emotions, stress and hardships. It sounds hard to fathom, but Visiting Angels encourages seniors and their families to try and laugh. Call a friend, watch a silly show or do something light to feel reprieve from the heavy emotions mental disease can cause.

Circumstances such as these are the main reason Visiting Angels exists. They want to help family members get some respite. Once Visiting Angels’ caregivers build a relationship of trust with the client and the client’s family, those loved ones will oftentimes feel comfortable enough to leave their loved one, so they can take care of themselves. This holistic approach to senior memory care is why the community of Lincoln calls on Visiting Angels time after time.

Patient-Centered Pharmaceuticals

Making an impact in the community is Owner Shannon Schultz’s top priority, so Nebraska LTC Pharmacy is proud to serve Lincoln’s seniors and the family and friends who love them.

In the beginning, Schultz ran her business out of a closet-sized office with just five clients. Now, she has five amazing employees and an expanded office space that serves over 300 clients, offering pharmaceutical expertise to seniors and their families alike!

There is one thing that has never changed–Nebraska LTC Pharmacy’s mission to offer unmatched care. Nebraska LTC Pharmacy loves serving Lincoln’s seniors, offering its shoulder to lean on during the emotional time of a senior’s memory loss or struggle, and proudly denotes itself as a concierge pharmacy due to its unmatched attention to detail and customer service, which is unlike many other retail pharmacies. Located at 3901 Normal Blvd. STE 203, Nebraska LTC Pharmacy’s unwavering goal is to provide individualized patient care that both increases safety and prolongs seniors’ independence.

Nebraska LTC Pharmacy also wants to make an impact on the pharmaceutical industry at large, to rewrite and improve the expectations seniors have of pharmacies today. Nebraska LTC Pharmacy advocates for the avoidance of polypharmacy, works to increase communication among healthcare professionals to reduce medication errors and hospitalizations and above all, aims to provide a small-town level of customer service upon which the Lincoln community can always rely.

Attentive Senior Advising

CarePatrol of Lincoln has been setting the standard for senior placement services since 1993 and is the pioneer organization in the placement-services industry. CarePatrol’s core values are dedicated to being a comprehensive personal service and valuable resource for families as they navigate senior memory care, which is an extremely delicate time for both the senior and his/her loved ones.

CarePatrol understands that being different makes all the difference. CarePatrol’s local senior advisors visit clients’ residences and talk face to face with seniors and their families, taking the time to learn about each senior’s unique memory care needs. CarePatrol’s advisors are personally supportive through every step of the process, leaving no question unasked.

CarePatrol’s senior advisors live where its seniors live and know the area. Because of this, they provide a “local” view on high-quality memory care facilities and resources and help seniors and their

Shannon Schultz Nebraska LTC Pharmacy

Valerie

Jenny Fisher Visiting Angels

families in person when touring and comparing communities.

CarePatrol’s network of providers are licensed and in good standing. CarePatrol will only recommend senior memory care communities that it has vetted and that will provide the level of care required for each senior’s individual needs. For these reasons, CarePatrol has been and will continue to be a leader in the senior placement industry, and Lincolnites will be able to depend on CarePatrol for decades to come.

“We want to help make the senior memory care transition as stress free as possible, which is why we offer free customer service to our families,” says Owner Michael Conover. “We are dedicated to helping each family make a good decision out of a seemingly large sea of bad ones, providing all the resources they need to make a wellinformed decision.

Senior Real Estate

Senior memory care extends beyond caregivers and care facilities; where a senior lives can contribute to his/her health and wellbeing too. Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty specializes in making the home-buying process easier and more accessible for seniors, with specialists dedicated to working specifically with seniors and their families.

When looking for a new house to accommodate a senior’s memory care needs, seniors and their loved ones should consider factors such as accessibility features, proximity to healthcare facilities and the overall ease of maintenance. It’s important to think about the future and how the home will meet the senior’s needs as he/ she ages, even if traditional memory care seems far off in the future. Ensuring the the location is right and the home is adaptable to changing needs provides long-term peace of mind.

Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group leverages the latest tools and technologies to enhance the service it provides to seniors. This includes virtual tours that allow seniors to view homes without leaving their current residence and digital signing options that simplify paperwork.

Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group offers comprehensive services including the Downsizing Club, which helps seniors prepare for moving, and the Nebraska Savvy Senior Empowerment Seminars, designed to educate, equip and empower seniors to live their best life. The team also offers the Senior Stories Podcast to share interesting stories. For veterans, there is a veteran specialist dedicated to helping seniors navigate their unique needs.

Additionally, Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group provides guides to assist seniors and Legacy Planning Kits to ensure that all necessary documents are readily available for any situation. And, because life should be enjoyable, the team organizes Travel Adventures, making it fun and safe for seniors to explore new places with a group of friends!

This comprehensive service package reflects Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group’s commitment to delivering not just senior-friendly, but also family-accommodating, compassionate and innovative support, which proudly supports Lincoln seniors and their families navigating senior memory care.

Lincoln’s senior memory care experts prioritize an individualized and compassionate approach to care to help addresses the challenges faced by seniors and their families coping with cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Lincoln’s senior memory care facilities, in-home care professionals and advisors provide supportive and structured environments, so each individual senior is always cared for in a way best suited to his/her unique needs.

Michael Conover CarePatrol of Lincoln

Alicia Chrastil

Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty

Honor ALL WHO SERVED

Veterans Day

November 11, 2024

The willingness of America’s veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting gratitude.

Veterans Day stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifices made by countless American service members throughout history. The holiday’s origins trace back to November 11, 1918, when an armistice was signed between the Allied powers and Germany, marking the end of World War I. The moment—at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month—became a symbol of peace and a day to remember those who fought for it. In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day to honor the World War I soldiers, and in 1938, it became an official holiday. However, the scope broadened after World War II and the Korean War, leading President Dwight D. Eisenhower to rename it Veterans Day in 1954, to honor all U.S. military Veterans, past and present.

As we observe Veterans Day each year, it’s a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made by both those who never returned home and those who did, carrying with them the experiences of service. At Strictly Business, we recognize the importance of paying tribute not only to the fallen but also to the Veterans who continue to be pillars in our communities—as business owners, neighbors, and leaders. We encourage our readers to express their gratitude, support Veteran-owned businesses, and acknowledge the heroes among us. Let’s honor their legacy by standing with the local businesses that make supporting our Veterans a priority.

Join us in supporting the local businesses that support our Veterans!

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