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A Paige From My Notebook...
Dear Readers,
The holiday season is a time for reflection, giving, and gathering with the people who matter most. It’s the perfect opportunity to pause and cherish the moments that bring warmth to our lives—whether it’s spending quality time with friends and family, or lending a helping hand to those in need.
For some of us, the rush of the season can feel overwhelming, especially for those of us who lean toward procrastination. If you still have holiday shopping to do, consider skipping the big online retailers this year. Instead, shop local. Supporting small businesses in our community strengthens our economy and helps our neighbors thrive—plus, it’s a more personal and meaningful way to give.
This season, let’s also think about those who may be less fortunate. Charitable giving is a powerful way to spread the true spirit of Christmas. Whether it’s donating to a local food pantry, volunteering your time, or simply
offering kindness to someone who might need it, every act of generosity makes a difference.
At Strictly Business, we are deeply grateful for the relationships we’ve built with you—our readers, partners, and community. Your support allows us to continue sharing stories, insights, and connections that make our community stronger.
As we close out the year, I encourage you to embrace the joy, peace, and love that this season represents. Take time to reflect on the blessings of the past year and set your sights on the opportunities ahead.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with hope, happiness, and success.
Warm regards,
Paige Zutavern President Strictly Business
CareerPathway.com is a social media type platform designed to bridge the gap between education and employment, providing students and job seekers with invaluable resources and content to explore careers and connect with potential employers. By fostering these connections, we aim to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their future while helping businesses build a skilled and sustainable workforce.
We are proud to collaborate with key organizations such as the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, American Job Center Lancaster County, and Lincoln Public Schools. These partnerships are vital to ensuring CareerPathway.com serves as a robust tool that benefits students, educators, and businesses alike. Notably, we are an approved tool for career exploration within Lincoln Public Schools (LPS), where students will actively engage with the platform next semester. This initiative positions CareerPathway.com as a cornerstone in helping students navigate their career journeys and explore a range of local opportunities.
Over the past 90 days, CareerPathway.com has experienced an incredible growth of over 110%, reflecting its increasing impact and recognition as a go-to resource for career exploration and workforce development. This rapid expansion highlights the platform’s
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
ability to connect students and job seekers with industries and educational pathways that match their goals and interests. With many profiles, videos, and pathways available, the platform provides insights into real-world professions, from day-in-the-life experiences to educational requirements and career progression.
CareerPathway.com is designed to support businesses by showcasing their opportunities, providing a platform to attract and educate the workforce of tomorrow. For students, the platform is a gateway to understanding how their passions align with the local job market and the education required to achieve their goals. By collaborating with educators, economic development organizations, and employers, CareerPathway.com is shaping the future of workforce and ensuring our communities thrive. Create your business profile today and inspire the next generation and current job seekers to explore and pursue opportunities in your industry.
Jayda Rowan Avery
Pittenger & Anderson ranked #6 on CNBC Financial Advisor 100 List for 2024
Pittenger & Anderson
(P&A) ranks #6 on CNBC's
Financial Advisor 100 list for 2024, which was announced on October 2nd. This marks its sixth consecutive year on the list and the only Nebraska firm recognized this year. P&A specializes in money-inmotion events like retirement and business sales, offering investment and financial planning services. Learn more at PittAnd.com.
“We are humbled to be recognized again this year and believe it is a testament to our commitment as an unwavering financial advocate for our clients,” said Trey Pittenger, CEO. “In a world where accolades can be purchased through advertisement dollars and pay-to-play schemes, it’s humbling to be acknowledged through an objective and transparent process.”
P&A did not pay for consideration; however, firms must pay a licensing fee for the CNBA FA 100 logo. CNBC utilizes Accupoint for data analysis in creating the FA 100 rankings. Full methodology is located at cnbc.com/2024/10/02/cnbc-fa-100-ranking-methodology.html.
HBELLPRecognizedforEquityLeadershipfor Tenth Year in a Row
HBE LLP is proud to announce that for the tenth consecutive year, it has been recognized as one of the Accounting MOVE Project’s 2024 Best Firms for Equity Leadership. With women holding 46% of leadership roles, HBE joins just 17 firms nationwide receiving this award.
Scott Becker, Managing Partner of HBE, stated, “Our recognition for ten consecutive years as a Best Firm in Equity Leadership reflects our commitment to fostering a supportive environment where team members of all backgrounds can thrive, regardless of gender, age, race or other diversity. Through our core values centered on integrity, respect and teamwork, we will continue to support and advance flexible leadership pathways built upon unique contributions and talents.”
At HBE, women hold prominent positions across all areas of the firm, showcasing their strength in the workforce. While others have seen their hiring efforts stall, HBE has continued full steam ahead — bringing on individuals at all stages of their careers, from new mothers to those with decades of experience who want to stay active in the profession.
The MOVE methodology investigates the factors proven to be essential for career success: Money, Opportunity, Vital supports and Entrepreneurship. HBE emphasizes employment programs proven to retain mid-career women, including phased return to work for new parents, remote-work opportunities, work-life supports for busy season and a tailored coaching approach to help managers lead teams based on productivity, not face time.
HBE offers a complete range of financial management services for businesses, nonprofit and governmental organizations, specialty industries and individuals. These services include specialized advisory, tax, audit, data analytics, business valuations, outsourced accounting and CFO solutions, personal financial planning and wealth management. For more information, visit hbecpa.com.
Sun Valley Lanes has Announced a New Rewards Program
Sun Valley Lanes announces Points Plus! This new technologically advanced loyalty program was officially launched in mid-October and works for any and all guests! It’s easy to sign up and perfect for getting rewarded for the things one loves to do. For every $1 spent, one point goes towards offers, rewards and coupons.
Points Plus utilizes a tiered rewards system, with five levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond). The higher the tier, the bigger the rewards. Learn about the different tiers and different benefits at sunvalleylanes.com/points-plus. This membership is free and all members can earn points eligible for purchases within the facility.
Sun Valley Lanes’ clean, fun and ultra-modern facility provides a cutting-edge system, an advanced video and sound system, traditional and club lighting and most importantly, a friendly and professional customer service staff. They make the experience fun for everyone. Learn more at sunvalleylanes.com.
SavvySeniorsEmpowermentSeminarSeries: December and January Sessions Announced, New Location Starting in 2025
Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminar is pleased to announce its upcoming sessions and a new location for 2025. While the December seminar will still be held at their current location, Suite 111 in the Clocktower shopping area at 70th and A St., beginning in January, the seminars will move to St. Mark’s Church at 8550 Pioneers Blvd. These monthly seminars, held on the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m., provide seniors with essential information, support and community connections on key topics for aging well.
On Wednesday, January 8, Savvy Seniors will host "Artful Aging: Keeping Your Mind and Body Fit Through the Arts" at St. Mark’s Church. This engaging session will highlight the powerful benefits of creative expression. Attendees will discover how integrating the arts into daily life can enhance mental agility, boost mood, and encourage physical activity, helping seniors stay mentally and physically vibrant.
In addition to these seminars, Savvy Seniors offers the Downsizing Club, which supports seniors looking to transition to smaller homes, and the Travel Club, for those interested in exploring new destinations. Both clubs provide a welcoming community and resources to help seniors stay active, connected, and adventurous.
To register for the December or January seminars, visit NESavvySeniors. com. Early registration is encouraged as these sessions are highly popular and fill quickly.
The Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars are committed to providing seniors with the knowledge, resources and community support they need to lead fulfilling lives in retirement.
For more information and to register, please visit NESavvySeniors. com or contact Alicia Chrastil at (402) 499-8147.
Celebrate This Ground Breaking at Willet Construction
Willet Construction has broken ground at the site of their new Willet Construction office and design center. With this new building, the design team and the construction team will finally be under one roof, making their design and building process much smoother and more collaborative! This marks a new era for Willet Construction, and we’re excited to see what they do next!
Willet Construction strives to develop and preserve long-term relationships with their clients and to be recognized as one of the premier Remodeling Contractors in Lincoln and the surrounding area. As a fully insured and state-registered construction company, Willet Construction offers many types of services to their customers.
Their services include complete design/build drawings in three-dimensional viewing. Their team has produced projects of all types and sizes including whole house remodels, large and small additions, kitchens, bathrooms, sunrooms, basements, living spaces, attic finishes, siding replacement, window and door replacements, screened in porches, decks and garage additions. Their craftsmanship is seen through trim work, interior finishes, framing, tile setting and flooring. There is no project too big or small for them to create a “top-quality impression.” Learn more at willetconstruction.com.
SCORE Lincoln Announces "What's Involved in Starting a Small Business" Workshop
SCORE Lincoln's workshop helps startups and small business owners get answers to essential questions necessary to starting or running a business.
The workshop takes place on Saturday, December 14, 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at Turbine Flats - Resonator, 2124 Y St.
Get an overview of ALL the things you need to be planning for and thinking about to create your successful business. You will learn from experts and be able to ask questions specific to your business interests.
Topics include:
• Business Plan
• Practical Accounting and Tax Considerations
• Financing Your Business
• Legal Structures for Small Business
• Marketing - traditional and digital
• Insurance Needs
The full day costs $49 - and includes lunch. Registration fee may be reimbursed by Community Development Resources upon attendance at the workshop.
Registration is open at score.org/lincoln/event/whats-involvedstarting-a-small-business-17.
Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 17 million entrepreneurs start, grow or successfully exit a business. SCORE's 10,000 volunteers provide free, expert mentoring, resources and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. Learn more at score.org.
Choices Treatment Center Joins 2024 Gift Responsibly Campaign to Raise Awareness of Youth Gambling Risks
Choices Treatment Center has announced its commitment as a participant of the 2024 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining lotteries and community organizations across North America and around the world to raise awareness about the risks of underage lottery use. The campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University.
Research shows that the earlier a person’s participation or exposure to gambling is in childhood, the more likely they are to develop a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through some kind of lottery product, such as lottery tickets or scratch offs. Often these items are given to a child by an adult who is unaware of the associated risks.
Choices Treatment Center will participate the 2024 Gift Responsibly Campaign as an organizational participant. During November and December, Choices will work to promote awareness about the risks of underage lottery use by using social media, public speaking opportunities, media engagement, as well education amongst their clients.
“The potential long-term risks associated with underage gambling exposure cannot be understated,” said Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director. “I commend each Gift Responsibly Campaign participant for their commitment to raising awareness about the risks of youth gambling. Now, more than ever, we must continue to insist that lottery tickets are never appropriate gifts for children.”
Choices Treatment Center provides outpatient and intensive outpatient addiction treatment services in offices in Lincoln and Columbus, Nebraska. Learn more at choicestreatmentcenter.net.
• Kearney • Aurora • Gibbon • Burwell • Central City • Omaha
2024 Nedelco, Inc.
Svobdas of Luxury Landscape Enjoy Water Feature Conference in Denver
Jackie and Ken Svoboda of Luxury Landscape traveled to Colorado to support Atlantic-Oase, a manufacturer of water feature products in Ohio, who recently hosted the conference in downtown Denver. Landscapers and water feature experts from all over the world attended.
Jackie said, “We attended the pond tour on the first day and were chauffeured in and around Denver to look at many different styles and sizes of water features. Besides the gorgeous scenery, the types of features homeowners have in their yards are amazing and definitely gave us some inspiration and great ideas! Most were full of koi fish, lush plants and fun little details.”
The rest of the conference was spent in breakout sessions, learning about new products, filtration systems, branding and marketing.
It was time well spent meeting other landscape business owners and gaining more ideas to better serve Luxury Landscape’s clients who dream of a water feature in their outdoor space.
If you’re looking for a unique and professional landscape experience, you’ll find partnering with one of the top landscapers in Lincoln to be a lot less work and a lot more fun! As a highly respected landscaping company, Luxury Landscape offers an array of services from design to installation to gorgeous water and fire features. Learn more at luxurylandscape-llc.com.
Waterford Communities Assisted Living and MemoryCareCelebrates13yearsatWaterford College View Location
Waterford Communities
Assisted Living and Memory Care is celebrating 13 years at their Waterford College View location at 4800 S. 48th St.! They are grateful for all the families that have entrusted them with their loved ones for the past 13 years. Their leaders and team are what make them successful in serving the needs of families and residents. For them, it is truly a privilege to become a part of residents’ family.
The Waterford Communities Assisted Living has three locations to serve the Lincoln community. Their communities are named by the neighborhood they are in: Waterford Williamsburg, Waterford Wilderness Hills and Waterford College View.
Finding the right assisted living or memory support community can leave you feeling overwhelmed. The good news is you are not alone. The Waterford Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities will help you find the perfect fit, so you can stop searching and relax knowing you have made the right decision. Their team of professionals is committed to using their talents and strengths to serve the needs of their residents.
Waterford Communities Assisted Living and Memory Care offers assisted living and memory care to seniors in Lincoln. For more information, visit thewaterford.net.
Watch The Lincoln Stars This December!
Join the Lincoln Stars at the Ice Box in the month of December for a Lincoln Stars Hockey game. Tickets are on sale now at lincolnstars.com or you can call the box office at (402) 4747827. Friday, December 12 is their $2 night, Saturday, December 13 is their Teddy Bear Toss game, and bears will be donated to community action and ring in the New Year as they play their I-80 rival the Omaha Lancers and wear white for their New Year’s Eve Whiteout game! If you’re looking for an exciting night in Lincoln, cheer on the Lincoln Stars!
The Ice Box has been voted top 5 places to see a junior hockey game. The 4,200 seat home of the Lincoln Stars is known for every seat being so close to the action you will feel like you are part of the game. Get your tickets today and experience the energy of a Lincoln Stars game. Visit lincolnstars.com for more information.
LIBA is Hosting the 2025 Free Enterprise Celebration
The Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) is delighted to announce the 2025 Free Enterprise Celebration, happening on Thursday, March 27 at the Embassy Suites in downtown Lincoln. This highly anticipated event promises an evening filled with networking, entertainment and a celebration of free enterprise.
• 4:30 p.m.: Kick off the evening with the Business of Politics Reception, where attendees can meet and greet local and state elected officials.
• 5:30 p.m.: The staggered live auction begins, featuring hundreds of items and services to bid on.
• 6:30 p.m.: Enjoy a delightful dinner while participating in a silent auction, continuing throughout the evening.
• 7:30 p.m.: Celebrate excellence with our annual LIBA awards and presentations, recognizing outstanding members of the business community.
• 8:30 p.m.: The night concludes with the auctioning of the final three live items.
The Free Enterprise Celebration attracts 500 attendees each year and features hundreds of items and services slated for auction. This year's event is set to captivate with fun games and amazing prizes, enhancing the excitement of both the live and silent auctions.
Businesses and individuals are welcome to sponsor the event and show their support for the local business community. Inquire about sponsorship opportunities and reserve your table of eight for $750 by contacting LIBAconvention@liba.org.
Join them for an unforgettable evening dedicated to celebrating and supporting free enterprise in Lincoln. This is a unique opportunity to connect with peers and leaders in the business sector while enjoying an exciting array of auction items and services!
The Lincoln Independent Business Association is committed to advocating for local businesses, promoting a free-market economy, and creating a vibrant business community in Lincoln.
Andermatt Dr.
Navigating Power and Progress: Farris Engineering’s Dedication to Municipal Reliability
Farris Engineering, Inc. is an employee-owned small business founded in 1967, when Ray Farris started the company with one other employee in his home in Omaha. While technology and systems have evolved significantly since then, their core values remain unchanged: a steadfast commitment to trust, honesty and reliability.
Their municipal division is led by Municipal Utility Sector Leader David Hunter, who brings over 30 years of experience in municipal utility operations, construction and management. David’s extensive background spans nuclear power plant operations, AC/DC power generation, construction, satellite earth station operations, microwave operations and municipal electrical power transmission, as well as water and wastewater treatment.
In addition to his technical expertise, David excels at navigating regulatory environments. His experience working with federal and state agencies—including the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (NeDEQ), Health and Human Services (HHS), National Electrical Code (NEC), National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)—demonstrates his ability to manage compliance and regulatory requirements effectively. His constructive engagement with these entities underscores his commitment to safety, efficiency and excellence.
Farris Engineering’s team is equipped to support power generation plants and assess plant conditions accurately. They bring hands-on experience across all areas of power generation and electrical distribution. Recently, their team has been involved in projects such as:
• Switchgear upgrades
• Control tower replacements/upgrades
• Power generator upgrades/additions
• Arc flash studies
• Cooling system upgrades
• RICE compliance studies
• Rate plan studies
For more information about Farris Engineering, please visit farrisusa.com, or contact David directly at (402) 414-0598 or via email at dhunter@farris-usa.com.
OnPointInsuranceisPartof TheMarketplace Circle of Champions
Western National Bank Announces 2024 Holiday Hours
For the past four years, On Point Insurance’s Krista Peeks Dittman has been part of the Marketplace Circle of Champions. This is an annual recognition program for Marketplace-registered agents and brokers who assist consumers with active enrollments in Marketplace coverage during Open Enrollment.
Open Enrollment for Marketplace coverage for the 2025 started Friday, November 1 and will close Wednesday, January 15, 2025. If you are looking for experienced agents to help sort through the 78 plans in Nebraska offered by five different carriers, the licensed insurance agents at On Point Insurance Agency are ready to help. On Point Insurance helps individuals, families and seniors find health insurance plans that are On Point with their needs. Their independent, license health insurance agents can help you sort through your choices and explain your options. Whether you need help with ACA, Medicare, dental and vision or international travel insurance, they offer free, On Point consultations. Visit insuranceonpoint.com.
Experience the Magic of the Season with WhiteChristmasatTheNebraskaCommunities Playhouse - Hickman Theater
The Nebraska Communities Playhouse (NCP) is proud to present Irving Berlin's beloved musical White Christmas this December, just in time for the holiday season. This classic holiday production will include shows on December 6-8 and December 12-15 at the playhouse in Hickman, NE.
Set against the backdrop of a dazzling winter wonderland, White Christmas tells the story of two song-and-dance men, Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, who team up with a sister act, Betty and Judy Haynes, to put on a spectacular show in a Vermont inn. Along the way, they find romance, rekindle old friendships and celebrate the spirit of giving.
The show is suitable for all ages, making it a perfect holiday outing for the whole family. Whether you're making it a fun evening out with the kids or enjoying a festive night with friends, White Christmas is sure to fill the season with joy and laughter. In addition to the spectacular performance, visitors can enjoy seasonal treats at the NCP bar. Adults can indulge in themed holiday cocktails while kids can warm up with delicious hot chocolate. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit before or after the show!
Tickets are available now and can be purchased online at neplayhouse.com, by emailing the box office at boxoffice@ neplayhouse.com or by calling the box office at (402) 792-8882. Don’t wait—this magical holiday show will sell out quickly! The Nebraska Communities Playhouse is located at 217 Locust St. in Hickman, NE.
The Nebraska Communities Playhouse (NCP), a 501(c)(3) strives to enhance the quality of life in the southeast Nebraska communities that it serves. Learn more at neplayhouse.com.
Western National Bank wishes to extend warm holiday greetings to all its customers and community members. To ensure their customers can plan their banking needs during the holiday season, Western National Bank is announcing its adjusted hours of operation for the upcoming holidays.
Holiday Hours:
• Tuesday, December 24 – Open from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Wednesday, December 25 – Closed
• Wednesday, January 1 – Closed
Western National Bank remains committed to delivering excellent customer service, even during the holiday season. They encourage customers to utilize their digital banking services, available 24/ seven, for convenient access to accounts, bill payments and mobile check deposits at mywnb.com or visit them in person at their Lincoln branch located in the Trade Center off 58th and Old Cheney (5931 S 58th St., STE G).
Western National Bank wish all their customers a joyful and safe holiday season and look forward to serving you in the New Year! For additional information, please visit their website at mywnb.com.
ALLO Business Offers Tailored Voice Solutions for Businesses
ALLO recognizes that when businesses seek the right voice solution, it's essential to consider both company size and unique communication needs. ALLO’s Microsoft Teams Voice and Analog Voice solutions are tailored tools designed to elevate internal and external communication, supporting businesses of all sizes with seamless, reliable connectivity.
With Microsoft Teams Voice, you can integrate your voice communications seamlessly. This solution allows you to make and receive calls directly within the Microsoft Teams interface, making this a one-stop shop for chatting, virtual meetings, calendars and much more. Other features include:
• Enterprise-Level Reliability: High-quality, secure and reliable voice service backed by ALLO’s robust infrastructure.
• Scalability: Tailored to support small and large businesses with flexible scaling options to match growth and needs.
• User-Friendly Integration: Easy setup in existing Teams environments, designed to simplify business communication workflows.
ALLO’s Analog Voice solution is ideal for businesses that enjoy the simplicity of traditional phone lines and precise and dependable connections. Additional benefits include:
• Cost-Effective Solution: An affordable option for businesses that require standard voice services.
• Simple Transition Support: ALLO’s dedicated team assists businesses in seamlessly maintaining or transitioning analog services to meet their needs.
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.
Center Sphere is
Hosting an Ugly Sweater Christmas Party!
On Thursday, December 5, from 5 to 7 p.m., Center Sphere welcomes you to Lincoln’s Ugly Sweater Christmas Party hosted by Morrow Collision. Drinks and food will be provided throughout the event and there will be a giveaway for the ugliest sweater! Visit Morrow Collision Center at 2801 N 83rd St. in your ugliest sweater for a chance to win a grand prize!
Center Sphere is all about connection, growth and empowerment. Their members believe in the power of relationships and utilize that network to connect with one another on both a local and national level. Whether it’s growing themselves, their relationships, their teams or their business, Center Sphere provides the resources for an all-encompassing experience. Their members are equipped for success, having access to all aspects of the network that Center Sphere helped them build instantaneously through their proprietary member HUB. 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.
LetLincoln-LancasterCountyHealthDepartment
Help You Start the New Year off Right
As we approach the end of this year and the start of a new one, many are setting their goals and resolutions. For some, becoming tobacco and nicotine-free is at the top of the list.
Tobacco Free Lancaster County recognizes the importance of starting the new year with a commitment to being tobacco and nicotinefree. However, this can be a tough resolution— especially when combined with the holiday rush of gatherings, gift shopping, yearend work deadlines, travel and extra social interactions. All of this can make an already stressful time feel even more challenging.
Understanding the nicotine withdrawal timeline (see image) can be crucial for your quit journey. This timeline describes common withdrawal symptoms, when they typically begin and how long they may last. It will help you anticipate what your body and mind may experience and allow you to plan accordingly.
The Nebraska Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) is available 24/seven, even through the holiday season, offering confidential support, counseling and free nicotine replacement therapy to help you stay on track.
For more information on how Tobacco Free Lancaster County can support you or a loved one in committing to a tobacco- and nicotine-free lifestyle, visit tobaccofreelancastercounty.org. Funding for Tobacco Free Lancaster County is provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement.
Celebrate the Season at The Holiday Hub Pop-Up Bar at Jayne Snyder Trails Center
Get ready for a season of festive cheer at The Holiday Hub, a magical holiday pop-up bar at the Jayne Snyder Trails Center, 250 N 21st street (south side of the Hub Café building)! This unique, kitschy wonderland will welcome guests every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 5 to 10 p.m., December 5 through January 4. With limited seating available, reservations are highly encouraged to ensure your place at Lincoln’s coziest holiday destination.
The Holiday Hub promises an unforgettable evening of locally sourced, chef-driven fare provided by the Hub Cafe. On Thursdays and Saturdays, visitors can enjoy selections from a curated small bites menu, while Fridays will feature the popular Pizza & Pints Night pizza menu, serving up house-made pizzas that highlight the best of local ingredients. Pair your food with a festive seasonal cocktail or choose from a variety of beer and wine to complete your holiday experience.
Transforming the Jayne Snyder Trails Center into a spirited retreat filled with holiday charm, The Holiday Hub offers an intimate, reservation-friendly atmosphere to relax and celebrate with friends and family. Visit hubcafelincoln.com or find them on Facebook (@ HubCafeLincoln) to make your reservation and kick off a holiday season full of flavor and fun at The Holiday Hub.
Hub Café serves farm-to-fork breakfast, brunch and lunch cafe, featuring locally-sourced fresh dishes in Lincoln and is now open Friday nights for pizza and small bites! Learn more at hubcafelincoln.com.
Omnify Named Top 20 HSA Provider
Omnify Employee Benefit Solutions, powered by Union Bank & Trust, was recently announced as a Top 20 HSA provider in the United States, per the 2024 Midyear HSA Market Statistics & Trends report from Devenir Research.
The report, released in late September, is compiled using data from HSA providers for the period ending on June 30.
“At Omnify, we pride ourselves on our relationship-focused approach with employers in Nebraska and across the Midwest,” said Tanya Martin-Dick, Vice President and leader of the Omnify team. “Our motivation is not only to build a strong relationship but to provide efficiencies, education, and resources that help our clients maximize their HSA benefits. We are proud to be one of the Top 20 HSA Providers in the country and value the clients we serve.”
Omnify is a subsidiary of Union Bank & Trust (Member FDIC), 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.
EighthAnnualLincolnHourof Code&TechFair
Join Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development for the Hour of Code event, a morning full of coding activities and an interactive Tech Fair at the Nebraska Innovation Campus Conference Center from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, December 7.
For coding activities, attendees are asked to bring their own computing device (laptop, tablet or smart phone) if they have one available. A limited number of computing devices will be available for public use. The Tech Fair features more than 20 technologyfocused booths with educational opportunities and interactive technologies and programs, demonstrations and hands-on activities. There will be robots, virtual reality and so much more–don’t miss out!
This event is FREE and open to the public. All students need to be accompanied by an adult. FREE parking will be available in the paved lot north of Transformation Drive.
Partners for this year’s event include Nebraska Innovation Campus, Nebraska School of Computing, Lincoln Public Schools, UNL Teaching, Learning & Teacher Education, Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, Code.org, Hudl and Spreetail. Last year’s event attracted 600 attendees and 28 tech-focused companies and nonprofits. These collaborative efforts signify a strategic and comprehensive approach to attract and retain talent in Lincoln by showcasing the city’s vibrant professional ecosystem.
Those interested in attending can register at eventbrite.com/e/2024lincoln-hour-of-code-tech-fair-tickets-1047125690127. RSVP if possible!
LPED serves as the primary source for companies looking to move to or expand in Lincoln and works with economic development allies to attract new investment that will benefit the community. LPED also develops programs, including the ongoing Business Retention & Expansion Survey, that identify and overcome barriers to encourage a growth oriented business climate. Learn more at selectlincoln.org.
mySalesman Expands Services with New Tools for Deck, Roof and Pressure Washing
After over a decade in the fencing industry, mySalesman is proud to announce its latest offerings: tools designed specifically for deck, roof and pressure washing professionals. By popular demand, these business owners can now pre-qualify leads with mySalesman's high-performance cost estimator, enabling their customers to generate an instant budget in just three simple steps!
As your 24/7 salesperson, mySalesman eliminates the hassle of chasing unqualified leads. It provides an exceptional buying experience for your customers—accessible anytime, day or night— while delivering qualified leads that help you "know before you go" to a jobsite. Visit mysalesman.com, email info@mysalesman.com or call (402) 260-5185 for more details.
Based in Waverly, Nebraska, mySalesman thrives on a vibrant team culture and a commitment to excellence. Learn more about their innovative tools and services at mysalesman.com.
Omaha Fashion Week Announces Designer Lineup for Spring 2025 Season
Omaha Fashion Week is thrilled to announce the designers for their Spring 2025 Season. They are returning to highlight fashion for good in the community, where selfexpression, artistic vision and individuality are celebrated. This season's designers are focused on immersive storytelling, finding inspiration from music and pop culture and sharing vulnerable experiences.
During five days of events, they will be showcasing 15 Emerging Designers and 11 Featured designers who will present their collections during our Spring 2025 Season. They are proud to welcome back our beloved high school students from across the state as well as college students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for our annual spring student night on Wednesday. Finally, exciting announcements about multiple headlining designers will be coming soon!
Designer’s inspirations manifest through streetwear, bridal gowns, eveningwear, avant-garde and wearable art. We’ll see themes such as activism and revolution, accessible design, gender fluidity, futurism, punk aesthetics and introspection.
Omaha Fashion Weeks’ runway will see designers of all ages, spanning five decades. Of these, nine of their designers are high school or college students. They have 15 designers returning to our runways, and 11 designers who are brand new to our show.
Emerging Designers are either brand new to the OFW runway, student designers, or veteran designers trying out a completely new method of creation. They will close each show with an incredible lineup of inspiring collections by our Featured Designers. This designer track is full of experts at their craft who will showcase high-quality, ready-to-buy looks on the runway.
OFW Spring showcases are scheduled for February 26-March 1, at Omaha Design Center. Tickets go on sale November 28 at omahafashionweek.ticketleap.com. Learn more about the schedule at omahafashionweek.com
LincolnAirportAnnouncestheRunwayProject
Lincoln Airport is in the design phase of an approximately $100 million runway reconstruction project, likely to begin construction in November 2025. This complete replacement of the airport's nearly 13,000-foot runway will be jointly funded by the National Guard Bureau, the FAA and the Lincoln Airport Authority, with the Airport Authority itself covering 5% to 10% of the project costs. Estimated to take two years, the project reflects the vital role this runway plays for both military and civilian operations.
Built in the early 1940s during World War II and expanded during the Cold War, the airport’s primary runway is among the longest of any commercial airport in the U.S. This is essential for the Nebraska Air National Guard’s 155th Air Refueling Wing, which operates eight Boeing KC-135R Stratotankers. These large aircraft require a runway with greater length, making this renovation key to maintaining support for military needs alongside commercial operations.
In addition to the local benefit, the runway provides national benefits as well. The Department of Defense considers the unique length of the runway to be an important asset to our national security. With the help and advocacy of Senator Deb Fischer and her work with the Nebraska National Guard, STRATCOM leadership, the 55th Wing at Offutt Air Force Base, and the Department of Defense, funds were committed to reconstruct the runway in full and establish this asset for many years to come.
Lincoln Airport Authority is thrilled to be a part of your journey. Learn more and book a flight at lincolnairport.com.
Strictly Business recognizes this as the respected authorship of Dan Green and Samantha Montante.
JetSplashCelebratesItsEighthGrandOpening!
JetSplash Car Wash is excited to announce the grand opening of JetSplash #8 at 851 West O St. in Lincoln, which officially opened in November. This new West O location marks JetSplash’s first car wash west of downtown, delivering the same quick, highquality wash experience with Lincoln’s only full-service hand dry.
In response to growing community demand, JetSplash #8 comes equipped with advanced wash technology to get drivers in, out and back on the road quickly.
Lincoln locals Mike Burkey and Frank Ybarra, long-time JetSplash fans who championed the West O location on social media, joined JetSplash leadership as honorary ribbon cutters and kicked off the grand opening festivities.
“Our West O community has been rallying for a JetSplash for years, and we’re thrilled to finally be here,” says Kinsey Bauer, JetSplash’s Sales Manager. “This location brings our friendly, speedy service to even more residents, especially in this growing area. We can’t wait to welcome West O drivers.”
Since 2003, JetSplash Car Wash has washed nearly 9 million vehicles in Lincoln, offering high-quality, detail-oriented washes with a signature hand-dry finish. With new locations on West O Street and an upcoming site at 27th and Vine, JetSplash continues expanding to meet Lincoln’s car wash needs.
For more information, visit jetsplash.com.
AR Solutions CEO Aaron Newell Attends ACA Fall Forum
AR Solutions, a leader in accounts receivable and collections, announces that Founder and CEO Aaron Newell recently attended the ACA International Fall Forum, gaining valuable insights into the evolving landscape of regulatory compliance, business optimization and consumer engagement, gaining key industry insights on compliance, efficiency and consumer-centric strategies. The forum featured a deep dive into how the recent 2024 election results could impact industry regulations and explored best practices for compliance departments, from root cause analysis to consumer complaint management, providing real-world tools to enhance operations and reduce risk.
Newell also participated in sessions focused on AI-driven automation, strategic communication and personalized consumer engagement strategies. Highlights included methods for documenting and visualizing workflows to improve efficiency, training teams on compliance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Additionally, experts shared approaches for moving beyond legacy systems to advanced, SaaS-based platforms and leveraging automation to deliver the right message at the right time. These insights will enable AR Solutions to streamline operations and provide enhanced service to its clients in a dynamic regulatory environment. For more information on AR Solutions, visit arsolutionsinc.com or download their free eBook The Cash Flow Formula go.arsolutionsinc. com/ar-solutions-biolink.
HBAL Makes Wooden Toys at Annual Santa Cop Project
Since 1988, the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) has built wooden toys for local children in need. On November 9, HBAL members, families and friends gathered at Lincoln Northeast High School to build/ assemble 70 builder block sets. The sets will be donated to the Lincoln Police Union Charities and LPD officers will give them directly to children they encounter during the holidays.
HBAL’s annual Santa Cop Project is one of the many ways its members give back to the community. Funding for the project is provided by donations to the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation whose mission is to support the educational and charitable activities of HBAL. The Foundation contributes to community service projects focused on housing, providing scholarships for students pursuing a career related to the building industry and providing funding for other industry-related educational and research programs. Since 2010, the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation has distributed over $377,000 through community projects and scholarships. You can learn more about HBAL and the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation at hbal.org.
New Meeting and Event Venue in Northeast Lincoln – The Gathering Grove
The Gathering Grove, a new event space designed for connection, celebration and creativity, is thrilled to announce its grand opening! Located in the heart of University Place, The Gathering Grove offers a versatile space perfect for meetings, events, workshops, trainings, yoga, sound baths and small weddings ranging from 50 to 100 people. Whether you are a university department trying to get off campus, a local business looking for a meeting spot, or a community member looking for a place to throw a celebration event – this is the space for you!
The Gathering Grove invites the community to its public First Friday Art Event on Friday, December 6, from 5 to 8 p.m. This free event will feature local artists, music, refreshments, a raffle and an exclusive view of the venue. Located at 2649 N. 48th St. next to Mojava Coffeehouse, there is free public parking behind Mojava.
“After spending nearly two decades as an event designer working around the globe, I am excited to bring all of that knowledge locally through this beautiful space. The Gathering Grove was created to bring people together," says Kristin Malek, owner and visionary behind the space. "We’re excited to share it with the community and celebrate the talent of local artists during our First Friday event." Whether you're planning an upcoming event or simply enjoy an evening of art and culture, the First Friday Art Event is the perfect opportunity to explore The Gathering Grove. Reservations for the space are being accepted for 2025 and can be taken via phone, email or Facebook. Learn more at Tgglincoln.com.
Krueger
Development Celebrates the Grand Opening of Pixie Nails & Spa
Underfoot Flooring is Giving Back to the Community
Krueger Development is excited to announce their newest Tenant, Pixie Nails & Spa, located at 7401 S 15th Suite C. Pixie Nails is a brand-new nail salon with state of the art equipment and nail polish types such as Gel-X, Tap Hybrid Gel and Zen Builder Gel. Located in south Lincoln behind New Day Coffee and Ash & Ash Co., Pixie Nails also provides services such as Honey Milky Manicure and Jelly and Volcano Spa Luxury Pedicure. There is a 5% off discount on gift cards purchased before the New Year. They take appointments and walk-ins. Their hours are MondayFriday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
You can schedule an appointment via phone call at (531) 350-5672 or through their Facebook and Instagram (@pixienailsandspane).
Treat yourself to a little luxury at Pixie Nails & Spa! Their nail techs are here to make your nails look absolutely fabulous. From classic styles to bold colors, they’ve got you covered. Learn more on their Facebook.
Krueger Development has been specializing in commercial and residential sales and leasing in the Lincoln, Nebraska area for over two decades. Learn more at kruegerdevelopment.com.
At Underfoot Flooring, giving back isn’t just something they do occasionally – it’s part of who they are. Now, they’re proud to roll up their sleeves and make over 300 sandwiches to help feed those in need. Supporting the community is a core value for them, and they’re grateful for every chance to make a difference.
Whether through high-quality flooring or meaningful acts of service, Underfoot Flooring is here to serve the community with dedication and heart.
Underfoot Flooring Solutions is a locally owned and operated flooring store serving the Nebraska area in commercial and residential flooring installation for over 15 years. They are your one stop shop for all your flooring needs. What sets them apart is their unwavering dedication to quality. They source the finest materials, collaborate with skilled artisans and employ a team of professionals who share their vision for perfection. They understand that your home is a reflection of your individuality, and their goal is to provide you with the means to express it through your choice of flooring.
Get quality flooring projects for lasting beauty at underfootlincoln.com.
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Announces Latino Connect
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to introduce Latino Connect, a new Chamber program aimed at empowering Hispanic and Latino entrepreneurs in Lincoln by providing access to valuable business resources and networking opportunities.
Their inaugural community celebration to launch this program took place on November 18 and was filled with amazing people willing to learn more about this impactful new program and celebrating this achievement. Help them come together to build a stronger, more connected business community!
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce serves as Lincoln’s lead business organization championing the innovative and bustling business community. They are a convener and collaborator who bring all voices together to grow the city and move it forward! Learn more about what they do at lcoc.com.
James Arthur Vineyards Hosting Meet-YouWinemaker Valentine’s Dinner February 15
James Arthur Vineyards (JAV) will be hosting a Meet-YouWinemaker Valentine’s Dinner on Saturday, February 15, 2025 starting at 6:30 p.m. The dinner will feature a five-course meal with select JAV wines paired with each course in their party room. Tickets are $65 per person and can be purchased at jamesarthurvineyards.com/events/meet-yourwinemaker-valentines-dinner-2. Enjoy a romantic evening out with a significant other at James Arthur Vineyards!
Established in 1996, James Arthur Vineyards is nestled amidst 400 acres of rolling hills and natural prairie grasslands minutes north of Lincoln near Raymond, NE. The surrounding beauty creates a picturesque setting for their winery, which houses an immaculate tasting room, a gift shop, a stunning party room and all the production facilities. Since opening its front doors, JAV has hosted thousands of visitors from all over the world. Everyone is encouraged to sample from a wide variety of wines, stroll the grounds or sit under the covered deck by the waterfall – or enjoy an intimate setting by a warm crackling fire in the tasting room during those cold winter days, all while sipping some of Nebraska’s finest. For more information about the vineyard and their holiday events, go to jamesarthurvineyards.com or call (402) 783-5255.
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.
TheResidenceatGramercyAnnouncesAdopt a Senior Month!
Unique gifts in a unique setting
Visit 25+ talented local vendors (and Santa!) at this indoor market right in the middle of the holiday shopping season. Find handmade, meaningful gifts for the special people on your list!
Santa’s Sleigh Makers Market Saturday, December 14 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Union Bank Place | 13th & O
From November through Monday, December 9, you have the chance to adopt a senior and support them this holiday season. The Residence at Gramercy has a Giving Tree placed in the lobby of Morrow Collision Center (85th St.) and has tags that list different gifts for seniors residing at Gramercy! Please bring the wrapped gift to Morrow by Monday, December 9 with the tag attached and it will be delivered to their community for their resident Christmas party.
For more information or to ask any questions, contact Jordyn or Chandlynne at (402) 483-1010.
At their Assisted and Independent Living community, The Residence at Gramercy focuses on delivering excellence in all they do. They’re dedicated to helping you achieve better health by offering an ideal combination of clinical and therapeutic outcomes and personal wellness goals. Learn more about their mission at theresidenceatgramercy.com.
Who's ready for Zoo Lights Powered by Lincoln Electric System!?
During this event, Lincoln Children's Zoo transforms into one of the largest lights displays in the Midwest. Experience multiple light shows choreographed to holiday music, light tunnels, a holiday train ride and a brand new 36,000 square foot light show! Don't forget to stop by a s'mores or hot cocoa station for tasty holiday treats. Zoo Lights takes place each night from Friday, November 29 to Moday December 30. Hope to see you there!
Purchase tickets at: bit.ly/ZooLightsLES.
Additionally, ticket insurance is available this year. You must purchase ticket insurance for each ticket you want to protect. Rescheduled dates/times are subject to availability. If you purchased ticket insurance and would like to reschedule your tickets, please contact reschedule@lincolnzoo.org.
For guests ages 21 and up, enhance your Zoo Lights experience with adult hot cocoas and hot ciders, plus beer and wine offerings. Alcohol service will be available for guests 21+ Thursday-Saturday evenings.
Zoo Lights Powered by LES is a timed-ticket event. Ticket dates and times will sell out. Tickets will not be available at the gates during the event if tickets have sold out. Advanced ticket purchase is highly recommended.
Learn firsthand from the Lincoln Zoo. Visit LincolnZoo.org for more information.
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.
DR JEANNE GREISEN R
Vital Health Message Therapy Celebrates its 10 Year Anniversary
In November of 2014, Vital Health Message Therapy was born!
“I am beyond grateful for the incredible community in Lincoln that has supported me and my small business,” says owner Chancee Williams.
“It has been an absolute joy to meet so many amazing people along this journey. Many of my clients from that first year are still with me today, and I now have the privilege of treating their families and colleagues. That connection is truly the heart of what I do.”
Here’s to another 10 years of healing, growth and community! Together, the people at Vital Health Message Therapy created a warm, collaborative environment where they can share ideas and support one another and they can’t wait for that to continue.
At Vital Health Therapy, you don’t have to choose just one type of massage! They will work with you to determine the best course of treatment necessary to help facilitate your healing process. Learn more and book a session at vitalhealththerapy.com.
Get Your Tickets to the Newest Sip Nebraska Event Now!
Don’t wait! The Holiday Sale tickets for the Sip Nebraska Spring event are selling out! Only 250 tickets availablehalf are already gone!
Sip Nebraska is now offering 20% off Sip spring tickets, plus $15 in credit for a future Blur Events ticket purchase! With unlimited tastings, artisan shopping, food trucks, live music, craft and cocktail sessions and spring trolley tours, Sip tickets are the perfect gift this holiday season. This sale ends when tickets are all sold, or until December 25! Get more information about their Holiday sale and their Annual Spring Festival at blurevents.com/sip-spring.
Sip Nebraska is your local wine, craft beer, spirits and hard cider tasting experience. Learn more at blurevents.com.
The Chocolate Season is Celebrating Five Years!
The Chocolate Season is throwing a big party for their five year anniversary and all of Lincoln is invited! This is your chance to win a year’s worth of chocolate! Sign up for The Chocolate Season’s newsletter, Sweet Talk and you’ll be entered to win! Learn more at their website at thechocolateseason.com, or on their socials (@ TheChocolateSeason). They hope to see you soon!
The Chocolate Season makes all their chocolates by hand with the same intentionality and care that you put into gifting them. The team knows that sharing sweet sentiments with a neighbor next door, or a client nationwide, are a personal act that requires a personal touch. Learn more about their business on their website: thechocolateseason. com.
THE OFFICIAL AIRPORT OF HUSKER ATHLETICS “ “
Troy Dannen University of Nebraska Athletic Director
BUSINESS
BoschSecuritySystemsHostedaRibbonCutting
This new facility, operational since September 23, plays a pivotal role in advancing Bosch Security Systems’ Telex Radio Dispatch and RTS Intercom segments. With this new building they are proud to bring back 25 essential employees to Lincoln while maintaining a total workforce of 45, safeguarding the critical expertise necessary for continued product innovation. Strategically located near the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the center offers exciting opportunities for partnerships, internships and local growth. The ceremony took place last month on November 6 at 3401 Village Dr., STE 110.
People’s presence at this ceremony highlighted the importance of collaboration between public institutions and industry leaders in fostering innovation and regional development. Bosch Security Systems was honored to have you join them in celebrating this significant occasion.
For more information about the ribbon-cutting or the new building, please contact Kate-Madonna Quast at Kate-Madonna.Quast@ bosch.com or (612) 501-7986.
The Bosch Group, including Bosch Security Systems, is a leading global supplier of technology and services. Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods and Energy and Building Technology. Learn more about their mission at bosch.com.
Hoppe Development is Breaking Ground on a New Project!
Hoppe Development was accompanied by the Mayor of Lincoln, the South of Downtown Community Development Organization and Lincoln Chamber of Commerce to break ground for their Center Terrace project, a transformative effort in housing and placemaking in the South of Downtown neighborhood. This project features 125 affordable housing units and will integrate a new location for Clinic with a Heart.
This project is made possible with Federal Low Income Housing Tax Credits administered by the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority, National Housing Trust Funds from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, ARPA Funding from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, City of Lincoln Affordable Housing Funds and tax increment financing. In addition, it has unique support from the Lincoln Community Foundation, Cooper Foundation, Woods Charitable Fund and an anonymous donor who collaborated to provide a program related investment to ensure that significant number of rentals are affordable and accessible to families on voucher programs. They would like to thank all of the above, as well as their financing partners WNC, Horizon Bank, Security First Bank, Pinnacle Bank, West Gate Bank and Union Bank & Trust. Finally, they would like to recognize Lincoln Electric System, who is supporting the projects energy efficiency goals, Community Development Resources, who is administering grant funding to the benefit of the project and Neighborworks Lincoln who supported meaningful community engagement between the neighborhood and Hoppe Development and Lux Center for the Arts, who is supporting an art selection process. Hoppe Development is vertically integrated company focused on complex real estate projects. They provide affordable housing for median income families throughout Nebraska. Learn more at hoppedevelopment.com.
by Krista Dittman Agent, Individual & Senior Benefits
The Medicare Enrollment Labyrinth Explained
True or False: October 15 – December 7 is the only time someone can sign up for Medicare.
False! There are multiple election periods, and they may be divided into two categories: fixed enrollment periods and event-dependent enrollments.
The first of the three fixed enrollment periods is the Annual Election Period (AEP), between October 15 and December 7. The Joe Namath commercials have popularized this election period in the past few years. During AEP people who already have Medicare may: 1. Change their Part D prescription drug plan, 2. Enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan for the upcoming year or 3. Leave their Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare.
The second and lesser-known Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is from January 1 to March 31. This enrollment period may not be advertised for sales purposes but is still available for Medicare enrollees to 1. Make a one-time change in their Advantage plan or 2. Disenroll from their Advantage program and return to Original Medicare.
Third, the General Enrollment Period (GEP) from January 1 to March 31 allows anyone who is eligible for Medicare but missed signing up for Medicare when they were first eligible or missed subsequent special enrollment periods sign up for Part A and Part B, which is known as Original Medicare. Late enrollment penalties may be assessed by Social Security.
As a side note, the OEP for Advantage plans shouldn’t be confused with the Medicare Supplement OEP which coincides with the first six months Part B eligibility!
The first of the two event-dependent enrollment period categories is the Initial Election Period (IEP). This is a seven-month election period that begins three months prior to the enrollee’s 65th birthday month, their birthday month, and the three months following their birthday month. Confusion often arises because the IEP can overlap with any number of other election periods.
The final and largest category of event-dependent enrollment periods falls under the heading of Special Enrollment Periods (SEP). These can include the loss of an employer-group health plan; loss or change in Medicaid status; moving to a new county, state or in or out of a nursing home. FEMA or governor-determined declarations of a SEP due to a weather-related incident like flooding, tornadoes or hurricanes are also included.
If Medicare enrollment options leave your head spinning, let the licenses insurance agents at On Point Insurance Agency help piece your options together.
Happy Holidays! Neemann
STAR CITY SIX TED
Ted Carlson PILLAR RESTAURANT GROUP
Meet Ted Carlson, Operations Director at Pillar Restaurant Group
Tell us a little about your business. - Pillar Restaurant Group is a locally owned company that consists of five main concepts, Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs, Venue Restaurant & Lounge, Piedmont Bistro by Venue, Venue at Home and Venue Catering & Events with The Bakery, The Butchery, the Jasmine Room by Venue and the Scottish Rite Ballroom by Venue. Each of our restaurants are unique in their own way of providing a high level of hospitality, quality food and genuine relationships within our community.
How did you get started in the business? - I began my career in the industry at age 14 cooking, hosting and supervising at a local Village Inn. When the time came to focus on choosing a career, I felt a leadership role in the hospitality industry was the best fit for me. To further my opportunity for growth, I joined a locally owned franchise of Applebee’s where I remained for 20 years. My career at the Bee’s included many functions with many of them coming as a Multi-Unit Director overseeing several locations across the Midwest. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - When Hurricane Katrina hit Ocean Springs, Mississippi our Applebee’s location was one of only a few restaurants that made it through the storm, and I was asked to lead the reopening and establish a process to help the team get back on their feet with clothing, housing and funds to support their families. Within an hour of my arrival at the restaurant, we opened to first feed first responders as we pulled a game plan together to open to the community. By offering a no-water menu, we were able to open the next day. In all my years in the hospitality industry it was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my career. I'm proud to say the restaurant was one of the cornerstones to the town rebuilding.
Tell us a little about your family. - I am a devoted father of three children that I am very proud of. Kade is 16, Ella is 12, and Ava is soon to be 11. All three are very active with sports including hockey for all three during the winter and baseball/softball in the summertime. Their activities take us all over the country to compete.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Cheer on my children during one of their many sporting events! During the off season I love to cook, participate in outdoor activities and socialize with friends.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Put time between stimulus and reaction. The purpose is not to react with emotion but to allow time to formulate a strategic and thoughtful response.
What is your favorite movie? - Pulp Fiction or anything Quentin Tarantino directs. I enjoy his unique way of storytelling and excellent cinematography skills.
What is your favorite TV show? - The Sopranos. Nuff said.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - ted@yourvenue.net
Meet Michael Conover,
Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) at Care Patrol
of Lincoln.
Tell us a little about your business. - CarePatrol is a business that helps families find appropriate living spaces for their loved older adults when their current living space is inappropriate. We sit with the family and get to know the older adult and help them make the best decision for them. The best part is, this is a free service to the family. We are compensated by the thousands of quality providers in our network.
How did you get started in the business? - We had the daunting task of finding our mother an assisted-living community. Home had become unsafe for her and so we did what most busy families do. We found a community that looks wonderful and figured that would be sufficient. It turns out it was a fantastic community, but not the right community for our mother. When I found CarePatrol, I found a way to help families not make the same mistakes we made.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest challenge I found is explaining that the service that I provided is free to the family. A lot of families are skeptical that I am going to charge them for my services. As I’ve said before, I am a free service to the family. We are paid by the communities that we place the families in. We do not, however, work for the communities. I work as an advocate for the families, helping them make the very best decision because they have all of the information needed.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I love seeing the change in relationship between adult children and their loved older adult parent. I love seeing the children who have been committed caregivers transform back into the adult children, and be able to enjoy their parents instead of seeing them as an obligation. The release of guilt and fear is absolutely amazing to see, and by far my favorite part of my work.
Tell us a little about your family. - My wife and I are a blended family. She has two adult children and I have a one adult child and a precocious 12-year-old.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The day I met my wife.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to go fishing and camping.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I absolutely love to travel. I love experiencing new things and seeing unique places. Who inspires you? - My wife inspires me. She has an ambition that never quits.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Just be yourself. Don’t pretend to be something you’re not. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Dedicated.
What local nonprofit organization are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?Alzheimer’s Association of Nebraska. I am a facilitator for an Alzheimer’s caregiver support group in Fremont. We meet starting in January at the Keene Library on the first Tuesday of the month starting in January at 6:30 p.m.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - I am always available at (402) 983-7834. I’m also available by email at mconover@carepatrol.com. Our website is CarePatrol. com/lincoln.
Check out
menu!
Shepherd’s Pie to Bangers & Mash,
of
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.
Visit Santa at West Gate Bank Center (6003 Old Cheney Road) from 9am-11:30am on these Saturdays in December:
Saturday, December 14
Saturday, December 21
This event is free. We are accepting gift donations for the People’s City Mission. Please feel free to bring your camera to get pictures.
STAR CITY SIX JOE
Joe Bohac
SALT CREEK SENIOR LIVING
Meet Joe Bohac the Senior Living Advisor at Salt Creek Senior Living.
Tell us a little about your business. - Salt Creek Senior Living is a brand-new community that just opened in October. Owned by Dial Senior Living based out of Omaha, who also own The Knolls. Salt Creek Senior Living offers Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care to seniors 55 and older.
How did you get started in the business? - I started in senior living as a certified medication aide, in a small senior living community just outside of Lincoln.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Working in the senior living industry during COVID. Learning to navigate and adapt to change on the fly, while ensuring residents had a good quality of life and were in a safe environment.
Tell us a little about your family. -My partner Chris and I have been together 16 years. He’s a CPA at local CPA firm in Lincoln. We enjoy going out to eat and traveling. Our favorite place to travel is Fort Lauderdale, FL.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - If it is summertime you will find me on my deck or in my pool. Other times of the year I love spending time in my kitchen cooking and baking.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was a professional makeup artist for 18 years. I traveled the country doing makeup for weddings and beauty pageants.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “It takes a lot people doing a little bit, to make one team look so good.”
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? Determined, once I put my mind to it, I will find a way to make it work.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? - AC/DC “Thunderstruck”, it really gets me hyped and going!
If you could have a super power, what would it be? To know the winning lottery numbers.
Which talent would you most like to have? - I would love to learn to play the piano.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would own a bakery.
What is your favorite movie? - Bridesmaids.
What is your favorite TV show? - Yellowstone.
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - The Isles in Havelock. Pepperoni and cream cheese pizza is my go-to order!
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Ina Garten, her story or being from a corporate background and leaving that to start a food store that turned into a successful TV show has always been intriguing to me.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?Cell: (531) 510-8296 Email: joe.bohac@SaltCreekSeniorLiving.com.
SHAYNE STAR CITY SIX
Shayne Zutavern
BIGIRON REALTY
Meet Shayne Zutavern, Real Estate Agent for BigIron Realty.
Tell us a little about your business. - I am a Real Estate Agent with BigIron Realty focused on selling farm, ranch and commercial development ground. BigIron has over 738,000 registered bidders on our platform which is what sets us apart from all others. More Bidders = More Competition = More Money in Your Pocket.
How did you get started in the business? - My family sold about 4,000 acres of pasture back in 2016 with a “premier” farm and ranch real estate agency and they really didn’t do squat to help out our sale. I made all the cold calls, I did all the showings and brought all three bidders to the auction. The auction did OK, but only because I had recruited an outside investor into the bidding. On that day I told my mom, I am going to get my own Real Estate licensee, so that when we sell more ground we would make sure that it was done RIGHT. Between that day and 2021 I met Ron Stock, the CEO of BigIron and went to one of their live auction events and I was absolutely blown away with how well their auction platform worked, I was amazed seeing all the bidders, bidding from people in the same town, to people from three states bidding! On that day I was sold on the company’s services and Ron offered me a job on the spot and he put a yellow shirt on my back.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - When we first started out in the publishing business, we were just shy of starvation for several years while getting it off the ground. But we persevered and our hard work and dedication finally paid off; all the ramen noodle meals are like dust in the wind now!
What has been your most important achievement professionally?I would say it would have to be the launch of Strictly Business Magazine in 1993 and being one of the very first publications in the world to have an online presence in 1997.
Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married my high school sweetheart Paige for over 37 years, and we have been business partners for over 30. She has been and is the rocket fuel behind the success of Strictly Business magazine. We have two sons, Schyler and Zane, who are natural-born entrepreneurs. I have no doubt they will eclipse my business accomplishments tenfold.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Hang out with my family, and helping my boys develop their businesses.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - In 1997, my website team built one of the very first secure online shopping websites in the whole Midwest. It was instantly a huge success, receiving multiple awards almost overnight and was even featured on late night TV.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Don’t stop working on your goals, especially when you’re just two inches from gold. This is the same statement I made to my father, when I was starving that convinced him to give me an atta boy and keep funding the dream and keeping it alive.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Professor of Marketing and Advertising.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I know so many special people who enrich my life daily and greatly were an “accident.” So causes like the Pregnancy Center have a special place in my life.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 770-1220 | szutavern@yahoo.com.
Protecting Today
Building Tomorrow
Offering
STAR CITY SIX JEANNE
Jeanne Greisen REVIVAL PHARMS
Meet Dr. Jeanne Greisen, RPh, PharmD at Revival Pharms.
Tell us a little about your business. - Revival Pharms is a natural health company committed to the revival of health. Specializing in the cultivation and formulation of locally sourced hemp products in Nebraska, our focus lies in providing medicinal and personal care solutions that foster holistic well-being. As a pharmacist, providing education and consultation on the benefits of hemp, natural substitutes for conventional pharmaceuticals and the significance of hormone balance is the spark that ignites many on their health journey.
With an unwavering dedication to accessibility, Revival Pharms extends its services and product offerings across Nebraska and beyond through an online platform. This approach ensures that individuals throughout the region can readily avail themselves of our expertise and merchandise, facilitating their journey towards enhanced health and vitality.
How did you get started in the business? - The idea of being a hemp grower was on our mind for a year before Revival Pharms came to be. When job changes occurred in 2021, the opportunity of Revival Pharms came to be reality when we had our first successful grow season. After three years of researching and getting consecutive growing seasons under our belt, Revival Pharms continues to move forward in the hemp space educating and providing quality products.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest hurdle we have faced is overcoming the negative connotation associated with cannabis. A lot of people associate cannabis with marijuana and the propaganda that has been fed to the population for decades. While hemp is also cannabis, it has many medicinal properties but will not cause a “high”. Western medicine is closedminded to how hemp can help patients heal naturally. However, education is the key and there is plenty of research to support the benefits of hemp without causing patient harm. With the DEA considering a reclassification of cannabis to a schedule III recently, we will more than likely see an acceptance of hemp as a legitimate natural alternative in the near future.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - What I consider the most important professional achievement is to critically think for myself and do my own research. It wasn’t until Revival Pharms came to be that the information I took in was presented by recognized organization and I took as fact. Unfortunately, in the medical field there can be many biases to show desired outcomes whether they are accurate or not. By doing my own research, I am able to gather legitimate data that may not have not have been published in well- known journals, scour different search engines, and use critical thinking to evaluate the information being presented. This allows our clients and customers to get the real information.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The biggest turning point in my life was in 2020. My vision became much clearer about the meaning of life, what is important in life and what I could do to make this world a better place. It was at this time that I realized that we only have but one life to live and each day is a gift to make a difference.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?Nebraskans for Founder Values- I am involved with them because I love what our Founding Father’s stood for and that they were willing to lose everything for their freedom and this country.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Jeanne.greisen@revivalpharms.com
STAR CITY SIX SASHE
Sashe DeVore
WALTER’S PAINTING INC.
Meet Sashe DeVore, Executive Assistant at Walter’s Painting Inc.
Tell us a little about your business. - Walter's Painting Inc. is comprised of a professional team of painters offering experienced services to both business and residential clients in the Lincoln region. Also providing pressure washing services, we are your one stop shop for making the most functional and impressive upgrades to either the interior or exterior of your property. We specialize in painting, interior, exterior, and cabinets.
How did you get started in the business? - Two years ago, I started as a painter, spraying an apartment with cover stain after a fire.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Controlling ADHD and ADD.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Brightening homes making them beautiful.
Tell us a little about your family. - My son is 14 and everything I do, I do for him.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Getting my life together for my son and owning a home.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Relaxing with my cats and watching TV, or fishing with my son.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I want a Presa Canario dog. I also want to learn to speak French.
Who inspires you? - My family in Heaven because I know they are watching over me.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Don’t blink – life’s too short!
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? - “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength” by Whitney Houston.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Teleportation. Which talent would you most like to have? - Singing or be able to make people disappear.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Vet.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Hope Venture, which helps support a child’s education in a third-world country.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I am currently reading the Audible title Starter Villain by John Scalzi
What is your favorite movie? - Sweet Home Alabama.
What is your favorite TV show? - Chicago Fire.
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Hacienda Real.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Martin Luther King Jr.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - walterspaintinginc.com.
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with Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska
Join us for refreshments and a tour of our mission and discover how Mosaic pursues opportunities for people with disabilities in our communities. Tours are held on the third Wednesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. –12:30 p.m.
mosaicinfo.org/locations/nebraska/southeast-ne
Contact Malindi at malindi.gabelhouse@mosaicinfo.org or 402.429.0088 for more information.
The Strictly Business team has found Lincoln’s next guilty pleasure, date-night destination and mouthwatering dream!
Los Cabos Mexican Grill is a one-stop shop for amazing Mexican food, yummy drinks, an ambient atmosphere and friendly service! Lincoln-natives or out-of-town visitors simply can’t go wrong with Los Cabos at 8901 Andermatt Drive.
The Strictly Business team visited Los Cabos Mexican Grill for an after-work social hour moment in the rain. Los Cabos immediately warmed us up with its aromas and friendly faces. It didn’t take us long to devour the complimentary tortilla chips and salsa, so after a few kind recommendations from José and after powering through another two baskets of chips and Los Cabos’ savory Guacamole Casero, we received our main dishes.
Strictly Business attacked José’s recommendations like we hadn’t eaten in a week because our noses had been teased by the occasional waft from the kitchen. The Enchiladas Nortenas encased just the right amount of chicken and cheese in every bite, one never overpowering the other, and its side of Spanish rice gracefully cleansed the palate before diving into the next bite.
The subtle sensations of the Enchiladas Nortenas complimented Los Cabos’ house margarita perfectly. We could feel the warmth spreading from the very center of our tummies outwards like a ray of sunshine. Then, it was time for a change of pace, which is where José’s Especial came in. José’s Especial more than lived up to its name, providing our tongues with just the right amount of Mexican zest to make our taste buds do a little dance.
Margaritas
José’s Especial was a meat-lover’s dream, consisting of finely grilled steak, chicken, shrimp and chorizo, all of which lay on a juice bed of caramelized onions and bell peppers. This dish had us elbowing each other for a piece of meat.
Finally and most notably, the entire Strictly Business team could have conquered a never-ending order of the Nachos los Cabos. It was an absolute hit with the whole team, and paired with the sangria margarita, the Nachos los Cabos is our number one recommendation!
“These are literally the best nachos I’ve ever had,” said our President Paige Zutavern. The rest of the team couldn’t have agreed more, and we were all wobbling out of Los Cabos with tummy aches that were so worth it!
We enjoyed Los Cabos’ friendly service and vouch for José’s recommendations and team! Whether it be date night, an order to hit the road or a celebration with family and friends, Los Cabos Mexican Grill is a 10/10.
Nachos Los Cabos
Enchiladas Nortenas
José’s Especial
Top 100 Insurance Broker Welcomes Three Director-Level Leaders
UNICO Group, a leading insurance brokerage firm ranked among the top 100 in the nation, is proud to announce the addition of three key director-level individuals to its leadership team. These strategic hires underscore UNICO's commitment to continued growth, dedication to strengthening its core operations and enhancing its ability to serve clients and team members alike.
"At UNICO, our success is built on the strength of our people," said Shane Ideus, President. "The addition of Carly, Ben and Stacey to our leadership team represents a significant investment in our future. Their expertise and vision will be instrumental in driving our growth, optimizing our operations, and reinforcing our commitment to excellence in service delivery."
Carly Carlson - Director of Personal Insurance
Carly joins UNICO as the Director of Personal Insurance, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record in driving growth and ensuring customer success. With an MBA from Nebraska Wesleyan University, Carly's strategic vision and operational excellence will be crucial in leading the Personal Insurance team, managing financial performance and optimizing processes to enhance client retention and new business production.
Ben Kruger - Director of Finance and Accounting
Ben steps into the role of Director of Finance and Accounting, armed with an MPA from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His expertise in financial management and strategic planning will be vital in supervising key financial operations, assisting management in critical financial decisions and building strong relationships with auditors and advisors to ensure UNICO's continued financial health and growth.
Stacey Schafer - Director of People Operations
Stacey brings over 15 years of experience in talent development and HR organizational strategy to her role as Director of People Operations. Her expertise in talent development and organizational strategy from insurance and tech sectors will drive growth through employee-focused programs. Her wealth of knowledge and strategic approach will be instrumental in driving UNICO's growth through peoplecentered programs and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. These strategic hires reflect UNICO Group's commitment to investing in top talent to drive innovation, enhance customer service and maintain its position as a leader in the insurance brokerage industry. As UNICO continues to grow and expand its services, these new leaders will play pivotal roles in shaping the company's future and reinforcing its dedication to excellence in all aspects of its operations.
UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance broker headquartered in Nebraska. They offer a consultative and relational approach to customized solutions for clients all around the nation. For more information, call (402) 434-7200 or visit unicogroup.com.
FNIC Welcomes Justin Wilberger as New Sales Executive
FNIC is pleased to announce the addition of Justin Wilberger to their commercial insurance team as a Sales Executive. With over 13 years of industry experience and a strong educational background, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to their organization.
Justin is passionate about helping clients navigate the complexities of insurance. His approach is centered on delivering exceptional service, offering attractive and affordable coverage options, and building partnerships that stand the test of time. “For me, the most rewarding aspect of my career is developing relationships with my clients, ensuring they receive the highest level of care and support.” said Justin Wilberger.
Justin is actively involved in community service, contributing to organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Food Bank for the Heartland. Justin looks forward to furthering his community involvement as a member of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.
Justin’s addition to the team marks an exciting chapter for FNIC. As they continue to grow, FNIC remains dedicated to enhancing their services to better support the insurance needs of the Lincoln community. Justin is eager to contribute his knowledge and experience to the continued success of FNIC and its clients.
"We are thrilled to have Justin Wilberger on the FNIC team," said Amy Argo, Chief Business Development Officer at FNIC. “His experience and commitment to the Lincoln community will greatly improve our capacity to meet our clients’ needs and provide exceptional support.”
To learn more about FNIC, please visit fnicgroup.com where you will find more information about their team, and the products and services they provide.
Caring Friends in Home Care Introduces New Team Members
Caring Friends is excited to announce the hiring of Paige Lahndorf, who joined the team in October as a Marketing Specialist, and Kenzie Fleharty, who joined in September as Site Coordinator. Paige will be a Marketing Specialist in Grand Island, Kearney and Hastings, while Kenzie will work as a Site Coordinator in North Platte.
Caring Friends in Home Care provides nonmedical, in-home care services to clients in 32 counties in Nebraska. They are a Nebraska owned and operated company and have been in business since 2018. Their services are customized to each client’s needs and entail personal cares, home care and companionship. They empower families and clients to make decisions that work best for their needs. Their goal is to help client’s health, safety and independence while living well.
Find out more on their website caringfriends. com or call (402) 207-1050 to connect.
FirstNebraskaCreditUnionAnnouncesPresident/
CEO Retirement and New President/CEO
First Nebraska Credit Union announces the retirement of its President and CEO, Ann Loftis, effective February 17, 2025, after an exemplary 32-year career with FNCU. The Board of Directors has named Dale Kovar, the current Executive Vice President as Loftis’s successor. Kovar will assume the role of President/CEO on January 1, 2025.
Loftis’s leadership has been instrumental in FNCU’s growth and success. First Nebraska Credit Union is proud to have Loftis for over three decades and looks forward to a seamless transition under Dale Kovar. Loftis’s leadership has been instrumental in the credit union’s growth and success. Since taking on the role of President/CEO in 2016, she has overseen tremendous progress, including a significant increase in assets, loan growth and membership expansion. Under her guidance, FNCU also broadened its Field of Membership, expanded into underserved areas and introduced innovative services. Loftis has also led the organization through several successful mergers, a core system conversion and a strategic name change.
Dale Kovar brings 30 years of experience in banking and finance, along with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and an MBA from the University of Nebraska. He has worked closely with Loftis over the past several years in preparation for this leadership transition. With a strong track record in financial management, investment strategies, and organizational leadership, Kovar is well-equipped to lead First Nebraska Credit Union into the future.
First Nebraska Credit Union, founded in 1964, serves 17,000 members with assets totaling $183 million. The credit union is committed to providing exceptional financial services to individuals and families across Nebraska and Iowa, guided by the philosophy of “People Helping People.” To learn more, visit firstnebraska.org.
Steve Honnens From Kingery Construction Wins!
Kingery Construction congratulates Steve Honnens for winning the 2024 Quality People Tradesperson Award! This award honors field professionals with over five years of experience who excel in their trade and are dedicated to growing their skills and supporting the industry. They’re proud of Steve’s commitment and hard work!
Kingery is a leading construction company with over 100 years of experience, committed to delivering exceptional construction projects that cater to the specific needs of local communities.
It is their mission to provide a superior level of professionalism, integrity and honesty, while offering cost-effective solutions in a timely manner. With exceptional management skills and a solid work ethic, their team can ensure that the highest-quality workmanship is evident on every project. They value their relationships and vow to remain true to their employees, project owners, vendors and partners.
ProjectControlAnnouncesPromotionof Caleb
SwansontoRegionalVicePresident–Midwest
Project Control is proud to announce the promotion of Caleb Swanson to Regional Vice President, overseeing our Midwest offices in Lincoln and Omaha. Since joining the company in 2011 as a Project Manager, Caleb has played a pivotal role in driving the growth and success of our Midwest operations, most recently serving as Vice President.
Caleb’s promotion is a testament to his dedication, integrity and exceptional leadership. Over the years, he has earned the respect of both clients and colleagues through his unwavering commitment to excellence and his passion for delivering outstanding client service. His leadership has been instrumental in strengthening Project Control’s presence in the Midwest, and he continues to be an invaluable asset to the organization.
“Caleb’s proven track record, his focus on client relationships and his vision for the future of our Midwest region have positioned him as the ideal leader to guide us through the next chapter of growth,” said Dick McNary, President and Chief Operating Officer at Project Control. “We are excited about the future of the Midwest region under Caleb’s leadership and look forward to the continued growth and opportunities that lie ahead.”
Project Control remains committed to providing world-class service and innovative solutions to its clients, and Caleb’s leadership will continue to be a driving force in the company’s success.
Project Control provides owner representation and expert, objective consulting in the project management of commercial construction and real estate development projects from conception to completion. Project Control's managers represent the owner's best interest on all issues and alleviate the demands of day-to-day management responsibilities and technical issues associated with major construction projects. To learn more, visit projectcontrol.com.
Halie Sutherland Marketing Director is Now a Licensed Real Estate Agent
Greenleaf is excited to announce that they’ve welcomed a new licensed Real Estate Agent, Halie Sutherland! She is now doing both this and her current position as a Marketing Director. She works with buyers, sellers, investors and tenants to help them realize their commercial real estate goals. She is also responsible for managing social media accounts, maintaining and publishing their monthly inventory, creating flyers, press releases, signs and banners and print advertising. She is also responsible for maintaining Greenleaf’s presence on various digital multiple listing services. You can contact her through her email at halie@ greenleafcommerical.com.
Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is a full-service commercial real estate company located in Lincoln, with its roots dating back to 1973. They believe in building relationships, and they strive to understand each client’s objectives and develop a strategy to meet their specific needs. Their company’s success occurs when their client’s goals have been achieved. Whatever your commercial real estate needs might be, their team of professionals is here to help you succeed. Learn more at greenleafcommercial.com.
Union Bank & Trust Promotes Wiedel
Union Bank & Trust (UBT) recently promoted Megan Wiedel to Vice President – Trust Compliance.
Wiedel joined the bank in 2004 as a teller and was promoted soon after to the Trust department, joining the compliance side of the division in 2009. Her new role will involve collaboration with all levels of staff and management of the Wealth Management division as well as other areas of the bank, providing strategic oversight and expertise for compliance monitoring and risk management.
A Lincoln native and graduate of the University of Nebraska –Lincoln with a bachelor's degree in business administration and management, Wiedel is also a graduate of Cannon Financial Institute and a member of Fiduciary Investment Risk Management Association (FIRMA). She also holds the Certified Fiduciary Investment Risk Specialist (CFIRS) and Corporate Trust Master Certificate (CTMC) designations. She serves the community as a volunteer for numerous local nonprofit organizations.
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. Learn more at ubt.com.
Husker Rehab Welcomes Maggie Burmeister to Their Team
Husker Rehab is excited to announce the addition of Occupational Therapist Maggie Burmeister to the North Lincoln location! She will be specializing in pelvic floor therapy as well as upper extremity and balance training therapy.
Maggie attended and received her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy degree from Creighton University in 2022 and attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for undergraduate studies. Prior to Husker Rehab her work experience included Home Healthcare, NICU and acute care.
Maggie enjoys Peloton workouts, trying out new recipes and going to live country music concerts in her free time.
She is excited to build upon her experience and relationship as part of Husker Rehab and such a great team! She is passionate about the field of occupational therapy and finds great fulfillment in helping others improve their quality of life.
Maggie is excited to start serving the Lincoln and surrounding communities at the North Husker Rehab location.
To schedule a visit with Husker Rehab, call (402) 477-3110 or visit their website at huskerrehab.com.
Strictly Business is Hiring!
Do you have a passion for creativity and an eye for design? Are you interested in learning about our local community and getting involved? Strictly Business is hiring a new Art Director! Strictly Business is looking for an individual who is organized, creative, and willing to learn. As our current Art Director, Jayda, moves on to different ventures coming March 2025, we are beginning the process of filling her spot.
The Art Director position is open to individuals with previous graphic design experience, intermediate writing ability and strong communication skills.
The Art Director will be responsible for paginating the magazine, designing advertisements and visual elements, managing press relations and quality control and updating online and digital media presences.
If this sounds like the position for you, please reach out to our office at (402) 466-3330 or email kacey@strictlybusinessomaha.com.
McGill Law Welcomes Two New Attorneys!
McGill Law is excited to introduce Ashley Palma, an Omaha native and their new Associate Attorney at their Omaha office!
After earning her Criminal Justice degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Ashley spent years in leadership within the hotel industry. Driven to make a difference, she pursued her law degree at Creighton while balancing full-time work and motherhood. Now, as a licensed family law attorney at McGill Law, Ashley brings her dedication and empathy to every case, connecting with clients and advocating for the best interests of their families.
When she's not in the office, you can find Ashley cheering on her son, running, enjoying live music and spending quality time with loved ones. Welcome to the team, Ashley!
They are also thrilled to announce that Krista Holzworth was officially sworn in to the state of Nebraska in September and has joined McGill Law as their newest attorney! She will be working out of their Omaha office, where her dedication, passion and commitment to their clients will continue to shine. Krista has been an integral part of the team, and McGill Law is excited to officially welcome her in this new role.
Her journey through law school at Creighton University, where she focused on advocating for women and children in crisis, has prepared her to make a meaningful impact in her legal career. McGill law knows she will bring that same passion and drive to serving their clients in Omaha and beyond.
McGill is excited to welcome these new attorneys and can’t wait to see the incredible things they do!
McGill Law is a family focused, inclusive law firm dedicated to serving clients in family law, mediation, collaborative law, estate and probate, adoption and criminal defense. Learn more at mcgilllawyers.com.
CaseyKargesisHelpingTheMediationCenterGrow!
On January 3, 2025, Casey Karges will begin his 18th year as Executive Director of The Mediation Center, one of six centers tasked with ensuring high-quality mediation services are available to Nebraskans across the state. The Mediation Center handles cases covering a vast array of subject matter; from child custody matters to small business disputes. Recently, The Mediation Center’s Restorative Justice program for youth encountering the legal system has grown rapidly to expand equitable, radically just access to youth legal systems. To meet the ever-increasing needs of the youth in Lancaster County, Casey was invited to attend Georgetown University in 2023, along with a group of other county leaders, to participate in a certificate program aimed at, and so named, Advancing Racial Justice and Equity in Youth Legal Systems. This program seeks to build the following within its participants: an understanding of anti-racist frameworks in the context of the youth legal system; practical skills to promote anti-racism within this system; and strategies for combating the overrepresentation, and inequities associated therewith, of non-white youth within the legal system. They continued their work together throughout 2024 on a capstone project for their certificate. Casey earned his Master of Divinity Degree from St. Paul’s School of Theology, is an ordained United Methodist Clergy. He served as Executive Director of the Nebraska Conference of the United Methodist Church for five years and currently serves as pastor of Cortland United Church. The Mediation Center was established in Lincoln in 1992 as a non-profit organization dedicated to providing all individuals in Lancaster County the opportunity to access professional mediation services regardless of their ability to pay. Learn more at themediationcenter.org.
Jeff ChapinatLegacyRetirementCommunities Wins 2024 Mission & Values Award
Legacy Retirement Communities is proud to recognize Jeff Chapin, a Retirement Living Advisor at Legacy Estates, with the 2024 Mission & Values Award. Each year, residents, staff members and friends of Legacy communities nominate the person they believe lives out their company’s mission and values by enriching the lives of residents. A panel of judges reads through the nominations and the award is presented at Legacy’s annual Employee Appreciation Event, which was held this year on November 6.
Greg Joyce, CEO of Legacy Retirement Communities presented Jeff Chapin with the 2024 Mission & Values Award and surprised him with a video of the residents and family members who nominated him for it. In their nominations, they each praised Jeff for his compassion, patience, and genuine interest in getting to know the people he works with. “I don’t know how you could do better than Jeff,” said one Legacy Estates resident. “You’d have to clone him,” he continued. Sales Director Kayla Schaf shared, “Jeff’s lifelong dedication to taking care of people in our Lincoln community has truly been a gift to our Residents and their families. His loyal commitment to caring for others and putting their needs first, along with his strong work ethic, set a standard for us all to follow.”
Legacy Retirement Communities continues to provide Lincoln with awardwinning elegance, superior care, and countless reasons to live an enriched life. Independent living and assisted living are offered at three locations: The Legacy at 5600 Pioneers Blvd., Legacy Terrace at 5700 Fremont St. and Legacy Estates at 7200 Van Dorn St. Memory Care is offered exclusively at Legacy Arbors at 3777 N 58th St. Learn more at LegacyRetirement.com.
Happy Holidays from Oak Electric!
LincolnFederalSavingsBankWelcomesAlexDrake
Lincoln Federal Savings Bank (Member FDIC/Equal Housing Lender) is pleased to introduce Alex Drake as the newest member of their Omaha Mortgage Lending Team as VP/Mortgage Loan Officer.
Alex Drake brings seven years of mortgage expertise and a deep-rooted commitment to the Omaha community to the Bank. With a passion for making the home-buying process smooth and approachable, he takes pride in helping clients achieve one of life’s biggest milestones. Outside of work, you might catch Alex on-air as the host of the Creighton post-game show, coaching at local basketball camps or actively raising funds as a dedicated member of the Dodge Cares Board. Alex can be reached by phone at (402) 493-5599 ext. 674 or by email at adrake@lincolnfed.com.
Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is a depositor-owned financial institution specializing in residential home loans, construction loans, home equity products, commercial real estate loans and deposit services. The Omaha Loan Production Office is located at 15858 W Dodge Road with Deposit Services available at 673 N 132nd St.
Introducing Dr. Ashley Marcuccio: The Bridge’s New Medical Director and Advocate for Change
LCFpromotesHansenandWelcomesNewStaff
Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) recently announced the promotion of Sandi Hansen to Vice President, Philanthropy Services. Hansen leads LCF efforts to support community initiatives and cultivate strategic philanthropic partnerships.
“Sandi is passionate about creating and fostering meaningful relationships to build our community,” said LCF President, Tracy Edgerton. “We’re thrilled to have her expertise guiding the vision and strategy for our Philanthropy Services team.”
Additionally, LCF is pleased to welcome three new staff members to its team of professionals who are committed to building a better, stronger community for people today and generations to come.
Kate Bolz brings nearly 20 years of experience in economic and community development to the role of Community Leadership and Belonging Manager, supporting LCF’s community leadership and grantmaking functions by facilitating collaborations across all sectors of the city. Bolz also designs and implements strategies to address inequities in our community and leads belonging, equity, and inclusion efforts.
The Bridge Behavioral Health is thrilled to welcome Dr. Ashley Marcuccio as their new Medical Director—a dedicated psychiatrist whose career and personal journey make her a powerful advocate for mental health and addiction recovery. Dr. Marcuccio’s passion for psychiatry began at Kansas City University, where she first recognized the deep impact of mental illness on individuals and families alike. Through her training at The University of Kansas Hospital, she gained firsthand experience working with diverse patient populations facing complex challenges, including mental health and substance use disorders.
A Nebraska native, Dr. Marcuccio brings both expertise and a profound commitment to helping those who often feel unseen. "I've seen too many individuals’ basic needs go unmet, and too often medical concerns for those with mental health struggles are ignored," she shares. With a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry, Dr. Marcuccio is uniquely qualified to serve both youth and adults—a reflection of her passion for supporting all ages on their path to wellness.
What drew Dr. Marcuccio to The Bridge was their shared belief that each day sober is a win worth celebrating. She appreciates The Bridge’s commitment to clients, whether in times of success or setback, and feels that our mission aligns perfectly with her own. With Dr. Marcuccio at the helm as Medical Director, they are confident that her compassionate leadership will inspire change and provide a beacon of hope for the community.
The Bridge Behavioral Health located in Lincoln, Nebraska is a professional, nationally-accredited treatment center, specializing in treating alcoholism and drug addiction. Experienced clinicians create effective, customized treatment programs for each individual. Learn more at thebridgenebraska.org.
Also joining the team earlier this year is Justy Gortemaker. In the new role of Events & Communications Manager, she designs and executes LCF’s events and supports internal and external marketing efforts. Gortemaker is a passionate storyteller with nearly 10 years of experience in producing events.
Phil Truong brings more than five years of experience to the Finance & Operations Team as LCF’s new Staff Accountant. In this role, Truong is responsible for grant processing, accounts payable, fiscal sponsorship fund management, and data analysis.
Since 1955, LCF has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. The organization serves as a faithful steward for many types of philanthropic gifts and helps donors create lasting legacies of giving. LCF has distributed more than $255 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of their residents. Learn more at lcf.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.
PERSONNEL NEWS
SCC Individuals Honored by NCCA
The Nebraska Community College Association honored four individuals from Southeast Community College at its Annual Awards Ceremony on Sunday, November 3, in Norfolk.
Nancy Seim, SCC Board of Governor member, won the prestigious NCCA Governors Award. In addition, Ed Koster, Dr. Phip Ross and Scott Volk were named SCC’s administrator, faculty member and alumni of the year.
“The NCCA Awards Ceremony is one of my favorite times of the year as we honor and recognize people who are making an impactful difference at Southeast Community College,” said Dr. Paul Illich, SCC president. “Each person we honored had a significant role in the College’s growth and transformation over the years.”
Seim was first elected to the Board in 2000 and has been providing steady and effective leadership as Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. She is considered a leader in strategic planning and student success initiatives and has inspired community college leaders throughout the nation. Seim served as Board Chair during the pandemic and her leadership led to enrollment growth and the launching of several key initiatives. In addition, she has advocated for SCC to state legislators and constituents in SCC’s 15-county area.
“Nancy was instrumental in providing leadership and support for multiple transformative initiatives at SCC,” Illich said. “She has also played a major role in legislative matters related to the new community college funding model in Nebraska. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the NCCA Governors Award.”
The Administrator Award went to Koster, vice president of research planning and technology and the Milford Campus executive director. Koster joined the SCC administrative team in 2014 as Illich’s first hire as president. After 10 years of service, Koster will retire in November with a legacy that includes a 50% enrollment growth in Milford as well as the completion of more than $30 million in construction projects. One of his last projects was working with the Suzanne and Walter Scott Foundation to establish a 10-year, $7.6 million scholarship program.
Ross was the Faculty Award Recipient and has made significant contributions to student success and faculty development as English instructor, program chair and Writing Center coordinator in his 21 years at SCC. In 2012, he spearheaded the creation of the Transitions Lab which was designed to support the efforts to accelerate student progress through developmental math and English courses. Under his leadership, the program was awarded the National Council of Instructional Administrator’s Exemplary Initiatives Award. Ross founded the Nebraska Developmental Education Consortium to foster collaboration among faculty statewide and was named the NDEC Teacher of the Year in 2023.
Volk, executive vice president and chief operating officer at MetalQuest, was named the Distinguished Alumnus. He graduated from the Manufacturing Engineering Program in 1995 and has become of the best advocates for the importance of tech education in the manufacturing industry. A member of the SCC Precision Machining and Automation Technology Program’s Workforce Leadership Team, he provides valuable insight to SCC faculty on curriculum development which meets industry standards. In addition, Volk is Chair of the Nebraska Manufacturing Advisory Council.
The NCCA is comprised of five member schools: Central, MidPlains, Northeast, Southeast, and Western Nebraska. Each year the NCCA holds its annual meeting at one of the member schools and awards Faculty, Governor, Administrator, and Friend of the year awards, along with a Distinguished Alumni Award.
TabithaNurseSelectedforChicagoNCLEXPanel
Jeanne Wilke—MSN, RN and Tabitha Hospice team member—was chosen by the Nebraska State Board of Nursing and National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) for the 2024 National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) item development panel.
In this volunteer role, Wilke—alongside four other members of the prestigious panel, typically selected from across the nation, and from Canada—will assist in the development of 145 potential questions that a candidate may receive during their competence exams.
Selected for her clinical expertise and experience within several nursing specialties, Wilke has also served NCSBN as a volunteer reviewer, writer and panelist for 20 years.
Wilke has provided compassionate care to Nebraskans for over 40 years. Her extensive knowledge spans many sectors of nursing, including geriatrics, home health, hospice, trauma, orthopedics and pediatrics. Additionally, Wilke has performed as an instructor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and online university, Purdue Global.
“Jeanne is a prime example of the nursing talent in Nebraska— especially at our home-grown nonprofit, Tabitha,” said Karen Cheesman, Administrator at Tabitha Hospice. “It’s an incredible honor and feat to be selected among the top nursing proctors in the nation. Tabitha Hospice is incredibly proud to have her wealth of knowledge, compassionate talents and commitment as a part of our team.”
As the state’s quality award-winning expert for older adults, Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully and age gratefully. Supporting families since 1886 across Nebraska, Tabitha offers a range of services, from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home home health care, innovative living communities and compassionate hospice services. Tabitha is Your Answer; learn more at Tabitha.org.
Health at Home Consultants Welcomes Sydney Zelazny!
Please help Health at Home Consultants welcome Sydney Zelazny to the team! Sydney is their new Health Information Manager, bringing her passion for healthcare and helping others to the forefront. With her experience in hospice care and working with developmental disabilities, she excels at building relationships and maintaining accurate data—a perfect fit for their mission.
Sydney lives in Kearney with her fiancé and their sweet one-year-old son. Outside of work, she loves watching her little one grow (too fast, she says!), fishing and spending time with family and friends. Health at Home Consultants is thrilled to grow alongside her and can't wait to see the amazing things she'll accomplish.
Health at Home Consultants’ mission is to increase access to healthcare when transporting a resident to a medical office becomes difficult; address medical events that are not emergencies but still require attention, suchas rashes, urinary tract infection symptoms, respiratory congestion and hypertension; provide timely care to prevent prolonged emergency department visits; support residents’ decisions to stay within the assisted living facility or home; and deliver comprehensive healthcare while reducing medical costs. Health At Home Consultants offer various levels of care, ranging from routine physical exams to complex treatment plans. Learn more at healthathomeconsultants.com.
LP Fitness Transformation Center Welcomes
a New Addition!
LP Fitness Transformation Center is thrilled to introduce the newest addition to the team, Deanna Walz.
Deanna is stepping in as their Partnership Coordinator, joining them out in the community, dividing and conquering as they bring the incredible benefits of LP Fitness to even more people.
Her journey with LP Fitness has been nothing short of inspiring – she’s transformed her own lifestyle through fitness and is now fired up to spread the LP Fitness love. Her energy, passion and personal success make her the perfect person to share all that they offer.
LP Fitness is Lincoln’s ONLY Transformation Center and a one-ofa-kind gym with their own vibe and team of loving, highly trained coaches. It is unlike any other gym you’ve ever been to. They are not just a gym, but communities of individuals helping each other become the healthiest and best version of themselves. Learn more at lpfitnessne.com.
The Lymphedema Clinic Has a New Client Services Coordinator!
The Lymphedema Clinic is excited to announce they’ve hired a new Client Services Coordinator, Cheryl Wagner! She’s dedicated to helping lymphedema patients stay on track with their appointments and providing seamless support throughout their care journey.
Whether it's scheduling new appointments or making changes to existing ones, Cheryl's goal is to ensure a smooth and pleasant experience for everyone she works with. Her approachable nature and dedication to her work make her an invaluable asset to the office.
When not coordinating schedules, Cheryl enjoys contributing to the community and connecting with people around her.
The Lymphedema Clinic was started with the mission to serve the community members affected with lymphedema to live their lives to the fullest. The Lymphedema Clinic opened in May 2020 with the vision to become a premier lymphedema treatment provider for the greater Lincoln area. Learn more at llotnebraska.com.
United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County Welcomes Sheila Odom
Please help United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County welcome Sheila Odom to the United Way team! Sheila brings her passion for the community and experience in fundraising to the role of Major Gifts and Leadership Giving Officer. Sheila has previously served in a number of volunteer roles for United Way, including the founding Chair for Women United, Women in Philanthropy Chair, member of the Campaign Cabinet and Board of Directors, as well as Board Chair for CHAD Nebraska. They are excited for you to get to know Sheila more in their work together to strengthen the community!
Untied Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County’s mission is to improve the lives by mobilizing the caring power of Lincoln and Lancaster County. They envision a community where every individual and family has the opportunity to thrive. United Way will unite individuals and organizations to recognize the need and support a network of community service providers and partners. Lean more at unitedwaylincoln.org.
Lincoln Select Real Estate Group Welcomes Derek Korbelik
Welcome Derek to Lincoln Select Real Estate Group at Nebraska Realty! They’re the number one medium team in Nebraska and number 24 in America. As a dedicated licensed realtor at Lincoln Select, Derek is passionate about guiding his clients through every step of the real estate journey. With a keen understanding of the local market and a commitment to exceptional service, he strives to make the buying or selling process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
From the first conversation to the final closing, his focus is on your needs and goals. He believes in building and maintaining lasting relationships based on trust, transparency and communication. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to sell your property, Derek is here to provide expert advice and support every step of the way.
Lincoln Select is your one-stop source for Lincoln real estate. Visit lincolnselectrealestategroup.com for more information.
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.
Are you looking to up your social media game? Do you need more traffic directing audiences to your website? Look no further than Strictly Business’s Social Media Spotlight!
Have more news you’d like to share online? This no-deadline opportunity is available year-round to both clients and nonclients.
Email design@strictlybusinessomaha.com for more information and pricing.
In the January 2025 issue of Strictly Business, we will run our bi-annual “Supporting Nonprofits” feature to highlight the nonprofit organizations in Lincoln that help our community.
This biannual feature is an excellent opportunity for nonprofits to gain exposure among our readers, as well as for our readers to familiarize themselves with the needs of these organizations and the valuable work that is going on in our community.
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Strictly Business is direct mailed to over 10,000 businesses in Lincoln every month! With a 2–4 month shelf life and a pass-along readership, it’s estimated that 1 copy of the magazine reaches at least 5 people. Editorial features are published on our website as well. We are proud to have a strong online presence.
To participate, contact: (402) 466-3330 | Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
Toy Giveaway for Kids at People’s City Mission’s Help Center
Friendship Home Thanks Lincoln Residents for Sponsoring a Family for the Holidays
People’s City Mission (PCM) is hosting their annual Santa’s Workshop Christmas Toy Giveaway for families in need on Saturday, December 14. They anticipate helping over 5,000 people, including shelter guests and low-income families who shop at the Help Center.
At this event, families in need at the shelter and in the public can shop for free for Christmas gifts for their kids. Santa will also be in the house! If you or someone you know is struggling this season, contact the Help Center at (402) 475-6888 for more information. Shoppers will need a Clarity card to participate. Clarity cards can be obtained at the Help Center on Tuesdays from 9 to 11 a.m., no appointment necessary.
All the toys are donated by individuals, businesses and organizations from around the Lincoln area, and free gift wrapping will also be provided. Anyone who would like to donate a new toy or gift can bring them to the Help Center at 6800 P St. or the PCM Shelter at 110 Q St. The deadline to participate in donating is Monday, December 9. They are also accepting donations of wrapping supplies.
People’s City Mission wants to be a witness for Christ among the poor and homeless, serve their needs and advocate their cause to the community at large. Learn more at pcmlincoln.org.
CASA for Lancaster County’s Giving Tree Program to Provide Christmas Gifts to the Children in Our Program
The holidays can be a particularly challenging time of the year for the children they serve. CASA for Lancaster is fortunate to be able to partner with businesses in the community who support the work they do. This year they are partnering with Nebraska Bank of Commerce, Thunderstone Manufacturing and Schrock Medical Clinic to provide gifts for the children they serve through the CASA Giving Tree. Nebraska Bank of Commerce will have a Christmas tree displayed with tags for CASA children. Each tag will have the child’s gender, age and wish list. The gifts will need to be returned to the businesses by Monday, December 16. CASA volunteers will deliver the gifts to children. Please consider making the season brighter for an at-risk child in the community by choosing a tag and purchasing an item from a child’s wish list. Happy Holidays!
CASA for Lancaster County is a local non-profit that recruits, trains and supports community volunteers who advocate for abused and neglected children in juvenile court. CASA volunteers get to know the children, as well as the circumstances and issues surrounding the family. CASA volunteers gather information and write reports that go directly to the judge stating what they have observed and what they recommend as next steps. CASA volunteers also share with the judge the needs and wishes of the children. Most importantly, CASA volunteers are the child’s voice in court. Learn more at casa4lancaster. org or contact them at (402) 474-5161.
Thanks to businesses, organizations and individuals, Friendship Home provided Thanksgiving meals and gifts to survivors served at Friendship Home this holiday season. Friendship Home appreciates all the Lincoln community does to support domestic violence survivors yearround, especially during the holidays. Your generosity gives hope and holiday spirit to survivors.
The holidays can seem impossible for a survivor of domestic violence. At Friendship Home, they strive to make the lives of those we serve easier. Every survivor and their children receive Christmas gifts donated by generous community members. This year, multiple families received presents and holiday cheer. Because so many presents are received each year, they can provide birthdays and various gifts to residents throughout the year. The team at Friendship Home could not do this without your generosity.
Friendship Home provides crisis services, emergency shelter and transitional housing to victims of domestic violence and their children. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call Friendship Home's 24/7 crisis line at (402) 437-9302. To learn more, visit friendshiphome.org.
Save the Date: Junior Achievement Bowl-AThon on February 7 and 8!
Mark your calendars and polish those bowling skills— Junior Achievement’s annual Bowl-A-Thon is set for February 7 and 8! This fun-filled event combines team spirit, friendly competition and community support, all while raising funds to empower local students through essential financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship programs.
The JA Bowl-A-Thon is a fantastic opportunity for companies, community groups, and individuals to come together for a great cause. Teams of bowlers raise pledges, and every dollar goes toward delivering Junior Achievement’s impactful curriculum to local schools. Participants not only have the chance to enjoy some friendly bowling competition but also to connect with others who are passionate about making a difference in students' lives.
How It Works:
1. Form Your Team: Gather your friends, colleague or family members.
2. Raise Funds: Each team member collects pledges to support Junior Achievement’s mission.
3. Bowl for a Cause: Enjoy a night (or two!) of bowling, prizes and community spirit.
Whether you’re a bowling pro or just in it for the laughs, the BowlA-Thon welcomes everyone. Save the date, start building your team and join Junior Achievement in striking out barriers to student success on February 7 and 8! For more information, reach out to Toni, at trupe@jalincoln.org.
At Junior Achievement, they believe in "possible." Learn more about their mission at lincoln.ja.org.
ON THEIR GRAND OPENINGS THE MERCATO & SHOOT 360
Christian Businessmen’s Connection (CBMC) Offers Young Professionals Groups
Lincoln CBMC launched Young Professionals (YP) groups in 2020 and continues to expand these groups. YP groups are designed for men in their 20’s and 30’s. These groups help young men navigate the challenges, pressures, and priorities of family, work and faith.
The three components of a YP group include:
1. Personal growth (fellowship with one another, working and praying through different challenges)
2. Professional growth (members learn from guest speakers who are seasoned business owners and/or C-level leaders)
3. Spiritual growth (a time to dig into the Bible and pray together). Information about YP groups can be found at yp.cbmc.com.
CBMC is a movement of men who believe God has called them to take Christ to the marketplace. CBMC equips men to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually. Lincoln CBMC is part of a global ministry in 330 cities in the U.S. and 98 countries. For information about Lincoln CBMC, connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne), visit Lincoln.cbmc.com or call (402) 204-1997.
JoinCenterPointeinMakingaDifferencethis Holiday Season
"I really appreciate this program! It’s been incredibly helpful to have someone care and empathize with my symptoms, while working with me to achieve my goals."
This is just one of the many heartfelt thank you messages CenterPointe received from individuals they’ve had the honor of serving this year. While data highlights the growing need, it’s the personal stories and healing they witness that truly underscore the impact of their work.
Last year alone, they saw a 16.7% increase in outpatient services, helping a record 5,200 individuals across more than 40 programs. Many of those they served were living well below the poverty line. Yet, the need continues to grow.
This Holiday season, CenterPointe invites you to stand with them in their mission to help people get better, sooner, for longer. At CenterPointe, their work goes beyond just us—it’s a community-wide and state-wide effort. As funding cuts increase and more people face challenges, they remain steadfast in their commitment to provide accessible, integrated healthcare for all.
At their Campus for Health and WellBeing in Lincoln, they offer a wide range of services, including primary care, psychiatric services and an on-site pharmacy, all in one location. This integrative, teambased approach ensures that individuals receive the comprehensive care they need to thrive. In Omaha, their Campus for Hope provides critical short- and long-term residential treatment, helping those in the midst of recovery find stability.
But they can’t do it alone.
Your financial support is essential as they continue serving those in need. Visit centerpointe.org to donate this holiday season and help more people get better, sooner, for longer.
Celebrate National Mentoring Month with TeamMates
Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska Launches “Rejoicing Spirits” Worship Service
January is “National Mentoring Month” and TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln is looking for local businesses that would like to host recruitment presentations for their staff. While TeamMates currently has over 1,300 active matches, hundreds of additional students await a mentor. TeamMates provides youth in grades three-12 with a one-to-one adult mentor who provides support and encouragement. In-person and virtual mentoring are available depending on the student and mentor’s circumstances.
“Our partnerships with businesses are fundamental to our success as an organization. We have some great partners, but would love to add more this year,” says Jim Bennett, Director for TeamMates of Lincoln. “Businesses benefit from volunteering by uplifting the community, and by doing so, they can demonstrate the mission and values of their company.”
There are tremendous benefits to a company’s workforce and productivity as well. TeamMates surveys participants annually, and results continuously reveal that after their mentoring visit, mentors return to work more engaged, hopeful and in a better mood.
“January is a great time to get started, for both the mentor and the student”, said Bennett.
To learn more information or to schedule a visit to your workplace, please visit LincolnTeamMates.org or call (402) 436-1990.
Christian Record Services Celebrates the Growth of PhoneFaith
Christian Record Services, Inc. is thrilled to share news about the growth of PhoneFaith as part of its outreach ministry to the blind community.
When Christian Record Services (CRS) acquired PhoneFaith from another nonprofit in 2020, it had approximately 20-30 participants a month. Since then, the program has grown, and in January 2024, there were 217 total participants, peaking during the revivals and other special programs with well-known presenters.
In addition, PhoneFaith piloted programs in Spanish this spring and summer. The programs continue and are available on the second Tuesdays of each month.
Daily PhoneFaith dial-in presentations offer opportunities to inform and encourage, through mental health and wellness sessions, social meet-and-greet interactions, Bible games, and prayer.
PhoneFaith was started by CRS Board Member, Dr. Dexter Thomas, who is blind, as he searched for tangible ways to connect with other people who were blind or visually impaired. It continues today under the leadership of Dr. Leanora Ruff, who organizes and coordinates the volunteer hosts and presenters needed for the weekly presentations.
“It is heart-warming to observe the value of PhoneFaith to participants as they engage with others who experience a similar journey. We are grateful, with God’s guidance, to offer a way for the people we serve to connect, engage and grow,” says Diane Thurber, President of Christian Record Services, Inc.
For more information, including a sample PhoneFaith program, please visit PhoneFaith.org.
Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska – Lincoln, in partnership with Connection Point Church, Pastor Elbing and Pastor Lamb, are pleased to announce the launch of “Rejoicing Spirits.” This monthly, inclusive worship service is open to the public and offers a welcoming space for individuals with diverse abilities to worship in their own way. Held at Connection Point, “Rejoicing Spirits” fosters belonging and connection for all who attend. The service takes place every third Thursday of the month from 12:45 to 2:30 p.m.
Mosaic and Connection Point invite everyone in the community to join this celebration of faith, acceptance and joy. Email pastorkeblingfrazier@gmail.com for any questions.
Mosaic empowers people in their unique pursuit of happiness. Providing truly personalized services, they help people achieve their goals and dreams.
Mosaic stands alongside people with intellectual disabilities to bring awareness to issues that affect their lives. They actively advocate for disability rights, encourage self-advocacy and promote public policy that positively impacts the people they serve. Learn more at mosaicinfo.org.
NativeFilmNightatTheRoss&VisionMaker Media’s Open House
Get ready for a double celebration with Vision Maker Media on Monday and Tuesday, December 9 and 10!
Vision Maker Media and The Ross Media Arts Center Native American Film Series 2024 are screening a kid’s short program which includes: That One Good Spirit – An Indian Christmas Story, A Native American Night Before Christmas, and The Twelve Days of Native Christmas on Monday, December 9 at 7 p.m. The whole family will enjoy these whimsical animated Christmas stories with Santa Claus and a timeless yuletide song “The Twelve Days of Christmas” adapted to a Native American perspective. This program is 30 minutes in length. Admission is free. For more details, check out theross.org.
Continue the celebration on Tuesday, December 10 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. with Vision Maker Media’s Open House at their new office in Cornhusker Plaza (301 S 13th St., STE 101). Stop by to enjoy food, drinks and live music while getting a sneak peek of the exciting things planned for 2025. It’s the perfect chance to connect, mingle and see what Vision Maker Media is all about!
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.
Carole Fest to Benefit St. Gianna Program
Carole Fest, a concert for the benefit of St. Gianna Program, takes place on Sunday, December 8 at 3 p.m. at St. John the Apostle Church, 7601 Vine St. Come and enjoy performances by area choirs. There is no cost to attend, but you may support the important work of St. Gianna Program with your donation at the concert or online at csshope.org.
St. Gianna Program (a program of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska) assists victims of domestic violence and those escaping abortion. Though it serves women of all faiths, St. Gianna Program will not make any recommendations or referrals contrary to the Catholic faith and is staffed by the Marian Sisters. In addition to housing, Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska provides education, employment and counseling services for families left homeless because of domestic violence.
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all people regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their services cover 24,000 square miles offering charitable assistance through the Family Support Services, providing crucial financial assistance; St. Gianna Program; Food Market and Meal Services; Refugee Resettlement; Immigration Legal Services and Employment Services. Learn more at csshope.org.
Donate to Clinic With A Heart Today!
Apace Debuts a New Day Center in Geneva
The holidays are a season of gathering and gratitude, but for many in the community, it’s also a season when health needs often go unaddressed due to cost. Clinic With A Heart helps alleviate these concerns by providing healthcare services at no cost to community members who need it most. With the support and generosity of their donors and volunteers, every dollar donated and every hour volunteered provides patients the care they need without the burden of paying for medical, dental, vision and other specialized care. In 2024, Clinic With A Heart has served over 1,800 patients and with 2025 around the corner, they are working towards a goal to expand their service in order to serve more people in the community is the people high hopes of increasing the number of patients and services offered in 2025!
Clinic With A Heart invites the public to learn more about what they do and consider ways they can help support its mission. Whether through volunteering, donating or simply spreading the word, every contribution plays a vital role in sustaining the clinic’s work. To learn more, visit clinicwithaheart.org.
Keep
Nebraska Beautiful’s Sustainability Seal Program to Launch in January 2025
Beginning January 2025, Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) is thrilled to unveil their Sustainability Seal Program, a new initiative designed to recognize and promote businesses and organizations in Nebraska that lead with environmental stewardship.
The Sustainability Seal will honor businesses that integrate sustainable practices into their daily operations. They know that sustainability goes beyond policy—it’s a way of operating that reflects a commitment to the future. That’s why their judging process will evaluate the depth and impact of these practices, awarding businesses that truly embody the values of environmental consciousness. From waste reduction and energy efficiency to ecofriendly packaging and employee engagement in green initiatives, they aim to spotlight businesses going above and beyond.
For businesses that receive the Sustainability Seal, the benefits are far-reaching. In addition to receiving a static window sticker to proudly display, each recipient will be showcased in a series profiling their commitment to sustainability. These features will be shared across our platforms and website, helping recipients generate positive visibility among the growing base of eco-conscious consumers. This is a unique chance for Nebraska’s businesses to not only share their green efforts but to inspire others in their communities to take meaningful action.
Keep Nebraska Beautiful invites Nebraska organizations to apply for the Sustainability Seal Program and be part of the solution. Together, we can lead the way in showing that profitability and sustainability can go hand in hand, inspiring businesses throughout Nebraska to operate with purpose, pride and a commitment to the environment. Learn more at knb.org or call at (402) 486-4562.
Apace hosted a ribboncutting ceremony and open house at its new Day Center in Geneva on Wednesday, November 13, marking an exciting milestone for the organization. Around 100 community members attended to tour the facility and learn more about Apace’s commitment to providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to live, work and thrive in their communities.
The Geneva Day Center, currently supporting two individuals, is part of Apace’s ongoing mission to provide services to rural communities. The center offers a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants can engage in meaningful activities, build skills and form connections.
Guests at the open house were able to explore the newly renovated space, meet Apace staff, and hear about the positive impact the center is already making in the lives of those it supports.
"We are thrilled by the community's support and enthusiasm," said Matt Kasik, Chief Executive Officer. "This center represents a significant step forward in ensuring that individuals with disabilities in Geneva and surrounding areas have access to the resources and support they need to achieve their goals."
Apace looks forward to continuing its work in Geneva and fostering inclusive opportunities for all.
Learn more about their mission at goapace.com.
Matt Talbot Provides Special Meals During the Holiday Season
Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach provides a safe space for hope and community, especially during the holiday season. A volunteer team provided, prepared and served a delicious, home-cooked Thanksgiving feast and other teams will provide special meals for lunch and dinner on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. All are welcome!
The “Holiday around the World” event at Matt Talbot will be held on Thursday, December 19. Fun holiday activities will be offered during the lunch hour as well as entrees from several cultures. Santa will be in the dining room during the dinner meal to provide cheer and gifts for the children and other guests.
Community members have worked with staff to provide assistance during the holidays for individuals and families in Matt Talbot's housing programs. Clients have received assistance with basic needs, transportation, furniture, clothing and Christmas presents for their children.
Donations of gift cards in any amount to local grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, Walmart or Target are needed for housing clients. Please contact Leanne Pelser, Director of Housing and Outreach, at (402) 817-0613 or leanne.pelser@mtko.org with questions or for more information.
For the past 32 years, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach has been helping individuals and families facing poverty and homelessness find possibilities when things seem impossible. Learn more at mtko.org.
Service Dogs Steal the Show at Epilepsy Conference in Disney
The epilepsy community gathered at Disney for an inspiring and educational conference—and some of the most heartwarming moments came from DomestiPUPS’ four-legged friends!
It was amazing to see how a number of Domesti-PUPS’ service dogs empowered individuals living with epilepsy to live fuller, more confident lives. Attendees had the chance to learn more about Domesti-PUPS’ incredible animals and how they change lives one paw at a time.
Domesti-PUPS extends a big thank you to all the trainers, handlers and organizations that make partnerships like the Epilepsy Conference in Disney and other events possible—and of course, to Disney for providing a magical backdrop to this special event!
Domesti-PUPS is 501c3 community organization based in Lincoln, Nebraska providing therapy dogs, service dogs for persons with disabilities and obedience trained rescue dogs. Domesti-PUPS' mission is to improve the quality of life for persons with special needs through the assistance of animals and to promote awareness through education.
Heart of Lincoln Campaign Celebration at Heart and Stroke Ball Gala During American Heart Month
On Saturday, February 15, 2025, the American Heart Association is helping the Heart of Lincoln the Lincoln Heart Ball, an event to celebrate the collective success in driving change, funding science and improving health outcomes for everyone, everywhere. That means taking their efforts beyond the ballroom, working every day to help every heart. The gala is from 5 to 11 p.m. at the Scottish Rite Temple, 302 Centennial Mall. Registration is open now, learn more at heart.org/lincolnheartball.
For 100 years, the American Heart Association has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the country. These bold moves are fueled by our mission to be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives. They have helped transform our nation’s health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates. With Bold Hearts™ and powered by science, we pledge to work relentlessly to eliminate heart disease and stroke, optimize brain health and ensure equitable health in every community. Learn more at heart.org.
ImpactMakersLaunchesMonthlyGivingClub to Empower Local Nonprofits
The Foundry Community announces the launch of Impact Makers, a new monthly giving club created to support nonprofits in their mission to uplift communities throughout Lincoln and Nebraska.
Impact Makers provides busy community members with an easy way to make automatic monthly donations of as little as $5 per month, ensuring essential resources for nonprofits at every stage of their development and in any giving climate.
“Impact Makers lives at the intersection of compassion, consistency, and collective impact,” said Beth Sachtjen, Experience Manager at the Foundry Community. "Modest, routine giving by a committed group can create a cascade of growth, even in continually changing circumstances. With the launch of this program, we invite individuals to help nonprofits gain the stability required to focus on what they do best – serving our community."
Impact Makers includes several contribution levels, each offering unique support to various nonprofit initiatives:
• Connector: $5/month – Provides a month of drop-in membership and coffee for a nonprofit start-up.
• Motivator: $10/month – Supplies three to five leadership books or staff training.
• Advocate: $17/month – Sponsors vital professional development events for nonprofit employees, such as community lunches.
• Changemaker: $44/month – Funds Sparkworks incubation for a Foundry member.
• Gamechanger: $75/month – Supports an Intern Foundry student serving a nonprofit for a month.
• Transformer: $110/month – Boosts two nonprofits with projects by BASE CAMP Foundry
Joining Impact Makers means becoming part of a community with front row seats to change resulting from the monthly support of individuals committed to making a difference. Members will stay informed with updates highlighting the progress made collectively, ensuring they remain engaged with developments.
To learn more or become a member, visit the Impact Makers page thefoundry.co/what-we-offer/impact-makers.html) and start making a difference today.
Learn more at thefoundry.co.
FoodBankof LincolnisLookingforVolunteers
Now through Thursday, January 2, 2025, you can help Food Bank of Lincoln bring food and joy to neighbors in Southeast Nebraska by collecting food donations from participating grocery stores and delivering them to the Food Bank of Lincoln two to three times each week.
Please note: This volunteer opportunity requires some light to moderate lifting and the use of your personal vehicle to transport donations.
For more information, contact Annelise Lowery at (402) 819-6306 or alowery@lincolnfoodbank.org.
From sun up to sun down (and even longer), Food Bank of Lincoln’s dedicated team, volunteers and partner agencies work together to put food on the tables of neighbors in need, right here at home. The Food Bank of Lincoln is a proud member of Feeding America. Learn more about their work and sign up to volunteer at lincolnfoodbank.org.
Sponsorships Available for “Hop SCIP Jump and Run” Event
School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP) is currently seeking sponsors and booth holders for its annual fundraiser, “Hop, SCIP, Jump and RUN”. The 2025 event will take place on June 6, 2025, at Antelope Park. Proceeds benefit SCIP, a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership.
The event will include lawn games, music and booths offering a variety of activities for both children and adults. A Photo Booth, balloon animals and face painting have also been added. Children and adults of all ages can register to participate in a 1-mile Fun Run, with prizes for the top three finishers under 18. Children up to age 18 will also be eligible for other prize drawings by visiting a minimum number of booths.
Sponsorships available for the event include Diamond ($3,000), Platinum ($2,000), Gold ($1,000) Silver ($500) and Bronze ($250). Booths are $100. For more information, contact Lilly at (402) 3276843. Proceeds from this event make it possible for SCIP to provide training, resources and supports to schools, students and families throughout the state of Nebraska.
SCIP is a program designed to bring together families, schools and the community to support student behavioral and emotional health. SCIP’s mission is to provide an effective prevention and early intervention process for youth with behavioral health concerns, so they may achieve healthy, productive lives. SCIP works with schools by providing tools and resources to address behavioral and emotional health issues that impact children, adolescents and their families. Through this event, we hope to encourage lifelong health and wellness, both physically and mentally, for youth and their families.
SCIP is funded (16% or $50,000) from the Strategic Prevention Framework-Partnerships for Success States grant (5H79SP083671-01); (55% or $168,837.71) from the SAPTBG (6B08TIO85820-01M002) through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, contracted through the NE DHHS, Div. of Behavioral Health. SCIP also receives (3% or $10,000) in state funding and (26% or $82,110) of funding from non-governmental sources, including United Way of Lincoln Lancaster County.
For more information on School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP), visit their website at scipnebraska.com or call (402) 3276843.
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.
Holiday Hope: How You Can Help Lighten a Cancer Patient’s Journey
Heartland Cancer Foundation (HCF) is here for you and your family.
This year, over 11,000 Nebraskans received a cancer diagnosis, and many faced financial barriers to life-saving care due to the cost of their treatment journey. Donations to the HCF help alleviate these burdens, covering essential housing and transportation expenses so patients can focus on what matters most: healing.
This year alone, HCF has supported 187 cancer patients with housing and transportation grants totaling $140,251. Looking ahead to 2025, the foundation is committed to expanding its impact by increasing grant amounts to $1,000 and extending services to more Nebraska counties. Patients can choose the areas where they need assistance most, such as mortgage or rent payments, utility bills, fuel expenses or car loans. HCF has never turned down a request, but they need ongoing support to continue giving the gift of hope this holiday season.
There are several ways to contribute: make a donation on Giving Tuesday, give a year-end gift, sponsor the Mardi Gras Gala on Saturday, February 8, 2025 schedule a recurring gift to provide steady support, or designate HCF as a beneficiary in your estate planning.
Your compassionate contribution could be the spark of hope a patient desperately needs. Learn more, get involved or make an online donation at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.
GoodwilltoHostHolidayEventsatGatewayMall
The holidays are just around the corner, and Goodwill is celebrating with three free community events at Gateway Mall!
On Sunday, December 8 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and Saturday, December 14 from 1 to 3 p.m., Goodwill will host DIY Holiday Workshops. Goodwill will supply secondhand cards, paper, markers, ribbons and more for kids to write down their holiday wishes and mail a letter to Santa. Attendees are also invited to create a holiday wreath using provided craft materials. These workshops are made possible by Goodwill’s Bits and Pieces: a section in their stores that meets all crafting needs from utensils to ribbon, jewelry to glue. Finally, on Monday, December 16 from 5 to 7 p.m., Goodwill is joining Gateway Mall’s Paws and Claus event. Dogs are invited to take a photo with Santa, and owners are invited to create an environmentally friendly toy using secondhand textiles from Goodwill. All events are located in the common area behind Scooter’s at Gateway Mall. For event updates and registration information, follow Goodwill on Facebook (@LincolnGoodwill) or visit lincolngoodwill. org.
For 92 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been strengthening the Lincoln community by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents an outlet for recycling unused household items and clothing. For more information, visit lincolngoodwill.org.
BigBrothersBigSistersLincolnPartnerswith B&R Stores for Holiday Giving Trees
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Lincoln (BBBSL) is partnering with B&R Stores for their annual Giving Tree program. Starting November 21, people can see Christmas trees at the front of Russ’s Market and Super Saver stores, decorated with unique tags from Big Brothers Big Sisters! Get involved by selecting a tag, purchasing the requested gift card and dropping the gift card off, with the original tag, at the customer service counter.
The Giving Trees will start on November 21, and the deadline to drop off gift cards at the service counter is Sunday, December 29.
Gift cards from this campaign will directly benefit their mentoring program. Through these cards, they provide enriching activities for mentors and mentees throughout the year, in addition to resources and solutions for families in need.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln is a community-based mentoring program that creates one to one relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. You can learn more about them at bbbslincoln. org. For questions about this campaign, please contact Amber C. Nore, Director of Community Engagement, at (anore@bbbslincoln. org) or (402) 281-4899.
AngelsAmongUsHas630FamilyTouchpoints Through Support Programming in 2024
Over the past year, Angels Among Us (AAU) coordinated 33 emotional support programming events for the pediatric cancer families of Nebraska and Western Iowa. These events allowed families to escape the daily worries of the hospital and treatment to enjoy quality time together.
“Emotional support programming was started in 2022 to give pediatric cancer families support from all angles and build community with those who have walked a similar journey,” said Brittany Friesen, AAU’s Director of Family Programs.
With a month to go in 2024, AAU plans to interact with more families and provide holiday cheer. Three Angel Flix movie events in Omaha, Central City and Lincoln allow families to enjoy the movies in a deepcleaned theater free of charge. The events also include face painting, crafts, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus and a free breakfast.
AAU thanks the generous sponsors that make the emotional support events possible: Ameritas, Children’s Nebraska, Digital Express, Hausmann Construction, KLC Logistics, A Local Collective, Methodist Physicians, RBC Wealth Management/ The Kelley Group, Scheels, Scooter’s Coffee, WealthPlan Group/Feltz WealthPlan, Wade and Christine Behlen, Jim and Mindy Young and several other friends of AAU.
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.
The Combine Incubator is Here for Your Upand-Coming Business
Combine Incubator companies represent some of the top up-and-coming businesses in agriculture. From companies in the farming and row crop space to meat packing industries, the variety of startups in The Combine bring a lot to the table. All of the startups in The Combine are based in the state of Nebraska. Companies in the Lincoln area work out of the incubator on Nebraska Innovation Campus while others participate in the program via video conference meetings. These companies are risk takers, innovators and were built right here in Nebraska.
From initial goal setting and idea assessment to preparation for a capital raise, The Combine Program is designed to assist entrepreneurs on an individual basis. Companies are accepted on a rolling basis and work through eight program modules.
The Combine is a statewide initiative supporting high growth entrepreneurs in food and agriculture. The program consists of commercialization support through mentorship and a capital readiness program, networking events, a network of partnering producers across the state, as well as incubation space on Nebraska Innovation Campus. Learn more at nebraskacombine.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
The Arc of Lincoln Has Announced Their Giving Tuesday Campaign!
Giving Tuesday is celebrated to help build a better future for all of us right now, in the billions of small actions everyone days every day.
Acts of care, love and understanding extended outward, like the threads of a beautiful tapestry. Whether it’s offering a kind smile, a helping hand or an hour of your time—these acts have a way of rippling out, becoming part of something much greater.
The Arc of Lincoln is a family-focused organization, whose mission is to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, no matter what and their Giving Tuesday campaign can help with that! Give charitable gifts for the people they support, for everything has the potential to spread joy this holiday season. Learn more about Giving Tuesday at advocacypartnership.com
Join the movement and give, whether it’s some of your time, a donation or the power of your voice in your local community.
The organization was initially organized in 1952 and incorporated in 1967 by a group of parents committed to promoting and protecting the rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Learn more advocacypartnership.org.
NebraskaCommunityFoundationCelebrates 30 Years of Building Greater Nebraska
HonoringLivesandRaisingAwareness:Observing
World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
Community members and groups, law enforcement, traffic safety professionals, advocacy organizations and concerned citizens are helping the Nebraska Safety Council come together to observe the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. This global event serves as a solemn remembrance of those who have lost their lives or been seriously injured in traffic incidents, but it’s a call to action to prevent future tragedies.
The day calls to action to diminish preventable factors like distractions, speed, drug and alcohol impairment and wearing a seatbelt. The event also addressed the concerns of rising pedestrian fatalities.
"This day is not just about mourning those we’ve lost," said Eric Koeppe, President and CEO of the National Safety Council - Nebraska Chapter. "It’s about uniting as a community to say that these deaths and injuries are both unacceptable and preventable. We have the power to change this by prioritizing safety and demanding policies that protect every road user."
The National Safety Council – Nebraska Chapter (NSCN) began in 1924 with a mission to reduce injuries and save the lives of Nebraskans through education, training, developing and distributing resources and safety advocacy. NSCN partners with businesses, schools and law enforcement, throughout Nebraska. Learn more at nesafetycouncil.org.
Over the past three decades, thousands of Nebraskans in every corner of the state have dedicated their time, talent, treasure and talk to Nebraska Community Foundation’s (NCF) community building work. Through the years, NCF has remained staunchly committed to its values of keeping its work community centered and locally controlled. NCF’s 24 staff members provide expertise in accounting, legal work, investments, IRS compliance, planned giving, fundraising, communications, marketing, data management, group facilitation, leadership training and decades of experience in complex community development work.
While Nebraska Community Foundation’s impact has grown exponentially across the state, so has its reputation and influence in both the national and international non-profit realm. Not only is the organization known for its innovative community-building work and massive volunteer-led network, it has become increasingly well known for its studies on the intergenerational transfer of wealth as well as statewide youth surveys designed to better understand the perspectives and desires of young Nebraskans as they choose where they want to build their futures.
“We are so proud of everything the NCF network has accomplished in our first 30 years,” said said NCF President and CEO Jeff Yost. “We are also grateful for the persistence of the Nebraskans who set the stage for the next generation of emerging leaders. Community development is a long game, and NCF is proud to play its own unique role in Greater Nebraska’s unfolding story.”
Congratulations to NCF for reaching this milestone! Learn more at nebcommfound.org.
Fresh Start Thanks This Community for Their Wonderful Contributions
As the holiday season draws near, Fresh Start is filled with gratitude for the amazing generosity that has touched the lives of the women at Fresh Start Home. Through their Adopt a Resident program, many kind-hearted individuals have helped bring light and joy to those who need it most.
For the women they serve, the holidays can be a challenging time. Many are separated from family and may not have the resources to celebrate. Your thoughtful gifts can truly lift their spirits and remind them they are not alone.
This year, each resident will create a wish list with five items they would love to receive, each priced at no more than $25. Their wishes include everything from gift cards to Walmart and Bath & Body Works to cozy slippers and soft blankets. They’ll then match you with a resident, so you can help make her Christmas brighter! The wish list items are due by Thursday December 12.
If you’d like to be a Wish Granter this holiday season, please email Lacreshab@freshstarthome.org or reach out by phone at (402) 475-7777 or (402) 205-0697.
Together, they are creating a community of care, and they are so grateful to have you by their side in this mission. Wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a season filled with warmth and joy from Fresh Start.
Learn more about Fresh Starts mission at freshstarthome.org.
TheCenterforPeopleWantsYoutoGetReady
for the Magic of Toyland!
Center for People is excited to present this year’s Toyland celebration, a cherished Center for People tradition during the holiday season. Families are invited to visit their facilities and receive gifts for their children, with presents available for children of all ages — from newborns to high school students.
Last year, they welcomed over 700 families to Toyland and provided gifts to more than 2,000 kids, and they look forward to celebrating with you this year!
To help Center for People create a magical experience and ensure every child receives a gift to call their own, they’re kindly asking those who plan on attending to register in advance. Registration will be from Monday, December 2, to Friday, December 6. This year, Toyland will take place from December 17-19 at 3901 N 27th St. Visit their website to learn more: centerforpeople.org/events/ toyland-2024.
Center for People’s mission is to services and programs to the low-income community here in Lincoln that addresses basic needs and provide opportunities to achieve economic independence. Visit centerforpeople.org for more information.
Lincoln YMCA Planning for Winter Events, Activities and Exercise
The Lincoln YMCA invites you to join them for another winter of fun, fitness and connection.
YMCA Family Events
All events are open to both Y Members and Community Members. For more information on each event, visit YMCALincoln.org/events.
December 7 – Craft Fair (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) – Cooper YMCA
December 7 – Crafts with Santa (10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.) – Cooper YMCA
December 16 – Pancakes & Pajamas (5:30 – 7 p.m.) – Copple Family YMCA
December 29 – January 1 – New Year’s Live Campout – YMCA Camp Kitaki YMCA360
The Y offers group exercise classes for all ages and interests including cardio, strength training, cycling and more! With YMCA360, this on-demand service brings the Y experience seamlessly to mobile devices, TV’s, streaming devices and the web, and is included with every Lincoln YMCA membership. To learn more about YMCA360, visit YMCALincoln.org/YMCA360.
YMCA Holiday Stay Fit Pass
The Holiday Stay Fit Pass is the perfect solution for friends and family visiting over the holidays, or the college student home on winter break. Can purchase between November 28 – December 31, and good for 30 days from date of purchase, Young Adult Pass ($45), Adult Pass ($55), Household Pass ($115).
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.
Donations to Community Action’s Gathering Place Soup Kitchen to be Matched $1 for $1 Through December 31
Over 55,000 free meals have been served in the last 12 months at Community Action’s Gathering Place soup kitchen. That is a 52% increase over the last two years. These numbers show that hunger in Lincoln is real and increasing.
During this season of giving, Community Action’s Gathering Place is raising funds to continue its fight against hunger within the city. Their goal is $225,000 by Wednesday, December 31. Thanks to the support of their lead sponsor, Acklie Charitable Foundation and other generous sponsors, they are not doing this work alone.
“We have broken all our records of serving at the Gathering Place this year,” said Community Action CEO Heather Loughman. “Community support generated through this campaign makes this work possible.”
The Gathering Place serves free evening meals to people experiencing homelessness, near homelessness, and/or food insecurity. It’s a big house on the corner of E and Goodhue in central Lincoln.
“For many of our guests, the Gathering Place is the one place they can consistently rely on for good food and kind company,” said Lisa Janssen, Community Action’s Gathering Place Administrator.
Anyone is welcome to get a free, nutritious meal from 5 to 6 p.m. daily.
“It’s the only time I get to see all the diaspora of Lincoln come together,” said Gathering Place guest Marcus. “It just brings so much hope.”
“We are humbled by the tremendous support exhibited by our match sponsors,” said Loughman. “Their partnership is making it possible to offer $1 for $1 match on donations for the Gathering Place, which means every dollar given can go twice as far in the fight against hunger in Lincoln. We hope all will join in support of the Gathering Place and thank all who already have!”
Learn more at communityactionatwork.org to see the complete list of match sponsors and donate today.
Blezek Awards Aim to Keep Agricultural Education Teachers in Nebraska
The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation awarded 20 teachers with funds in support of agricultural education and FFA programs in Nebraska.
“The Dr. Allen G. and Kay L. Blezek Teacher Retention Award is an investment in the future of Nebraska agriculture,” said Megahn Schafer, executive director of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation. “We are very proud to support these teachers as they get established in their classrooms and communities. The return on investment is clear as the number of schools that offer agricultural education and FFA grows, and alumni go on to contributed to Nebraska’s number one industry.”
Recipients are all agricultural education teachers in their first through fifth year of teaching. Teachers are eligible for increasing awards over time. As the teachers’ impact grows in the classroom, in their FFA chapters, and in their communities each year, the award recognizes their service and supports their efforts. A longtime program of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation, the award was renamed in recognition of an estate gift from Dr. Allen Blezek. Dr. Blezek was an agricultural education teacher, the first director of the Nebraska LEAD program, and a founding member of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation board of directors. See the list of nominations at nefbfoundation.org.
The mission of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is to engage youth, educators and the general public to promote an understanding
Sleep
Heavenly Peace Teams Up with Firefighters to Support Children in Need
Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization and is currently serving children in 300 communities nationwide (Federal ID: 46-4346568). Lincoln, being the newest chapter, will create “BUILD DAYS” where volunteers, organizations and businesses join together to make the beds that their team will deliver to those in need. They have an online process for individuals to apply for beds and they anticipate creating partnerships with local agencies, churches and Catholic Social Services’ refugee program to identify needy recipients.
Nationally, SHP receives $22 million in donations annually. This past week, SHP reached their 1 millionth application for a bed. Omaha has had a SHP chapter for six years. During that time, they received an abundance of bed applications from Lincoln; applications that could not be filled because the need there is also too great to be satisfied.
Their first bed build was on November 16 at 9 a.m. They have teamed up with Firefighters Union 644 to have firefighters and EMT's from LFR build their first beds. You can apply for a bed at shpbeds. org and then click apply.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace’s mission is “No Kids Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town!” They are an organization that builds and delivers bed to children in need of a bed and a safe place to sleep. Learn more at shpbeds.org/chapter/NE-Lincoln or through their Facebook at (@SHPlincoln).
CEDARS is Asking for Support From You This Holiday Season!
Will you consider participating in CEDARS Adopt-a-Family program this holiday season? Adopt-a-Family is the most direct way to impact a family in CEDARS care this season. When you choose to participate, you will be given a specific family’s holiday wish list. Then you, your family, coworkers, friends or group can shop for items from the wish list so that each member of the family will have something special to unwrap during the holidays.
Over 1,000 kids will be in CEDARS care, and they’re counting on you to wrap them in the joy and magic of the coming holidays. CEDARS is hoping to get their nearly 150 families adopted. Will you help them ensure each one is wrapped in the joy of the holidays?
With your help, they can ensure that every family in CEDARS care is wrapped in the joy of the season. To learn more about participating in CEDARS Adopt-a-Family program visit CEDARSkids.org/holidays.
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 about their mission at cedarskids.org.
Alzheimer’s Association Launches Free Winter Webinar Series for Nebraska Caregivers
The Alzheimer’s Association – Nebraska Chapter will host an upcoming Winter Webinar Series–The Empowered Caregiver, designed to support caregivers of individuals living with dementia. These free classes aim to increase caregiver confidence and reduce stress by offering practical strategies and resources rooted in a person-centered approach to care.
The webinars provide valuable insights and techniques to help caregivers navigate their responsibilities while enhancing the quality of life for both them and their loved ones.
“Caregiving for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia is an incredible act of love, but it can also feel overwhelming and isolating,” said Sadie Hinkel, Programming Director at the Alzheimer’s Association – Nebraska Chapter. “This webinar series is designed to provide caregivers with the tools, confidence, and encouragement they need to navigate this journey with their loved one.”
Winter Webinar Schedule:
• December 3, 2024, 1:00 – 2:00 PM: Building Foundations of Caregiving
• December 17, 2024, 1:00 – 2:00 PM: Supporting Independence
• January 7, 2025, 1:00 – 2:00 PM: Communicating Effectively
• January 21, 2025, 1:00 – 2:00 PM: Responding to DementiaRelated Behaviors
• February 4, 2025, 1:00 – 2:00 PM: Exploring Care & Support Services
Each session will provide actionable advice and resources for caregivers, with a focus on improving communication, understanding dementia-related behaviors and fostering independence. Registration is FREE and is required to attend. Interested participants can sign up for a single session or multiple sessions online.
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection and maximizing quality care and support. For more support, visit the Alzheimer’s Association – Nebraska Chapter website at alz.org/Nebraska, or call the 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900.
Dreamweaver Foundation Thanks its 2024 Making Spirits Bright Santa’s Helper Sponsors!
Dreamweaver Foundation is sending a big sleigh-load of gratitude of their Santa’s Helper Sponsors who are making the holidays merry and bright:
• Nebraska Medicine
• Caretech Inc
• Assisted Living Locators of Greater Omaha
• Prairie Flower Casino
• Methodist Health System
Their help behind the scenes spreading love and happiness to those who need it was seen and appreciated this holiday season. You’re help in making so many people’s spirits soar was amazing to see!
Dreamweaver Foundation thanks you!
The Dreamweaver Foundation is a nonprofit organization focused on making dreams come true. Their programs enhance the emotional, social and spiritual health of older adults and their loved ones, too. Whether making a bucket list wish come true, connecting older adults virtually with those they love or something as simple as a holiday card wishing them well – they inspire joyful memories to last a lifetime. Quite simply, Dreamweaver Foundation believes in the power of “more.” More hope, more connection, more life and, of course, making more dreams come true for older adults with life-limiting illnesses. None of this is possible without their generous supporters. Together, they have the power to create incredible experiences our most cherished generation will never forget. Learn more and donate at dreamweaver.org.
City Impact has Partnered with Lincoln Christian Again for Gifts of Love 2024!
For more than 30 years, City Impact has provided Christmas with Dignity to thousands of Lincoln families. The Gifts of Love Christmas store offers quality presents at affordable prices to families in need. Gifts of Love is supported by hundreds of local volunteers helping local shoppers, picking up donations, decorating City Impact’s space and more. Volunteer registration is open!
Registration Requirements:
1. You must be the legal guardian of each child (under 19 years old) being registered and the child must live in your home.
2. Your current Photo ID.
3. Social Security card for each child. Also acceptable: 2023 tax return, passport, government issued ID, Medicaid card.
4. Proof of income eligibility. Provide any ONE of the following:
• LPS letter stating free or reduced lunch eligibility.
• HHS letter stating SNAP case number.
• Most recent pay stub of each adult in household.
For registration questions, call (402) 477-8080 or email gol@ cityimpact.org. Registration is required to shop! Learn more, donate and register at cityimpact.org/gifts-of-love-2024.Register by their shopping at on Thursday, December 12.
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. Visit cityimpact.org for more information.
POWER GENERATION PLANTS
Farris Engineering is and employee-owned small business provider of professional mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection engineering design. Our staff includes specializations such as LEED AP+, Certified GeoExchange Designers, Registered Communications Distribution Designers, licensed Fire Protection Engineers, Certified Energy Managers, and Commissioning Agents.
Our dedicated power generation team at Farris Engineering brings extensive experience in assessing current plant conditions to support clients’ evolving needs. With expertise spanning all aspects of power generation and electrical distribution, our team has recently been involved in a variety of critical projects. These include switchgear upgrades, control tower replacements and enhancements, power generator upgrades and additions, arc flash studies, cooling system upgrades, RICE compliance studies, and rate plan evaluations. Each of these efforts reflects our commitment to advancing power generation systems with safety, compliance, and efficiency in mind.
For more information about Farris, please visit one of their offices, log on to farris-usa.com, or call them at (402) 330-5900.
by Travis Filing Executive Director
How to Build Strong Leadership at Every Level
Strong leadership is a vital ingredient for a successful business. However, building leadership within a team goes beyond having a great CEO or manager. True leadership development is about fostering leadership qualities across the board, ensuring your business thrives from top to bottom.
Start by promoting a culture of accountability. When employees are encouraged to take ownership of their tasks, they naturally develop leadership qualities such as initiative, responsibility, and decision-making skills. Allow team members to lead projects or handle customer accounts, providing guidance but also giving them room to learn.
Mentorship programs are another valuable tool for leadership development. Pair emerging leaders with experienced mentors who can offer insights and advice on navigating challenges. Build these people up, empower them to make decisions on behalf of the company, trust them to do what is right based on your organization’s mission and values. This enables them to contribute their expertise, promotes professional growth and creates a sense of support within the organization.
Invest in continuous learning and development. Leadership is a skill that evolves over time, and employees should have access to the resources they need to learn and grow. Provide training, seminars, and workshops on leadership skills, communication, and emotional intelligence to help team members at all levels develop the skills needed to lead. Also provide memberships in organizations that put them around other leaders in the community.
Finally, lead by example. Strong leaders set the tone for the entire company. By demonstrating commitment, integrity, and resilience, you inspire others to follow suit. Leadership is contagious, and by modeling the behaviors you want to see, you’ll create a business full of potential leaders.
General Fire & Safety’s Mission:
To provide our clients with the best fire and life safety solutions possible utilizing industry expertise and a customer centric approach to service.
General Fire and Safety provides Installation, Service and Inspections of Fire Sprinkler Systems, Fire Extinguishers, Fire Alarm Systems, Clean Agent Suppression Systems and Kitchen Suppression Systems.
Customer service is at the core of what they do, and they use this commitment to their customers to plan and organize their technicians’ schedules on a daily basis. This takes dedication to detail and communication, ensuring their customers have a positive experience and peace of mind that the equipment that protects their employees and assets is in good working order.
General Fire believes they have the best trained, most professional and courteous staff in the industry. Every employee at General Fire and Safety knows the importance of the work they do and their dedication to superb customer experience.
They’re dedicated to helping their clients with the best fire and life safety solutions possible utilizing industry expertise and a customer centric approach to service.
“Our team consists of more than 50 service technicians in the greater Lincoln area, including 24-hour on-call service. Each individual receives training that exceeds industry standards to ensure they’re well-informed on any topic you may have regarding your fire safety products and systems. This allows for the fastest, most efficient service possible for all of Lincoln’s fire sprinklers, fire alarms, suppression systems, personal protective equipment, extinguishers and more,” says Jason McDonald, CEO.
DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION
by Todd Ogden, President
RamenandMore;HowSnack Korner is Bending the Norm of the Lincoln Food Scene
MinSoo Park is on a mission to bring a taste of Korean culture to downtown Lincoln Nebraska. His latest venture, Snack Korner, located on the corner of 13th and P street, serves up a delicious mix of international flavors.
“This kind of business is everywhere in Korea - I want to bring that idea to Lincoln for people to enjoy,” Park says. Fusing elements of a convenience store, a coffee shop, and a lunch spot, Snack Korner offers a truly unique experience.
Positioned directly next to the Rococo theater, the high foot traffic of college students and the bustling downtown workforce give Snack Korner a chance to become a standout attraction in the downtown Lincoln food scene.
A “do-it-yourself store,” Snack Korner has a clear favorite: build your own ramen bowls. With 103 flavors of ramen to choose from and 20 toppings, there are over a million unique ramen bowl combinations. “I have never heard of anyone who has more ramen than me,” Park proudly shares.
You can eat there daily for the rest of your life and never get the same bowl twice! Beyond ramen, Snack Korner also offers a variety of multicultural treats like shrimp chips, sushi, and mochi, making it a one-stop shop. Multiple self-serve coffee machines provide a range of drinks—lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and more. Upstairs features tables and a small dining room providing a work setting resembling a coffee shop.
Park has collaborated with multiple local businesses such as Kuro Neko Desserts, Freezing Thai Rolled Ice Cream & Bakery, and The Mill. Instead of competing, Park showcases the work of other local businesses. Mochi from Kuro Neko, rolled ice cream from Freezing Thai, and coffee from The Mill are all staple items at Snack Korner. “We all have a good relationship. It's nice to help share their work and meet other business owners,” Park stated.
Through these collaborations with neighboring businesses, Snack Korner becomes a hub for locally made tastes. Snack Korner brings a fresh twist of flavor to Lincoln’s food scene, combining the excitement of building your own ramen bowl with a wide variety of international snacks; Snack Korner invites locals to explore a diverse and flavorful cuisine.
Whether you are building a ramen bowl with endless combinations or looking for a fun snack, Snack Korner has something unique for everyone. As Park puts it “more than selling the food, I am selling the fun.”
Snack Korner is open 9am - 8pm weekdays and 10am-7pm weekends.
Your hair is one of the ways you express your own personal style and Ovation Salon is here to make sure that your great hair is your best accessory. Ovation has the knowledge, experience and skill to give you the exact hairstyle you want and need for every day or for any important event. Their professionally trained stylists offer a wide variety of salon services at affordable prices. They offer only the best service for anything you could ask for! They are a one stop shop that is here for you for any of your self-care needs! If you’re looking for someone you can trust with a new hairstyle or a makeup look for any vital event, look no further!
Visit Ovation Salon for Professional Work In:
• Wigs and Hair Pieces
• Beard trimming
• Hot Shaves
• Facials
• Brow and Body Waxing
• Wedding Packages
• Haircuts and Coloring
• Extensions
• Makeup Application
• Peel and Micro Polish
• Back Treatment
• Body Treatment
• Eyebrow Wax
• Lip Wax
• Perms
Ovation Salon offers a full menu of spa services to help you relax, refresh and renew. Their experienced team provides the highest standards with quality products from the most trusted names in the beauty industry. Let their professionals help you unwind.
In addition to their salon services, they also offer an extensive selection of wigs and hairpieces. They would love to assist in helping make the choice for the perfect hair style! Consultations and fittings are done in a private room – for your comfort. With over 40 years of combined experience, when you’re looking for exceptional hair in Nebraska, look no further than Ovation Salon & House of Wigs. They provide a premium experience with expert certified and licensed stylists.
LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
by Jason Ball President
(402) 436-2350 www.lcoc.com
Building a Stronger Business Community: Lincoln Chamber Launches
Latino Connect
I am thrilled to announce the launch of Latino Connect, a dynamic new program of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce aimed at empowering Lincoln's vibrant Hispanic and Latino business community. Approved by the Chamber’s Board of Directors and guided by the leadership of our newly formed Hispanic and Latino Business Committee, this initiative represents a significant step toward fostering inclusion and growth in our local economy.
Latino Connect is designed to provide Hispanic and Latino entrepreneurs with valuable resources, including networking and educational opportunities, to help their businesses thrive. This program highlights the Chamber’s commitment to ensuring every member of our business community has access to the tools and support they need to succeed.
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce kicked off Latino Connect in November with a community celebration of over 150 attendees. During the event, we detailed our plans for the year ahead, which include regularly scheduled programming and networking opportunities for the Hispanic and Latino business community. In 2025, Latino Connect will feature bimonthly educational events (in Spanish), each with a portion dedicated to networking, hosted at various Latino-owned businesses throughout the Lincoln community. Each event will unite, educate and inspire Hispanic and Latino business owners, fostering collaboration and shared success. I am eager to watch this impactful new program unfold and am confident that through Latino Connect, we will create a stronger, more collaborative business community together.
Fortaleciendo la Comunidad Empresarial: La Cámara de Lincoln Lanza Latino Connect
¡Estoy emocionado de anunciar el lanzamiento de Latino Connect, un dinámico programa nuevo de la Cámara de Comercio de Lincoln dirigido a empoderar a la vibrante comunidad empresarial hispana y latina de Lincoln! Aprobado por la Junta Directiva de la Cámara y guiado por el liderazgo de nuestro recién formado Comité de Negocios Hispanos y Latinos, esta iniciativa representa un paso significativo hacia la inclusión y el crecimiento de nuestra economía local. Latino Connect está diseñado para proporcionar a los emprendedores hispanos y latinos recursos valiosos, incluyendo oportunidades de networking y educación, para ayudar a sus negocios a prosperar. Este programa resalta el compromiso de la Cámara de garantizar que cada miembro de nuestra comunidad empresarial tenga acceso a las herramientas y el apoyo necesarios para tener éxito.
La Cámara de Comercio de Lincoln inició Latino Connect en noviembre con una celebración comunitaria que contó con más de 150 asistentes. Durante el evento, detallamos nuestros planes para el próximo año, que incluyen programación regular y oportunidades de networking para la comunidad empresarial hispana y latina. En 2025, Latino Connect ofrecerá eventos educativos bimensuales (en español), cada uno con una parte dedicada al networking, organizados en diversos negocios de propietarios latinos en toda la comunidad de Lincoln. Cada evento unirá, educará e inspirará a los propietarios de negocios hispanos y latinos, fomentando la colaboración y el éxito compartido.
Estoy ansioso por ver cómo se desarrolla este nuevo programa impactante y confío en que, a través de Latino Connect, crearemos juntos una comunidad empresarial más fuerte y colaborativa.
The Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together. For more information, contact Derek Feyerherm atdfeyerherm@lincoln.org.
Information to Keep You Moving Forward and Support to Help You Along the Way.
Founded in 1968 and locally-owned, West Gate Bank has grown to six branches in Lincoln and four branches in Omaha with over $1 billion in total assets.
Our employees are proud to serve the Lincoln and Omaha communities on over 100 local non-profit boards, charities and other philanthropic activities. Our commitment to leadership and giving back to the community has earned West Gate Bank a number of awards - including the Federal Home Loan Bank Community Leader Award and the Better Business Bureau Integrity Award.
More than a slogan, “Our Interest is You”, means we are committed to remaining family-owned and focused on serving the people of Nebraska. When you visit any of our locations, our staff will be friendly and knowledgeable. Your service will be prompt and professional. When you call West Gate Bank, a knowledgeable person will answer the phone - not a computer set on a loop.
As part of our commitment to deliver exceptional service, we upgraded our banking systems in July to improve the experience of our customers. The biggest difference customers will notice is our improved Online and Mobile Banking. These platforms now deliver enhanced digital banking, offering users the ability to customize the information they see on their accounts. We’ve also added a new service within digital banking, Budget Insights, which will help customers to see where they are spending their money and help them set up goals for spending.
Personal Banking
your 25th wedding anniversary, we have the solution for you. We are happy to educate, consult and celebrate with you along the way!
Business Banking & Commercial Lending
Our Business Banking Solutions and services are as unique as your business needs. With a collaborative approach, you select the solutions which align best. Our products create efficiencies so you can spend time on what really matters--building your business.
As exceptional as our products are, our team is the true differentiator. Their commitment to each business is unmatched. We understand the importance of partnering with an institution you can depend on. Trust is the foundation of our partnerships.
Mortgage
Our team of local mortgage lenders are experts on the Lincoln and Omaha communities - because they live here. From pre-approval through loan closing, they will work with you every step of the way. We also retain the servicing on the home mortgages we originate - your loan is not sold off to another bank. This means you will not have to suffer through the frequent service problems associated with national mortgage servicing companies. You’ll talk to a representative in Lincoln when you have questions.
We are more than a bank. We are invested in you, your family, your community and your business. Our team of experts is ready to navigate complexities and solutions which allow you and your business to operate efficiently.
Whether it’s your first savings or checking account, or if you’ve decided to establish a vacation savings fund for
STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS
FRIENDS FRIENDS FRIENDS FRIENDS
A HUGE thank you to everyone who joined us at Los Cabos for our Thursday Friends4Lunch event! We had so many great people attend and it’s always amazing to share one of our favorite local go-to stops. Plus it’s always a blessing going to a place where the chips and salsa are unlimited! Los Cabos is located at 8901 Andermatt Dr. at 84th and Nebraska Parkway.
For Friends4Drinks, we stopped at The Post which was the perfect place and atmosphere to unwind and relax! We’re so grateful for everyone who showed up to the lovely mixology lounge and we’re thankful for that many laughs and stories that were shared. The Post is located in the Telegraph District at 2001 N St and M.
FRIENDS FRIENDS
This month, we’re so excited to announce that we’ll be heading to Tipsy Tina’s for Friends4Lunch on Friday, December 6, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tipsy Tina’s is a place where quality ingredients combine with people who care. Their menu is full of iconic dishes and delicious drinks that we can’t wait to share with you! Plus, they have over 140 types of Tequila and 40 types of Mezcals, they really have something for everyone! Tipsy Tina’s is located in the Haymarket at 800 Q St.
As always these events are FREE - you only pay for what you order! We’ve been loving the energy you all have been bringing to our events lately, and we can’t wait to see you and friends at the next one. If you have any questions, reach out to editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com or call our office at (402) 466-3330.
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.
DECEMBER BUSINESS EVENTS
DECEMBER 4
Chamber Coffee |Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
DECEMBER 5
Lincoln’s Annual Network-Wide Ugly Sweater Christmas Party Hosted by Morrow Collision Center | Center Sphere
DECEMBER 6
GenLNK | LIBA
Lincoln Circle - Select Lincoln: LPED | LincolnHR Friends4Lunch at Tipsy Tina’s | Strictly Business
DECEMBER 11
Celebrate Business Awards | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
DECEMBER 12
BizNet - Holiday Party at Spectrum | LIBA
DECEMBER 14
What’s Involved in Starting a Small Business | SCORE Lincoln
DECEMBER 19
The LNK - April Sampson | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
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!
Boost Your Online Credibility
Strictly Business Magazine delivers powerful, online editorial content for our clients, content that Google assigns the maximum credibility. No other local media business can help you create new and fresh content with a higher level of skill and experience than we can—we’ve been doing this for 25+ years.
Google loves original, timely, backlinked, and promoted editorial content. These are the most important SEO tactics that you should adopt to improve your website’s search engine ranking. By employing these tactics, you demonstrate to Google, and all the other search engines, that you and your website are a credible source of information.
Establishing credibility with search engines is just as important as establishing credibility with clients and potential clients. Fresh new content is of the upmost importance for your website’s online ranking and your ability to hold on to a coveted top search position.
Strictly Business Magazine is your local expert for creating original, timely, backlinked and promoted editorial content, and the proof is in the 15.3+ million times our clients’ press has been seen in just Google Search Engine Result Pages (SERPs) per year. That’s over one million times that our clients’ content has been viewed in Google search results per month! WOW!
To see the proof, just visit our website and click on the “Boost Your Online Credibility” ad.
What’s even more amazing is the fact that we will create, post, and promote your content at no charge, as a part of your print advertising campaign.
Isn’t it time you created some new and fresh content to increase your online presence and credibility for free? To get started, call or visit our website today: 402.466.3330 | Strictly-Business.com
The people at Drybar love hair as much as you do! That’s why they’re now offering a “BarFly” membership to their most valued customers of Drybar’s goods and services. This membership comes with many unbelievable benefits depending on the tier!
The Barfly Single Level Membership offers 10% off in-store products, one blowout per month, one anniversary gift and a $5 discount on any additional blowouts you may need beyond one per month. This membership is $45 a month!
The Barfly Double Level Membership offers 10% off in-store products, two blowouts per month, one anniversary gift and discounts on any additional blowouts you may need beyond two per month. At the Double Level, add-ons do not accumulate and must be used within 30 days. Extensions are 50% off the regular price for all blowouts received. The Barfly Double can be shared with a “bestie,” however the Member must be present at the time of the “Bestie Blowout” appointment! This membership is $90 a month!
“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.”
Are you ready to start your Barfly journey? Visit their website to sign up today. Exclusive perks are waiting for you and are just one click away!
MADE IN LINCOLN
Do you know how many products are made locally?
Lincoln boasts a diverse manufacturing landscape that significantly contributes to Nebraska’s economy. Our city is one of innovation and industriousness, and is home to countless manufacturing companies and local producers that cater to various industries. It’s crazy just how much we produce, and how much of what we produce we consume without realizing where it came from.
The manufacturing/production scene in Lincoln extends its reach into various sectors, including automotive parts, construction materials, medical devices, aircraft components and countless agricultural products. Lincoln’s robust range of products and adaptability makes us a key player in the nation’s production landscape.
Beyond tangible products, Lincoln excels in the technology sector with production characterized by electronic components, circuit boards and software products. Lincoln’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the production of components for renewable energy systems like wind turbines and solar panels.
As industries evolve and innovate, Lincoln will continue to be a beacon of manufacturing and production diversity, supporting a wide range of sectors with its skilled workforce and entrepreneurial spirit.
Ahroma Specialty Coffee was started by the R.U. Nuts Company in a mini storage space in 1997, when small batch roasted specialty grade coffee was rare and expensive. The mission of Ahroma is to “Bring the Coffeehouse to Your House” by making great coffee easily accessible at an affordable price. Today, Ahroma Coffee distributes freshly roasted coffee to grocery stores across Nebraska, and also does custom roasting for coffee shops across the Midwest. Ahroma provides a “one-stop shop” where a coffee house owner can find all their menu products in one place at competitive prices. Two of Ahroma's all-time best-selling flavored coffees include Jamaican Me Crazy® Coffee and Jingle Bell Java. Anyone, whether for business or for personal enjoyment, can buy coffee or browse all of the blends and flavors online at ahromacoffee.com. Check out Ahroma's monthly featured roasts and flavors! To receive $10 off your order of $75 or more, use the code STRICTLY10 (valid through December 31, 2024).
Dental Designs, a reputable family owned dental lab established in 1980, has been a stalwart in providing top-notch dental restorations to dentists across the nation. With a commitment to excellent communication and a strong work ethic, the company has thrived for over four decades. Notably, the main campus is rooted in Lincoln, where the company's headquarters has been situated since its inception. While a secondary location in Omaha was established in 2007, Dental Designs has expanded its reach with additional branches in Denver and Sioux Falls.
Dental Designs distinguishes itself through a mission to deliver fixed and removable restorations of the highest quality, crafted with cutting-edge technology in their own laboratory. The company's dedication extends beyond product excellence, aiming to foster meaningful relationships with dentists to enhance patient lives and contribute value to their practices. With a growing presence in Lincoln, Omaha, Denver and Sioux Falls, Dental Designs stands ready to continue its tradition of exceptional service to dental offices nationwide. For more information, visit dentaldesignsinc.com.
The R.U. Nuts Company began as a home-based bulk food business in Lincoln, Nebraska in the early 1980s. Though still locally owned and operated, R.U. Nuts has grown to be a distributor of nuts, seeds, candies, dried fruit, trail mixes, smoothies, coffee and coffee shop products throughout the Midwest region. In addition to creating custom trail mixes and candy mixes, R.U. Nuts also provides custom private labeling and packaging solutions for clients. Whether it’s clamshell packaging, zip-top pouches, or pillow packs, the R.U. Nuts Company delivers quality products to grocers, convenience stores, coffee shops, restaurants, and independent customers. Want to see your company name or brand featured on a custom package? The R.U. Nuts Company can make it happen. Find more information at runutsco.com. To receive $10 off your order of $75 or more, use the code STRICTLY10 (valid through December 31, 2024).
Precision Custom Woodcraft is a manufacturer of commercial architectural casework, cabinets and mouldings. We handle everything from quotes and designs through delivery of the final product. Our small, but highly skilled team can handle projects of all sizes and complexity thanks to our large shop and vast range of manufacturing equipment.
Custom projects – meaning cabinets and fixtures need to be modified to fit the exact space and specs required – have become a bit of our forte. We are able to take on highly specialized projects that other shops aren’t equipped or aren’t willing to do. This also applies to our custom moulding capabilities. Whether it’s arched casings and jambs or the ability to grind our own moulder knives in house, we can quickly custom match and produce almost any moulding.
We pride ourselves on customer service and providing high quality products at a fair price. Learn more at precisioncustomwoodcraft.com.
ENERGYEFFICIENCY
During this time of year, furnaces start running; kitchen appliances bake, store and re-warm holiday goodies; and Christmas lights begin twinkling, so reducing energy costs should be at the front of everyone’s minds. However, energy efficiency is more than just cutting costs. Energy efficiency also increases property value, can improve a business’ competitiveness and has even been proven to improve individuals’ physical and mental health. There’s no disadvantage. In the bigger picture, practicing energy efficiency helps combat climate change, reducing greenhouse gas and carbon dioxide emissions, and conserves natural resources. It is obvious
that agriculture is extremely important to this state, providing employment for more than 321,000 people. That’s over 23% of the state’s workforce, so implementing and maintaining energy-efficient technologies and habits should be a priority to any Nebraskan.
The following Lincoln companies make sustainable development and a sustainable lifestyle attainable for the average person. The sustainable use of resources helps preserve the environment by reducing greenhouse gases and other emissions; that’s a fact. It also helps to conserve resources for future generations. Don’t ignore the impact of making energy-efficient choices!
What’s Your Air Score? Technology
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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��
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Lincoln Electric System (LES) helps its customers save on electric bills by sharing ways to manage energy consumption and use more energy efficient technologies. It can be as simple as utilizing low-cost, low-tech tools, like smart plugs or smart power strips, which are an effortless way to manage phantom loads.
Energy-efficient appliance upgrades, such as heat pump water heaters, can also reduce the amount of energy needed for heating, cooling and operating one’s home or business. If one is considering upgrading one’s home to make it more efficient, LES’ Sustainable Energy Program offers potential cash-saving incentives to residential and business customers for qualifying purchases. Customers can work with local contractors or find the details on LES’ website.
LES has programs in place to reduce peak electricity demand, such as the Peak Rewards Program. Program participants agree to let LES make brief, limited adjustments to their internet-connected thermostat during times of peak electric demand. This helps LES to shift peak power use on hot summer days, which can help the community delay the need for another generating resource.
LES and its customers want to do their part in making an environmental impact.
Engineered Controls similarly understands that lighting and HVAC systems are generally to blame for a significant portion of a building’s high operational costs. It’s estimated that lighting and HVAC systems can collectively account for up to 80% of a building’s total energy usage, which is all the more reason to reevaluate its energy footprint and see if there is a better, more environmentally friendly solution.
Engineered Controls recognizes the importance of implementing effective energy management strategies and achieves energy efficiency by utilizing its innovative Building Automation System, a sophisticated technology that allows for the centralized control and optimization of all critical systems.
Engineered Controls supports its customers in identifying areas where efficiency can be improved within their buildings via its Energy Optimization programs. These programs leverage a diverse array of energy-efficient products and solutions and are overseen by their team of knowledgeable professionals.
Pat Killeen, the Owner of Engineered Controls, shared the programs' objective saying “The aim is to provide building owners and managers with real-world data to make informed decisions that not only enhance the comfort of occupants but also reduce energy consumption.”
Engineered Controls is dedicated to delivering high-quality products and services that establish efficient, safe and comfortable building environments that not only safe on costs, but that help companies shrink their energy footprint, which allows them to contribute their share to energy conservation efforts.
Sustainable Energy Program
Lincoln’s experts specialize in implementing energy-efficient technologies crucial for a sustainable future. By tapping into their knowledge, one can significantly lower waste, greenhouse gas emissions and utility costs, making substantial strides towards a more sustainable environment.
Get money to purchase qualified energy-efficient equipment for your home or business with the LES Sustainable Energy Program. Save energy. Save money.
Jennifer Bangert LES
Pat Killeen Engineered Controls
Senior Living
Caring for a senior can be stressful, time consuming and emotionally taxing. Learning how to balance individualized care plans with family involvement can cause undue stress for both seniors and their families, compromising independence and dignity. Luckily, Lincoln has an array of senior care services designed to make this life transition as seamless as possible.
The senior care industry is faced with a multitude of challenges today. The senior population is growing steadily, demanding high-quality, individualized care, while workforce shortages continue to plague employers. If one is considering senior care or transitioning one’s senior to a senior living arrangement, there is no time to lose!
Explore local, high-quality senior services. Client-centered care plans are foundational to meeting the diverse needs of seniors, which is the mission of each of the following community-committed, senior-supportive Lincoln businesses.
Supportive Senior Services
Noreen Home Care provides senior living services such as personal care, housekeeping, medication reminder, transportation and meal preparation services, making it a tried and true home health care service for Lincoln and the surrounding communities.
Noreen Home Care is locally owned, and its owner, Noreen Mwabe, is dedicated to finding ways to support and give back to the community. Her generosity is reflected in her philosophy. Mwabe strives to be the most personal, hands-on provider in in-home care. She believes in doing
all of the little things because the little things can make a big difference, so each Noreen Home Care companion is trained to treat each person like family.
Noreen Home Care also participates with other community leaders to focus on the local workforce. Noreen Home Care’s hands-on trainer ensures that each caregiver in training is instructed on not only care techniques but also the individual needs of each senior Noreen Home Care values and cares for.
“Innovation is in the core of our care and services,” says Executive Director Virginia Cole . “Our motto is, ‘Caring for you like family.’ This cannot be accomplished without us training and providing opportunities for our care companions to identify and provide the extra attention, activities and compassionate focus for every individual. We spend a great deal of time learning each person’s story to help identify hobbies, nostalgic moments to be created, favorite animals or pets for activity planning and much more. There is no limit to the kindness and creativity of us at Noreen Home Care.”
Equally important is senior housing. Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty is dedicated to making any transition as seamless as possible. It understands senior transitions are unique for every individual, so it doesn't believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Instead, it works closely with seniors and their families to determine what the “best place” looks like for them, whether it’s downsizing, moving to a senior-friendly community or aging in place with modifications. Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group’s goal is to be a resourceful, compassionate guide in navigating these decisions.
Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group recognizes transitions impact not only seniors but also their families and loved ones. Its approach is designed to offer peace of mind for everyone involved. Through its fullservice experience, it addresses each client’s unique needs and alleviates
Virginia Cole Noreen Home Care
stress for families and provides guidance every step of the way. Every senior has different priorities, so Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group aims to meet each with tailored solutions. Whether a senior is looking to stay close to family, needs specific accessibility modifications or wants to remain active in the community, Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group’s team is equipped to address those needs. Its resources and programs—like the Downsizing Club and Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars—are designed to make each stage of the transition smooth and align with each client’s values and lifestyle.
“My advice is to start early and take things step-by-step,” says Realtor Alicia Chrastil. “It’s perfectly normal for this transition to feel overwhelming, and planning ahead can make a world of difference. Consider what matters most—whether it’s staying close to family, simplifying your space or finding a community that matches your lifestyle. Take advantage of resources like our Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars and Downsizing Club. Most importantly, remember that you’re not alone; we’re here to help make this journey as smooth and fulfilling as possible.”
To Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group, comprehensive senior care means being available and attentive to all aspects of a senior’s transition. It doesn’t just focus on the real estate aspect; Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group is there to support throughout the entire journey. From organizing belongings to exploring senior living options and providing educational resources through its seminars, Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group uses a holistic approach.
Likewise, CarePatrol of Lincoln understands that being different makes all the difference. Transitioning to senior living can be a difficult time for not only the senior, but his/her loved ones too. Because of this, CarePatrol has consistent expectations across all of its locations.
CarePatrol’s local senior advisors provide expert knowledge and personal consideration, visiting clients’ residences to talk face to face with seniors and their families. CarePatrol takes the time to learn about each senior’s unique needs and is personally supportive through every step of the process, leaving no question unasked. Additionally, CarePatrol’s senior advisors are local; they live where its seniors live and know the area. Because of this, they provide a “local” view on facilities and resources and will help seniors and their families in person when touring and comparing communities.
Seniors and their loved ones can be confident that CarePatrol’s network of providers are licensed and in good standing. CarePatrol will only recommend communities that it has vetted and that will provide the level of care required for each senior’s individual needs.
CarePatrol of Lincoln has been setting the standard for senior placement services since 1993 and is the pioneer organization in the placementservices industry. CarePatrol is dedicated to being a comprehensive personal service option and a valuable resource for families during the placement of their loved ones.
With a similar commitment to advising, Caring Friends In-Home Care takes pride in the flexibility it provides to its clients. It isn’t easy to make the decision to ask for help and allow someone in your home. Caring Friends takes that to heart and offers home care services without weekly minimums. This is an easy transition to allow someone the chance to try out the services. This also gives a client more flexible scheduling and an affordable way to try Caring Friends’ in-home services.
Most seniors want to stay home as long as possible and live an independent life without disruption. With in-home care services, seniors don’t have to drastically change their routines and can remain close to family for love and support.
Home care services offer reassurance to loved ones, so they know their family members are being looked after and cared for, which removes the burden off of family. Caring Friends helps the caregiving rejoin the
Alicia Chrastil Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty
Michael Conover CarePatrol of Lincoln
Your Trusted Choice for In-Home Care
Depend on our compassionate and experienced staff to provide customized care to meet your needs.
Our cost effective services and flexible payment options work in conjuction with all your existing home health or hospice services.
• Personal Care bathing, incontinence, med reminders
• Home Care light housekeeping, meals, errands and shopping
• Social Engagement
Affordable, Smoke Free Living
Features Include:
• Secured Entry Systems
• Handicap Accessible Units
• Organized Special Activities • Elevators • Group Transportation • Coin-Operated Laundry
• Small Pet Allowed • Community Room
family and allows seniors to keep their dignity while removing the burden from their family member or members.
Many clients are long term, and their unique needs change with time. Their care plans are adjusted when changes are needed. The caregivers and are all in communication with any updated changes and help support clients as new needs arise. Caring Friends also builds relationships with other service providers in the area and will recommend additional services when appropriate.
“Be proactive and compare services and companies to find the one that meets your needs,” says Michelle Sorsen, CEO Caring Friends In-Home Care.
Being proactive also includes staying on top of prescriptions and senior medications.
In the beginning, Nebraska LTC Pharmacy
Owner Shannon 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 however–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 transition to senior living or in-home care, and proudly denotes itself as a concierge pharmacy due to its unmatched attention to detail and customer service. This is something many other retail pharmacies simply can’t provide.
“Making an impact in the community is my top priority, so we at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy are proud to serve Lincoln’s seniors and the family and friends who love them,” says Schultz.
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.
Nebraska LTC Pharmacy helps support in-home services such as Visiting Angels. Visiting Angels’ comprehensive home care is customized for every senior based on his/her individual needs and preferences. From the very first interaction with Visiting Angels, it’s our goal to gain a deep understanding of the client to help them achieve their desired lifestyle. Visiting Angels’ dedicated and reliable caregivers have helped thousands of older adults live happily and safely in the comforts of their home, providing their families with peace of mind.
Lincoln Housing Authority
Visiting Angels is proud to provide in-home caregiving services to Lincoln senior citizens, disabled adults and Veterans. Visiting Angels has a team of dedicated, compassionate caregivers who share the same passion for helping seniors retain their independence by enjoying their Golden Years from the comfort of their own homes.
“Our hiring process for our caregivers is very thorough and assesses their abilities as well as their capacity to form personal connections with clients,” says Owner Natalie Leon. “We are experts in selecting skilled caregivers
Michelle Sorsen Caring Friends InHome Care
Shannon Schultz Nebraska LTC Pharmacy
Natalie Leon Visiting Angels
who have a servant heart and matching them intentionally with each unique client in mind.”
It is essential for clients and caregivers to build a solid relationship based on trust and rapport. “We’ve seen caregivers and clients refer to each other ‘like family’ and it’s the best feeling as a business owner to hear these expressions of care, trust and love for each other. I am confident that my team is making a strong, positive impact on the lives of seniors,” said Leon.
Visiting Angels is America’s choice in home care, nationally known and locally owned. Whether your loved one needs help 24/7 or just one day a week, Visiting Angels is the confident choice for compassionate, customized in home care.
Seniors have the right to feel comfortable in their own home. For this reason, Lincoln Housing Authority prides itself on providing “more than housing.” Nowhere is this more evident than at Lincoln Housing Authority’s three apartment buildings, Burke Plaza, Crossroads House and Mahoney Manor, designed to provide affordable housing for seniors and persons with disabilities.
Residents living in these buildings have access to a wide variety of social and personal support services through the Resident Services Program, situating a Resident Services Specialist at each building to provide general support to the residents and offer a range of activities and programs, which are meant to enhance the overall quality of life at each building. Lincoln Housing Authority’s Resident Service Specialists welcome regular communication with residents’ families/loved ones. There are even several events scheduled throughout the year that families/loved ones are encouraged to attend. Space is also available for tenants to reserve for private events.
Each of Lincoln Housing Authority’s buildings has a Resident Council that works to promote the interests of all residents. The Council meets each month and assists the staff in developing resident programs and services, and all residents are invited to attend the meetings and provide their input.
Lincoln Housing Authority has enhanced the Resident Services Program through an agreement with Aging Partners. Through this agreement, the Congregate Housing Services Program (CHSP) provides two, fulltime social workers, who share time between all buildings. The social workers work with individuals needing additional supportive services such as case management, personal care, house-keeping assistance and transportation. In addition, the CHSP program brings hot meals six days a week to be served in the dining rooms at Burke Plaza and Mahoney Manor. There is also an option for an evening meal to be picked up at noon when the hot meal is served.
Senior health and living transitions can be stressful and difficult to prioritize, but Lincoln Housing Authority is a great first step in the right direction.
Speaking of stepping in the right direction, Husker Rehab gets seniors back on their feet. Husker Rehab believes that physical therapy is more than just rehabilitation–it’s a gateway to a vibrant and fulfilling life for Lincoln’s senior residents. Through its holistic approach to physical therapy, Husker Rehab focuses on empowering seniors to achieve their fullest potential by addressing the body, mind and spirit.
therapy sessions are designed to restore strength, improve balance and enhance flexibility. From gentle stretching to advanced mobility exercises, Husker Rehab focuses on functional improvements that empower residents to navigate daily life with confidence.
3. Emotional and Psychological Support. Recovery is as much a mental process as it is physical. Husker Rehab’s therapists foster a positive and encouraging environment to boost motivation and mental wellbeing. Mindfulness practices and stress-reduction techniques are also incorporated to enhance healing.
Benefits of Husker Rehab’s holistic approach involve:
• Faster recovery times and reduced risk of re-injury.
• Improved physical strength, balance and flexibility.
• Enhanced emotional resilience and self-confidence.
• Stronger social connections and reduced feelings of isolation.
• Overall improved quality of life.
Husker Rehab’s experienced team of physical therapists and wellness minded professionals are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care in a warm and supportive environment. By integrating physical therapy into a broader framework of wellness, Husker Rehab enables seniors to reclaim their independence and enjoy life to its fullest.
Caring Senior Communities
Cedar Creek of High Plains’ dedication is what sets it apart as a supportive senior living partner. Cedar Creek of High Plains can be relied upon for outstanding senior support services day in and day out, which is especially important as the holiday season creeps closer and closer.
Cedar Creek of High Plains believes in creating a positive resident experience that maintains residents’ dignity. To do that, the Cedar Creek team spends a lot of time asking questions and listening to its seniors to create new programs and opportunities to address any unmet needs.
Just as Cedar Creek of High Plains is committed to serving its residents, Cedar Creek is also committed to serving its team members. Cedar Creek of High Plains hires people who are kind and encourages them to stay
Aging gracefully requires more than addressing physical health. Husker Rehab’s holistic approach integrates personalized therapy plans with mental, emotional and social well-being. Husker Rehab understands that each resident's journey is unique, and its programs are tailored to support every aspect of seniors’ recovery and overall health.
Core components of Husker Rehab’s Holistic Physical Therapy Program include:
1. Customized Care Plans. Every senior receives an individualized therapy plan based on his/her goals, medical history and lifestyle. Whether one is recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition or aiming to improve mobility, Husker Rehab’s therapists ensure targeted and effective care.
2. Physical Rehabilitation and Fitness. Husker Rehab’s physical
Susan Tatum Lincoln Housing Authority
in the beautiful Lincoln community. Cedar Creek does this by creating outstanding benefit packages and clear career paths.
Cedar Creek of High Plains understands that the senior living transition is a big change, so its developed its one-of-a-kind program Pair to Prepare, where residents invite a family member to stay with them during the first few days of their move, at no cost! Cedar Creek wants to build trust from the very beginning of residents’ senior living experience. Cedar Creek also offers a 60-day, money-back guarantee to reassure new residents, so seniors can focus on settling into their new community. Cedar Creek of High Plains supports the growing population of seniors and the subsequent demand for high-quality care by creating communities where each person feels loved, valued, supported and capable to live life to the fullest!
Similarly, at Legacy Retirement Communities, seniors enjoy a bustling, small town atmosphere, filled with smiling faces and warm hellos up and down the street. Lincoln seniors and their loved ones can stop in for a game of pool in the pub, a soft serve ice cream cone in the ice cream parlor or even cozy up with a good book in one of Legacy’s sunrooms, which overlooks luscious gardens and ponds. Each Legacy community will make the senior living transition seem less daunting, exposing how enriching a new lifestyle can be.
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 Retirement Communities believes it’s people and genuine connections that make up its “legacy.” Residents, along with Legacy’s staff and the Lincoln community, all play an integral part of cultivating these positive relationships to last a lifetime.
“Here 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!” says the Legacy Team. 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 now and for many more years to come.
In like manner, Lincoln seniors and their families can rely on Salt Creek Senior Living to be a welcoming and comfortable place where quality care and compassionate service are at its forefront.
“We prioritize a balanced lifestyle for our residents, focusing on both physical and mental well-being through a variety of enriching activities, wellness programs and personalized care,” says Vice President of Sales and Marketing Alie Hrabe. “Our goal is to create a vibrant environment that truly feels like home.”
The Salt Creek Senior Living team understands the importance of keeping families supported and connected throughout their loved one’s senior health journey. Through Salt Creek’s LifeLoop, families can easily stay in touch and receive updates via messaging, video calls and photo sharing and insights into daily activities, which helps families feel close to their loved ones. Salt Creek also hosts family engagement events and provides accessible, responsive staff to answer questions and share updates whenever needed.
Salt Creek is designed with flexibility and individuality in mind, and it focuses on adapting its care and environment to fit each resident’s personal preferences and needs through customized care plans, dietary accommodations and adaptable living spaces. The Salt Creek team is trained to recognize and support the unique physical, social and emotional needs of residents, ensuring they feel comfortable, respected and empowered, so they experience each day in a way that feels meaningful to them.
“Comprehensive care means going beyond basic support. We integrate physical, emotional and social wellness into our approach by offering tailored healthcare services, engaging programs and meaningful social opportunities,” notes Hrabe. “Our team collaborates closely with
Alie Hrabe
Salt Creek Senior Living
residents and their families to create individualized care plans, ensuring every aspect of well-being is covered. By staying attentive to changing needs, we provide a safe, nurturing environment where seniors can experience life with purpose.”
Seniors and their loved ones should explore communities together to get a feel for each facility’s culture, services and environment. Look for a place that prioritizes both quality care and a vibrant community because feeling at home is just as important as receiving the right support. Having open conversations about needs, preferences and long-term goals will make the senior living transition as smooth as possible.
Correspondingly, Sumner Place is passionate about providing quality life and quality care for seniors in Lincoln and its surrounding areas.
“Our mission, Dignity in Life, is the heart of everything we do,” says Admissions and Public Relations Coordinator Megan Herter.
“We believe our unwavering commitment to excellence will allow us to change the view of long-term care.”
Sumner Place provides 24-hour nursing care with extended medical and rehabilitative services for seniors with complex medical conditions. Sumner Place offers a range of rehabilitative therapies available to both nursing care residents and other members of the community, which are centered around each senior’s unique lifestyle. Sumner Place dedicates itself to providing peace of mind and an atmosphere that delivers comfort, security, and quality of life to seniors and their loved ones alike.
With 24-hour nursing care and many of the comforts of home, Sumner Place balances quality care with quality of life. Sumner Place promotes autonomy and choice and offers a variety of services, social activities and recreational opportunities. Residents are encouraged to continue social activities and personal interests at Sumner Place.
Sumner Place believes that it all starts with culture, and it has created an amazing culture of “Family Serving Family.” Clients entering Sumner Place’s doors consistently comment, “It just feels different.”
Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation’s seniors and their families can always be confident that they’re receiving the best possible care during their senior living transition.
Likewise, The Residence at Gramercy strives to see to it that every resident is surrounded by its signature care and services. The Residence at Gramercy takes care of the details, so there’s no need to fret about cooking, driving, worrying about utilities or doing housekeeping and laundry.
The Residence at Gramercy walks both the family and the resident through the transition to assisted living because it never wants someone to feel alone. The Residence at Gramercy does everything it can to serve as a family extension to navigate through what can be a difficult process.
At The Residence at Gramercy, residents can engage in numerous daily social activities, large or small. Residents can relax in their apartments or in the common areas. At The Residence at Gramercy provides onsite therapy, clinics, shopping trips, outings, live entertainment, veterans services and opportunities for families to be involved in their loved one’s care plan.
The Residence at Gramercy encourages its seniors and their families to ask questions and do research. “Each community and care service is unique, and one may be a better fit for your loved one over another. The great thing about senior care in Lincoln is that we all work together and are very willing to help direct someone to the right service/community if we cannot provide what is needed,” says Director of Sales and Marketing Jordyn Ready.
This sets The Residence at Gramercy apart. It works with many senior care providers and services in the Lincoln community to ensure the best possible care for its residents and to fit their individual needs.
TJ Chrastil
Alicia Chrastil
George Simmons
Jordyn Ready
The Residence at Gramercy
Megan Herter Sumner Place
Family Serving Family
a
on individualized care, whether in assisted living or specialized memory
Waterford’s communities are focused on a smaller community design and high staff-to-resident ratios to create a homelike atmosphere and ensure personalized attention. The team prioritizes maintaining residents' independence while providing essential support with daily activities like bathing, dressing and medication management. Healthcare staff is on-site and available around the clock for added peace of mind, ensuring seniors feel safe and well-cared for.
The Waterford’s facilities are built to meet a range of unique needs. They offer both general assisted living and specialized memory care, tailored for those facing dementia or Alzheimer’s. These services not only meet residents’ physical needs but also provide a compassionate, secure environment where residents are respected and engaged. Family members benefit from knowing that their loved ones are in capable and caring hands. The Waterford also supports families with resources like flexible short-term respite care options.
Comprehensive care at the Waterford includes three daily meals, housekeeping, laundry and recreational activities that foster a sense of community and social engagement among residents. There’s no long-term lease requirement, which allows for resident flexibility, and the facilities accept various payment methods, including long-term care insurance, private pay and in some cases, Medicaid after a period of private pay.
“For families transitioning to senior living, the Waterford advises choosing a community that feels like a good personal fit, understanding the levels of care available and considering future needs,” says Waterford’s Executive Director Dan Klein. “Starting with a tour of the facility can help determine if it aligns with the specific needs of the senior and his/ her family’s expectations.”
Finally, Traditions Health Hospice’s clients experience more than just great care for their loved ones. Whether one is looking for end-of-life care for one’s aging parents or comfort care for those earlier onset diagnoses, Traditions Health Hospice’s highly trained and experienced team walks seniors and their loved ones through the end-of-life journey. Traditions’ team tailors each care plan to match the patient and family, so every experience is personal and supportive.
At Traditions Health, families have support and guidance through the entire process, and bereavement support continues up to 13 months after the death of a loved one. From physicians to the home hospice aides, Traditions Health offers exceptional care for its patients to help keep them as comfortable as possible and provides social workers, spiritual professionals and bereavement support to help patients and families feel educated and uniquely cared for during the final season of life.
Traditions Health does a home walkthrough and assessment to see what equipment might be needed and orders a variety of items to add comfort, such as a hospital bed, cushions for chairs, shower chairs, oxygen supplies, etc. This is because Traditions Health believes hospice care is more than just providing clinical care as a patient nears their end of life and intends to not only provide compassionate care, but also aid families as they navigate a challenging time.
“Do what you feel is right for you and your loved one,” says Executive Director Brea Stithem. “Don’t be afraid to interview different hospice agencies and choose the one that best fits your family’s needs. Understand that when you choose hospice care it does not mean that you're choosing death or giving up. It’s about providing the best type of advanced care for your loved one at the time when they need it most.”
Each of these Lincoln businesses is proud to serve the Lincoln community and its seniors as they age into a new phase of their lives. From a new brace to a new place to live, these Lincoln businesses are there to make sure its seniors are as comfortable as they can be.
Dan Klein Jr. The Waterford Assisted Living Communities
Brea Stithem Traditions Health
Holiday Wrap-Up
Although the holiday season is a time for family and friends and making memories, it can be stressful to navigate. Christmas is quickly approaching, which is immediately followed by New Year’s. There seems to be a company event or social gathering every other day, so finding time for one’s own holiday plans or even just a holiday meal can seem impossible, rushed and last minute.
However, last-minute plans, meals and gifts don’t have to mean less meaningful. Heck, some spontaneity can even be fun! Connecting with loved ones is what truly matters during this time of year, whether that’s on a holiday’s day or after. There are also benefits to waiting to host a holiday event after the season has past. It serves as something to look forward to in the New Year and allows for those who might’ve had conflicting plans to make the celebration.
Trust these Lincoln experts to make last-minute holiday planning or presents every bit as meaningful as those that have been planned by others since August! There’s no right way to holiday plan, so consider every option with the following companies.
Last minute doesn’t have to mean less delicious, so let Sweet Things by Marcy check one more thing off the to-list! The most important component of any holiday gathering, pre-planned or last minute, is the goodies. With Sweet Things by Marcy, any kind of last-minute holiday celebration is possible and sure to be a hit.
Sweet Things by Marcy offers an exceptional dessert experience that captures the essence of Southern culinary traditions. Founded by Marcy Haas in October 2020, Sweet Things has evolved from a cozy home-based operation to a bustling commercial production kitchen, responding to the soaring demand for its authentic Southern desserts.
However, Sweet Things’ delectable treats don’t ever lose that homemade taste and feel, which is ideal for the upcoming holiday season, especially if one is trying to redeem oneself from a previous holiday baking disaster. It is rare one is able to live such a thing down, but Sweet Things by Marcy can certainly help!
Marcy’s Alabama roots inspire all Sweet Things creations, including banana pudding, peach cobbler, Kentucky butter cake and sweet potato pie, perfect for uncovering holiday nostalgia or teaching the younger generations what true comfort food tastes like. Sweet Things takes pride in using only the finest ingredients, ensuring each dessert is a masterpiece of flavor and quality.
Everyone deserves a treat during the busy holiday season; it’s a lot! So, treat those tastebuds to two (or ten) delicious goodies from Sweet Things by Marcy.
If one is looking for more than just dessert, daVinci’s & Greenfield’s offer flexible, tailored menus that can be customized to fit anyone’s specific needs and preferences—even with short notice!
daVinci’s & Greenfield’s understand that schedules can shift unexpectedly during the holidays, so they offer flexible delivery and pickup options, ensuring that customers’ food arrives exactly when they need it. Whether it's breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, daVinci’s & Greenfield’s have it covered!
Even after the holidays, daVinci’s & Greenfield’s offer comforting winter menus, featuring ingredients to capture the essence of the holidays. From daVinci’s flavorful baked pastas, made with original family recipes, to Greenfield’s cozy egg and cheese casserole and delicious biscuits, daVinci’s & Greenfield’s dishes are perfect for post-holiday gatherings and help bring that familiar holiday cheer back to the table.
Marcy Haas
Sweet Things by Marcy
Kevin Knudson
daVinci’s & Greenfield’s
Holiday Extravaganza
1/3 CTW ($700 value) w/ $500+ Purchase
1/3 CTW ($1,100 value) w/ $1,000 Purchase
1 CTW ($3,200 value) w/ $3,000 Purchase
“We understand that last-minute gift shopping can be stressful, which is why we offer flexible catering options that can be ordered with short notice,” says Owner Kevin Knudson. “We also offer gift cards with bonus cards during the holiday season—an ideal gift for everyone, including family, friends, teachers and colleagues. Our services are designed to be quick, easy and hassle-free, making them the perfect solution for last-minute gifting!”
The Post is likewise prepared to make its clients’ last-minute holiday planning stress-free thanks to its comprehensive services. From crafting and serving signature holiday cocktails to private bartenders and catering, The Post has it covered!
The Post takes care of the final touches that transform a great party into an unforgettable event! The Post’s team ensures every detail is perfect— from creating a festive atmosphere with holiday-themed decorations to providing custom music playlists to keep the energy alive all night. The Post also offers personalized drink menus tailored to guests' preferences and provides attentive service to make certain everyone feels special and taken care of throughout the event. The Post’s goal is to create a seamless, stress-free experience, so the host or hostess can enjoy the festivities with loved ones.
For those who couldn’t fit their events in before the holidays, The Post extends the cheer into the New Year with its ongoing event planning and hosting services. Whether it’s New Year’s Eve bashes or just wintertime festivities, The Post keeps the spirit alive with bespoke cocktail parties, private bartenders and a warm, welcoming venue. After all, festive gatherings aren’t just for December—The Post can make celebrations unforgettable any time of the year!
But, what if one needs an unforgettable gift? The From Nebraska Gift Shop makes shopping local for last-minute holiday gifts easy and stress free. If it’s made in Nebraska or about Nebraska, the From Nebraska Gift Shop has it.
From Nebraska Gift Shop’s products make great gifts for the holidays, whether it’s for family, friends or for a corporate gift-giving event. From Nebraska Gift Shop has a great selection of pre-made baskets to choose from and can customize any gift, even taking care of shipping if need be!
From Nebraska Gift Shop also owns James Arthur Vineyards and has a tasting room at its downtown location, so From Nebraska Gift Shop is more than happy to add award-winning wine from Nebraska’s oldest and largest winery to any order. Better yet, From Nebraska Gift Shop has a year-round Christmas store, featuring the area’s best selection of Christmas decorations, ornaments and fun holiday offerings. It’s the perfect store for the Christmas season!
One will undoubtedly find the perfect gift at From Nebraska Gift Shop, but if one wants to get away and enjoy time with family and friends, a trip to James Arthur Vineyards is the answer. With live Christmas music throughout the season, sit back and relax by a fireplace and enjoy hosting the perfect party at the winery.
“If you’re looking for last-minute holiday gifts, get two things knocked off your to-do list and pick up a few bottles of wine or hard cider at the vineyard while you enjoy the company of your friends and family,” says Barb Ballard “A bottle of wine is the perfect stocking stuffer, and James Arthur Vineyards has a plethora of wines and ciders to satisfy any beverage lover in your life!”
For companies looking to send a customized gift to clients or employees, From Nebraska Gift Shop does branded items! Items include apparel, coffee mugs or literally anything else one can slap a logo on. It’s a great way to get the company name and brand out there!
The From Nebraska Gift Shop takes pride in offering the best of Nebraska for Nebraska and tries to make the gift-giving process as painless and as seamless as possible, especially during last minute holiday planning!
Speaking of gifting, new shoes are always an indicator that someone got a visit from Santa Claus! Plus, it is important to send kiddos into the New Year and last half of school on a solid foundation. A lot of kids’ feet grow between the first day of school and Christmas. This is where Lincoln Running Co. can help!
Barb Ballard
James Arthur Vineyards
Lincoln Running Co. understands the importance of a great pair of shoes, perfectly fitted to the feet. Not only will the right pair of shoes set a kid’s body up for success, but his/her mind as well. Lincoln Running Co. defines holistic health as activity every day, and this is most definitely the case with kids. Starting kids on their holistic health journey early will help them develop good habits and may even save parents possible medical bills in the future.
Because of its close relationships with the medical professionals in Lincoln and surrounding areas, Lincoln Running Co. knows feet better than anyone else around and knows how important it is to share that knowledge with the community. By helping individuals find the right shoes to keep for themselves or gift this holiday season, Lincoln Running Co. feels it’s fulfilling its commitment to supporting Lincoln and Lincoln’s blooming generations.
“We want the shopping experience with us to be just that, an experience, one that encompasses everything from shoes, training, nutrition and injury prevention to education or whatever else the customer needs to know about running, walking or moving!” says Manager, Ann Ringlein. “We’ve been one of the top 50 Best Running Stores in America three times now, and as proud of that as we are, we are more proud of our relationships with our customers and community.”
Now, what about a more delicate, romantic gift? Not that a new pair of shoes can’t be romantic… Nothing is easier or more beautiful than gifting a hand-picked piece of jewelry. Make a loved one’s holiday one to remember with a dazzling new piece of jewelry from Sartor Hamann Jewelers.
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 happy to help anyone pick out the perfect last-minute gift.
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 or stop in to any of its three showrooms, so the team can make the late-gifting experience less scary.
“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.”
Since 1905, Sartor Hamann Jewelers has been the place to go to find the finest jewelry. Sartor Hamann Jewelers was Lincoln’s first fine jeweler, and now, as a fourthgeneration, family-owned and operated company, it is service driven and known for its cutting-edge style, fashion and innovation. Make it a priority to dazzle friends and family with a thoughtfully selected piece of jewelry this holiday season. Sartor Hamann Jewelers can help anyone look absolutely sparkling just in time to celebrate the “most wonderful time of the year.”
Now, where should one trade those magnificent gifts? At Talon Room, clients can expect to step into a world where timeless elegance meets modern character. Talon Room’s award-winning venue and catering takes any holiday event to the next level, and it’s the all-in-one answer to last-minute holiday planning.
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 all holiday event needs and go above and beyond to create the most unforgettable event of
Ann Ringlein Lincoln Running Co.
Sarah V. Sartor Hamann Jewelers
We’ll Treat Your Pet Like Family!
the season! Talon Room is conveniently located in downtown Lincoln, so no one has to know the event was planned last minute as the party doesn’t have to end at Talon Room–the possibilities are endless!
Talon Room has a variety of price ranges to fit every budget and event type and offers services to help its clients plan their last-minute holiday get-togethers. As Talon Room likes to say, “We set it up, and you make it a party!”
• Talon Room’s accommodations include:
• Start-to-finish event management
• A downtown Lincoln historic venue
• Convenient parking and hotel options
• 250-guest capacity
• A wedding suite
• A dedicated event team
• Tables, chairs and basic linens
• Venue setup and teardown
• Fully-integrated A/V: six 65” screens, a sound system and wireless microphones
• Lighting and decoration packages
“If you feel like you’re scrambling to make your last-minute holiday fun work, Talon Room is here to set your mind at ease. We will go above and beyond to make your event special–that’s our promise,” says Owner Matthew Rogge.
What about a venue on wheels?! Last-minute holiday planning doesn’t have to mean boring, and a glowing party bus is far from boring! Tailored Dreams Limousines and Party Buses goes all out every time, making it a go-to for last-minute plans and a guaranteed good time. Renting a holiday party bus will help one host the most memorable holiday event any family member has ever seen!
In 2012, Tailored Dreams Limousines was started with just one limousine. It has since grown its fleet to include party buses that have offered unique and countless memories to Lincoln and the surrounding communities–whether it be for a wedding, birthday, just a fun night out with friends or a holiday extravaganza!
“Tailored Dreams has been privileged to offer party bus services to Lincoln and the surrounding communities for 12 years,” shared Tailored Dreams. “We look forward to continuing to provide our customers with services to make their party bus activities and holiday planning a success.”
Tailored Dreams’ reputation for delivering a merry holiday experience has spread. Take it from one of their recent clients:
“We had an awesome time on our ride last night! Ryan was by far the best driver we’ve ever experienced,” writes Jennie. “When he called a day or so ahead he was so enthusiastic and was helpful in explaining some great spots he planned on driving by. When he found out it was a surprise for all the kids going he said he’d have a special plan for that too! He arrived in a fantastic elf costume, with candy canes for the kids, and did a great job talking to them at the door before leading them all out to see their surprise. He was so much fun, so patient with loud and wild kids, and helped us get our music going, made it simple to meet our random requests to stop and every house he took us to had elaborate displays. Seriously, it was the best experience ever thanks to Tailored Dreams!”
One should be sure to take the venue on wheels to Sun Valley Lanes and Games, where there are activities for the whole family to enjoy! For those looking for a last-minute present, gift cards are always a good fit. Compared to a product one might never use more than once, one can always find the perfect use for a gift card promising an experience!
“Maybe you’re already dreading the holidays because it means a loud house and rowdy kids,” says Event Coordinator Jen Miseno. “You can get the kids out of the house by sending them to Sun Valley Lanes, so you can prepare for visitors! Let them expend their energy while also having fun and making memories.”
Sun Valley Lanes understands that when groups come in for their family or company event, they just want to start the fun and not worry about any of the details. Although oftentimes, the person or people in charge of setting the event up are worried about everything going right, so they don’t have as much fun. That’s
Matthew Rogge Talon Room
Jen Miseno Sun Valley Lanes and Games
where Sun Valley Lanes can help, taking all the worry and ensuring the event is going just as planned!
Sun Valley Lanes encourages companies to look into hosting company events even after the holiday’s are over. During the holidays, there’s always so much to do, and it’s difficult to fit everything in. But, with Sun Valley Lanes, companies can keep that holiday cheer all the way into the New Year!
“The memories you can make, while having fun outside the office, will last a long time,” says Miseno. Sun Valley Lanes sells experiences, rather than a tangible gift, which is what it believes sets it apart.
Most importantly, one cannot forget to attend to one’s own needs!
Time. A hostesses worst enemy! It is easy to get caught up in the execution of one’s holiday plans and forget about the true star of the occasion, the one everyone travels to see, the hostess! With a blowout from Drybar, hostesses can get back to what they do best, showing people a good time. Make a holiday event and its last-minute preparations easier by having Drybar do the most frustrating part next to picking out what to wear, and that’s fixing hair!
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.”
Additionally, with the hecticness of the holidays, events can get lost in the shuffle, especially if one is trying to plan at the last minute. Kenl Inn makes this time of year easy with daycare and boarding pet services. Kenl Inn provides pets with a festive, stress-free stay while their owners manage all those holiday to-dos. Not every pet loves the hustle and bustle of extra company or does well with holiday travel, so that is where Kenl Inn comes in. At Kenl Inn, each pet has its own holiday getaway packed full with fun events, playtime and special treats!
Last-minute holiday planning means scrambling for gifts too. Luckily, Kenl Inn offers discounted, daycare punch-cards, so pet parents can keep the holiday spirit going well into the New Year. Owners can even add on holiday treats or toys to give their pets something to enjoy both during and after their stays.
"Let Kenl Inn be your pet’s home away from home this holiday season,” says Kennel Manager Samantha Smith . “They’ll enjoy seasonal activities, new friends and all the love they deserve. Kenl Inn can take a bit of the stress off your plate, so you and your pet can both enjoy safe, joyful celebrations!”
Planning ahead is key, so secure a spot now! It’s never too early. During their stay, pets get plenty of playtime and festive activities, keeping them happy and engaged, so their owners can enjoy peace of mind. From holidaythemed events to toys and treats available for purchase, Kenl Inn offers the little touches to make sure every pet has much fun as its human this season!
Whether one chooses to wrap up the holiday festivities in December or extend them into January, Strictly Business extends its warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! As the holiday season draws to a close, see Lincoln’s local professionals who will help put the finishing touches on any holiday celebration or soiree like a perfectly tied little bow!
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.
Featuring:
Samantha Smith Kenl Inn
No matter how long a person lives in Nebraska, the unpredictable weather still seems to come as a shock every year. This year, the winter feels have been pushed back following a late-arriving autumn. But, at some point or another, winter always hits hard and fast in the Midwest.
Nebraskans may not know when winter will hit but knows it surely will—it being something for which one needs to thoroughly prepare. Nebraska weather changes its mind like a preteen, so it is important to take precautions and be as proactive as possible, especially when it comes to the vehicles that will be navigating the roads in icy, slick conditions. With the help of these local experts, Lincoln drivers can feel prepared for the road conditions that lie ahead.
Winter driving is challenging, but to be frank, Nebraska driving is just plain hazardous. The importance of taking precautions to help ensure safety on the road can not be overstated. According to A1 Automotive, incorporating the following tips will make this season’s holiday journeys safe, relaxed and free from preventable dangers:
• Prepare/Maintain the Vehicle: Check the battery, brakes and tires, and ensure all essential fluids are at the proper level. Equip the vehicle with winter tires, and keep a winter emergency kit on hand, which should include items like an ice scraper, a shovel, a phone charger, a flashlight, blankets and non-perishable food. While driving, maintain good visibility by regularly cleaning the windows, lights and mirrors.
• Drive Slowly and Smoothly: Slow down and drive at a safe, controlled speed. Avoid sudden acceleration, braking or sharp turns to prevent skidding. If the vehicle starts to skid, steer in the desired direction. Avoid slamming on the brakes or overcorrecting. Gentle, controlled movements of the steering wheel are key to regaining control. It is also beneficial to increase the following distance from the vehicle in front to allow for more reaction time.
Winter Driving
• Stay Informed: Pay attention to weather forecasts and road condition updates. If conditions are extremely treacherous, consider delaying the trip or finding an alternative route. If one plans on driving in dangerous conditions, notify someone about the travel plans and expected arrival time.
“Winter driving demands caution, preparation and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. With A1 Automotive, you’ll be equipped to navigate all winter conditions, from snow and ice to reduced visibility and cold temperatures,” assures A1 Automotive Owner Kendall Warnock
It’s always better to arrive at a destination late and unscathed than to risk one’s own or family’s safety by rushing in dangerous winter conditions with an underequipped or unprepared vehicle. The first step in being prepared for Nebraska’s notoriously brutal winters is to prepare and maintain one’s vehicle, and A1 Automotive has the expertise to ensure that happens.
General auto care is imperative, but one should also have a plan for when the absolute worst happens. Collision damage often happens quickly during the winter, surprising the driver. After a collision, things can feel uncertain. One may wonder how to talk to an insurance company about what happened or if the vehicle can even be repaired. Whether it’s minor damage from weather or major damage from another vehicle, Tracy’s Collision Center’s technicians carefully restores any vehicle to its original factory appearance. At Tracy’s, once repairs are complete, clients can be as confident in their vehicle’s performance as they were the day they bought it.
Tracy’s has been in the collision repair industry for fifty years. Tracy’s staff can work with any insurance company to help get any vehicle back to its pre-accident condition. Tracy’s technicians use state of the art equipment and the highest quality parts for repairs and strives for clear communication with its customers before, during and after the repair process.
“Our vision as a Lincoln-based business is to make the repair part of a collision experience easier for our customers and give back to the communities that have supported us over the years,” says Owner Tom Tracy.
Tracy’s mission is simple: be honest, fix the car right and treat people fairly. Tracy’s continues to re-invest in its company with technician training and state of the art equipment. By staying true to its values, it continues to pursue excellence in meeting the high standards of safety and performance that its customers expect, especially during these slick, snowy and cold winter months.
If there is one thing to invest in to help prevent collisions altogether, it’s new tires. Vehicles are complex, and most people aren’t familiar with nitty gritty of cars and tires. A lot of the maintenance needs cars require never even cross many peoples’ minds. inMOTION Auto Care thinks of everything its customers don’t, making its primary aim to provide an exceptional customer-service experience for tire repair, so its clients can get right back on the road!
inMOTION Auto Repair is Lincoln's newest Authorized Michelin, BF Goodrich and Uniroyal dealer. As an Authorized Dealer, inMOTION Auto Repair is able to be competitively priced while still offering exclusive Tire Rebates multiple times a year! Not only will clients get the rebate, but for convenience, inMOTION Auto Repair submits the rebates on the clients’ behalves.
inMOTION Auto Repair is a one-stop shop, selling, servicing and repairing automotive and light truck tires. inMOTION Auto Repair provides additional benefits aside from its competitive pricing too, such as its Tire Protection plan, which is included with the purchase of four tires and an alignment. Benefits include:
• FREE tire rotations for the life of the tires
• FREE alignment checks for the life of the tires
• FREE flat tire patch repairs for the life of the tires
• FREE 3-year Nationwide Road Hazard Coverage, up to $150 per tire (may be prorated based on tread depth)
• FREE $299 Everywhere Program, expense reimbursement if one has troubles while traveling
• FREE 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program, covers towing, lock out service, jump starts and more
Explore inMOTION Auto Repair’s Tires Anytime Online Store to research, price and purchase tires anytime, from anywhere! inMOTION Auto Care worries about and attends to cars’ winter needs, so Lincoln drivers can travel stress-free and safely on this season’s winter roads.
It is true that common challenges drivers face during the winter months include maintaining proper tire pressure, the thickening of engine fluids, making the vehicle work much harder, reduced battery efficiency and corrosion from road salt, which can lead to rust and damage to key parts on a vehicle.
Establishing proper maintenance on one’s vehicle is important for a multitude of reasons including safety, performance, longevity, costefficiency, resale value and environmental impact. By maintaining a vehicle’s critical systems, such as brakes, tires and lights, one can help prevent devastating accidents. However, there are preventative measures that can be taken to ensure one doesn’t have to file a claim this winter season.
“You can take precautions to prepare your vehicle for the winter months by having your mechanic test your battery, inspect your tire tread and replace your oil with a one that is of “winter-grade,” says American Family Insurance Agent Ashley Freese at Ashley Freese & Associates Inc. “You should also check your antifreeze levels/concentration and replace your wiper blades if there is any kind of damage. Also, purchase an emergency kit for your vehicle!”
Even if one takes every proactive step imaginable, accidents still happen, but thankfully, American Family Insurance guarantees a stress-free, simple claim process. American Family Insurance understands that this doesn’t look the same for every driver too. American Family Insurance offers a host of utilities that assist its clients in maintaining proper functionality of their vehicles. These utilities include the MyAmFam App, which simplifies the client’s policy and provides every
Kendall Warnock A1 Automotive
tool he/she needs, and American Family Insurance’s 24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance program, which provides towing, locksmith and dead-battery services at the click of a button.
American Family Insurance also offers a program to help clients find qualified repair shops, ensuring repairs are done properly the first time! American Family Insurance’s partnership with Safelite AutoGlass gives its clients the opportunity to repair rock chips in their windshields at no cost.
There are affordable, DIY tips and tricks to keep one’s car protected this winter too. American Family Insurance recommends:
• Keeping one’s gas tank level above half. This reduces condensation build up, which leads to frozen gas lines.
• Covering windshield wipers when one has to park outdoors. This prevents the rubber components from freezing and cracking.
• Apply cooking spray on the car’s door seals. This prevents the doors from freezing shut and water from freezing in the cracks.
• Create an “at-home” defroster by mixing three parts vinegar with one part water and spraying the mixture on the car’s windshield/ windows. This prevents a buildup of frost/ice that will wear on the vehicle, which can cause stress fractures and cracking.
Shelter Insurance Agent Matt Moorhead agrees that before one hits the icy roads, one should make sure one will be covered if the worst happens.
When driving on icy roads, accidents can happen that even the best drivers can’t avoid. Reviewing types of car insurance coverage with Shelter Insurance Agent Moorhead is a great way to ensure one has the proper coverages to keep one on the road. The state of Nebraska has a set minimum amount of insurance one needs to register a vehicle, but this does not include the coverage one would need in case of an injury accident, nor does it account for the repair of one’s own car.
One should consider the pros and cons of
optional coverages to ensure one has the best possible coverage for best possible premium. If one doesn’t have adequate liability, uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage or rental reimbursement, an accident can go from bad to worse.
Connect with Moorhead to learn more about what coverage is going to be best for one’s own unique situation, which is not the same for every individual. Shelter Insurance is there to walk anyone through his/ her coverage, explaining everything in detail to help find one the best options.
“Sometimes, people are drawn to those TV ads that suggest getting a quick online quote to save them 15% or more on their car insurance, leading people to believe the cheapest price is the best deal. However, with insurance, it’s crucial to remember that the lowest price might not offer the best coverage. I’m here to help you understand the details and ensure you get the coverage that truly fits your needs,” asserts Moorhead, Agent at Shelter Insurance.
Driving safely this winter is the priority. However, the second priority is to look good while traveling. JetSplash not only helps its clients look squeaky clean and stylish during holiday travel, but its washes also help further protect cars from the harsh winter climate.
It is especially important for one to wash one’s car in the winter because road salt used to melt snow and ice can be highly corrosive to a car's paint and undercarriage, which can lead to rust and damage if it’s not regularly removed. Frequent visits to JetSplash during the winter helps protect one's vehicle from this corrosion by keeping the salt off the metal components.
JetSplash helps with these challenges by offering seasonal washes that effectively remove salt, prevent rust and keep the car's exterior protected. Additionally, JetSplash’s Jet Gloss ceramic coating with nanographene adds an extra layer of defense against harsh winter elements, which helps minimize the damage from salt and road debris.
Jet Gloss ceramic goes beyond a regular wash. Jet Gloss is designed to provide an ultra-smooth, protective finish, which shields against debris and wear, especially during the harsher months. JetSplash’s streamlined
Matt Moorehead Shelter Insurance
service process means its customers get professional care without the hassle.
For added protection, the nanographene in JetSplash’s Jet Gloss ceramic provides a long-lasting, hydrophobic barrier that repels water, dirt and salt. These coatings maintain their protective layer through various winter conditions, ensuring that a vehicle’s exterior stays shielded. Keeping a car protected in winter doesn’t have to be costly. Just follow these easy, effective tips:
• Regularly wash the vehicle, especially after snowfalls, to remove salt and road debris.
• Apply a coat of wax. Consider JetSplash’s ceramic coating with nanographene for long-lasting protection.
• Use rubber floor mats to guard against snow and ice inside the car.
• Check wipers and top off washer fluid to ensure visibility.
JetSplash’s commitment extends beyond a clean car, proudly employing over 200 Lincoln residents, with a passion for giving back to the community. JetSplash’s dedication to speed, sustainability and customer satisfaction ensures every customer experience is a positive experience during every season of the year, not just winter!
With a similar commitment to travel-worthy exteriors, Midtown Body & Paint is a Lincoln collision-repair expert, ready to handle any obstacles this winter might throw its customers’ way. Midtown Body & Paint specializes in collision repair, framework, and painting and its technicians take pride in their work, always providing high-quality repairs and services to develop lasting relationships with their clients.
Midtown Body & Paint’s technicians are trained I-CAR Gold Class experts who ensure every vehicle is repaired safely, thoroughly and cost-effectively. No matter how complex or diverse the vehicle is, Midtown Body & Paint can serve even the most unique client needs, covering everything from collision, dent, glass, headlight and frame repair to comprehensive painting services and insurance claim assistance.
Midtown’s six-step repair process is straightforward, thorough and backed by friendly experts and looks like the following:
• Step one is to get an in-person estimate at Midtown, which usually takes only 15 minutes or so.
• Step two is to provide the insurance that will authorize the repairs, so Midtown can schedule them as soon as possible.
• Step three is where Midtown gains insurance approval, which is followed by scheduling.
• In step four, Midtown’s I-CAR Gold Class experts thoroughly disassemble and repair the vehicle, so it looks and drives like new.
• For step five, Midtown applies its high-quality, environmentallyfriendly PPG automotive paint and reassembles the vehicle.
• Step six wraps it all up and includes a final inspection, wash and detail!
Winter driving can be intimidating, but Lincolnites can be assured that Midtown Body & Paint is more than just an auto body shop. Midtown Body & Paint helps its clients from start to finish.
“Our CRT’s are trained I-CAR Gold Class experts that ensure your vehicle is repaired safely, thoroughly, and cost-effectively this winter season, no matter how complex or diverse the vehicle design,” says Owner Dan Pape
Navigating winter driving can be intimidating, but in Lincoln, a community of professionals stands ready to assist anyone in any condition.
Dan Pape Midtown Body & Paint
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