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LINCOLN • JULY 2017
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Nebraska’s Largest Radiology Group Begins Expansion Pictured L-R: Curtis Burhoop, MD; Georgia Blobaum, COO; Christopher Colling, MD; Rahul Razdan, MD; Kim Coleman, MD
• RESIDENTIAL REMODELING • PLANNED LIFE CHANGES • TRADE SHOW PREPARATION • MEN’S HEALTH • SUPPORTING NON-PROFITS CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • BUTHERUS, MASER & LOVE FUNERAL HOME • THE WATERFORD COMMUNITIES
Laura Schulz
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Marc Hausmann
Ryan Blahak
Megan Herter
McGill Restoration
NAI FMA Realty
Mid America Recycling
Eat Fit Go
John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning
Sumner Place
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JULY 2017 Strictly Business
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FOCUSING ON YOUR BRAND
Great Brands That Compete On Value: Harness The Power Of Their People
Chances are, you’ve heard the phrase “teamwork makes the dream work” used in a professional setting. Although used frequently enough to toe the cliché line, it really is true. Synergy is essential, but I’d like to offer another angle to consider: If you’ve attained that within your team, share the news about what makes your personnel special with your fellow community members who constitute the local marketplace. A business/organization is only as good as the team that runs it, with those people being its most valuable asset. These are the individuals who are responsible for performing the mission-critical tasks within an organization, whether the face of the organization and the ones who are in front of current and potential customers or those behind the scenes/screens. Either way, they are making the impression that will be remembered long past the interaction strictly for the purpose of conducting business. Thus, they are a valuable part of your brand, breathing life into its personality - a construct that should be carefully shaped and developed upon over time. B ra n d p e r s o n a l i t y i s defined as “a set of “PEOPLE DO BUSINESS human characteristics that WITH WHO THEY are attributed to a brand KNOW AND LIKE.” name. A brand personality is something to which a consumer can relate…it refers to the outcome of all the consumer’s experiences with a brand. In other words, it’s the weighted average of previous impressions. In the consumer’s mind, these impressions merge to form an overall concept of what to expect from a brand.” The brand personality – its distinct core traits – is what makes a business/organization recognizable, remembered, and relatable; one that people can identify with on a personal level. This connection when done right is worth its weight in gold. We all gravitate towards certain personalities, and the same is true with brands attracting consumers. Without a doubt, your people and the talent you have within your organization are an integral part of your branding efforts, contributing to the sum of all that makes up its unique personality.
CONTENTS NEWS 4 Business 27 Personnel
36 Non-Profit 46 Health
SPOTLIGHTS
20 Star City Six 52 Client Spotlight: Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home 54 Client Spotlight: The Waterford Communities
FEATURE STORIES
57 65 68 69 72 4
Residential Remodeling Planned Life Changes Trade Show Preparation Men’s Health Supporting Non-Profits Strictly Business JULY 2017
PAIGE ZUTAVERN - President 402-730-0096 | Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
I’ve said it before (many times, as I’m sure our loyal readers are well aware), and I’ll say it again (because I believe in the power of consistent messaging) – People do business with who they know and like. The relationships you are able to build within the community or communities in which you do business will ultimately determine your long-term success. In terms of familiarity with a business owner, management, and employees alike, those who are visible and well known in their community and among their target market have a leg up on the competition. While there are many ways you could make an introduction or increase the comfort level of making contact, one of the easiest is to familiarize the community with the faces, stature/tenure/positions, expertise, qualifications, achievements, community contributions, etc. within your team. By sharing your personnel news, you are making a valuable, no-pressure introduction before the actual shaking of hands, moving the call from a cold one into somewhat warmer territory. Even if just to educate or praise, personnel news is a great tool for branding, similar to the power of networking. There are a lot of factors that influence our actions and choices regarding with whom we do business. However, in making the decision between two or more options, we are much more inclined to choose one where we know someone personally, are familiar or connected with someone there in some way, or have been referred by someone we know and trust. It’s one of the most compelling factors, in my opinion. In closing, I encourage you to take the opportunity to spotlight your team when warranted and acquaint those in our community with who they are and what makes them special. An effective way to do just that would be to send us your personnel news for consideration in one of our upcoming publications. And of course, make sure to check out the personnel news in this month’s issue and familiarize yourself with some of the talented professionals in the area!
To learn more about how Strictly Business can help you, contact me directly at (402) 466-3330 or visit strictly-business.com/connect. (You can also click on our Staff Letter tab online to view past articles)
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Advanced Medical Imaging Begins Expansion Nebraska’s largest radiology group buys land in Lincoln Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI), Nebraska’s largest independent radiology group, has purchased land located at 7545 Pioneers Blvd in Lincoln to begin an expansion project. The 2.35 acres of land is adjacent to their current building and will allow the group to begin a multi-year development project. The new construction will enable Advanced Medical Imaging to increase imaging services for the region. AMI offerings include MRI, CT, nuclear medicine, X-rays, and interventional radiology used for pain management, minimally invasive disease treatment, and aesthetics. More mammograms are performed at the AMI Women’s Center than any other private office in the state. “This is something that we have envisioned for many years. With more and more healthcare moving to outpatient, it just makes sense that we continue to grow,” says Georgia Blobaum, AMI’s Chief Operations Officer. “We believe in the importance of providing a high-quality, lowcost imaging option for the community and surrounding areas. Positive patient experience always guides our ambition and this expansion will allow us to continue to do that.” The practice has grown from just 10 radiologists in 2001 to over 30 physicians by the end of 2017. The group has a large number of subspecialists, which is a testament to the strength of the health care community within the capital city. Fellowship trained subspecialists within Advanced Medical Imaging include Pediatric, Breast, Musculoskeletal,
Body Imaging, Nuclear Medicine, and Neuroradiology, which diagnoses abnormalities in the central and peripheral nervous system, spine, and head and neck. AMI also has a growing number of Interventional Radiologists. These physicians are the surgeons of radiology and are able to treat conditions using minimally invasive procedures. One of the many benefits of this growth is the opportunity for Advanced Medical Imaging to become a more vested community partner and have the ability to give back in greater ways. The staff at AMI have a strong sense responsibility for the success of the community and the wellbeing of its citizens. Many of AMI’s physicians are proud local businesses owners and help lead programs designed to benefit the underprivileged in Nebraska and abroad. Not only does Advanced Medical Imaging provide services for the Lincoln area, but their physicians exclusively read radiology images for nearly half of the Critical Access Hospitals in rural Nebraska. They are passionate about providing high quality care for the entire state and surrounding areas. Although it is common in the industry, AMI does not utilize an over-night service for emergency calls. Their radiologists are on call 24/7 to provide the best care when patients need it most. AMI’s physicians also provide all radiology services for two regional health centers, St. Elizabeth Hospital in Lincoln and Mercy Medical of Sioux City, IA. Advanced Medical Imaging is located in Lincoln at 7601 Pioneers Blvd. Information on their services can be found on their website at www. AMImaging.com or by calling them at (402) 484-6677.
7601 Pioneers Blvd. • 402.484.6677 www.AMImaging.com
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BUSINESS NEWS
Nebraska Family Dentistry Group Opens Preserve Family Dentistry
Bluestem Fiber Gets Traction With EOS Implementation From gear80
Nebraska Family Dentistry Group is excited to announce the recent opening of Preser ve Family Dentistry.
Bluestem Fiber’s getting traction with its vision of bringing fast fiber internet and managed IT services to communities large and small so they can grow. Bluestem c hose John Fulwider of gear80 to help them implement the Entrepreneurial Operating System®, also known as Traction. After just three full-day sessions across two months, they’ll have a complete shared vision: Who they are, where they’re going, and how they plan to get there. Bluestem Fiber provides faster internet for everyone. Bluestem believes broadband internet connectivity delivered via fiber, at a reasonable price and available to the entire community, is no longer a luxury but a quality of life standard that communities large and small must have to attract and grow their population. The recently added Bluestem IT division gives companies reliable network, storage, security and communications solutions. Business customers can spend less money while running more efficiently. For more information, call (402) 853-7102 or visit bluestemfiber.com. gear80 helps business owners get traction. The sole focus is to help growth-oriented companies with 10-250 people implement the Entrepreneurial Operating System®, also known as Traction. It’s a proven set of practical tools that get your people rowing in the same direction; executing your vision with accountability and discipline; and working together as a healthy and cohesive team. If you’re frustrated with your people, profit, control, or solutions, contact Professional EOS® Implementer John Fulwider at (402) 608-1608 or john@gear80.co.
Officially opening its doors on June 21st, Preserve Family Dentistry is located at 4303 S. 84th Street. Over the last 12 years, Nebraska Family Dentistry group has grown to include five locations. This is due to the support of a team that’s passionate about dentistry, creating positive experiences for each patient, and providing excellent care. There are currently dental practices in each part of Lincoln: Coddington Dental (West Lincoln), Northstar Dental (North Lincoln), Southpointe Dental (South Lincoln), Lincoln Family Dentistry (Central Lincoln), and now, Preserve Family Dentistry (East Lincoln). In celebration of the opening of the newest office, Professional Teeth Whitening Specials are being offered to all new patients joining the group’s dental family. New patients can get this limited time special at any Nebraska Family Dentistry Group location. The experts at Nebraska Family Dentistry Group are dedicated to the relationship between oral health and overall health, and to delivering comfort, satisfaction, and quality dental work. At any of the five locations, you can find compassionate care from professionals who strive to provide excellent dental treatment to every patient. For more information, please visit www.nebraskafamilydentistry.com, call (402) 413-7141 or email nebraskafamilydentistry@gmail.com. Connect with them on Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram, and Twitter!
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BUSINESS NEWS
J-Tech Construction, J-Tech Solar Relocate Main Office J-Tec h is excited to announce that they are in the process of moving the company’s main office that houses both the J-Tech Construction and J-Tech Solar divisions. Currently located in Historic Haveloc k, the new location was purchased at the end of May and relocation will be complete in July! It’s conveniently right down the street, at 6200 Havelock Ave., and allows more space for the growing company to continue its expansion. Havelock is home to owner Jason Olberding, where he and his father J-Tech. Promoting local businesses and staying local are a huge part of Jason and J-Tech’s core beliefs. Olberding specifically purchased the building in the same neighborhood, and remodeling it to fit the needs of the company as its “home base.” The company also has a satellite office in Grand Island, NE. J-Tech Construction is your Exterior Experts, specializing in seamless siding, triple pane windows, and roof replacement, among other remodeling products and services offered. J-Tech Solar helps residential and commercial clients go green and realize the benefits that renewable energy has to offer. With J-Tech, your desired results are guaranteed to be delivered on time and on budget. For more information about J-Tech Construction or J-Tech Solar, or to schedule a free consultation and estimate for your upcoming project, contact (402) 261-3682 / office@jtechconst.com or visit jtechconst.com / jtechsolar.com.
Lied Center 2017/18 Season Brings WorldClass Artists to Lincoln The Lied Center for Performing Arts at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is pleased to announce another outstanding season with the best in theater, dance and musical performances, beginning September 30 with the B-52s, the quintessential ’80s band. Highlighting the season is a performance of “The Firebird” by the American Ballet Theatre, accompanied by the St. Louis Symphony. This collaborative event features principal dancers Misty Copeland and Isabella Boylston. The Glenn Korff Broadway Series anchors the Lied Center’s 17/18 season with national Broadway tours, including “Jersey Boys,” “Kinky Boots,” “The Color Purple” and “The Sound of Music.” The Lied Center’s full 2017/18 season listing can be found online at LiedCenter.org. Tickets to all performances are currently available as part of a season ticket package (4 or more events, with discounts available for general public and students). If the performances are not sold out through season ticket orders, any remaining tickets will be available for single ticket purchase starting August 8. Ticket orders can be placed online at LiedCenter.org, by phone at (402) 472-4747, or in person at the Lied Center Box Office, 301 N 12th St. The Lied Center and its programs are made possible through the generous 2017/2018 season support of Christina Hixson and the Lied Foundation Trust, the Glenn Korff Broadway Endowment, Friends of Lied, Ameritas and Union Bank & Trust Company. Major private patron investments support enhanced Broadway and classical music programming as well as the GK Platinum Artist Fund.
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BUSINESS NEWS
Panology Tech Solutions Announces New Partnership, Website Upgrade As usual, there are big things going on at Panology Tech Solutions! First, the company is excited to announce a new partnership with Computer Hardware. Panology Tech Solutions and Computer Hardware plan to continue providing the same great services as before, but we will now be working together to utilize each other’s expertise. Panology Tech Solutions specializes in Windows and Linux hardware and networking, as well as cloud infrastructure. Computer Hardware is the only authorized Apple dealer and Premium Service Provider in Nebraska with four retail locations. You can find out more about Computer Hardware and their services at www.computerhardwareinc.com. Second, the team at Panology Tech Solutions also recently completed a major upgrade to the company’s website: panologyinc.com. The website now runs entirely within Amazon Web Services’ Serverless Platform (https://aws.amazon.com/serverless). By leveraging the best practices in serverless design, Panology has greatly reduced operational overhead and costs, while gaining nearly infinite scalability. Panology Tech Solutions provides the assistance you need to improve how your business utilizes and incorporates technology. The locally owned and operated technology solutions firm provides comprehensive offerings that are customized to fit the client’s needs and budget, with emphasis on customer satisfaction and quality of service. For more information about Panology Tech Solutions, visit panologyinc.com.
Norland International Continues Growth Norland International Inc. (www.norlandintl. com) recently broke ground on a $1.25 million building. The new 18,000sf wa r e h o u s e w i l l expand the Lincoln, Nebraska-based corporation to just short of 90,000sf of space for manufacturing innovation. To date, Norland Intl. has a total property investment of nearly $6 million. Norland Intl. was founded in 1993 to help water bottling companies in smaller communities achieve a competitive edge over larger water delivery companies. Due to the rapid growth of the industry and the company’s successful approach, Norland Intl. constructed its first 33,000sf building on 2004. Since then, Norland Intl. has been providing state-of-the-art water bottling equipment to entrepreneurs around the globe, helping start or expanding their own bottled water operations.
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And growth didn’t stop there. In late 2011, Norland Intl. made the strategic decision to design, manufacture and engineer craft beer production equipment leading to its next Division, American Beer Equipment (ABE). In a few short years, ABE has become an industry standard for innovation, quality and service to craft brewers around the world. In 2013, Norland Intl. continued to drive company growth, by establishing its most recent Division, Norland Pure. Norland Pure is dedicated to delivering premium distilled and enhanced bottled water to Lincoln and surrounding areas with a key focus on customer service and support. Once again, in early 2016, industry demand propelled Norland Intl. to build a 28,000sf building for around $2 million for its second expansion. Starting with four managing partners almost 25 years ago, today the business is expanding to three buildings and more than 100 employees, and continues to grow.
BUSINESS NEWS
Eat Fit Go Lincoln to Host Grand Opening of New Location, Celebrates 1st Anniversary Eat Fit Go Lincoln will host the official Grand Opening for the SouthPointe Pavilions store on July 16th from 1-5pm. The newest Eat Fit Go is located on 28th & Pine Lake Road situated between Von Maur and Valentino’s, joining the original Lincoln location at 84th & Van Dorn. At the event, new menu items will be released along with bounce house fun and prizes. In addition, they will be celebrating their first birthday in Lincoln! Eat Fit Go provides a simple solution to eating healthy on the go with fresh meals prepared daily that are never frozen, low in sodium, high in protein, allergy-friendly, and contain no preservatives. The refrigerators are stocked with a wide variety of pre-packaged, ready-to-consume meals and snacks. All have simple ingredients clearly listed on the package, and most with fewer than 600 calories. With options like breakfast tacos, fajita bowls, chicken pesto and citrus salmon, there’s something for everyone. Eat Fit Go is a local, Nebraska-based company with a growing footprint around the nation. For more information, visit www.eatfitgo. com or find them on Facebook.
Legacy Retirement Communities Introduces New Technology to Residents Legacy Retirement Communities is proud to announce that they have incorporated the iN2L System into the Legacy Arbors Memory Care daily programming. The iN2L (It’s Never 2 Late) is a person-centered computer system that empowers and entertains residents, while helping them maintain their dignity through the use of technology. According to Michelle Carlson, Legacy Arbors Activity Director, “Regardless of age and physical or cognitive ability, residents can use and enjoy the iN2L on many different levels. This system provides programming that is accessible to residents with a press of a button.” iN2L expands the ability to offer a greater variety of activities for recreation, social connection and memory care engagement in groups or one-on-one. The variety of programs encourages balance among the dimensions of wellness: social, physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual. Resident families are able to download pictures and videos to each resident’s “My Page,” allowing residents to have access to personally chosen web sites, games and activities and to foster communication between family members and residents. Programs include multiple exercise videos designed to improve strength and balance including a virtual flight simulator, yoga, tai chi, but also content categorized to enhance the speech, physical and occupational therapy experience. The Legacy Arbors has been a part of the Legacy Retirement Communities family since it opened in 2005. It is an assisted living memory care community designed to help people and their families dealing with memory care issues. For more information or to reach out for help, please call (402) 466-3777, visit www.legacyretirement.com, or stop by for a visit anytime. The Legacy Arbors is located at 3777 N. 58th, on a shared campus north of the Legacy Terrace at 5700 Fremont.
Strictly Business Celebrates 24th Anniversary This month, Strictly Business (www.strictlybusiness.com) is celebrating 24 years since the launch of the Lincoln publication! It’s yet another milestone reached thanks to the support of our clients and readers in the Lincoln community, for which we are tremendously grateful. It’s also a prized achievement of our talented team of professionals here at Strictly Business, and wouldn’t be possible without the leadership and dedication of the founders of Strictly Business, President Paige Zutavern and Publisher Shayne Zutavern, and all those who have made significant contributions over the years. We are honored to be a part of the business community here in Lincoln, and hope to continue the legacy we have built well into the future. As we approach our “Silver Jubilee” – our 25th anniversary in 2018 – we’ll be making some very exciting announcements, so make sure to stay tuned!
On-Site Consultation Program Helps Businesses Identify Safety, Health Hazards The Nebraska Department of Labor provides the On-Site Safety and Health Consultation Program at no cost to Nebraska employers in general industry and construction. Using this free consultation service, businesses can find out about potential hazards at their worksites, improve their occupational injury and illness prevention programs, and even qualify for a one-year exemption from routine OSHA inspections. Well-trained, professional staff from the Nebraska Department of Labor consult with employers on-site, though limited services away from the worksite are available. Primarily targeted at smaller businesses, the program is completely separate from any OSHA inspection effort. No citations are issued or penalties imposed. The only obligation for employers is to correct serious job safety and health hazards in a timely manner. Information gathered during consultations is kept confidential. Individuals’ names, firm names, any information provided by employers about the workplace, plus any unsafe or unhealthful working conditions that the consultant uncovers, are not reported routinely to the OSHA inspection staff. Participation in the program helps businesses: • Comply with federal and state safety and health requirements • Recognize and remove hazards • Protect workers from injury and illness • Prevent loss of life at the worksite • Limit equipment damage and productivity losses • Improve employee morale To learn more, go to dol.nebraska.gov/Safety. JULY 2017 Strictly Business 9
BUSINESS NEWS
Apartment Association of Nebraska Hosts Grand Opening of New Headquarters
Heartland International Announces RoofTop-Tours in Lincoln and Omaha
The Apartment Association of Nebraska held a ribbon cutting ceremony fo r i t s n ew headquarters, located at 4862 South 96th Street in Omaha, on May 4. The 3,000-square-foot headquarters, named the AAN Development Center, was designed to provide a facility to use for meetings as well as classes, seminars and training. The facility has a dedicated area to allow hands-on training for maintenance technicians, which is the first of its kind in Nebraska that is specific for the multifamily industry. “Our mission is to advocate on behalf of the multifamily industry at the local, State and Federal levels of government, and provide educational programs, seminars and other educational forums for the members of the Association and the multifamily industry,” said Rhonda Pederson, executive director for the Apartment Association of Nebraska. “The new AAN Development Center will help to further our mission and to promote this industry as a lifelong career choice. We now have a space to educate leasing staff, community managers, portfolio specialists, and maintenance technicians.” Although the AAN Development Center is located in Omaha, by the end of 2017 it is expected to be fully capable of broadcasting classes via its website to members across the State of Nebraska and into Council Bluffs, Iowa. “I am very excited for the Association’s opportunity to educate, empower, and grow our multifamily housing professionals,” said Brian Wilhite, President of the Association.
Heartland International, Inc. a nationwide distributor of Conklin Commercial Roofing Systems is making available Roof-Top-Tours of completed and commercial roofing projects-in-process in the Lincoln and Omaha areas. Dennis Nun, President of Heartland says, “These Roof-Top-Tours are specifically designed for building owners, roofing contractors, architects and commercial builders who are not familiar with these Energy Star systems that are lightweight, durable, long lasting and environmentally friendly. We are scheduling these tours for individuals, firms or groups.” The Conklin Company is a Minnesota-based research, developing, manufacturing and distribution company who pioneered the manufacturing, installation and warranty programs for their fluid applied and single-ply energy star systems in 1987. They are celebrating their 40-Year anniversary of the introduction of their first product, Rapid RoofTM, in 2017. Conklin boasts of over 1-billion square feet of roofs installed with less than ½ of 1% in warranty claims, due in large part to their required extensive classroom, hands-on and field training programs their contractors attend. Heartland International, Inc. is based in Lincoln, NE and is responsible to screen and train contractors to install the Conklin Roofing Systems. For more information or to schedule a Roof-Top-Tour, e-mail DennisLNun@ gmail.com or call (402) 430-7727.
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BUSINESS NEWS
Bridge to Better Living Recipient of Small Business of the Year Award The Millard Business Association awarded Bridge to Better Living the 2017 Small Business of the Year Award at the annual Millard Business Association Gala. Joanne Carlberg, Omaha consultant, received the award on behalf of Bridge to Better Living. Bridge to Better Living (BBL) was founded in 2010 and serves Lincoln, Omaha and surrounding communities. BBL assists seniors, at no cost to the client, research and find living options in Independent, Assisted, Memory Assisted and Long-Term Care. Transition consultants are experts in answering questions about individual needs and provide one on one personal service to simplify choices. Consultants arrange tours and accompany the family and/or client on visits. BBL helps make the process smooth and successful. Feel confident you are making the right decision. Contact Bridge to Better Living at bridgetobetterliving.com or call (402) 802-3301.
Anchor Gardens Now Open Anchor Gardens is a small farm focused on big things! Officially launched in the spring of 2017, owners Kate Meinders and Julie Boyd are longtime friends on a new adventure! They will be providing naturally-grown produce to select local restaurants and at area farmers markets, such as Bennet Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Fallbrook Farmers Market on Thursdays. A wide variety of crops will be grown by Anchor Gardens this season, including artichokes, herbs, spinach, radishes, eggplant, okra, tomatoes, watermelons, peppers, cabbage, squash, and more! Anchor Gardens provides a diverse assortment of fine produce for their neighbors and beyond! Follow them on Facebook (www.facebook. com/anchorgardens ) to find out the latest and see farm updates! For questions please contact Julie Boyd at (402) 720-5947 or email anchorgardens2017@gmail.com.
Goodcents Opens First New Location in Expansion Plan Locally owned, Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs has been a Lincoln staple for more than 18 years, and is growing its footprint this year with three new restaurants! The first of the three officially opened its doors for business in June, and is located at 27th & Randolph. Featuring everything from an easy-to-use touch screen kiosk drive-thru and modern features in the lobby to a gorgeous outside seating area and a grab-and-go station for a quick pick-up, guests reacted favorably to all of the new and exciting updates Goodcents rolled out with this location. Not to mention breakfast is served daily complete with coffee from The Mill, another perfect addition to a locally-owned gem! Serving freshly-sliced meats and cheeses along with fresh baked bread daily, hot soups and delicious pastas, this sandwich shop has it all. Stop by and see for yourself, or check out Goodcents online at www.goodcentssubs. com and on social media!
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BUSINESS NEWS
Guardian Angels Launches New Radio Program Guardian Angels is launching a weekly radio program on KFOR, “Aging with Dignity.” This weekly 30-minute program w i l l a i r S u n d ay mornings at 8:30 am. A variety of topics of interest to elders, and those who care for them, will be discussed by experts in their field. “We chose the name ‘Aging with Dignity’ because we believe that every person has an inherent dignity that age does not take away,” according to director Kris Beckenbach. “Guardian Angels exists to help seniors live confidently and age gracefully in their homes for as long as possible. Each guest will bring a unique perspective to helping people achieve those goals.” The first show aired Sunday, June 18 with a discussion about the impact of fathers in our lives. Future guests will include Beth Friesen owner of Oasis Senior Advisors, Becky Huebner with Nebraska Home Sales, Ramzi Hynek of Rembolt Ludtke explaining guardianship and conservatorship, Natalie Leon with the Alzheimer’s Association, Becca Henry from Horisun Hospice, and Andrew Loudon of Baylor Evnen on estate planning. Please tune in Sunday mornings at 8:30 to 1240 AM or 103.3 FM or look for the podcast on Guardian Angels Facebook page. Contact Kris at (402) 474-4000 about being a guest or sponsor of Aging with Dignity.
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Rita’s of Lincoln Celebrates Milestones in July On July 13th, Rita’s of Lincoln celebrates its 2nd anniversary. Thanks Lincoln and the surrounding communities for your support! Celebrate the 4th of Gelati®! Through Sunday, July 9, guests will be able to celebrate the 4th of July Rita’s style! The holiday promotion will feature Rita’s iconic #1 treat, Gelati, in a 12oz clear cup with a THIRD layer of creamy frozen custard in the middle. Based on vanilla custard with red and blue Italian ices, guests may order any available flavors in the special format, while supplies last. Another notable milestone, 2017 marks the 12th year that Rita’s has been a proud supporter of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation! From Monday, July 3rd through Sunday, July 30th guests are encouraged to donate in support of this great cause, to help kids fighting childhood cancer. Purchase a paper lemon for $1 and it will be displayed on the Wall of Hope. Rita’s partnership with ALSF dates back to July 2006. In 2013, the Rita’s Fund of Hope was established, providing an endowment fund that supports the ALSF Travel for Care Program (www.alexslemonade.org/ travel-for-care). Over the past 11 years, with the help of franchisees, treat team members and loyal guests, Rita’s has raised over $4.5 million dollars! For more information about Rita’s of Lincoln, please visit www. ritasoflincoln.com or contact Zack Hauder at (402) 975-8171 / ritasoflincoln@gmail.com.
BUSINESS NEWS
SP 200 Summer Fitness Challenge a Success SP Group PC, a growing entrepreneurial accounting firm, completed an interoffice Summer Fitness Challenge in June. The goal was for each team member to contribute to the total team goal of 200 workouts in 14 days. Workouts could include participation in organized sports, personal fitness exercise, and various physical activities around the house like gardening, home improvement projects, and dog walking. A team yoga session “kicked off” the challenge June 1st. A tally board was kept in the office and was updated daily to track progress. All workout sessions were completed June 14th with results announced June 15th. The team of 16 completed over 200 workouts and was rewarded with a Friday afternoon off! After sitting for months preparing tax returns, the idea behind The SP 200 Summer Fitness Challenge was to “Get Up and Move!” The four core values of SP Group were the inspiration behind the challenge. These include Life/Work Balance, Competitiveness, Teamwork, and Relationships. As the result of the SP 200 Summer Fitness Challenge success a new “Team Challenge” began June 19th. Check in next month for updates. For more information about SP Group PC, please call (402) 420-7758 or visit www.spgrouppc.com.
Raising Cane’s Presents Nebraska National Guard Foundation With Over $22,500 Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers r e c e n t l y partnered with Cell Phones for Soldiers for its 9th annual cell phone drive. Individuals were asked to bring in their unwanted cell phones to be recycled and turned into calling cards for Nebraska Soldiers. In addition to donating phones, customers could provide support by adding any dollar amount to their order when visiting the restaurants. From March 20 through April 30, donors received a free meal with purchase offer when a phone was donated. Through these efforts, Raising Cane’s gave over $6,400 in food to support the cause. “We’re truly grateful to be a part of such a supportive and giving community.” said Jennifer Jones, Co-Owner of the Lincoln and Grand Island Raising Cane’s franchise. “Thank you to everyone who dropped off their old cell phones, or donated their change during this campaign. We wouldn’t be able to do this without all of you.” In just a little over a month, more than 129,700 minutes—from the recycled phones—and $22,500 in monetary donations were collected and given to the Nebraska National Guard Foundation The calling cards are distributed to Nebraska Soldiers that are away on active duty, while the money raised helps support a fund for Veterans and their families to assist with medical or other bills, groceries, gas, or other immediate needs they may have. The calling cards and check were presented to the Nebraska National Guard Foundation President, Doug Carlson, on May 26.
Ribbon Cutting Marks Opening of Morrill Hall’s Newest Exhibit A recent ribbon cutting with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce was held in conjunction with the opening of a new temporary exhibit at University of Nebraska State Museum – Morrill Hall. Guts & Glory: A Parasite Story explores the hidden world of parasites while showcasing the museum’s Harold W. Manter Laboratory of Parasitology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Visitors to the exhibit embark on a journey to learn the “why” and “how” research is conducted on the most common mode of life on Earth – parasitism. Tapeworms, heartworms, fleas, flukes, and bot flies, among others are examined. Visitors can stick their hand into an enlarged model of a coyote intestine to discover the variety of parasites inside and see a “slice of life” through an interactive Sand Hills soil cube showing how many parasites co-exist with the rodents, reptiles and insects in this largely diverse, yet incredibly small section of a Nebraska eco-region. This exhibit will be open through May 1, 2018. Established in 1871, the University of Nebraska State Museum is the state’s premier museum of natural history. The Museum is focused on promoting discovery in natural science, fostering scientific understanding and interpretation of the Earth’s past, present and future and enhancing stewardship of the natural and cultural heritage of Nebraska through world class exhibits, collections and special events. Find out more at museum.unl.edu. JULY 2017 Strictly Business 13
BUSINESS NEWS
Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers Opens 2nd Lincoln Location Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers recently opened a new location in North Lincoln at 27th & Superior! This is the second location in Lincoln, with the first in South Lincoln at 34th & Old Cheney in Williamsburg Village. Ownership remains the same for both; Nancy Hopkins will be overseeing operations at the North location, while Jethro Hopkins will take over those duties at the South location.
Haymarket in White Dinner & Dance Returning to Pinnacle Bank Arena On Friday, August 4, 2017, the Lincoln Haymar ket Development Corporation presents the 3rd Annual “Haymarket in White Dinner & Dance” at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Guests will dress all in white, dine on gourmet picnic fare and dance the night away. Attendees can spend an extraordinary night at an unconventional picnic at an event that encourages the community to come together to celebrate Lincoln and the Haymarket. Cocktail hour is at 6:00 p.m. with dinner at 7:00 p.m. Music will be provided by High Heel. Three gourmet picnic dinners will be offered with one free signature cocktail during happy hour. Tickets are $45 and $50 per person, depending on dinner selection. Picnic dinner tickets can be purchased at Pinnacle Bank Arena Ticket Office, online at Ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at 1.800.745.3000. DEADLINE TO PURCHASE: Wednesday, August 2 at 5 p.m. For more details, please call the Haymarket Office at 402.435.7496. More information about this event can be found online at www. PinnacleBankArena.com or www.lincolnhaymarket.org.
HIP OffiCenters Adds Lease Options HIP OffiCenters has introduced more lease options! Potential clients now have the choice of entering a 12-month, 6-month, or monthto-month term agreement. Those who are interested in a tour can stop by anytime between the hours of 8am and 5pm Monday through Friday, or are still welcome to schedule an appointment for a personal tour and meeting to discuss the details. HIP OffiCenters is a full-service company offering the tools needed to help a business grow and be successful, beginning with an ideal office environment that’s a productive, inviting and professional space to conduct business. Located at 5000 Central Park Drive, Suite 204, the Executive Office Suites are situated right in the heart of the city and many amenities are included with monthly rent of office space. Additional services available to tenants as contract options, or as an alternative to physical office space, virtual office space is also available. For more information about HIP OffiCenters, please visit www.hiprealty.com/ office, call Kylee Dart at (402) 466-3932 or email office@hiprealty. com. Call or stop in for a tour today! 14 Strictly Business JULY 2017
The North location officially opened its doors on June 10th, preceded by an exclusive Grand Opening event on June 1st. Festivities included tours, free samples, prize giveaways, flash deals and pre-enrollment promotions for new members. Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers is an independent, locally owned and operated resource here in Lincoln that’s part of a nationwide network of medically-guided weight loss centers. The Physicians Weight Loss Center system has 47 years of proven results with no gimmicks and no fad diets! Stop by either the South location at 5377 S. 34th St., Suite 200 or the North location at 2601 Champlain Dr. to find out more, or contact the team at (402) 483-7952 or info@pwlclincoln.com. You can also find out more information online at pwlclincoln.com.
ESPN 1480 Radio Now Also on FM 101.5 ESPN 1480 has extended its reach to the FM band. The top quality programming that listeners have enjoyed on 1480 AM can now be found at FM 101.5. ESPN, the largest sports radio network, has all the big games and is the best in sports talk radio. Combined with local programming, Gregath & Smith and Hail Varsity with Chris Schmidt, the best sports coverage is provided nationally and locally. For more information, contact Julie Gade at (402) 466-1234.
Brookelyn’s Hair & Replacement Now Offering AnaGize Hair Therapy Brooke Ahlman, owner of Brookelyn’s H a i r & Replacement, is excited to announce the addition of a new offering to the salon’s service menu that’s now available to clients: AnaGize Hair Therapy For Men And Women. AnaGize Hair Therapy is a series of hair and scalp products created to combat the causes of hair loss for both men and women. It cleans the scalp of topical DHT and promotes a healthy and abundant hair growth environment. The net effect is the reduction of hair loss and the promotion of stronger, fuller, and healthier looking hair, and it all starts with AnaGize. Located at 7405 Pioneers Blvd. #3 in Lincoln, Brookelyn’s Hair & Replacement offers non-surgical hair loss replacement services along with regular haircuts, perms, colors and extensions. The hair systems offered allow you to have hair again without any noticeable signs commonly associated with extensions or over-the-counter products, no matter how you style your hair. For more information, visit www. brookelyns.com or call (402) 649-0212.
BUSINESS NEWS
DISH Introduces New Special Menu: “Bites and Sips” DISH has introduced its Bites and Sips menu to complement the laid-back vibe of Downtown Lincoln in the summertime! Offered each Monday through Thursday from 5 to 7pm, this tapas-style menu is perfectly suited for those looking for a light snack and a chance to wind down after work! The menu will change often to reflect the chefs’ whims and the bounty of the season. In addition to creative bites, DISH’s expert bartender has a few refreshing tricks up his sleeve. DISH is a New American restaurant in the heart of Downtown Lincoln. The locally owned and operated establishment offers exceptional service and food quality in an upscale, yet comfortable setting. DISH staff works hard to provide each guest with an experience that fits their needs - whether a business luncheon, romantic date, or evening out with friends. For more information, please visit www.dishdowntown.com or contact Marypat Heineman at (402) 475-9475 / info@dishdowntown.com.
First National Bank Announces Community Development Grants First National Bank recently announced its first round of community development grant recipients for 2017, including a $15,000 grant to N e i g h b o r Wo r k s Lincoln. N e i g h b o r Wo r k s Lincoln is a nonprofit organization dedicated to community revitalization through an active partnership of resident leaders, private businesses and public officials. The organization opens doors for people to achieve their dreams of home ownership and for others who desire a safe and attractive neighborhood. Often times, new construction costs exceed the appraised value. The grant from First National Bank will help to fill that funding gap and support NeighborWorks Lincoln’s construction of quality, affordable homes in Lincoln’s core neighborhoods. “We’re proud to partner with NeighborkWorks Lincoln,” said Rich Herink, Lincoln Market President. “First National Bank is committed to the success of the communities we serve. We believe this grant to support affordable housing construction is an important investment in the future of our community.” First National Bank awarded a total of $834,000 in community development grants to 47 organizations in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas and South Dakota. The grants support programs focused on stable housing, vibrant neighborhoods and strong local economies. In Nebraska, First National Bank awarded $580,500 in community development grants to 26 organizations across the state. Grants for affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization programs will enable the bank’s community partners to build, rehabilitate or finance 484 homes and provide 654 individuals with home ownership education and foreclosure prevention services. Grants supporting economic development initiatives will create or retain 362 jobs and assist more than 635 small businesses in Nebraska.
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BUSINESS NEWS
WISB to Host Monthly Luncheon on July 12th The Women in Sales and Business (WISB) monthly meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 12th at Venue Restaurant & Lounge in the NE/ Lancaster Room at 4111 Pioneer Woods Drive, Lincoln, NE. Women in Sales & Business began meeting in 1987 to offer business women the opportunity to network within an intimate group. Today, their goal is to encourage and develop creative leadership in women. WISB is dedicated to promoting growth through the accumulation and sharing of knowledge. The meeting this month will be focused on networking and give members and guests an opportunity to develop deeper relationships. Please take this opportunity to join this month and get to know WISB’s membership! The meeting starts with lunch at 11:30am with the meeting following from 11:55am until 1pm. Cost is $18 which includes lunch (cost is $10 if you only attend the meeting). Please register online at www.wisblincoln. org on the events page to RSVP. More information can also be found on the website or by contacting WISB via email at info@wisblincoln.org.
Independent Insurance Agents of Nebraska Receives National Award
Transworld Business Advisors Announces Sale of Perfect Choice Vending Transworld Business Advisors recently facilitated the sale of Perfect Choice Vending, a Lincoln business. New owners Jason and Melissa Schmid purchased the business from Steve Mears under the guidance of Transworld’s MJ Cassner. Congratulations and best of luck to Jason and Melissa Schmid, who assume ownership over an existing route that’s well-established and has great potential for expansion. For more information about Transworld Business Advisors or for a free consultation, contact Mary Jo Cassner at (402) 413-1095 or visit www. tworld.com/lincoln.
barVino Now Offering Select Beers on Tap In addition to its wine on tap, as well as the impressive selection of wine by the bottle and a nice mix of bottled beers and spirits, barVino now has several beers on tap for patrons to enjoy! Rotating seasonally and by demand, there are now three craft beers and one domestic available by the glass. A distinctive venue in south Lincoln, barVino is a true wine bar that offers guests an impressive selection of eight wines on tap and over 100 boutique wines, in addition to a smaller selection of specialty craft beers and top shelf liquor. Any of these will pair nicely with items on the house appetizer menu, which was specifically designed for the concept. Located at 2801 Pine Lake Road Suite H, barVino is a must-try experience for both wine connoisseurs and those who just simply want to relax and enjoy a glass or two with good company. Stay connected and find out about upcoming events at barVino on Facebook! To book an event at barVino, contact owner Jennifer Amen Tomka at (402) 525-1572 / jtomka@barvinolincoln.com. 16 Strictly Business JULY 2017
The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) bestowed an inaugural award to the Independent Insurance Agents of Nebraska (IIAN) for membership development at the association’s largest annual gathering. IIAN is the 2017 Big “I” Membership Champion winner. This award recognizes a Big “I” state association’s exemplary membership recruitment and retention initiatives and success. “For its creativity and dedication, the Big ‘I’ is excited to present the inaugural Membership Champion award to the Independent Insurance Agents of Nebraska,” said Spencer Houldin, Big “I” Chairman. “In the past year, the IIAN team has increased its membership by 12.9% by launching an effective marketing campaign that uses email, office visits, employee training and onboarding components.” The award was presented to Krae Dutoit, President; Carol McClelland, CEO; and Jeremiah Gudding, Marketing Director, during the recent Big “I” Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C.
The Body Shoppe Adds Facials, Waxing to Service Menu The Body Shoppe is excited to now offer the services of in-house esthetician Sarah Bryant! She will be offering a variety of facials as well as waxing, in addition to providing massage services as she is also a Licensed Massage Therapist on staff. The new 60-minute facial options include: Signature, Cleaning, Hydrating, Brightening, and Light Chemical Peels (Lactic 20% and Glycolic 30%). A back treatment, or “facial for your back,” is also offered and includes cleansing, exfoliation, and relaxing massage techniques on the back, neck and shoulders followed by a customized mask. Waxing is offered in a specific area requested or in combination – service times and prices vary. The full service menu can be viewed online at thebodyshoppelincoln.com. With balance of the mind, body and spirit as the ultimate goal, The Body Shoppe offers a wide variety of massage and spa services that promote relaxation and healing. The Body Shoppe is now centrally located at 4740 A Street, Suite 200 on the lower level of the Lincoln Surgical Doctors Office building and is open seven days a week by appointment only. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit thebodyshoppelincoln.com or call (402) 440-5852.
BUSINESS NEWS
McDermott & Miller, Lutz Merger Finalized The former McDermott & Miller offices located in Hastings, Grand Island and Omaha have officially joined forces with Lutz. The combined entity is retaining the Lutz name and now consists of approximately 250 employees in a variety of disciplines. Since its founding in 1980, Lutz has grown to be Nebraska’s largest locally owned CPA firm with offices in Omaha, Lincoln, and now Hastings and Grand Island. Lutz offers a full range of business solutions including Accounting and Tax, Technology, Mergers & Acquisitions, Recruiting and Wealth Management. For more information, visit www. lutz.us/FAQ.
Dana Farms at Mayberry to Host Solar Eclipse Viewing Event You’re invited to attend Dana Farms at Mayberry’s “2017 Eclipse” viewing event on Monday, August 21st, presented with Nebraska Prairieland Adventures and Beers and Summers LLC. Located on 614 Ave between Road 717 and 718, 4 miles west of Steinauer, NE, day-of and extended camping passes will be offered. The 3-Day/2-Night tent tickets for Saturday, August 19th through Monday, August 21st are limited to the first 20 reservations for $550. It includes the following: parking stall for one vehicle (no campers/trailers or pets allowed), solar eclipse glasses, open-air movies, private concert with “Blue House,” wine sampling, nature walk, and several meals will be served to guests throughout the weekend. Day of event tickets are $50 for adults and $25 for children 12 & under. The first contact is approximated to begin at 11:30 a.m., with the total solar eclipse at 1:02 p.m. and the final phases ending around 2:30 p.m. A warm “Welcome” is extended to those who will be attending and all are encouraged to come out and experience this once-in-a-lifetime event! Please visit cabins4fun.com for more details and to purchase tickets.
Roper & Sons Announces July Events At this month’s Topic Breakfast, being held at 7:30a.m. Thursday, July 20th, the group will be joined by Attorney Christine Vanderford, who will share timely and important advice on planning for our future, including Powers of Attorney, Guardianships, and Wills. Topic Breakfast, held on the third Thursday each month, is free and open to the public. To reserve your seat for Topic Breakfast, please call (402) 476-1225 or email info@roperandsons.com The Grief Program meets weekly on Sundays from 2 – 3:30p.m. in the Reception Facility. Roper & Sons Grief Programs are open to the public, regardless of whether services were facilitated by Roper & Sons. 1st and 3rd Sundays: Guided Group with Facilitator Melissa Thorne, designed for those whose loss took place more than 18 months ago. 2nd and 4th Sundays: Structured Group with Facilitator Tiffany Eisenbraun, designed for those whose loss is more recent than 18 months, who may be addressing some more pressing first-time needs. 2nd Sunday: Art with Anna, a guided art program, considered “creative therapy”, allowing participants to address their grief through more creative outlets. Great for all ages, regardless of artistic abilities. Please visit www.roperandsons.com to learn more.
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BUSINESS NEWS
Tabitha Offers Grief Groups and Hospice Volunteer Training in July Tabitha, your answer for Elder Care, is pleased to announce an offering of grief groups and hospice volunteer training throughout the month of July spanning across the city of Lincoln. Grief and support groups will be available throughout the month and open to anyone in the community experiencing loss or needing support and helpful caregiver tips. “Loss of a Loved One Drop-in Grief Group,” held every Monday, 10-11:30 a.m., at the Harbor Coffee Shop, 1265 S. Cotner Blvd. “Men’s Drop-in Grief Group,” held every other Friday, 1:30-3 p.m., at Hy-Vee-deli, 7151 Stacy Ln. “Growing Through Grief Support Group,” held Wednesday mornings, July 12-August 16, 10-11:30 a.m., at Tabitha, 4720 Randolph St. (To register, please contact Lani Glaser, at (402) 486-8546 / Leilani.Glaser@Tabitha.org.) “Caregiver Drop-in Support Group,” July 19, 5-6:30 p.m., at Tabitha The Club--Adult Day Services, 4600 Valley Rd. (Care for loved one provided at no charge. Meals are available for $5.) Tabitha also offers hospice volunteer training throughout Lancaster County. Tabitha Hospice volunteers can provide respite care, bereavement support, companionship, light housekeeping, office and clerical support while providing comfort and joy to Tabitha clients. For questions about hospice volunteering, contact Jamie Scott at (402) 486.8577 / Jamie.Scott@Tabitha.org . For general questions, please contact Tabitha at (402) 486-8520 or (800) 418-9335.
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State Farm Agency Opened by Cliff Trehearn Cliff Trehearn’s State Farm Insurance A g e n c y recently opened its doors in the Historic Haymarket at 801 R Street, #1. An official ribbon cutting ceremony with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce marked the occasion on May 10th. The agency is now occupying office space below Legends Bar & Grill, and is the only insurance agency located in the Haymarket district in downtown Lincoln. Agent Cliff Trehearn and his team of professionals offer a full suite of products and services from State Farm Insurance, including the following specialty areas: Auto, Home, Renters, Property, Business, Life, Health, Banking Products & Annuities. The agency provides house calls, assistance for first-time home buyers, relocation services, and you can call the office 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to get a quote. Office hours are Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm and Saturday by appointment. Find out more online at www.haymarketcliff.com or Facebook.com/ haymarketcliff, or contact the agency directly at (531) 500-3276 / cliff.trehearn.e3yu@statefarm.com.
BUSINESS NEWS
MōMō Delivers Newest Seasonal Menu The menu at MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante changes seasonally to ensure a fresh taste profile. Stop in and try the new wines, craft-made cocktails and new menu items that have just been introduced! There’s a new Rosè from Provence that is a great patio pounder and pairs very well with the Tuna Crudo or Arrancini. The WINEƎMOTION wine dispenser also includes a Travaglini Nebbiolo, which goes so well with the Black & Blue Steak Penne. MōMō supports the Farm-to-Table concept and embraces the philosophy of the Slow Food Movement which originated in Bra, Italy in 1986, credited to Carlo Petrini. It strives to preserve traditional and regional cuisine and promotes an alternative to fast food. MōMō feels it is better to wait a little longer for food made from scratch and prepared to order! Stay connected with MōMō on Facebook to learn more about new additions to the menu and upcoming events, or visit the website at www. momospizzeria.com.
DS Neill Enterprises Adds “Solutions Too” Division, Introduces New Product DS Neill Enterprises is excited to announce the recent launch of Solutions Too. With the new division, a new product line was also introduced: SIMIX Multi Surface Cleaner & Coatings. SIMIX is based on 140-year-old technology. Historically in Germany, coated cast iron water pipes were used underground to prevent corrosion, with these pipes lasting over 100 years. SIMIX uses this technique, creating extremely hard silica coating on floors that resists virtually anything mankind can throw at it. It is 100% sustainable, never needs to be stripped and will never yellow, chip, peel, or crack. It is a permanent coating application for VCT tile, terrazzo, polished concrete, stone, epoxy, rubber, and urethane-coated wood that is less expensive than traditional acrylic finishes. For more information on SIMIX and this line of products, please visit simixusa.com. DS Neill was established in October of 2014 and provides cleaning services ranging from carpet and upholstery to floors and fine furniture. Local service provider Top Spot Cleaning has continued the reputation of performing all cleaning services using soap-free Procyon and has added the new offerings to its line-up. Solutions Too will serve as the wholesale and retail outlet of the Procyon products, with the addition of the SIMIX line of products. SIMIX has a 12.8ph cleaner, 11.0ph hospital quality coating, and a multipurpose protector. For further details, please contact Doug Neill at (402) 570-4307 / dougn@simixusa.com.
Concordia University, Nebraska to Host Solar Eclipse Event Concordia U n i v e r s i t y, Nebraska, will host an event to watch the solar eclipse at Bulldog Stadium beginning at 11 a.m. on Aug. 21, 2017. Areas of Bulldog Stadium and the field will be open to the public, with eclipse updates and commentary from the Concordia science department being audible throughout the stadium. The school group registration deadline is July 31 for a cost of $100 per school. Registered school groups will have a controlled bus drop-off area, designated bus parking, reserved seating, and solar eclipse glasses. No registration is necessary for the general public and there is no cost for attendance. A limited number of solar eclipse viewing glasses will be available for purchase at the event. For more information or to register, visit cune.edu/eclipse2017.
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BUSINESS NEWS
CarePatrol of Nebraska Introduces New Online Resource
Capitol View Winery & Vineyards Releases New Wine
C a r e Pa t ro l of Nebraska has added another free resource to their offerings with the recent launch of a new informational website: www. keepingmomsafe.com. This website is all about helping keep seniors safe in their home if that is where they choose to live. With an easily accessible Free Home Fall Evaluation, family members can fill out the online questionnaire about the senior’s home and will be provided with personalized tips and ideas on how to eliminate existing hazards and make the house safer. Upon completion, there is also the option of ordering any necessary items, such as grab bars and other safety items, which can be mailed directly to the senior’s home and installed by whomever they choose. As part of the largest no-cost senior placement agency in the nation, CarePatrol of Nebraska (www.carepatrol.com) assists clients with the selection of Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care communities at no cost to the family or senior. The CarePatrol team helps find the safest and best community for each client, matching them by care needs, wants, location and finances. The company thoroughly reviews the state’s care and violation history of every community before recommending them, and a CarePatrol representative will then line up the tours and personally accompany the client to help make sure all the right questions are asked. For more information, please contact Theron Ahlman directly at (402) 580-2116 / therona@carepatrol.com.
Capitol View Winery & Vineyards is excited to announce the release of a brand new wine – Celebration! A dry-white blend of Edelweiss and Frontenac Gris, Celebration is a light, crisp semi-sweet white wine that’s a refreshing choice to enjoy on a hot summer evening. Its release coincides with the holiday celebration held at Capitol View Winery & Vineyards on the 4th of July weekend, with Celebration named in honor of the festivities!
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Capitol View Winery invites you to celebrate our nation’s birthday with them on July 3rd. From the Winery you can see the entire Lincoln skyline and all of the pageantry of the Lincoln fireworks. Salt Creek Pirates will be on stage from 7:30–9:30pm to entertain with you with the finest in classic Rock n’ Roll. Capitol View Winery & Vineyards, located just 15 minutes from downtown Lincoln near Roca, NE, is the perfect destination to relax and unwind. The venue, featuring a tasting room, winery, vineyard, and historic barn, is ideal for an intimate outing, group visits, or special events such as parties, weddings, receptions, reunions and more. Find out more about Capitol View Winery & Vineyards online at www.capitolviewwinery.com and on Facebook! To book a private event, contact Trish Meyer at (402) 328-3494 / trish@ capitolviewwinery.com.
ASK THE EXPERT: COMPRO 402-488-5100 www.comproins.com
by Brian McPike, President ComPro Insurance
Help! I’m Turning 65 FAQs - Medicare:
• What happens to my health insurance when I turn 65? • Should I stay on my employer’s plan if I plan to work beyond age 65? • What’s the difference between a Medicare Supplement and a Medicare Advantage plan? • Do I need a Prescription Drug Plan if I use only a few generic medications? Every day there are 10,000 Americans who turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. If you do the math, that equals 3.65 million per year. We hear these questions every day because becoming eligible for Medicare is a big change for most people and it must be taken care of in a limited amount of time. Then there are the mountains of mail that come from insurance companies that acquire lists of everyone’s 65th birthday AND the phone calls from insurance representatives that are eager to do business with you. It’s confusing, but it’s extremely important; the mail and phone calls are annoying, but you do need someone to guide you through the process. We all hope to reach our 65th birthday and we all have friends and family members that are approaching that age. There is a solution - call a professional health insurance agent. We are required to do annual Medicare certifications and receive training from the insurance companies that we represent. Most importantly, our first priority is to act in the best interest of our client. Answers: • You will be eligible for Medicare on the first day of the month in which your 65th birthday occurs. Your health insurance options may include continuing the coverage that you have or switching to Medicare. It is critical that you get good advice when you turn 65 because some of the decisions you make at this time will impact you for the rest of your life. • It may be in your best interest to stay on your employer’s plan or it could be wiser to move to Medicare. This could be a financial decision or it may be based on your healthcare needs. Again, get good advice. • Medicare does not pay for all your medical expenses. A Medicare Supplement or a Medicare Advantage plan can be added to help cover the gap. They are different products that offer different benefits and have different eligibility guidelines. Your agent will help you determine the best fit for your needs. • Yes, everyone over age 65 is required to have prescription drug benefits. There are both financial and medical reasons. Your benefits can come from your employer plan, from a government program, from an individual policy, or from Medicare. If you don’t have a prescription drug plan at age 65 and then enroll in a Medicare plan later, you will be charged a penalty that is permanently added to your premium. The medical reason is that you never know what changes are coming in the next 6 months. If your med list changes and includes expensive drugs, it will be entirely your financial responsibility if you don’t have an insurance plan to cover it. That can get very costly, very fast. ComPro has professional health insurance agents that are Medicare certified. We can guide you through the process. When it’s done, you will realize that Medicare is not that complicated; you just needed a professional to provide you with the education and advice to make good decisions.
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STAR CITY SIX
LAURA
Laura Schulz
MCGILL RESTORATION
McGill Restoration Inc. has been in business since 1985, and is a recognized industry leader in the rehabilitation and preservation of concrete and masonry structures throughout the U.S. Laura Schulz is a Project Manager/Estimator at McGill Restoration. How did you get started in the business? - I have been working with concrete since I was a little girl. My father was a high school math teacher who worked construction in the summers, which included flat work, basement walls, stone work, and masonry. As the youngest of four girls, he knew that I would need something constructive to do in the summer to prevent my sisters from killing me. A lot of the knowledge that I have about concrete and construction comes from the time I spent working with him. After graduating from the UNO, I took a position as an administrative assistant at CCS Group, LLC, a concrete silo repair company. I was promoted to Safety Director after noticing a need to implement safety policies and procedures. Due to the massive turnover rate at this company, I was able to learn the business through safety and translate into project management and sales, working my way up to VP of Operations. I joined the McGill Restoration team in May of 2017. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The decision to expand my knowledge of concrete restoration beyond silo restoration by accepting a job offer from McGill. It is easy to stay where you are comfortable, in a position of authority, and well known. It can be difficult to try something new. However, I enjoy a challenge and look forward to working with a company that is well respected. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Besides being promoted within a company from entry-level to management leadership in 2 years, it was working with an engineer and supplier to develop a new repair method utilizing carbon fiber rebar to fix a silo without using traditional shotcrete methods. This process allowed me to work outside the box and create a custom repair procedure for newer silos with deficient reinforcement. The collaboration of all of our interests and specialties into one project was truly inspiring. Tell us a little about your family. - My husband, Justin, and I have a 9-year-old son, Levi. We also have two mini schnauzers. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to be active! My son and I play frisbee, basketball, go to the gym, basically anything that keeps us active! We aren’t the type of family that sits around. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I used to work for a funeral home when I was in high school. What are you the most proud of? - I am proud of the fact that hard work and the willingness to do anything to get to where I needed to be has gotten me to exactly where I am today. Being motivated and hardworking is rare trait in people my age in today’s world. It’s nice to know the American dream is still possible if you work hard for what you want to achieve. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - I’d say it came from my dad. He always told me if you work really hard and you are good to people then good things will happen for you. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Hiro88.
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If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Email: LSchulz@mcgillrestoration.com; Website: mcgillrestoration.com.
STAR CITY SIX
JORDAN
Jordan Cartwright
JOHN HENRY’S PLUMBING, HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning is a locally-owned company that has been serving the Lincoln community since 1996. John Henry’s is dedicated to building and developing a team of outstanding individuals who provide premium quality products and services, while sharing a total commitment to regularly exceeding the expectations of their customers. Jordan Cartwright is a Project Manager/Estimator at John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning. Tell us a little about your business. - John Henry’s is a fun place to work! Our team is very close. We care about the health of our community and saving lives. We offer plumbing, heating, air conditioning, duct cleaning, and water conditioning services. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year in all kinds of weather to provide true customer service. How did you get started in the business? - While going to college, I worked for a local fire and water restoration company as a technician. I was soon promoted to a Project Manager position and worked directly with insurance carriers on restoration projects. I developed many close business relationships including one with John Henry’s, which I used for my plumbing and HVAC needs. I admired their company culture and enjoy a similar position within their organization as a Project Manager and Estimator. My new journey has begun! Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my wonderful wife Maja for 8 years! We are blessed to have a 3-yearold son Max, and are expecting a daughter in early August. We also have a 12-year-old Jack Russell Terrier named Kobe. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Typically, I try to squeeze in a quick round of golf, followed by yard games, BBQ, and quality time with family and friends. What are you most proud of? - Always being a positive role model for my son and the kind of person others can count on. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Trustworthy. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - I was told a quote by George Ludwig: “If you want to be a positive influence in the world remember that influence begins with you and ripples outward.” It is true in all aspects of life. I try to be positive at work and home because hopefully my positivity and happiness can encourage others around me. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The ability to fly so I could get from place to place quicker and see the world from another perspective. What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - My wife has worked at the Child Advocacy Center for over ten years. It’s an organization that we both believe in and support. They do amazing and important work for the children in our community. What is your favorite movie? - National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. What is your favorite local restaurant? - I haven’t settled on a specific restaurant but do enjoy trying many new restaurants with my family. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Kobe Bryant because I am a Lakers fan and love basketball. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Office phone: (402) 435-5555; Website: www.jhlincoln.com.
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STAR CITY SIX
KELLEY
Kelley McReynolds
MID AMERICA RECYCLING Mid America Recycling provides residential and commercial services to clients nationwide. Kelley McReynolds is the General Manager of Mid America Recycling’s Lincoln facility. Tell us a little about your business. - Mid America Recycling (MAR) began operations in 1979 in response to the passage of Iowa’s Bottle Bill. During the height of the company in the late 2000s, MAR expanded to become the nation’s largest privately-held recycling company, with a value of $200 million through recycling over 1.5 billion pounds annually. Following some buyouts and name changes, the original MAR management team reunited to buy back the company and return it to a steady, organic growth path within its geographic footprint. Our professional management, plant and administrative team has years of specialized experience in the recycling industry and strive to make the process of recycling materials quick and easy. We manage your resources so you can manage your business. How did you get started in the business? - I started in 1996 as a sorter at the age of 20. I was just a young kid who needed a job. I learned to operate the different equipment during my first year and continued to learn more about the operations and customers. Over the years, I worked my way up through the company: supervisor, plant manager, traffic manager, etc. Then in 2005, I was given the opportunity to run my own plant. I guess you could say I grew up in the business. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - There have been several, but I would have to say my first startup of a single stream recycling system. We began the project in 2006 with the intentions of purchasing new equipment, moving to a new building, and starting the new system on time. A year later, the markets crashed and the economics of the project changed. We made it work in our existing facility with a combination of new pieces of equipment and a lot of refurbishing of an old system that was removed from a sister plant. That system is still efficiently operating today. What has been your most important achievement professionally? The opportunity to be brought in by my mentors as a member of their recycling plant ownership group. Tell us a little about your family. - I have a wonderful fiancé who supports me in every way. I also have a son who I admire greatly. He is studying business marketing at the University of Nebraska. I could go on and on about him but simply put, I am so proud of his accomplishments and the man he is becoming! What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Becoming a parent. It really increased my drive to succeed in anything I do. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love the water and enjoy time on my boat. During winter, I catch up on all the good TV I miss in the summer. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - To fly like Superman so I wouldn’t have to sit through any more red lights. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I want to be that person who goes on vacations and writes reviews for a living! What is your favorite local restaurant? - Blue Sushi Sake Grill. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Master Helio Gracie.
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If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Email: kelleym@midamericarecycling.com; Website: www. MidAmericaRecycling.com.
STAR CITY SIX
MARC
Marc Hausmann
NAI FMA REALTY Providing exceptional service and expertise, NAI FMA Realty is a full-service commercial real estate firm that has been in Lincoln since it was incorporated in 1961. Marc Hausmann is an Associate Broker at NAI FMA Realty. Tell us a little about your business. - I’m in commercial real estate sales and leasing. I handle every commercial property type of our industry - retail, office, industrial, and land. How did you get started in the business? - I began my career in real estate about 17 years ago. In those years, I have handled every facet of the industry - sales, leasing, residential, commercial, construction, and management. I started in residential, later received my broker’s license, and then moved into commercial. As a finance major, the commercial side of real estate is a perfect fit. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - In my late 20’s and early 30’s, as a young professional in the industry, it was difficult to earn the respect of clients. What has been your most important achievement professionally? Joining the NAI/FMA team. We have the most knowledgeable group of brokers internally. The opportunity to work with everyone in our office on a daily basis is an achievement within itself. Tell us a little about your family. - My wonderful wife, Jenn, and I have been married 18 years. She’s a middle school math teacher who is patient, persistent, and loving in every way. Our daughter, Alie, is 14 and our son, Tristan, is 10. Between all the soccer, basketball, tennis, and volleyball we have very little down time. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - When I was 22, I was in a partnership with two other gentlemen on a warehousing-based company. One afternoon after a few disagreements, I was offered the chance to exit and in return, would receive a small share of our current clients. Or, I could have stayed with them and possibly been part of a large company. We parted ways and I took my share. Two years later, as my company grew, they were both forced to leave the industry. I ended up owning the company I began as a result of the dissolution for 17 years. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I don’t think I have had a day off since my freshman year of college. But when life slows down a bit, I like to spend every moment with my family. A nice quiet day at home with all four of us is the perfect scenario. Swimming, grilling, bike rides, anything. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have a mild form of OCD and fear that I have left lights on or doors unlocked. Which talent would you most like to have? - To remember names at first introduction. What is your favorite TV show? - Friends. Is there really another answer you get from other people? What is your favorite local restaurant? - Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill. A local icon with good food and wonderful beer. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - My grandfather. He passed 20 years ago and was a man of very few words, but always spoke the truth and was not scared to say what everyone is thinking. I have a short list of questions for him and I know his answers would be honest. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Call (402) 441-5834, email mhausmann@naifma.com, or visit www. naifmarealty.com.
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STAR CITY SIX
RYAN
Ryan Blahak
EAT FIT GO
Providing fresh, perfectly portioned, nutritionally balanced, grab-and-go meals, Eat Fit Go now has two Lincoln locations at 2901 S. 84th Street and in South Pointe Pavilions. Ryan Blahak is the General Manager of Eat Fit Go. Tell us a little about your business. - Eat Fit Go bridges the gap between your busy life and eating healthy on the go; it’s the future of fast food. We offer a diverse menu of over 50 chef-driven meal options. All meals are individually portioned and free of any added artificial ingredients while being prepared. It’s the perfect option for a healthy breakfast, lunch, or dinner; stop in for one meal or stock up for your week, we have plans for that. We also offer fantastic house account options. How did you get started in the business? - I was extremely fortunate to get in with Eat Fit Go Lincoln at the beginning and very thankful for the opportunity. Ultimately I had mutual friends of owner Natasha Plooster who were able to get me the interview. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - In my personal life I’m a very easygoing and relatively carefree guy. So I’d say the most difficult challenge is staying organized and task driven while staying true to my fun loving and quite honestly goofy personality. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Opening our second store was a major one. We couldn’t have done it without the support of our community, thanks Lincoln! Tell us a little about your family. - My family is incredibly loving and supportive. At its core I have a mother who is the strongest and most amazing person who has ever existed! I have one brother and one sister, and am a very proud uncle to two amazing nephews and one beautiful niece. By the time you read this, I’ll likely have another niece or nephew too; the due date’s this month! I have a beautiful and intelligent girlfriend who means the world to me and together we have a pair of fur babies, a Doberman (Chief) and Cockapoo (Chewy). What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - When my father passed from heart disease. It made me reevaluate what it was I was doing with my life, and gave me the motivation to seek out a career where I can help people improve their health. There’s nothing that’s more rewarding then hearing people’s success stories after they’ve made Eat Fit Go a part of their lives. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - What’s that?! In all seriousness a perfect day would be to wake to a fresh pot of coffee, catch some rays doing yard work or taking Chief for a run, any outdoor activity honestly, and quality time with the girlfriend. To cap it off I would relax with a nice cold Gin & Tonic while watching sports in the evening. What are you the most proud of? - The team at Eat Fit Go that has been built around me. I love them all like family and they are fantastic representatives of what Eat Fit Go believes in. See for yourself, come in and meet them, they’re all amazing and uniquely talented. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - A great quote I stumbled upon and try to live by: “It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” What is your favorite local restaurant? - Eat Fit Go! Are there other options?
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If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Reach out to lincoln@eatfitgo.com.
STAR CITY SIX
MEGAN
Megan Herter
SUMNER PLACE
A proud member of the Vetter Health Services family, Sumner Place is a licensed skilled nursing facility that provides longterm care, rehabilitation services and memory support. Megan Herter is the Admissions & Public Relations Coordinator at Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation. Tell us a little about your business. - We pride ourselves on providing resident-focused care, independence and offer a homelike atmosphere. Our multi-disciplinary team of professionals deliver superior clinical care, with cutting-edge programs and consistent deficiency-free results on the annual survey conducted by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. All operating decisions are made locally to assure that Sumner Place remains responsive to the needs of our residents and the community. How did you get started in the business? - While in college at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, I completed an elective course in Gerontology and absolutely loved it. After deciding to complete a Certificate in Gerontology through UNO, I began my internship in May 2013 at Southlake Village in Lincoln. That summer, I knew I had found my passion and working with older adults was right where I belonged. After completion of my internship, I received the opportunity to work at Sumner Place (a sister facility to Southlake Village) and have enjoyed every minute! What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I am proud of how much I have grown in this field and in the Lincoln community. We have wonderful resources and a great network of individuals here. Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Tyler and I both grew up in Shelton, NE and have been married for 2 ½ years. We are expecting our first child, a baby girl, due to arrive any day now! We have a German Shephard named Bree. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spend time with our friends and family and enjoy the outdoors. What are you the most proud of? - My family! I am very proud of my heritage and where I grew up. I am also extremely proud of the team we have at Sumner Place. We strive each day to enrich the lives of our residents and maintain Dignity in Life for all who enter our doors. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - There has been so much, but there is one quote that sticks out: “Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” – Robert Brault. It really is those little, simple things that make a big difference. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Interior design! What is your favorite TV show? - Fixer Upper on HGTV. What is your favorite local restaurant? - It’s a tie between Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill and La Paloma Mexican Restaurant. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Sumner Place is located at 1750 S 20th Street. Our phone number is (402) 475-6791 and our website is www. sumnerplacecare.com. Please feel free to stop by anytime for a tour. We would love to show you around!
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ASK THE EXPERT: GEAR80 402-608-1608 www.gear80.co
by John Fulwider, Founder Gear80
Would Cloning Yourself Grow Your Business?
Business owners tell me: “The business would grind to a halt without me.” “I’m running around like a Nebraska Prairie Chicken with its head cut off.” (People get specific when they’re frustrated!) “I wish I could clone myself.” I tell them: You don’t need to clone yourself. You need to complement yourself. (Not compliment. I’ll take care of that: Dear reader, I’m confident you’re good-looking, intelligent, and have minty-fresh breath.) You complement yourself with people who are great at and love doing the tasks you’re doing now. Here’s a 15-minute exercise to get started: 1. Take a sheet of paper and divide it into four quadrants. 2. Start at the upper left and label the quadrants, going clockwise: Love/Great, Like/Good, Don’t Like/Good, Don’t Like/Not Good 3. Write at least three tasks/roles/millstones around your neck in each quadrant. 4. Delegate and Elevate to an employee just one thing from the Don’t Like/Not Good quadrant. 5. Jump for joy, because you just permanently solved an issue frustrating you. (And jumping’s good for your ticker.) When you Delegate and Elevate, it’s a win-win for you and your people: You get full control of your time, and your employees rise to higher levels of responsibility and performance. You delegate; they elevate. Sound easy? It’s not, because every owner I’ve met has a long list of emotional and practical reasons she or he Just. Can’t. Delegate! Full disclosure: Delegate and Elevate only works when you’ve put a solid Accountability Chart in place. When you’ve got the right people in the right seats, all of whom get, want, and have the capacity to do their five clear roles, delegation does get easier. Stop dreaming: Nobody’s got a cloning machine. But you have a complementing machine: Delegate and Elevate. Turn it on, and soon you’ll be living the dream: Doing what you love and are great at. Delegate and Elevate™ is part of the Entrepreneurial Operating System®: A complete, proven system with simple tools to help you do three things we call vision, traction, and healthy. Vision, from the standpoint of first getting your leaders 100% on the same page with where your organization is going and how it is going to get there. Traction, from the standpoint of helping your leaders to become more disciplined and accountable, executing really well to achieve every part of your vision. Healthy, meaning helping your leaders to become a healthy, functional, cohesive leadership team because unfortunately, leaders often don’t play very well as a team. From there, as goes your leadership team, so goes the rest of your organization. We get to the point where your entire organization is crystal clear on your vision, all much more disciplined and accountable in executing your vision, gaining consistent traction, and advancing as a healthy, functional, cohesive team. Call (402) 608-1608 if any of this resonates with you. I’d love to show you and your leadership team how to get vision, traction, and healthy right away. John Fulwider is a professional EOS Implementer. gear80 provides a proven system with a complete set of practical tools to help you get three things; vision, traction, healthy.
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PERSONNEL NEWS
Union Bank & Trust Promotes Tony Miller Union Bank & Trust recently promoted Tony Miller to Vice President in Private Banking. Tony joined Union Bank in 2013 as an Assistant Vice President in Private Banking. As Vice President, he will help lead the teams’ business development efforts. Tony also serves as the single point of contact for high net worth individuals and their businesses. In this role, he strives to exceed clients’ expectations and proactively takes care of all their financial needs. Tony holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He serves on the Executive Leadership Team of the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball. He is also a volunteer with United Way and has been the Chair for their Annual Golf Fundraiser for the past five years. Union Bank & Trust is a privately owned, Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment and trust services. 2017 is the Bank’s 100th anniversary with a focus on serving customers for the next 100 years. It is the third-largest privately-owned bank in Nebraska with bank assets of $3.6 billion and trust assets of $16.5 billion as of December 31, 2016. For more information, visit www.ubt.com.
Greenleaf Properties Welcomes Two Greenleaf Properties recently relocated its main office to 300 N 44th St., Ste. 112, with the new space better able to accommodate the growth of the company. As a result, the team at Greenleaf Properties is excited to announce the addition of two industry professionals, Kevin T. Rhodes and Greg Ayars. Kevin T. Rhodes, CCIM, has joined Greenleaf Properties as an associate broker. He is responsible for sales, leasing, retail, office, and industrial properties. Before assuming Kevin T. Rhodes his new position at Greenleaf Properties, Rhodes was the President for World Group Commercial Real Estate. He was also a broker for Perry Reid Properties where he listed and sold commercial and industrial properties as well as services regarding real estate and valuation. Rhodes has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Iowa and a Certificate of Real Estate and Land Use Economics from the University of Nebraska-Omaha. He has also earned the CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Greg Ayars Member) designation from the CCIM institute. Greg Ayars started with Greenleaf Properties in May of 2017 as a sales associate. He worked at Speedway Properties from 2012 to 2017 as an intern and later as a leasing agent. Ayars graduated from the University of Nebraska in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Finance. He is currently on the board of directors with Kiwanis Club West, and actively does volunteer work with Junior Achievement, the South Lincoln Track Club, and Lincoln Midget Football. The entire team at Greenleaf Properties is very excited for what the future holds and looks forward to helping one another grow professionally with the company. Established in 1973, Greenleaf Properties is a full-service commercial real estate firm. Professional services are offered in the areas of brokerage sales and leasing, asset and property management, facility maintenance, and land development. For more information, please call the office at (402) 467-2525 or visit greenleafproperties.com.
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PERSONNEL NEWS SCC’s Jose Soto Appointed to Access to Justice Commission
Dr. Sandra G. A. Machado Joins Advanced Medical Imaging
Jose Soto, a vice president at Southeast Community College, has been appointed by Nebraska Supreme Court Chief Justice Mike Heavican as a member of the newly created Access to Justice Commission. The purpose of the commission is to “ensure every person access to justice as guaranteed by the Nebraska Constitution.”
The Physicians of Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI) are pleased to welcome Sandra G. A. Machado, M.D. in the practice of Diagnostic Radiology. Originally from Brazil, Dr. Machado completed her fellowship in Pediatric Radiology at Loma Linda University Medical Center in California in 2013. At Loma Linda University Medical Center, she also studied anatomy, completed a diagnostic radiology residency in 2012 and a general surgery internship in 2008. Before receiving her certifications in California, Dr. Machado attended medical school in Argentina at Universidad Adventista del Plata. Previously practicing for Aris Radiology, Dr. Machado will start work at AMI during the month of July. Her professional affiliations include the Society of Pediatric Radiology, Radiology Society of North America (RSNA), and the American College of Radiology (ACR). She is fluent in Portuguese, English and Spanish. Her husband, Gustavo Machado, MD, and sister, Lygia Plioplis, PA-C, MPAS, practice at Prairie Orthopaedic & Plastic Surgery PC in Lincoln. Advanced Medical Imaging is the largest independent radiology group in Nebraska. They serve the Lincoln area and are the sole radiology providers for nearly half of the Critical Access Hospitals in rural Nebraska, and two regional health centers, St. Elizabeth Hospital in Lincoln and Mercy Medical of Sioux City, IA. Founded in 2001, the practice has tripled in size and is constantly expanding their service area. AMI’s mission is to provide compassionate patient-focused care achieved though regional awareness, advanced technology, unsurpassed operational excellence, teamwork, and leadership.
Soto is vice president for Access/Equity/ Diversity at SCC. He holds a law degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and has been working at SCC for more than 25 years. The 24-member Commission is comprised of representatives from all three branches of government, as well as community volunteers, attorneys, educators, and representatives serving low-income Nebraskans and those with disabilities. Appointments to the Commission expire in two years. “I am honored to have been selected,” Soto said. “I see this as yet another opportunity to associate SCC and my office with the principles of access, equity and fairness,” Co-chairs of the Commission are Nebraska Supreme Court Justice Stephanie Stacy and Nebraska State Bar Association Executive Director Liz Neeley. The Commission will report to the Nebraska Supreme Court.
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PERSONNEL NEWS Dennis Hoffman Appointed to Lead Family Service Dennis Hoffman, recipient of one of Matt Talbot’s 2017 Compassion In Action awards, has been hired as Family Service of Lincoln’s Executive Director. “Dennis brings extensive knowledge and experience in behavioral health,” notes Family Service board president Heidi Hayes. “He also has a strong background in support services and community and government partnership.” Hoffman has worked in Lincoln’s human services community for 26 years. He is currently the Chief Program Officer at CenterPointe where he developed a continuum of housing and supportive service programs for persons experiencing homelessness. He recently served on the Lincoln Homeless Coalition’s Executive Committee, Prosper Lincoln Skills for Jobs Committee and many other community initiatives. “Our community benefits from a strong network of public and private providers that collaborate to improve the lives of families,” states Dennis Hoffman. “I look forward to contributing my skills, experience and leadership to further Family Service’s long history of providing quality programs that strengthen families.” In 2016 Family Service celebrated its 125th anniversary and now directs four programs: Youth Development, Nebraska State Women, Infants and Children (WIC), Behavioral Health, and Child Care Food Program (CCFP).
HoriSun Hospice Expands Nursing Staff HoriSun Hospice is pleased to announce the addition of Wendy Arp, RN as Hospice Case Manager, Tarah Sapp, RN, BSN as Hospice Case Manager, and Robin Davenport, RN as Visiting Hospice Nurse to Wendy Arp Tarah Sapp its team. Arp graduated with her LPN in 1991. She worked in long term care for 14 years before she became a Practice Manager working with the Bryan Physician Network. She graduated from Southeast Community College with her Associate’s Degree in Nursing in March of 2017. Sapp graduated with her Bachelor’s in Nursing from Union College in December of 2016. She has worked with both home health and hospice for over eight years. Robin Davenport Davenport graduated from Bryan School of Nursing and worked at Bryan for 30 years in Med Surg, ICU and care management prior to joining the HoriSun team. With the belief that hospice care affirms life, HoriSun Hospice’s mission and promise to our community is simple – to provide the best care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all whose lives are affected by a life limiting illness or condition. Comfort, compassion, and caring are their guiding principles. For more information about HoriSun Hospice, visit www.horisunhospice.com or call (402) 484-6444.
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PERSONNEL NEWS
Oasis Senior Advisors Welcomes Tanya Godwin as Outreach Coordinator
Haley Coufal and Nick Schaffer Assume New Positions at Cornhusker Bank
Oasis Senior Advisors (Lincoln. OasisSeniorAdvisors.com) is pleased to welcome Tanya Godwin as their Outreach Coordinator. Godwin will not only provide families and their loved ones with guidance and support during life’s transitions, but act as a resource for the community.
Cornhusker Bank recently appointed Haley Coufal to Risk Management/Security Officer and Nick Schaffer to AVP/Operations Officer. Barry Lockard, President/CEO, noted, “As Cornhusker Bank grows and elevates, the expanded responsibilities each has taken on in their new positions provide them opportunities to excel in their interest areas serving both internal and external customers.”
Throughout her career, Godwin has served in various positions, bringing to the Oasis table an elder law background and more than fifteen years of public policy experience. Tanya was born in Oklahoma, raised in Lincoln, and earned a B.A. in Human Relations from Doane College with a focus on communication, psychology and business. The mission of Oasis Senior Advisors is to positively impact families during a difficult time in their lives. This is done by providing a free, personal, and compassionate service to help families find the right place for their loved ones. Whether the need is for Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing or Hospice, Oasis consists of dedicated and compassionate advisors with an extensive knowledge of qualified senior living options in the Lincoln area and outlying communities. Oasis functions on a core set of principles, based on confidentiality, honesty and a belief in everyone’s right to dignity. For more information about Oasis Senior Advisors and its personalized, free service for families, visit their website (Lincoln. OasisSeniorAdvisors.com) or call (402) 429-8891.
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Nick Schaffer is well known to Cornhusker Bank customers and vendors. In his 11year history with the bank he has served in multiple positions, including Branch Manager and AVP/Retail Banking Operations. His experience throughout the bank has enhanced his knowledge of all bank operations, and qualified him uniquely for his new position as AVP/Operations Manager. Haley Coufal, an associate at Cornhusker Bank since 2009, has proven her attention to detail and supervision skills in the bank’s Operations Department and will now focus her skills on Risk Management and Security.
Haley Coufal
Nick Schaffer
Cornhusker Bank remains Lincoln’s oldest locally owned bank, demonstrating stability, soundness, and investing in the future growth of the community, valued customers, and associates. For more information, please visit CornhuskerBank.com.
PERSONNEL NEWS
McGill Restoration Promotes Jon Meadows Jon Meadows has been promoted to Superintendent at McGill Restoration. His new duties include employee placement, manpower logistics, coordination of materials and equipment, customer service, project management assistance along with many others. Jon Meadows has been with McGill Restoration since 2009. Starting as laborer, he worked his way through the ranks to foreman in 2012, and now to his new role as superintendent. In addition to his extensive professional experience in the private sector, Jon has formal leadership training from his time in the military, which he uses to direct, guide, and mentor his peers and employees. Dedicated to “Building Relationships Through Craftsmanship,” McGill Restoration Inc. has been in business since 1985 and currently employs approximately 75 concrete and masonry restoration professionals. With annual revenues of approximately $14 million, McGill Restoration is a recognized industry leader throughout the U.S. in the rehabilitation and preservation of concrete and masonry structures. For more information, please visit www.mcgillrestoration.com or contact Jon Meadows at (402) 558-7989 or email JMeadows@ mcgillrestoration.com.
University of Nebraska Federal Credit Union Announces 2017 Board of Directors The University of Nebraska Federal Credit Union has announced the election of three members to their Board of Directors. The newest elected University of Nebraska FCU Board member is Frances Hayes. Hayes has served on the credit union’s Super visory Committee since 2015. Collette McCurdy and Elly Hardekopf were both elected to their second term on the University of Nebraska FCU Board of Directors. McCurdy is the Director of Student Accounts at UNL, with 20 years of experience to offer, and serves as treasurer. Hardekopf ser ves as the secretary and has worked in human resources at Molex for 22 years.
Frances Hayes
The University of Nebraska FCU has seven directors including Ron Burke, Chris Kabourek, Rick Haugerud, and Ellen Weissinger. University of Nebraska Federal Credit Union was chartered in 1937 to serve the professors and faculty members of the University of Nebraska. Today, University of Nebraska Federal Credit Union has over 10,500 members and over $98 million in assets. It offers checking and savings accounts, credit cards, consumer loans, mortgage loans, mobile deposit, online bill pay and many other services. Individuals eligible for membership include University of Nebraska faculty, staff, volunteers, students, Alumni and their families. To learn more, visit www. nufcu.org.
Collette McCurdy
Elly Hardekopf
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PERSONNEL NEWS
Jim Schiefelbein Joins United Way as Resource Development Manager United Way is pleased to announce the hiring of Jim Schiefelbein as Resource Development Manager – Business Accounts at United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County. Schiefelbein has over 30 years of sales and marketing experience, most recently specializing in business development. Schiefelbein spent the first part of his career in education at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. His time there included teaching, advising, seminar presentations and program management. Another career highlight was the time he spent mentoring, recruiting, fundraising and coordinating grants for other local non-profits. “We are excited to welcome Jim to United Way,” said Michelle Bring, senior director of marketing and resource development. “His past experience combined with his commitment to the Lincoln community bring immense value to our team.” In his new role, Schiefelbein will work with staff and volunteer leadership to research and identify area businesses to engage with United Way’s annual community campaign. He will also work with local business leaders to grow their philanthropic commitment to maximize impact within Lincoln and Lancaster County. To learn more about United Way go to unitedwaylincoln.org or contact the United Way office at (402) 441-7700.
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Jereme Montgomery Joins Stephens & Smith Stephens & Smith Construction Co. has announced that Jereme “Bird” Montgomery has joined the S&S team as their Business Development Coordinator. His primary duties will focus on new and existing clients, sales, marketing, and social media. Mr. Montgomery has a wealth of experience within the concrete construction industry, having spent the past 11 years as the executive director for the Nebraska Concrete & Aggregates Association (NC&AA). Jereme Montgomery obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management from the University of Nebraska. He has nearly 20 years of experience in various aspects of the concrete industry. He started his concrete career working for the Nebraska Department of Roads in the Material and Testing Laboratory. Prior to joining NC&AA, Jereme worked as a concrete operations manager for a design and build firm, managing and constructing quality concrete flatwork. In 2015, Jereme was voted NRMCA State Affiliate Promoter of the Year. In 2016, he was recognized by Concrete Producer magazine as the industry’s Most Influential and also noted, Most Influential by Concrete Construction Magazine in 2017. Jereme joins Stephens & Smith Construction Company to continue their success providing concrete construction services to many of the top General Contractors and other clients in Nebraska and surrounding areas. Founded in 1971, Stephens & Smith Construction Company Inc. focuses on services in residential and commercial flatwork, foundations, decorative concrete, and specialty products. For more information, visit www.stephensandsmith.com.
PERSONNEL NEWS
Kerry Paup Joins Lincoln Chamber Staff Lincoln Chamber of Commerce president Wendy Birdsall has announced the hiring of executive assistant Kerry Paup. A native of Missouri, Paup moved to Nebraska in 2003 to work with Crete Carrier Corporation, serving as executive assistant to the president from 2005 to 2015. She comes to the Chamber having most recently worked at HUMANeX Ventures as client service lead for the Midwest. Paup is a graduate of the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and also holds a master’s degree in human resources from the Keller Graduate School. Paup replaces Kathy Dvorak who retires at the end of June.
Bridge to Better Living Introduces Jolee Urbanovsky Bridge to Better Living announces the addition of Jolee Urbanovsky to their team as a Transition Consultant for Retirement Living Options. Jolee is experienced in the management of a Senior Independent Community and served as a Client Manager at a non-medical Home Health Service. She is an active member of the Lincoln Alzheimer’s Association and facilitates many support and education groups. Jolee is a dedicated advocate for seniors and their families. Bridge to Better Living, at no cost to the client, assists seniors to find the best quality of life when choosing a move to a Senior Living Community; Independent, Assisted, Memory Care or LongTerm Care. Their experts serve Lincoln, Omaha and surrounding areas. Bridge to Better Living is locally owned and was founded in 2010 by Mary Ann Stallings. Jolee’s qualities and background are a tremendous asset to the Bridge to Better Living’s consultant team of Robbie Nathan and Joanne Carlberg. For more information or to meet with a transition consultant, contact bridgetobetterliving.com or call (402) 802-3301.
West Gate Bank® Welcomes Kay Bartek as Vice President/Branch Manager The West Gate Bank® Board of Directors has elected Kay Bartek as Vice President, Branch Manager. Bartek will be responsible for coordinating and supervising the activities of West Gate Bank’s flagship branch, developing and maintaining business relationships with customers, providing personal service to meet their financial needs and coaching her staff to achieve customer service and sales goals. A native of West Point, Nebraska and a graduate of the University of Nebraska Lincoln, Bartek brings over 25 years of banking experience to her new role at West Gate Bank. She is involved with the TeamMates mentoring program, as well as Junior Achievement. Kay Bartek is located at West Gate Bank® Center at 6003 Old Cheney Road and can be reached at (402) 323-8970 or kbartek@ westgatebank.com. West Gate Bank® is a full-service community bank focused on Lincoln. Stop by any of the seven branches to experience the local community bank difference and see how Lincoln’s Bank can serve you. Free Checking, Free Gifts and a Buy Back program for your unused checks and debit cards. Visit www.westgatebank.com for more information.
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PERSONNEL NEWS Farmers Mutual’s Mark Walz Named 2017 CSG Honorary Chairman The Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) has announced that Farmers Mutual of Nebraska CEO Mark Walz has been named the Honorary Chairman of the 2017 Cornhusker State Games. The title of Honorary Chairman is generally reserved for the leader of a long-time sponsor of the Games. Farmers Mutual of Nebraska supports the Games at the highest level (Platinum) and has been a sponsor since 1987. Two of Walz’ predecessors at Farmers Mutual, Larry Frazier and Byron Boslau, served as honorary chairmen in previous decades. Farmers Mutual, founded in 1891, is the leading insurer of farms in both Nebraska and South Dakota, and is the largest Nebraska-based insurer of homes, farms and automobiles in Nebraska. Walz, a Lincoln native and Lincoln East graduate, has participated in both swimming and triathlon in the Cornhusker State Games. The 2017 Cornhusker State Games take place July 21-30 with competition in more than 60 sports at venues in Lincoln, Omaha and surrounding communities. More than 12,000 athletes of all ages and abilities are expected to participate. Learn more about Farmers Mutual of Nebraska at FMNE.com. Find more information about the Cornhusker State Games at CornhuskerStateGames.com. The final deadline to register is July 5th.
OneHealth Nebraska Announces New Leadership OneHealth Nebraska is pleased to announce the hiring of its new CEO, Steve Kros. Kros brings an extensive background in strategic planning and business development. He was previously chief strategy officer of Lozier Corporation and has prior executive experience at West Corporation, First Data Corporation, Nebraska Research and Development Authority and First National Bank of Omaha. Kros received his master of business administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Steve Kros OneHealth Nebraska also announces that Dr. Bob Rauner has accepted the role of chief medical officer. Dr. Rauner will be coordinating quality improvement efforts for OneHealth Nebraska clinics participating in accountable care organization contracts (ACO). He will split his time between his new role and his current role as president of Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln. His extensive experience improving patient care includes communitywide initiatives to improve cancer screening and vaccinations in Lincoln and his prior role Dr. Bob Rauner with an ACO which was recognized as one of the top 10 highest quality of care Medicare ACOs in the country during his tenure. Dr. Rauner received his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and his master of public health from Johns Hopkins. OneHealth Nebraska is a network of independent healthcare clinics and facilities in Lincoln and Lancaster County representing over 400 healthcare providers. OneHealth Nebraska was formed in 2014 and has relocated its office to 4600 Valley Road, Suite 250, Lincoln, NE 68510.
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NON-PROFIT NEWS Habitat Lincoln Celebrates Milestone Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln will celebrate the completion of construction on its 150th home at 4426 St. Paul Ave next month. Construction kick-off with a groundbreaking ceremony was held back in March, which included special guests and speakers including Lt. Gov. Mike Foley and Mayor Chris Beutler, as well as future homeowner, Claudia, and other Habitat speakers. The groundbreaking ceremony was a Nebraska 150 Celebration Official Event and open to the public. Construction is scheduled to wrap up in August 2017 and will culminate in a home dedication celebration. Habitat Lincoln is currently raising funds in celebration and honor of the construction of home build 150, known as “Build #150.” “It’s remarkable that we are building our 150th home in just 29 years. And to share this milestone celebration with Nebraska’s 150th birthday makes it even more special. With an affordable mortgage, nearly 700 Lancaster County residents whose families have become homeowners, have life changing outcome: improved health, more educational opportunities, financial stability, and empowerment,” says Josh Hanshaw, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln. There are many ways to be involved in this milestone build including volunteering, donating in-kind materials and services, and donating funds. Lots for future builds are also needed. Visit www.lincolnhabitat. org or call Christina at (402) 477-9184 for details on how to get involved and special events related to Build #150.
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Friendship Home Celebrating 15 Years of Safe Quarters On October 8, over a thousand Friendship Home volunteers will head out to Lincoln neighborhoods with the goal of knocking on the door of every household to collect financial contributions for victims of domestic violence. Safe Quarters is Friendship Home’s largest annual fundraiser. $109,000 was raised last year and as a result, Friendship Home was able to change 1,600 lives. This will be the 15th year the entire Lincoln community participates in this event. Teams of volunteers are needed to walk Lincoln neighborhoods on Sunday, October 8th. A team generally consists of 8-12 members and all ages are encouraged to participate. Volunteers will receive t-shirts and collection buckets for the drive. You can help provide “safe quarters” to someone in crisis. To register a volunteer team, visit www.friendshiphome.org. For questions and/ or more information about Safe Quarters, contact Erin at erinl@ friendshiphome.org or (402) 434-0167. Funds collected during Safe Quarters provide safe confidential shelter, crisis services and ongoing support for families who are rebuilding their lives because of domestic violence. To access safe shelter and services, call (402) 437-9302.
NON-PROFIT NEWS Lincoln G.O.L.D. Awards Scholarships at Annual Gala Lincoln G.O.L.D. is pleased to report the organization was able to present 27 scholarships to local high school seniors at its 2nd annual gala! The Board extends its gratitude to all of the community partners whose generosity helped make a difference this year. Thank you to Lexus of Lincoln, Midwest Bank, Certified Piedmontese Beef, Husker Rehabilitation and Wellness, Nebraska Heart Institute, The Gallup Organization, Sid Dillon, Lincoln Surgical Hospital, The Nebraska Neurosurgery Group, Krueger Family Dentistry, First State Bank, Union Bank and Trust, Nebraska Animal Medical Center, Lee and Debbie Stuart Family Foundation, and Cornhusker Bank. The date has already been set for the 3rd Annual Gala, which will again be held at The Cornhusker – mark your calendars for March 10th, 2018! Entertainment will be provided by a live band from St. Louis. G.O.L.D. stands for Girls Organization for Leadership and Development. Founded in 2015, this non-profit serves with a two-fold mission. It is a leadership development and community engagement program for high school junior and senior girls and a scholarship program for Lincoln area high school seniors attending a Nebraska college. Lincoln G.O.L.D was formed by individuals passionate about preparing young women for success and making college more attainable for students who demonstrate leadership and civic sensibilities. For more information, visit LincolnGold.org or contact Robin Netz at (402) 499-7698 or RobinNetz@yahoo.com.
Attention Conference Hosts: Add Saving Lives to the Agenda Oftentimes, at conferences or big events, attendees have spare time. By hosting an on-site blood drive, Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB) makes it easy for event goers to take an hour out of their day to give back to the community and be a life-saving hero - without even leaving the conference. Every summer, hundreds of coaches from across Nebraska come together for the Nebraska Coaches Association (NCA) clinic. In addition to hearing from keynote speakers, networking with other coaches and learning about coaching fundamentals, NCA also hosts a “Coaches Care” Blood Drive with NCBB. “Giving blood gives us a chance to give back just like teaching and coaching,” said golf coach Keith Eriksen. “The convenience of the NCBB bloodmobiles right on site is a great opportunity. We keep coming back each year and encouraging others.” If you would like more information about hosting a blood drive with Nebraska Community Blood Bank visit our website at NCBB.ORG or email blooddrives@ncbb.org. Through the month of July, all presenting NCBB donors will be entered to win a Scheel’s $25 gift card each week.
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NON-PROFIT NEWS Raising Cane’s Collecting School Supplies for Students in Need Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers is collecting new and packaged school supplies at their four Lincoln locations (48th & R | 14th & P | 28th & Cornhusker | 58th & Old Cheney). From July 17 through August 6, Lincolnites will receive a free 22oz freshly-squeezed lemonade when school supplies are donated in support of the cause. Additional support can also be given by adding any dollar amount to your ticket when ordering. The supplies and money raised will be donated to Lincoln private and public school students in need. The Lincoln Raising Cane’s franchise is partnering with KLKN’s Channel 8 and Latsch’s for its 9th year. Since 2009, thousands of school supplies and over $24,000 have been donated to Lincoln schools. “We believe education is the foundation of the community. It’s through education that our children are able to achieve their full potential in life, and it’s important that every child is given the opportunity to succeed,” says Jennifer Jones, co-owner of the Lincoln franchise. Since 2006, the franchise has given back over $1.4 million to the communities in which their restaurants are located. Stay connected for updates on facebook.com/CanesNebraska and twitter.com/ CanesLincoln.
Fresh Start Seeking Community Designers for 8th Annual Project Funway Benefit
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Want to give clothing a repurpose? Community members are invited to participate in this unique event. The theme is transformation and designers repurpose thrift shop clothing to create a new, creative, original garment. All of the garments will be featured in a runway show during the event. A panel of judges, and event attendees, will select the winners of the competition. All ages are welcome to participate. See entry form and rules at freshstarthome. org/events. Boutiques are invited to participate as sponsors, and will have the opportunity to showcase an outfit from their shop at the beginning of the runway show. Sponsors also will have a chance to be recognized during the event, in print and social media. Sponsorship levels range from $250 to $5,000. In addition to the runway show, Project Funway will include a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres and desserts. The Daisy Thrift Shop will also have a booth. Event tickets are $40 each. VIP tickets are $60 each, and include a private reception and priority seating for the show. Project Funway will be on Friday, October 13 at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel. Doors open at 6:30pm. All proceeds will benefit Fresh Start, a transitional shelter that empowers women who are homeless to change their lives by recognizing and utilizing their strengths to overcome barriers to self-sufficiency. For more information about purchasing tickets, entering as a designer, becoming a sponsor, or to find out more about Project Funway or Fresh Start, please visit www.FreshStartHome.org or contact Audrey at (402) 475-7777 / audreyb@freshstarthome.org.
NON-PROFIT NEWS Parent Life Peach Sales Are Here One of the best perks of summer is the sweet goodness of a fresh Colorado peac h or pear practically melting in your mouth. It gets even better when your peach or pear purchase funds a cr ucial suppor t program for teen moms, dads, and babies in our community. Parent Life peach sales are here! Fruit growers in Colorado have offered Parent Life a fundraising opportunity to help continue its ongoing outreach to teen parents and their babies. It’s a special treat to offer you a lug of peaches for $35 and pears for $25. Pre-order your boxes online at yfclincoln. givingfuel.com/peach or stop by the Campus Life House (6401 Pine Lake Rd.) to fill out an order form. The fruit is tentatively scheduled to arrive on August 11 and 25, dependent on when the fruit ripens. Pre-payment is required to guarantee your order. Watch your email or mail for an order confirmation. Pick up will be at the Campus Life House. Give life to teen parents and their babies by buying Colorado peaches or pears! Youth for Christ Lincoln Area is a non-denominational, nonjudgemental, non-profit organization serving youth in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. Through regular programming and special events, YFC Lincoln Area works with over 2,400 local youth with the goal of engaging them in a healthy relationship with God and others.
Survivors Rising Introduces New Speakers Bureau on Intimate Partner Violence Sur vivors Rising has announced the formation of a new Speakers Bureau on Intimate Partner Violence. It is a collective of individuals impacted by intimate partner violence who have chosen to share their experience of violence and hope to educate the public, create social change, promote awareness of the prevalence and harm of domestic violence, train service providers, impact policy and legislation and assist in preventing violence in our communities. Presentations by survivors are available for training, conferences, awareness campaigns, panel discussions, vigils and other speaking engagements. Survivors Rising also provides training and workshops regarding intimate partner violence. Presentations include survivor experience, data on intimate partner violence in our community, information on identifying intimate partner violence, available resources for victims, and suggestions on how to help survivors. If you are interested in scheduling a training or presentation, or for those who are interested in becoming a member of the Speakers Bureau, please contact Kim at kimsurvivorsrising@gmail.com. Survivors Rising is dedicated to advocacy, education, and support for survivors of intimate partner violence. The organization’s mission is to ensure that the survivor voice is represented in legislation and in the community, and that offenders are held accountable. For more information, please visit survivorsrising.org.
Local Organizations Grant $30K to Pediatric AML Research Nebraska-based Sammy’s Superheroes Foundation and Lolo’s Angels have teamed up to raise $30,000 to fund a research project aimed at finding modern treatments for pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). The “Target Pediatric AML” (TpAML) project is the largest, most comprehensive and methodical disease biology study ever conducted in pediatric cancer, and in acute myeloid leukemia. It is also the Children’s Oncology Group’s (COG) highest potential, greatest need AML-related research project. This focused discovery effort is sorely needed due to the complexity and diversity of this challenging disease, which remains one of the poorest prognoses in childhood cancers. It will leverage large-scale, deep, genomic sequencing of 1,000 banked patient samples, identifying new subtypes, drivers, enablers, unique identifiers (biomarkers) and vulnerabilities. This process will uncover new therapeutic targets, which will be mapped to all existing and emerging targeted agents, resulting in a much-needed, expanded treatment arsenal. The $30,000 grant is the first grant given away under Sammy’s Superheroes’ Sidekick Program. The Sidekick Program is designed to provide groups that want to raise money for childhood cancer the ability to offer tax benefits to their donors without having 501c3 standing. Sammy’s Superheroes Foundation (sammyssuperheroes.org) is a 501c3 non-profit whose mission is to raise money for life-saving research that will lead to modern treatments for all types of childhood cancer. Lolo’s Angels (lolosangels.org) is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for pediatric AML. JULY 2017 Strictly Business 41
NON-PROFIT NEWS
Union Bank & Trust’s Donation Drive Benefits Community Action’s Head Start Programs Community Action was overwhelmed with gratitude when employees of Union Bank & Trust dropped off a huge donation of children’s items on April 25th. Items were donated by UBT’s Lincoln employees and had been collected via their “Kids Corner” donation drive over the span of a week. Everything from diapers, to baby soaps and lotions, to children’s toys and brand new baby clothing were donated to benefit children served by Community Action’s Early Head Start and Head Start programs. “For many of the families we serve, securing these basic needs items can be a struggle,” said Vi See, Executive Director of Community Action. “We are so grateful for this incredible donation from Union Bank & Trust, which will provide so many families the resources they need to prepare their children for success in their most important developmental years.” Community Action’s Early Head Start and Head Start programs provide access to high-quality early childhood education to 421 of the most vulnerable babies, toddlers, and preschoolers across Lancaster and Saunders Counties. To learn more about how you can help children prepare for success, visit http://www. communityactionatwork.org/help/donatenow/.
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ATD Lincoln Announces Summer Events Don’t miss out on the following upcoming ATD Lincoln events! July 18th - Behind the Scenes with Spreetail: Fact or Fad? Myth Busting Culture and L&D Trends As Learning & Development professionals, we are flooded with so much information about how to “revolutionize the classroom” and “pack a punch with this or that new training method” that we can get distracted from what really matters. Join in the discussion about how L&D can make a bigger impact by ignoring “shiny objects” and keeping the focus on goals. August 25th - Zoo Crew for a Day! Sponsored by ATD Lincoln and Southeast Community College, be part of the fun at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo as a volunteer for this year’s Red Panda Run! FREE for the first 50 volunteers who register – includes a T-shirt and pass to the zoo (good for Saturday, August 26 only) for each participating volunteer. After the first 50 volunteers it will be only $10 each. For more information and to register for these events, visit the ATD Lincoln website (www.atdlincoln.org) and under the “Events” tab, click on “Calendar of Events.” ATD Lincoln looks forward to seeing you! ATD Lincoln offers professional development opportunities for training practitioners and those focused on developing talent, including educational events, workshops, a job bank, and more. For more information, please visit www.atdlincoln.org or contact Dana Meyers at (402) 323-3387 / president@atdlincoln.org.
NON-PROFIT NEWS
Leadership Lincoln Congratulates Recent Graduates, Encourages New Applicants Look out, they’ve been released and they’re ready to make an impact. The 2017-18 graduates from the Leadership Lincoln Executive Series, Fellows, Academy for Local Leadership and Youth programs are ready to roll. And, the next classes and upcoming opportunities will be announced soon! There are more than 3,000 alumni from Leadership Lincoln programs scattered throughout the city, across Nebraska and beyond. And everyone at Leadership Lincoln is just bustin’ their buttons in anticipation, getting ready to do it again. What? Never heard of Leadership Lincoln? Visit www.leadershiplincoln.org to find out more.
Gateway Sertoma Teams Up With Tabitha Lincoln’s Gateway Sertoma Club and Tabitha, your answer for Elder Care, joined forces on June 2, welcoming golfers to play for a cause. Proceeds from the 15th annual golf event brought in $60,000 in support of Tabitha Meals on Wheels. The proceeds donated from the event will help provide meals for 550+ individuals each day through Tabitha Taking a break on the golf course at HiMark is Team RBC Wealth Meals on Wheels. Seventy percent of Management—The Letheby Group recipients are unable to afford the (L-R): Blake Johnson, Mike Letheby, $6.25 cost of the meal. As Tabitha Adam Letheby and Phil Knudson. has made a point to turn no one in need away from a warm meal, contributions like those from Gateway Sertoma are instrumental in keeping this program in operation. Gateway Sertoma was founded as a service club over fifty years ago. Fifteen years ago, the group married their love of service with their love of golf by hosting a charity golf tournament. Members turned to Tabitha to help operate the tournament with proceeds benefiting first Tabitha Hospice and later Tabitha Meals on Wheels. To learn more about Gateway Sertoma, visit their website, Gatewaysertoma.org.
Heartland Cancer Foundation to Host Mick Zangari Memorial Golf Tournament The Heartland Cancer Foundation is thrilled to announce the date of their upcoming charity golf outing has been set for Thursday, September 21st at Hillcrest Country Club in Lincoln. Open to both men and women in memory and honor of Dominic (Mick) Zangari, the event will include an 18-hole scramble with burgers and brats before tee off and an Italian buffet after the competition. There will be prizes and lots of other fun activities too. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Heartland Cancer Foundation. “We see this event as a chance to combine some of the things he loved while working to make a difference--just like Mick always did. Thank you for sharing in this event with us in his memory and for helping to raise money and awareness for the Heartland Cancer Foundation.” - The family of Mick Zangari For more information, visit www.heartlandcancerfoundation.org or contact Susan Howell at (402) 261-9974 / heartlandcancerfoundation@ gmail.com.
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NON-PROFIT NEWS
Last Call for 2017 Cornhusker State Games Registration
Pius X Students Win Global STEM Competition Tom Fulton, Kathleen M e d i l l , Ta y l o r Gierhan, and Natalie Schieuer represented Pius X in the global STEM competition called “SMART.” The quad competed as part of a physics project for their PACE (AP Physics) class taught by Mr. Jeremy Scheffler. The SMART Competition is a STEM and Career and Technology Education (CTE) education program that provides high school students with a practical real-world design challenge that addresses sustainability, green design, localized power generation, architecture, the environment and the community. Fulton, Medill, Gierhan, and Schieuer completed a winning task of redesigning a high school gymnasium. The design changes they implemented were planned to increase the overall reliability of the equipment and building systems while reducing the costs of operating their school of the future. In addition to team member awards, Pius X High School will receive a $500 donation to support its STEM and CTE programs from Bentley Systems. The complete news release can be viewed at: www.smartcompetition.org.
Registration Open for JDRF Lincoln One Walk Make sure to get signed up for the 2017 JDRF Lincoln One Wa l k o n Sunday, September 24th at Haymarket Park! Registration is now open, with team and individual participant options available. When you participate in the JDRF One Walk, the money you raise supports life–changing breakthroughs that give hope to everyone impacted by type 1 diabetes (T1D). And, you’ll have a great time doing it! That’s because you’ll walk with a committed community that’s passionate about doing whatever it takes to turn Type One into Type None. Last year, over 4,000 dedicated participants raised over $290,000 in support of T1D research! T1D is an autoimmune disease in which a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, striking both adults and children. Its onset has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. T1D comes on suddenly, causes dependence on injected or pumped insulin for life, and carries the constant threat of devastating complications. There is nothing you can do to prevent it, and presently – nothing you can do to get rid of it. The One Walk has one goal: To create a world without T1D. Get registered now at walk.jdrf.org. For information on sponsorship opportunities, please contact the Lincoln and Greater Nebraska Chapter at (402) 484-8300 / jullstrom@jdrf.org. 44 Strictly Business JULY 2017
To get signed up for the 2017 Cornhusker State Games, July 5th is the final deadline for most sports. This year’s Games, the 33rd annual, take place July 21-30 and offer competition in 60+ sports with divisions for all ages and abilities. Entries are projected to exceed 12,000 Nebraskans, and more than 50 sports venues in Lincoln, Omaha and surrounding communities, will host competition. All registered athletes receive admission to the Opening Ceremonies, a free meal and games at SportFest, a voucher for a free ticket to a Lincoln Saltdogs baseball game and a Cornhusker State Games shirt with their paid entry. Entry fees vary by sport. Online registration and all sport and special-event information can be found at CornhuskerStateGames.com or by calling (402) 471-2544.
Mustache Ride Gears Up for 5th Year of Fun in Support of Food Bank’s Backpack Program The 5th annual Mustache Ride is set for July 29th, and you can still join in the fun while supporting a great cause! The Mustache Ride is a bicycle bar crawl with stops at the following local bars: 1867 Bar, Yowie’s Sports Bar, Single Barrel, and the Beacon Lounge. The event will conclude with a party at Embassy Suites, featuring live music by AM/FM. All funds raised go towards the Food Bank of Lincoln’s Backpack Program, which sends home over 13,000 care packages every month with kids who may not have enough food to eat over the weekend. It costs $250 for one student for the school year, and last year, this fundraiser alone raised $13,816 for the program, feeding 55 kids in our community! Last year over 200 people participated, and this year is expected to top that, so there will be two groups led by the Group Therapy Bike Tours trolley and Conference bikes. Registration for participants and sponsorship opportunities for local businesses/organizations are still available, and donations are welcome through the month of August. You must be registered to participate. To find out more, visit the “Mustache Riders” Facebook page or contact Leslie Lipert at (402) 416-0488 / leslie@generalfiresafety.com.
TeamMates to Tee-Off With Pinnacle Bank Golf Tournament TeamMates is excited to be the charity partner of the NEW Pinnacle Bank Championship Golf Tournament! The Tour nament, held in Omaha Monday July 1723 at Indian Creek Golf Course, is part of the Web.com tour which serves as a path for golfers to get into the PGA. Avoid higher prices at the gate by purchasing tickets online at https://goo.gl/emLzjY. Grounds access costs $10; $150-$200 for Viewing Box entry. All proceeds go toward supporting your Lincoln TeamMates Chapter when you purchase online and use the promotional code: TM5. Lincoln’s chapter of TeamMates is grateful for the chance to participate in this event in conjunction with the central TeamMates office. Events like this give the community a chance to help Lincoln TeamMates support matches while having a great time. For more information on the Pinnacle Bank Championship Golf Tournament, check out ThePinnacleBankChampionship.com. To learn more about supporting the TeamMates Mentoring Program of Lincoln, go to LincolnTeamMates.org.
NON-PROFIT NEWS
Healthy Families Eat Fresh: Community Crops Veggie Van Hits the Streets The Community Crops Veggie Van is a mobile far mers mar ket that improves access and affordability of fresh produce for families in Lincoln. Located at the Health 360 Clinic (23rd and O Streets) every Thursday from 3-6pm, local fruits and vegetables will be available for purchase and users of SNAP will get 50% off their purchases. Ben McShane Jewell, Executive Director of Community Crops, explains that: “The mobile market is an innovative way to bring healthy, affordable fruits and vegetables to the people that need them most. Situating the market at Health 360 allows us to reach these families directly at a point of need, increasing their accessibility to fresh food.” Because of generous funding from the Community Health Endowment, Bryan Health, Keno Prevention Fund, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska, and the Clif Bar Foundation, all of the produce sold will be grown by local, organic farmers. “This project not only improves the physical health of our city, but also its economic wellbeing, by putting money back into the pockets of local businesses,” McShane Jewell noted. For more information, please contact Ben McShane Jewell at (402) 474-9802 / ben@communitycrops.org
Date Set for 5th Annual Garden Party Benefit Save The Date! The 5th Annual G a r d e n Par ty, with all proceeds to benefit DomestiPUPS, is set for Friday, September 8th, from 5:30 – 9 p.m. at a private residence. The event will begin with a garden education and demonstration program, including the opportunity to build your own Fairy Garden (addition cost of $10; guests bring their own flower pot). Hors d’ oeuvres and cocktails will be served along with live music and a silent and live auction featuring items for both garden lovers AND pet enthusiasts. Tickets are only $30; reserved/sponsor tables for 6 and 8 are available! Make sure to get yours today as this is an event you won’t want to miss! Please contact Paige Zutavern for tickets or to discuss sponsorship opportunities at (402) 466-3330. For over 17 years, Domesti-PUPS has been supporting people in our local, regional and national communities through the assistance of animals. From therapy dogs in the classroom motivating children to excel in their learning environment, to pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living centers, pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. The Adoptables program provides rescue dogs with obedience training and placement in their forever homes. Their service dog teams provide increased independence when paired with a disabled partner. These highly skilled canines can turn on lights, provide balance and mobility, retrieve dropped items, bring a bottle of water from a refrigerator, respond to medical emergencies, and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide lifesaving measures for their disabled partner. For more information about Domesti-PUPS, visit www.domesti-pups.org.
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FRIENDS4LUNCH Last Month: Texas T-Bone Steakhouse With the largest selection of USDA Choice premium steaks in Lincoln, Te x a s T- B o n e Steakhouse also places a major emphasis on va l u e, w i t h t h e motto “Everything is Big Except Our Prices!” Along with its signature fare, USDA Choice premium steaks and create-your-own salads, Texas T-Bone has an amazing lunch menu, offering guests Texas Size Sandwiches and Favorites. Located at 200 N. 70th Street, the restaurant opens daily at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday (closed on Mondays) and opens at 11 a.m. Friday through Sunday for lunch with closing hours Sunday through Thursday at 9:00 p.m. and a later closing of 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings. At Texas T-Bone Steakhouse, steaks and salads are done right! Thank you to our friends who joined us for this event!
NON-PROFIT NEWS
Tickets, Sponsorships Available for CBMC Lincoln Annual Golf Classic Love the Lord? Love golf? Then come out and play! CBMC Lincoln’s Annual Golf Classic will be held on Tuesday, July 25th at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course. Check-in begins at 10:00 a.m. The cost to par ticipate is $125 per person; $500 per team of four. This year’s speaker is the “KC Wolf” - Dan Meers, Mascot of the Kansas City Chiefs. Come for a fun day of food, fellowship, and festivities! Golfing starts at 12:30 and is expected to wrap up around 6 p.m. Please register yourself or your team at lincoln.cbmc.com/golf-classic. Whether you’d like to play or not, consider a sponsorship and gain publicity for your business! CBMC Lincoln is a local organization of Christian business leaders and professionals that seek to encourage each other to conduct business in a way that glorifies God and serves the community. The Lincoln chapter offers peer advisory groups, team meetings, small-group studies, and a variety of training, networking, and relationship-building opportunities. When businesses operate according to Godly principles, everybody wins! For more information, please visit www.lincoln.cbmc.com or contact Ed Nix, Area Director, at (402) 730-8797 or enix@cbmc. com.
This Month: DISH DISH is a New American restaurant in the heart of Downtown Lincoln. The locally owned and operated establishment offers exceptional service and food quality in an upscale, yet comfortable setting. DISH staff works hard to provide each guest with an experience that fits their needs – whether a business luncheon, romantic date, or evening out with friends. On behalf of our entire Strictly Business team, we would like to invite you to our next Friends4Lunch event we are holding on Friday, July 14th at DISH Restaurant at 11:30 a.m. (Lunch prices range approx. $11-$20) Space is limited and RSVP is requested. Please email office@ strictlybusiness.com or call (402) 466-3330 to attend.
Supplies Run Low at Matt Talbot During Busy Summer Months With school out and temperatures rising, the summer months consistently bring an increase in the number of people coming to Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach for meals and outreach services. Rather than experiencing the joy and relaxation summer can bring, many individuals living in poverty actually experience an increase in stress. As a result of this busy season, supplies are depleted. Please consider holding drives in your workplace or donating items or monetary gifts to help alleviate hunger and stress for those in need. Outreach items needed include backpacks, bike locks, visors/ baseball caps, baby wipes/ wet wipes, bug spray, sandals/flip flops, sunglasses, feminine pads, and deodorant. Matt Talbot Kitchen provides a significant amount of food pantries to families and individuals who live from paycheck to paycheck. Food pantry items needed include beans (dried, refried, pinto), canned meat, peanut butter, cereal, oatmeal, pasta sauce, mac & cheese, and dry items (potatoes, stuffing, rice, Hamburger Helper).
Friends4Lunch is one of our continued monthly networking events held at one of our favorite local restaurants. The tradition was established in the hopes of offering a casual way to make valuable connections with friends and strangers alike in the area over lunch while supporting our clients and enjoying their amazing cuisine. 46 Strictly Business JULY 2017
Donations can be brought directly to the community kitchen and outreach center at 2121 N. 27thStreet. To learn more about Matt Talbot Kitchen please visit mtko.org. For more information about holding a drive at your workplace, please contact Victoria Young at victoria.young@mtko.org or (402) 477-4116.
NON-PROFIT NEWS
Nebraska Recycling Council Accepting Nominations for Annual Award Recipients The Nebraska Recycling Council’s Business and Community Awards will be presented at the upcoming 2017 Annual Awards Luncheon, and nominations are now being accepted. With the theme “Collaboration is Key,” the Annual Awards Luncheon will showcase this year’s most accomplished community and business members’ dedication and commitment to waste reduction and resource recovery in Nebraska. Taking place on Thursday, October 19th at The Country Club of Lincoln, the event will recognize and honor six businesses, communities and/or organizations that are leading the way. Nominations may be made in more than one category, and self-nominations are welcome. All NRC members are encouraged to apply! Please submit your nominations by the deadline of July 21st for the following award categories: Member of the Year Award, Service Provider of the Year Award, End Market of the Year Award, Green Team of the Year Award, Zero Waste Award, and Waste Diversion Project of the Year Award. Email your application to hcreevan@ nrcne.org or mail to: Nebraska Recycling Council, 610 J Street, Suite 300, Lincoln, NE 68508. The form can be found online at www. nrcne.org along with more information about the event, including registration, sponsorship and vendor opportunities.
Christian Record Services Introduces Expanded Online Library Christian Record Services, Inc. is excited to announce the upcoming launch of its expanded online library, which will work in conjunction with OverDrive, an online content delivery system. This improved library system will give clients a c c e s s t o a l a r ge r collection of books in audio, braille, and large print. Additionally, clients will have more control over the types of content they receive as well as delivery frequency by way of a specialized web interface. With this new system, the organization will be able to add approximately 90 new titles annually. Christian Record began researching options for redesigning its online library in 2016 as part of the organization’s restructuring plan. While the online library was under construction, the existing lending library continued to distribute cartridges that utilized specialized players from the National Library Services for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. Clients will be able to continue using this system alongside the online library, which will be available in mid-July. Since 1899, Christian Record has touched the lives of people who are legally blind through the distribution of reading materials in braille, audio, and large print, and by sponsoring camps through National Camps for Blind Children. To learn more, please visit www.ChristianRecord.org, call (402) 488-0981, or email info@ ChristianRecord.org.
Cancer Alliance of Nebraska Announces Upcoming Fundraiser Cancer Alliance of Nebraska (CAN) is set to host its upcoming fundraiser event featuring an auction and raffle on July 28th at 6 pm. This year’s event is called: SCREW CANCER. Held at the Omaha Country Club, it is an evening of music, dinner, and fun, and fundraising for the cause. All proceeds stay in Nebraska to support cancer patients enrolled in clinical trials and bring them new cancer treatments. Cancer is personal. We’ve all been touched by it. And we all want to stop cancer from hurting people we love. Help Cancer Alliance of Nebraska raise funds to support breakthrough work in cancer treatment right here in Nebraska. Today’s research is tomorrow’s cure, and every day new treatments are discovered and we get closer to that goal. CAN collaborates with experienced physicians, hospitals, clinics, donors, and patients in communities across the state of Nebraska and provides breakthrough treatments directly from the National Cancer Institute and pharmaceutical companies to cancer patients in the comfort of the places they call home. The clinical trials supported by CAN have led to hundreds of successful outcomes right here in Nebraska. For more information about CAN or the upcoming event, please visit www.cancerallianceofnebraska.org. To donate or to obtain tickets, please contact Mary Beth Wilwerding, RN Program Director, at (402) 991-8070. JULY 2017 Strictly Business 47
HEALTH NEWS Complete Hearing Holds Official Grand Opening Audiology clinic Complete Hearing held their official Grand Opening Celebration and Ribbon Cutting o n T h u r s d ay, April 20. The clinic recently moved locations from 70th and A Street to their new location at 4200 Pioneer Woods Drive. Dr. Sandra Miller and Dr. Meghanne Wetta decided to move the clinic to its new location to take advantage of a larger, handicapaccessible facility. With five exam rooms, the audiologists are now able to see more patients and help them with their hearing needs. The new facility was designed with wider hallways and lower counter heights to make mobility easier for their patients. For over a decade, Complete Hearing has been helping thousands of patients in the Lincoln community with their hearing health. Featuring three doctors of audiology and a team of healthcare professionals, Complete Hearing provides hearing healthcare and hearing loss prevention products for patients of all ages. For more information, visit complete-hearing.com.
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Horizon Physical Therapy Expands Offerings Horizon Physical Therapy is pleased to now offer Functional Dry Needling and Lymphedema Management Programs. Shane Jansa received his Functional Dry Needling (FDN) certification from KinetaCore. KinetaCore’s FDN Course gives clinicians the tools to elevate their practice to a new level of patient care. FDN emphasizes the application of dry needling for the purpose of restoring function. Dry Needling involves inserting a tiny monofilament needling in a muscle to release shortened bands of muscle and decrease myofascial trigger points. Tara Benes received training at the Academy of Lymphatic Studies in Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) to evaluate and treat lymphedema. CDT is the recognized standard of treatment for lymphedema and includes the following components: manual lymph drainage, compression therapy, decongestive exercise and skin care. Horizon Physical Therapy strongly believes a physical therapist’s greatest asset is his/her knowledge and ability to assess, treat and enhance movement. Consider Horizon’s therapists to help guide and hasten your journey to healthy and pain-free living. The entire team at Horizon is dedicated to providing you with the caring, one-on-one treatment that you deserve. Part of their commitment to serving their patients involves providing information that helps them to make more informed decisions. To learn more about Horizon Physical Therapy or to schedule a visit, please call (402) 420-2500 or visit www.horizonpt.net.
HEALTH NEWS Dr. Johnson of Access Family Medicine Attends Direct Primary Care Summit Dr. Todd Johnson of Access Family Medicine recently returned from the 2017 Direct Primary Care Summit held in Washington DC. This event presented physicians with an opportune time to meet with Congress. There was dialogue regarding Direct Primary Care (DPC) and the many benefits the DPC community is experiencing across the nation, while also focusing on the future and the untapped potential of DPC. The conference was held June15-17 and was an ideal time to brainstorm on continuing the momentum of DPC as well as to collectively tackle issues within the existing practices. Currently there are several members of Congress and Senate that are very familiar with DPC and see the exponential benefits tied to this type of health care model. Other members are very eager to learn more, as their initial exposure has been very impressive. Currently, President Trump has proposed a pilot project that will include the DPC model in Medicaid, and the DPC community is eager to see this take place. Access Family Medicine is the first Direct Primary Care clinic in the state of Nebraska. Located here in Lincoln, it is free market health care, with patients paying a low monthly rate for membership. For more information, visit www.accessfamilymedicine.com or contact the clinic at (402) 858-1510 / info@accessdpc.com. Also, check out their Facebook page, as Dr. Johnson has provided several informational videos on Direct Primary Care and Access Family Medicine.
Adjuvance Technologies, Inc. to Locate at NIC Nebraska Innovation Campus has announced a new partner. Dan Duncan, NIC’s executive director, said Adjuvance Technologies Inc. will move into Biotech Connector space on the campus this summer. Adjuvance, a privately held biopharmaceutical company, empowers health through fundamental breakthroughs in vaccine adjuvant design and manufacturing. Adjuvants are critical components that are added to many vaccines to improve the immune response. Dr. Tyler Martin, a Hebron native, Silicon Valley veteran, and the CEO of Adjuvance, recently received a $1.5 million dollar Phase 2 NIH SBIR grant. This grant will allow the Adjuvance team to complete the testing needed to move their products into clinical trials. Martin said expanding the footprint of Adjuvance to include space in the Biotech Connector is critical to the company’s success. Without the wet lab facilities in the Biotech Connector, Martin would have looked outside of Lincoln for expansion. The Biotech Connector is a collaboration between Nebraska Innovation Campus, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Invest Nebraska, Nebraska Department of Economic Development and Bio Nebraska. The space features vertically and horizontally integrated programs designed to provide budding innovators and entrepreneurs with access to the physical resources and soft skills training needed to spark additional biotechnology firm progress in the state NIC is a research campus designed to facilitate new and in-depth partnerships between the university and private sector businesses. At full build-out, NIC will be a 2.2-million square-foot campus with uniquely designed buildings and amenities that inspire creative activity and engagement, transforming ideas into global innovation. For more information, visit www.innovate.unl.edu. Tetrad Property Group is the private sector development partner for NIC. Tetrad provides a full range of development services for the campus, including master planning, construction management, leasing and property management. For more information, visit www. tetradpropertygroup.com.
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HEALTH NEWS
Three Member Charities Receive Grants From Curt Gordon Memorial CHC-NE Foundation Community Health Charities of Nebraska (CHC-NE) is proud to announce that three of its 22 member c harities received the inaugural grants from the Curt Gordon Memorial CHC-NE Foundation. These funds were awarded above and beyond the quarterly distributions that these charities are receiving from CHC-NE, which are provided by donors through the annual statewide campaign. The ALS Association, Mid-America Chapter was awarded $4,000 to expand patient services into central and western Nebraska. The Nebraska Kidney Association was awarded $4,000 to purchase a new machine to expand their KEDS (Kidney Early Detection Screenings) program into central and western Nebraska. The Nebraska Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation was awarded $1,000 to provide speakers for their new state fair program. The purpose of the Foundation is to provide direct support for health programs whose impact would be vital to individuals and the community. These initiatives would not otherwise be possible through CHC-NE’s annual workplace giving campaigns or through current charity resources. The grants are distributed from the interest and dividends earned each year. The CHC-NE Board of Directors is responsible for the Foundation’s management, including oversight of the distribution of funds through a grant-making process. For more information about CHC-NE and the work of its member charities, go to www.chcne.org and www.facebook.com/ CHCNebraska.com or call (402) 614-8500.
American Heart Association Encourages Heart Healthy Summer Summer is here – which means high temps that not only encourage people to head outdoors for barbeques and activities, but that can also be harmful to your heart health. This summer, the American Heart Association wants to encourage you to protect your heart by following these steps: Staying hydrated helps your heart pump blood more easily through the vessels to the muscles, so it doesn’t have to work as hard. Exercising in the summer heat can be dangerous. Drink up and stay hydrated – preferably with water. Dress for the heat; wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton as well as breathable socks and shoes. Wear water-resistant sunscreen and take regular breaks. When making delicious meals that are also heart-healthy, opt for fish and chicken breasts instead of red meat. Take advantage of summer seasonal foods by serving up a salad or side dishes filled with raw fruits and veggies. Two of the greatest risks of spending too much time outdoors during the summer are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you experience any of these symptoms, cool yourself off with water or shade and call 9-1-1 if they persist: high fever (above 104 degrees F); hot, dry, or red skin; fast or weak pulse; fast or shallow breathing; irrational behavior or extreme confusion; seizure or unconsciousness. For more information please visit www.heart.org/HEARTORG.
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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION by Terry Uland, President
402-434-6900 • www.downtownlincoln.org
Evol Empire Sets Plans for Domination
Andrew Tuzson was sick of the rah-rah. He was sick of his 11-mile commute taking three hours and the grind of a congested city. Both he and his wife Angie wanted something different for themselves and their two kids, so they sold their ad agency--which they founded in downtown Denver--and began looking for the right location to begin the next chapter of their lives, which would turn out to be another agency: Evol Empire Creative. “I lived [in Lincoln] 30 years ago and my wife is from Wichita so she’d been down for a few games and stuff, but it had been a while for both of us,” Andrew said. “We looked at pockets all over the country. First and foremost, we were looking for a community that was family-oriented, a good place to raise a family.” Andrew said his family visited Lincoln and stayed in the Haymarket while checking out houses and the feel of the city. He said the first day of their trip hadn’t ended and they already knew Lincoln was what they needed. They quickly moved into their new city and Andrew immediately began working in May of 2016 to create another ground-up ad agency: Evol Empire Creative. Andrew said the first few weeks consisted of him working alone at a desk in Fuse’s co-working space. Soon Evol began hiring employees and the company grew enough to move into Fuse’s shared offices. They quickly outgrew that space as well. “We outgrew that in about three weeks,” Tuzson said. “So we moved to Nebraska Global; I rented the big private space. And we outgrew that. Now here we are, with 24 employees. The rate we’ve grown is insane. It’s cool, it’s humbling, it’s terrifying. The business side doesn’t scare me. I live to sit with my clients. But when you have 24 people relying on you to take care of them every month, it can be a lot of pressure.” When it came to hiring employees, Andrew and Angie knew they needed Evol to be surrounded with top-tier talent. Andrew began scouting the nation for skilled people Evol could relocate to Lincoln. That meant hiring people from Amazon and other notable companies. “It’s hard to get in but once you’re in, man, I make it really hard for you to leave,” Andrew said. “We don’t have turnover; we have a really good crew and they are super talented. We’re known for the quality of work we put out in the market and the speed at which we do it. We don’t sacrifice quality for efficiency. It’s this model we’ve somehow figured out. We’re fast and we’re good.” Andrew attributed Evol’s quick success to their targeting of a middle-tier marketing niche. Some notable clients of Evol Empire include Boiler Brewing Company, Complete Nutrition and Anytime Fitness. “We tell people we may not be the most cost-effective solution, but we’re the most effective solution,” Andrew said. “We fit this middle 80 percent of the market. That’s our sweet spot. It’s a pocket of the market that’s not worked as aggressively in the Midwest. We’ve really fit this niche very well.” When looking to the future, Evol Empire is hoping to emphasize the latter part of their name. Andrew said he named the business Evol Empire on purpose and hopes to see the company rapidly expand in the next few years. “Our plans for the next several years are aggressive,” he said. “Lincoln will always be home base but it’s going to be one of many offices. That’s the ultimate goal and plan.” Founded in 1967, the Downtown Lincoln Association provides services and champions initiatives for maintaining and enhancing our vibrant downtown. Our vision is to create an energetic downtown environment where we live, learn, work, invest and play. DLA has evolved into a multi-faceted organization supporting a wide range of programs and activities including maintenance, economic development and advocacy. For a complete listing of downtown businesses, events and residences visit downtownlincoln.org. ‘Like’ us on Facebook at facebook.com/ downtownlincoln.
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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION by Coby Mach, President & CEO
402-466-3419 • www.liba.org
How Do We Lower Taxes? The 2017 Legislative session has ended. The Legislature worked on major property tax and income tax reform, but failed to reach a consensus. More work is to be done on the property tax dilemma, and Senator Erdman has vowed to allow the people to vote on property tax relief if a compromise is not reached soon. How should we fix the property tax problem in Nebraska? Perhaps it’s time for an automatic “trigger” every time values increase. Here is one idea being discussed. Imagine that every year when property values increase, the state automatically lowers the levy rates of cities, schools and counties to equal the prior year funding. This would actually lower taxes every time there is a value increase. Plus, local elected officials would have the opportunity to raise their levy if they can demonstrate the need for the extra money. Right now, local elected officials automatically get the growth money - and they get to claim that they have not raised your taxes. This idea seems like a simple fix to future problems and it would create the opportunity for a “public hearing” every year if an elected body wants to raise your taxes. In Lincoln for example, Lincoln Public Schools (LPS) intends to take the entire $18 million property tax windfall this year. The elected school board can claim that they didn’t raise your taxes, but most of us will be paying more than we did last year. I am not claiming that this is a good idea. Nor am I claiming that it’s been thoroughly vetted. One downfall is that if a new $30 million dollar building goes up on the corner of 27th & O Street, the city, county and schools would normally see more money from taxes due to the increased value of the development. This plan would not allow for that to happen unless there is a vote by the elected officials. While it’s a negative to the elected officials, it’s a boon to homeowners because it would force the levy rate down and they would see property tax relief. This solution does not fix the immediate issue that our state farmers are seeing. With commodity prices going down and their property taxes at an all-time high, I am not sure this provides the immediate relief that they are seeking. However, pouring state tax dollars into a solution does not seem to be working for them either. You see, state Senators can fund the property tax relief fund, but they do NOT control local property taxes. So even if Senators throw another $100 million at the problem, it does not guarantee that local officials won’t raise their local tax asking. Senator Erdman is looking for a solution that makes everyone happy, including the teachers union. I am not sure that such a solution exists, but he is to be commended for trying. Property taxes are high in Nebraska and we need to find an answer to the problem soon.
LIBA studies and promotes these types of issues that are important to businesses and our community. If you have an interest in joining LIBA, please call me at (402) 466-3419. LIBA membership is not restricted to just businesses. We also have “individual” memberships for those who want to help influence our local government decisions.
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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE by Wendy Birdsall, President
402-436-2350 • www.lcoc.org
2017 Legislative Session Ends Early, Shows Some Positive Signs for Lincoln Businesses
The 2017 session was a longer, 90-day, budget-setting session for the Nebraska Legislature. However, the session came to a close a few days early this year – on the 86th day – after the Senators enacted a two-year $8.9B general fund budget. The Governor’s budget line-item vetoes made more than $50M of additional spending reductions, which were sustained despite override efforts. The budget package was occasionally mentioned as the only “must complete” of the Session, but senators also dealt with and enacted 171 other legislative bills. I’m pleased to report our organization played a prominent role in getting several key pieces of legislation enacted on your behalf during the session. Those bills included: • LB 271 – This law will allow a streamlined state review of federal environmental requirements for road projects. This change could save the state $12-19M dollars per year that can be used to stretch our road building budgets. • LB 641 – Called the “Bioscience Bill”, this new statue creates a Bioscience Innovation Program as well as the Nebraska Economic Development Task Force. Bioscience-related jobs are high-wage, high-impact jobs that leverage Lincoln’s higher education assets and we were extremely pleased our supporters in the state legislature recognized the growth potential in this exciting field. • LB 222 – This bill updates and reforms the Nebraska Tourism Commission and regulations governing its operations. This is the result of the recent audit of the Commission under the previous director, which revealed several serious issues. LB 222 gives the new director the chance to start with clear directives and more unified statewide industry support. The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce was also a strong supporter of the University of Nebraska during the debate over the state’s budget. Although the University ultimately received cuts to its state funding, the Chamber firmly believes in their role as a driver of our economy. Other issues of note supported by the Lincoln Chamber include better organization of veteran’s services though LB 340 and the creation of protections for individuals against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity through LB 173. I want to conclude by noting the one area of business concern that didn’t receive support from legislators this year – comprehensive income tax relief. Our combined effort with the Omaha Chamber, Nebraska Chamber, Governor Pete Ricketts and Senator Jim Smith, would have put in place a delayed and phased approach to lower our income tax burden as well as making needed reforms to lighten the local property tax load. This was a tough budget year for making this change, but we are encouraged by the majority of senators who supported this tax relief effort. You can rest assured we will be back again next year to make this necessity a reality. Thank you to all who reached out to lawmakers through our action alerts and all those who donated their time to meet with senators or offer testimony at public hearings. Your work doesn’t go unnoticed and your support and engagement are critical to Lincoln’s future. The Chamber’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together. For more information, please contact Jaime Henning at jaimehenning@lcoc.com.
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Are you a homeowner who is thinking about doing some projects around the house yet this summer or into the fall? It might be major renovations or a minor improvement, but odds are that many will answer “yes” to this question. Well, no time better than the present to get going, and for those who are looking for inspiration, direction, motivation, resources, or all of the above, here are a few tips and suggestions from the pros! Interior Design Elements Thanks to design, any space in your home can be elevated, aesthetically and functionally. Most often remodeling projects are done when both need to be updated, but as a rule of thumb, both should always be taken into consideration regardless of one or the other being the reason for the project. Each project will be unique to the home and the homeowners’ preferences, but there are some areas of the home that are much more common to renovate than others. “Kitchen and bath remodels are popular projects for many reasons, the most obvious of which are return on investment, additional square footage, better use of space and function, the need or desire to update, and choice of enhanced design features,” advises Susan Stutheit of Sutter Place Interiors. “Although master bedrooms tend to fall further down the list, when working on a master bath it then becomes a natural progression to give that bedroom a makeover as well. The Susan Stutheit entire suite then becomes a sanctuary and Sutter Place Interiors place of peace and solitude, which is quite nice. Another popular project has been fireplace and fireplace wall updates with shelving to create a more pleasing and comfortable living space. In addition, outdoor spaces are becoming outdoor rooms, not only as a screened in porch or sunroom, but the great outdoors itself becomes an extension of one’s home and living pleasure!” She also offers cautionary advice to homeowners, stating, “While the world of HGTV has brought much attention to home remodels, it has also given way to many false expectations. When perhaps a months-long process from start to completion is made to look like mere weeks, that is just not reality. And, if it indeed does take that length of time, what exactly ARE you getting? The saying ‘you get what you pay for’ certainly applies - what quality and craftsmanship are you expecting on a project with that pace? Oftentimes homeowners do not always look at the big picture in many ways, and that’s where a professional designer can be immensely helpful. At the completion of a remodel you do not want there to be a disconnect with existing elements. Work done in one area affects the rest of the home and a long-range plan is something one must keep in mind. This is why it’s so beneficial and important to work with an interior designer and to develop a JULY 2017 Strictly Business
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relationship with both your designer and remodeler! A designer will help guide you through the entire process, and has a keen eye for noticing and introducing things to you that others will not.” In agreement that it’s wise to invest in design, Nate Bahm of Nate’s Custom Renovations also notes, “By investing in design, you will ensure that the project goes that much smoother once you get to production. With a great design in place, when it comes time to start both the homeowner and the contractor are on the same page; all parties will know the scope of work, cost, and timeline. These three are critical – I can assure you flying by the seat of your pants is not the way Nate Bahm to go when it comes to home remodeling projects. Instead of being shortsighted, Nate’s Custom Renovations think about the finished product and focus on what you can do to get exactly what you want. By doing this, it will return dividends in the end with a stress-free, exciting and enjoyable experience and the home of your dreams that you’ll be able to enjoy well into the future. Many people are not only more apt to consider the design today, but are also going away from shopping solely based on price, which is great to see. While the lower up-front cost can be really attractive, when you sacrifice quality, you’ll end up paying much more in the long run when you consider the actual monetary value and all of the headaches that will come along with it. While a commodity mindset largely prevails to this day, with many operating on the assumption that not much differs from one contractor to another, I can assure you that is not the case. There are many great ones and unfortunately, there are the not-so-great ones that give our industry a bad name altogether. Due diligence beforehand will ensure that you are working with someone who is equally as invested in the outcome of your remodeling endeavor.” If you’re looking for cabinetry, countertops, granite, or even quartzite and quartz composite for an upcoming project, A1 Cabinet & Granite is another local resource that boasts an impressive showroom that’s well worth checking out. Displays span the 20,000-square-feet space, with several kitchen/bar setups, connected to a warehouse where the full inventory of cabinets and granite slabs are stocked. At A1 Cabinet & Granite, all cabinets are available for wholesale and retail. The options for high-quality cabinets include SemiCustomization, Full Extension Drawers, Plywood Boxes, Maple Doors, Drawers and Frames, Dove-Tail and Soft Close Drawers, 6-Way Euro Hinges and Full Overlay Panels. Turnaround time for cabinet delivery is generally 1-2 weeks, and cabinet estimates usually take two to seven days depending on complexity, so make sure to plan for that lead time accordingly. Anyone is welcome to bring measurements in for a custom 3D drawing and estimate. Logistically, flooring is generally one of the last items to get installed, although it will be planned for at the beginning in harmony with all of the other elements of the project. The flooring you choose will tie the other features in the space together, giving it the complete look and feel that you are trying to achieve. EMO Flooring is your local flooring expert, offering a wide variety of flooring options including carpet, tile, wood, laminate, and vinyl. You’ll also receive excellent customer service. For those who are not sure about the necessary quantities and supplies, inhome measurement is offered. With their many years of industry experience installing flooring, clients benefit from their expertise while also having peace of mind that the job will be done right the first time. Their in-house designers will work with you to create a space that expresses your taste and lifestyle, with the goal of making your house a uniquely beautiful home. Jacque Lee of EMO Flooring advises, “Especially regarding residential remodeling endeavors, we first determine the location of the project in the home, such as whether it is specific to the kitchen or bathroom. There are different factors that have likely already been at play
prior to our involvement, such as the color and style of countertops, cabinetry, etc. so we build off of that information in order to get the perfect end result. For example, with new cabinets and hardwood, we need to know the wood type/color to contrast it, and the same holds true with granite. The goal is for all of the design elements to flow while contrasting nicely with the flooring. Equally important, based on what type of materials our clients choose, we always offer education on how to best care for them after installation. If the customer chooses a hardwood, it is essential to be aware that they will need a certain level of humidity year round and a humidifier will be crucial, and so on. At EMO Flooring, we pride ourselves in being able to provide our clients a wealth of information that is useful for just about any type of home remodeling project.” While it’s easy to get caught up in all of the pretty materials and finishes, don’t forget about the lighting, which will showcase them nicely and can really transform the space. “Lighting is one of the best upgrades to consider with any home remodel project,” says Matt Collins of Oak Electric, Inc. “For example, if you are investing thousands of dollars into updating your kitchen, why not invest a little more to install under-cabinet lights to showcase your new kitchen? Same with bathrooms, you can install new lighting Matt Collins over the shower or bath area. Currently, Oak Electric, Inc. the most popular trend in lighting is to replace old overhead light fixtures with strategically placed can lights. Furthermore, one should consider directional lighting to enhance artwork or photography hanging on their walls. Lastly, lighting is equally important on the exterior of your home. Outside lighting provides safety after dark. It provides functionality to use your patio and/or deck later into the evening. It also gives your home greater curb appeal. Before you start any remodel project, whether it’s a new addition, installing new appliances or a hot tub, etc., please have a licensed electrician evaluate your home’s electrical panel to ensure it can safely handle any and all upgrades. Also, when selecting your fixtures, we encourage you to choose a quality fixture over the bargain-priced option – you get what you pay for with lighting just as is commonly cautioned with your big ticket items. Oak Electric, Inc. also provides consulting services to assist with conceptual design.” High-Tech Home Improvements Given all of the amazing home technology that’s on the market today, chances are it’s on your radar for future upgrades. If integration of home technology during a remodel is in the plans, Doug Dushan of Echo Systems points to the importance of infrastructure. “Whenever a remodel project is considered, we work to design wiring and technology infrastructure so that a homeowner can add features as their lifestyle evolves. We often find that people will start small but as the convenience of modern control systems is made more obvious, they often want to supplement their homes with advanced Doug Dushan features. Having the right infrastructure Echo Systems in place makes that possible. People renovate their homes in order to renew their relationship with their living space. This almost always includes aesthetic enhancements or upgrades. One of the more popular requests is suggestions on how to make a television more seamlessly integrate with the space. Whether it’s a mirror TV, an art lift TV or a TV that is motorized out of the ceiling or cabinetry, people are taking greater measures to hide video displays. More sophisticated
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technology is also merging with the increased demand for outdoor living. Extending wireless networks to cover an outdoor area is quite common. Streaming music to discreetly placed speakers throughout the landscaping or even outdoor TV’s and video projection systems are all becoming easier to attain. Home technology has made significant advances. We live in a world where you can access any movie ever made or any piece of music recorded in human history, and pull it to wherever you are, at any time! It’s pretty amazing.” He adds, “One of my top recommendations to clients who plan to stay in their current residence for more than a couple years is to simplify operation of your technology by adding the right control system. Often people think that everything will be simpler if they don’t incorporate technology. The opposite is true. The absence of control technology results in multiple remotes on the coffee table and the requirement that one person in the home be the designated TV “turner on-er”, as one example to which we can all relate. Not ideal! Employing the right technology with a trained professional can make your access to Netflix binge-watching or streaming your favorite musician as easy as can be.” Expanding on the possibilities for controlling your home’s systems, Pat Killeen of Engineered Controls and Control Depot further advises, “Every residential remodel project starts with a dream. Homeowners may enjoy their homes, but over time they would like things to be different. The home no longer reflects the owner’s taste or lifestyle. Maybe the family’s dynamics have changed or making the home more environmentally friendly is a priority. In order to turn those dreams into reality, detailed planning is required. Pat Killeen Would you like to use the current space Engineered Controls differently, or are you looking to add and Control Depot innovation and technology to your home? We offer a whole host of Honeywell products that will improve your home’s comfort and help you operate your home more efficiently. From the most state-of-the-art thermostats and zoning systems, to whole-house air cleaning systems, whole-house humidification and dehumidification systems, security and video systems; everything is geared to make homes more energy-efficient and secure. An option like Total Connect by Honeywell’s innovative home control technology is an investment to your home that’s well worth considering. Total Connect allows homeowners to remotely monitor and control their homes at any time, from anywhere in the world. Through a personalized web portal with mobile apps, the homeowner can stay connected to their home’s heating and air conditioning system and security system from their smartphone, tablet or personal computer. Homeowners can receive alerts via emails, view live video and control and access their security system, control lighting, lock/unlock doors remotely, and more. Plus the simplicity and comfort that Honeywell’s wireless Prestige IAQ HVAC system provides offers a full-suite of wireless-enabled accessories that help you meet homeowners comfort and security needs. Items such as universal diagnostics, water sensor alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and ventilation filtration alarms are just a few of the added benefits of owning such a home automation system. The system also provides customizable reminders for replacing the humidifier pad or UV lamp replacement reminders. When starting a home remodeling project, think about how your lifestyle has changed and what you would like different. Are you simply looking to expand your kitchen or add new windows, or maybe replace your home’s central heating and cooling system? When planning to remodel your home, don’t overlook the importance of improving your home’s environmental control system. It will improve the air you are breathing, increase your HVAC equipment’s energy efficiency, increase your home’s comfort and offer peace-of-mind by increasing your home’s safety and security.” He also notes, “Although most of today’s cutting-edge technology is wireless, there are going to be times when your remodeling
contractor may need to add new equipment above ceilings or in the basement and run additional wiring that requires disrupting the existing walls and ceilings. When a contractor installs upgraded controls, the goal is usually for everything to be out of sight. By taking advantage of a home remodel project to upgrade your home’s technology infrastructure, adding new equipment at the same time is much easier.” Exterior Features Whether it’s elements of your landscape or the exterior of the home itself that you’ve got your eye on improving, there are many different aspects of the property that could be the focus of a renovation project. With the addition or enhancement of outdoor living and entertaining areas continuing to be popular, there are so many options one could consider within just that area alone. Then there are the timeless items that will need replacement at some point, such as windows, doors, siding/gutters, roofing, walkways and driveway, garage, patio, etc. All told, there are many things to consider outside just as with the inside of the home, and some that will have a positive impact on both! “Upgrading your home’s windows is an excellent remodeling project that will not only improve the aesthetic appeal of your home but also your home’s energy efficiency,” advises Jason Olberding, owner of J-Tech Construction and J-Tech Solar. “When you replace your windows, you are not just making a purchase, you are making an investment. It’s entirely possible to enjoy a beautiful new exterior look, and from the interior viewpoints as well, without breaking the bank. It’s not Jason Olberding uncommon to see a 50% improvement J-Tech Construction in your home’s energy efficiency, or and J-Tech Solar oftentimes more! If you are searching for a project to compliment your new windows, I would recommend Seamless Metal Alloy siding. Just like replacing your windows, brand new siding can cut back on your energy costs as well as provide a beautiful new look to your home. Our Seamless Metal Alloy siding comes in a variety of colors and is manufactured on-site, so it’s custom fit your home. It’s a great way to give your home a ‘face-lift.’ Speaking of energy costs, although solar energy is not necessarily a new concept, it has definitely seen a spike in popularity in recent years. Due to a competitive manufacturing market and advancements in technology, the price for a homeowner to have solar installed has decreased substantially. If you were previously interested in solar energy but wrote it off as too high of an expense, I definitely recommend getting a new estimate. You will more than likely be very pleasantly surprised at how much the investment price has decreased.” Olberding concludes with the following advice: “When you are ready to take on a new project, I suggest these three steps: 1. Make a list of what is most important to you. Maybe you have a specific siding color in mind, or maybe you have a specific brand of shingles you want to use—whatever it might be, make sure your list is unique to your taste and vision. 2. Before you get your estimates, plan your budget. What can you afford right now? Maybe you have a budget that allows you to replace a few windows a year. This will keep you from feeling overwhelmed when getting your estimates. 3. After you get your estimates, make sure you do some homework on each of the companies that provided you with an estimate. Are they local? What is their rating with the Better Business Bureau? How about their rating on Google or Home Advisor? Getting answers to questions such as these can help you weed out any bad contractors. Remodeling doesn’t always happen by choice; it can also come JULY 2017 Strictly Business
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about out of necessity. Either way, we’re happy to help.” A beneficial upgrade for windows, you may also want to consider 3M Window Films for a variety of good reasons. Keith May of The Tint Shop explains, “First, window film provides UV protection and blocks out about 99% of the UV rays. These rays can be damaging to furniture, carpet, and hardwood flooring, so incorporating them will offer protection and save you money in the long run. Furthermore, glare reduction will ensure that you won’t be surprised with an annoying sun glare that reflects off of your décor, most commonly your television. The darker the film of your window, the more glare you are going to stop. As far as privacy and safety, window films also ensure that the home’s occupants and valuables can’t be seen by passersby. With high heat rejection capabilities, there are films that will help to keep your home more comfortable and provide greater energy efficiency, which takes the load off of your home’s major systems and equipment, which in turn lowers utility bills. The Tint Shop website, tintshoplincoln.com, is a great resource to utilize if you’re interested learning more about the benefits of window films for your home. Features include a Residential Window Film Simulator, which allows you to see how a certain window film will look and work in a room, a photo gallery, the ability to request an estimate, and a savings calculator. Or, give us a call at (402) 466-1355 and we’re happy to answer any questions.” Ken Svoboda of Ray’s Lawn & Landscape also offers recommendations on outdoor projects for residential properties: “I regularly meet with homeowners to discuss upgrades to their home; most generally the upgrades are meant to enhance the existing outdoor living spaces. It’s been widely studied that landscape and outdoor living space enhancements, if done professionally, can have a return on the original investment of 100-175%. Ken Svoboda Sometimes the requests are as simple as trimming, pruning, or replacing old and Ray’s Lawn & Landscape tired shrubbery and trees with new colorful plants that have a variety of textures and feel. The addition of water features ranging from bubbler boulders or urns to full waterfalls with either pond-less or open water reservoirs all add a really nice touch. Similarly, outdoor lighting will enhance the night-time experience and curb-appeal. New LED lighting options are extremely energy efficient and nearly completely maintenance free. Outdated, cracked and broken concrete patios can be replaced with new cobblestone or slate-like pavers. In fact, the creative expansion of available formed concrete materials has been nearly impossible to keep up with, which means there’s no shortage of options to consider. New concrete pavers designed to look like large slate tiles, ceramic wood planks or flagstone have made designing a new or enhanced outdoor living space that much easier. However, in turn, it tends to prolong the decision phase because there are so many possibilities. Add to that the online availability of endless ideas and the sky has literally become the limit. Moving on past that, pergolas can be added to provide shade and create a more intimate and comfortable outdoor setting. Portable gas grills are replaced with built-in kitchens designed to have the feel and usefulness of any indoor kitchen. The designers of outdoor living products have taken a much-used approach from those that have been designing indoor kitchens. The concept of taking individual cabinet components in a variety of textures and sizes and arranging them to suit the needs of the customer is now a reality in the outdoor kitchen and living space market as well. You can design and install everything from simple drop-in gas grills to pizza ovens; from fire-pits to fireplaces; refrigerators to wine chillers and beer taps. It’s a great time to be in the design and installation market.”
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Svoboda also offers general advice that applies to any project you’re considering on the property: “I always tell my customers to build to their needs not the needs of the next owner. It’s like putting plastic slipcovers over your living room furniture. Sure the fabric will look good forever but you’ll never enjoy the feel or beauty of the fabric. And when it comes time to sell that furniture the fabric is so far from current and outdated it has no value anyway. Now is the time to remodel or enhance your outdoor living spaces. Interest rates are still low on home equity loans, the housing market is fast-paced currently with homes selling as quick as the same day, and the products available to bring indoor living outdoors is at an all-time high. In other words, think big, take advantage of the various markets and you’ll see your return on your investment accelerate with each passing year. But be careful. Fast-paced markets are more prone to scammers or individuals/companies with little experience in putting together a thoughtful and efficient design being hired due to the greater demand. It never fails; we see a few a year where we’re called into a recently completed project to repair or completely rebuild what was incorrectly installed due to lack of experience, short-sightedness or cornercutting. Ask for references, check out their previous work, and check with the Better Business Bureau. With over 50 years of design and installation experience, Ray’s has grown their reputation and client list one satisfied client at a time. We pride ourselves on being one of Lincoln’s finest and most innovative landscape design specialists. If you’re looking for a fall project, don’t wait. Contact a professional today. This time of year is extremely busy and it may take a few weeks to not only set an appointment but to get a design in place and agreed upon. But mostly have fun with the process.” Focusing specifically on outdoor living areas, Bill Budler of Nebraska Outdoor Living Center adds, “Outdoor living is one of the fastest-growing areas of interest for homeowners. The idea of extending their indoors outdoors allows the homeowner to gain square footage without walls. Many buyers in today market list ‘outdoor living area’ on their must-have list when home shopping. When shade or weather protection is coupled with comfortable outdoor furniture, the homeowner can Bill Budler effectively extend their living area beyond Nebraska Outdoor the walls of their home. Living Center D u r i n g o u r 1 5 ye a r s o f a s s i s t i n g homeowners with expanding, enhancing and improving their outdoor living areas, we have found that ‘livability’ and ‘comfort’ are the overwhelming goals of most clients. For many years builders have included basic patios and decks on new homes. Typically they tend to be on the smaller side size-wise, and seldom was any consideration given to making these areas actually useful. Without protection from the heat of the sun, the vast majority of decks and patios are seldom used. Proper exterior shades or pergolas open a whole new world of outdoor living for many. In both new and existing homes, we’ve seen a growing trend in residential construction to include a covered deck or patio. The roofline of the home is extended out and is usually supported by columns or posts. This is a great way to cover an outdoor living area and really helps keep the deck or patio dry. Unfortunately, however, the late afternoon sun is still able to ruin your barbecue. As the sun sets the lower angle often blasts the entire area under the roof creating a very uncomfortable situation. The solution may be a retractable solar screen. These specialized screens are designed for exterior use. With the ability to be raised or lowered to help block the glare of the sun, these can reduce the ambient temperature by as much as 20 degrees! Because they are retractable you can have shade when you need it and sun when you want it. With a variety of colors and levels of concentration, clients can block the sun and not their view! The biggest tip for anyone looking for outdoor living improvements JULY 2017 Strictly Business
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is to plan ahead. All quality products are custom made and do take some time to design, produce and install. Naturally, late spring and summer are especially busy for us and our manufacturers. But with a little patience and the help of experienced professional outdoor living specialist you can transform your deck or patio into the coolest room of your home.” Sometimes just taking a stroll through a studio, showroom, show home, or home & garden center that has a wide variety of products showcased will be just the thing to get you moving in the right direction. There are so many great finds out there just waiting to be rehomed on your property to add to its beauty and/or function. For example, leading local landscape headquarters Outdoor Solutions has more than enough room to showcase its impressive assortment of decorative landscape rock, flagstones, boulders, mulches, topsoil, retaining wall, pavers and construction materials. It’s one of the largest landscape retail yards in the area. Then there’s the spacious storefront featuring outdoor pottery, bird baths, garden products, pond supplies, and much more. Just come out and pick the landscaping products you like and take them home with you! Loaders and employees are ready to assist you with whatever amount of material you need. Trailer rental is also available, and the equipment has a push-button system to making unloading fast and easy. Not only is the location convenient for us here in Lincoln, but with delivery available, your products can be brought right to your doorstep if that’s easiest. “Whether your yard is getting an entire upgrade, or you simply need some new pottery for your home, Outdoor Solutions is your ideal stop,” says Teresa Hendricks of Outdoor Solutions. “We have anything and everything you’d need for a landscaping project or to improve your property - accessories, boulders, cobblestone, construction materials, dry stack walls, edging, landscape lighting, fire pits, flagstone, landscape fabric and rock, mulch, outdoor furniture and living accessories, pavers, and the list even goes on from there. Homeowners and contractors alike will enjoy the
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superior collection of products we have available. We are located at 10901 South 14th Street in Roca, NE, approximately 2.5 miles south of Pine Lake Road. Not sure what you’re looking for? Give us a call at (402) 420-1477 and we are happy to brainstorm with you!” There are a lot of instances when brick would be used in the exterior features, as was previously touched on with respect to pavers. During remodeling projects where you’re adding on to existing features, it’s important to have a professional help you color match for the best results. Larry Epp of Yankee Hill Brick notes, “Brick is a timeless, classic building material. It evokes a sense of quality and durability that many homeowners desire. Homes built with brick never go out of style, and if you’re adding a feature to a brick home, matching can be a challenge. Oftentimes homeowners wish to match pavers too. We can help guide you on which materials to choose or what to look for to get the best results, and we’re well-known for our color blending capability, which is unsurpassed in the industry.”
The possibilities of what you can do to improve your home are exciting to think about, particularly when there’s so much out there to consider. They’re even more satisfying when completed and able to be fully enjoyed. While there are plenty of capable Do-It-Yourselfers out there, other instances call for a professional, whether it’s a necessity or you’d prefer to have someone else perform the task. For the latter, make sure you get on the books sooner than later, as the demand is particularly high this time of year. Otherwise, to keep things on track, a little guidance from the professionals never hurts, and they’re just a quick drop in or phone call away!
In the April issue we went into depth about navigating unplanned life changes, and now it’s time to delve into the life events that are specifically planned. Some are much the same, as they can occur unexpectedly or as a part of an established timeline of events, while others wouldn’t just happen unless they were intended – and generally the better thought out, the better on all accounts. Furthering your education and graduation, marriage, having a baby, getting a pet, retirement, moving, buying/ selling a home or business – there are so many wonderful, even if sometimes bittersweet, things in life that are planned occasions. As such, here are some key things to keep in mind when doing so! Planning for the First Years There’s a lot that goes into planning to have a baby, some of which can be stressful but mostly REALLY exciting. There are doctor’s appointments, baby showers, nursery projects complete with furniture assembling ordeals, and more, all on top of the stuff of normal life. Then, everything about your life changes once the baby is born and home. One thing that you want to have in place, as everything goes by SO fast during pregnancy and even faster once the baby arrives, is the images that document such a special life moment, as you won’t get a second chance. Gina Zabloudil of Zabloudil Photography explains, “For these reasons, we offer a BabyPlan, which is an opportunity to have prepaid portrait sessions with us to document your child’s 1st year of life. We plan each session and brainstorm with you ahead of time, sharing our recommendations and hearing your ideas too! We also talk about age-appropriate expectations. The majority of these sessions are to be created in-studio or in your home. We advise scheduling each session at least 2 weeks prior to the milestone. Our BabyPlan includes the following sessions: Gina Zabloudil Zabloudil Photography Optional Maternity Session with Daddy: Ideal to create these images about 4-8 weeks prior to your due date. Clothing or type of wrap is for you to decide. (This session isn’t appealing to everyone. A family session after the child is 1 year old could be substituted if this option isn’t used.) Newborn Session: A special time for your family. These must be created before 4 weeks of age (up to 6-7 weeks for preemies) – the ideal time frame is less than 2 weeks old. If you’re pregnant and would like us to photograph your newborn session, please call us with your due date now so we can plan accordingly! At this time, we also create images with the parents together with their new baby. Four Month Session: These must be created before the child is 6 months of age. They are the “on the tummy” images that are so adorable and capture the spontaneous smiles of this age Eight Month Session: These must be before the child is 9 months of age. This session is busy because baby is usually mobile now, so it’s perfect to include their sibling(s) for a portion of it. Weather permitting, this session could be created on location. Twelve Month Session: Happy Birthday Sweetheart! This session has the optional ‘birthday cake’ party portion, usually at the end. It could include the whole family as well, but not at the same time if the ‘cake’ option is desired. On-location is an option for this session if weather permits and there won’t be cake. There is an additional fee for family session at a different time. At the conclusion of the BabyPlan, you’ll receive a custom storyboard with your favorite image from each session presented at the end!” Planning for the Golden Years On the opposite side of the age spectrum, when it comes to planning for one’s golden years, retirement is center stage, as is estate planning and making end-of-life arrangements, life insurance, securing Medicare benefits or adequate health care coverage otherwise, downsizing and JULY 2017 Strictly Business
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planning for changes in living arrangements, investment planning, and so on. Given our audience of entrepreneurs and business professionals, one thing you all may find surprising is that many business owners don’t have plans in place for an exit strategy. Although they know at some point they will sell their business or pass it on to the next generation, it’s something that tends to get put off. “Having an exit plan is so important,” emphasizes Jethro Hopkins of No Coast Business Advisors. “It’s one of the basics of Jethro Hopkins being a business owner. Whether you’re the No Coast Business sole proprietor or in a partnership, you’ve Advisors got to be proactive in planning for everything you’ll do moving forward, from start to finish. In the event of your untimely passing, will your significant other, child(ren) or another family member take over, and are they prepared to do so? In the event of a partner’s passing, are you comfortable entering a partnership by default with their spouse, children, parents, or another outside party? Everything that would happen in the event of the sale of the business, dissolution of partnership, death, etc. should be well documented, written into your operating agreement or articles of incorporation. From the day you open the business, an exit strategy should be in place and the plan should be clear to all parties involved. When you’re ready to retire is not the time to be scrambling to put this together either. You want to have everything in order at least 3-5 years prior to when you want to get out of the business. Plan your exit, your partner’s exit, and ideally both, as early on as possible – and specifically for partnerships, while you are on good terms. When planning for the future, just the same as not saving early for retirement or having your will and power of attorney in place, not having an exit strategy will burn you. You don’t want your business going into probate and having a judge determines what happens to it. You have the power when it’s in writing, as your wishes for your business take precedence over a judge’s orders. Similar to a will, someone has to challenge it and prove it’s not valid to prevail. Not to mention that having an exit strategy in place will allow you to get the most money out of your business when it comes time to sell, as you’ll have all of the documentation ready for the bank and potential buyers. It’s a simple way to plan for, and protect, your future and the future of your business.” Planning for All of the Above Aside from what we’ve already discussed, with which there is potential for crossover, there are the things that apply universally, such as insurance policies, investment planning, and estate planning. “The most common life changing events we deal with are retirement and adding new family members either by birth or marriage,” says Andy Storz of Good Life Retirement Solutions. “Ultimately we help provide peace of mind. We want to make sure the people we work with don’t have to worry about losing money due to market uncertainty or not having the resources they need if something happens to them or a family member. ‘How much is enough?’ is a popular question for all types
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of scenarios, whether it be savings, coverage, benefits, etc. I don’t have a single answer because everyone’s situation is different and needs personalized attention. We like to discuss someone’s goals and balance that with ‘what if’ situations to make sure we can take care of as many needs as possible. When planned life changes are coming up it’s a great time to get more information and plan for the future. Something commonly overlooked is simply taking the time to plan now rather than waiting. It will take more Andy Storz effort to reach savings goals the longer you wait and the older you get certain forms of Good Life Retirement Solutions insurance will get more expensive. It’s best to start preparing early so planned life changes can occur without any added stress. With these types of things, it’s always important to stay informed and sometimes that means getting a second opinion. We all want to make sure that any decision we make is good for our families and making sure we know our options is a great benefit to that process.” He also notes, “Recently, in our business, the Department of Labor’s new Fiduciary Rule is a big topic of conversation. It just took effect in June after a great deal of debate. Although the reaction to it by the financial industry has some downsides, I believe that overall it will be beneficial to the public by forcing more transparency and highlighting fees and charges by companies that may not have been easy to see in the past.” Christine Vanderford of Vanderford Law adds, “Life changes – marriage, birth of children, blending families in second or subsequent marriages, death of a spouse, death of a child, child/children with special needs or developmental disabilities – are all things we routinely discuss in helping clients with their estate planning. Many are surprised to find that both short-term and long-term planning considerations are discussed. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, thinking about an untimely death is often shoved into the background. Unfortunately, many are unprepared for the logistics of moving forward in life without that person’s presence, financial support, legal support, and care, Christine Vanderford let alone the emotional impact that person’s Vanderford Law death has on the lives of those who survive them. Very commonly people think their spouses automatically speak for them as their power of attorney. But not true, and especially if there are assets only in your name, or when it comes to gaining access to restricted/confidential medical information and your medical records, often needed to make competent decisions regarding your health care and rehabilitation. All persons who have children under 19, married and/or single, who have assets collectively valued over $50,000, should seek the counsel of an attorney to prepare a last will and testament. Additionally, any person over the age of 19 should have their own Advanced Health Care Directive, assigning who would be making health care decisions for you if you were incapacitated.Seeking the assistance of professionals is the best and most cost-effective way in the long run when it comes to planning with respect to life changes. Be wary of online legal forms without engaging in legal advice particular to your personal situation, as the effect of ‘going it alone’ may only give your loved ones more frustrations or headaches in your absence.” For the things in life that should be thoughtfully planned out in advance, there’s usually a palpable sense of urgency that’s not to be dismissed or ignored. It’s for good reason, because there are significant benefits to having arrangements made at the recommended intervals, if not sooner just for good measure. It always helps to have guidance when planning the important things in life, specifically from the professionals who will apply their knowledge and experience to ensure everything is in place and nothing is overlooked. An outside opinion doesn’t hurt either. By establishing these relationships, you’ll know exactly who to consult when planning for any number of life changes you’ll experience down the road.
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Trade Show Preparation Trade shows are a fantastic tool for businesses to gain exposure and interact with two key audiences: business-to-business (B2B) and businessto-consumer (B2C). As business owners and professionals, we can all appreciate the efficiency of an event that encompasses both at the same time. However, in order to get the most out of the investment of time and resources you’re making, you’ll want to choose the ones you participate in wisely and thoughtfully plan out the key components of how you’ll present your business and promote your offerings. The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce will hold the 2017 Lincoln Business Expo on October 18th. For those who will be planning to host a booth, Jaime Henning of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce advises, “When preparing for the Expo, make a progress calendar to keep you organized and on track. Draft every detail of your display a few months in advance so you know how you want your booth to look inside the venue. Our booths are 10’x10’, and some opt to reserve two or more side-by-side. Large display items Jaime Henning such as a step and repeat, pop up banners Lincoln Chamber and flags should be ordered well in advance of Commerce of show day. In addition to your signs and graphics, consider the other things you may need, such as a monitor, speakers or a tablet for capturing information. Make sure to have plenty of business cards, data sheets, catalogs, price lists, brochures or any other print collateral that you may want to hand out. A unique promotional item is always a great way to keep your company top of mind. The Lincoln Business Expo is held at the Pinnacle Bank Arena and the space is large. Make use of the height of the venue and consider how to make yourself stand out from eye-level. Interactive displays are extremely beneficial and will capture the attendee’s attention to your product or service. The hands-on experience will keep the guest at your booth for a longer period of time, giving you ample opportunity to present your message in a fun and disarming way. Since the Lincoln Business Expo allows sales on-site, it is easy to incorporate merchandise into your display. Above all, determine an objective for your booth based on what your business needs. Careful and strategic planning will make your place at the Lincoln Business Expo and other trade shows a pivotal point in your marketing mix.” Looking to expand your horizons and add a show that you’ve never done before? Nearby in York, NE Holthus Convention Center has been the location of a variety of different shows in the past few years since opening, and is already set to host more this year and next. Terri Carlson of Holthus Convention Center also offers a few tips for those who are planning for their booth presentation, emphasizing “Know the space! Make sure you have accurate measurements and dimensions of the area you will be utilizing to ensure setup Terri Carlson can be executed as planned upon arrival. Holthus Convention Center Request a floor plan that shows you exactly where outlets are positioned, any columns that may be in the space, doors, etc. Also, be sure and check with the facility so you are aware of any requirements with spacing around entrances and exits into the room, aisles, etc. Keep your booth space as open as possible to allow attendees to come in and interact, and a creative display always attracts a crowd.” Remember, when it comes to maximizing your presence at a trade show, planning well ahead of time is key! Use your resources wisely, and contact the local professionals to help you put together something that will WOW the crowd, but more importantly, that will attract qualified prospects.
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MEN’S HEALTH With men in particular, as a positive “sign of the times” so to speak, many have become more proactive in doing what’s necessary to maintain good health. Men in our society, young and young at heart alike, have indeed come a long way from the stereotypical, but once prevailing mindset, of stubbornness and an overall come-what-may attitude towards health and wellness. With many taking notice of the strong connection between taking good care of themselves and living longer, fuller lives, it’s become evident that the modern man is much more willing and apt to do the things that will benefit him – even if not always the most enjoyable. There are plenty of recommendations to be made on how to achieve optimal health and wellness, or even just the small improvements you can make to your lifestyle with that goal in mind. In the scheme of things, nutrition is first and foremost in the discussion, because it is the foundation that supports the body functioning properly. Without good nutrition, you simply can’t sustain good health.
Ryan Blahak Eat Fit Go
“Consistency with good nutrition is what we’re able to offer at Eat Fit Go, which is key for anyone’s health and wellbeing,” advises Ryan Blahak of Eat Fit Go. “However, men, in particular, are known to overindulge in foods that are particularly high in saturated fats, including fried food and oily foods, as well as overconsumption of alcohol. We certainly don’t disagree with the occasional indulgence and believe in the 80/20 mentality, which is 80% of the time you are eating clean and healthy, and 20% of the time you can indulge. Maybe take the significant other out for dinner and cocktails, or order your favorite delivery.
Eat Fit Go offers over 50 different meal options to fulfill that 80%. We take the prep work, cooking, and cleaning out of your hands, making it far more convenient for men to stay on track and consistent with eating clean. The variety is also helpful with sticking to a healthy meal plan over an extended period of time. We are also working on online ordering, overnight delivery and vending machines that will make it even easier for men to have access to healthy meal options no matter where they are and what they’re doing. Another important point to touch on is that men really need to focus on their testosterone. Testosterone is what makes men, men. It’s a great indication of how our bodies are functioning. A major contributor to healthy testosterone is the quality of foods you are putting into your body. Other factors include regular exercise and stress management. Your testosterone is similar to horsepower for a car; if you want to maximize its output you need the right fuel, tires, suspension, etc. The same goes for your body. In order for you to maximize your testosterone, you need the right workouts, sleep, stress management, and of course, FOOD! Eat clean, move your body, sleep good, and find a stress-relieving hobby. Healthy eating can be the hardest piece to the puzzle that is your health. Visit our stores and speak with our knowledgeable team to get started with a stress-free meal plan to fuel your weeks.” Nancy Hopkins of Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers Lincoln
further expands on the importance of good nutrition, and more specifically the damaging effects of obesity. “Men still have a shorter lifespan than women, and among other factors that influence that statistic is a higher rate of obesity than their female counterparts. In relationship to that, they also undergo more obesity-related surgeries – knee and hip replacements, back surgery, open heart surgery, etc. – than women. Men are much less likely to watch what they eat or go on a diet, they drink Nancy Hopkins more alcohol on average, and when not Physicians WEIGHT working they tend to be more sedentary. LOSS Centers This is all much to the detriment of their health as the physical activity of daily life alone, even with adding exercise to the mix, just isn’t enough. If you want to live longer, not to mention be healthier and have a better quality of life, it all about what’s on your plate. Everything else is secondary to that. For every 10lbs you get closer to your healthy body weight, it drastically reduces your chances of experiencing a host of health complications that are directly linked to obesity. The good news for men is that you’ll lose weight twice as fast as those of the opposite sex almost across the board. The fact that men naturally have a larger percentage of body weight as muscle means their bodies will burn fat quicker. At Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers, we have proven plans for those who are overweight and want to improve their health, but also for those who have other needs and goals. This includes maintaining a healthy diet and body weight, as well as for those who are working out but would benefit from enhanced fat burning or having a plan in place to ensure they are getting all of the essential nutrients. We’ll put together a plan or offer recommendations that are specific to you. Men, if you don’t watch your weight you are in big trouble. JULY 2017 Strictly Business 71
Metabolism doesn’t last forever. No matter your goal, we have something that can maximize your efforts and get you healthier short-term and long-term.”
Christy Merritt The Waterford Communities
In agreement about the importance of nutrition for men of all ages, Christy Merritt of The Waterford Communities adds, “A majority of the major health risks that men face as they get older are due to improper nutrition and avoiding routine medical screenings. Many illnesses can be prevented by maintaining a nutritional diet and taking a proactive approach to wellness. Along with a balanced diet and scheduling routine wellness exams, staying physically active is also an important part of being healthy as you get older.
Specifically for seniors, at The Waterford Communities, we understand the importance of these things and offer solutions for all three. We know the value of proper nutrition and provide our residents three healthy meals and a variety snacks throughout the day. We also encourage our residents to stay active by taking walks, riding the exercise bike, and participating in our daily exercises. There are numerous benefits to staying active such as decreased risk of depression, increased strength and mobility, and increased cognitive capacity because of an increase in blood flow to the brain. Finally, even if our residents don’t get to their physician often, we offer routine wellness exams to help identify potential health issues. Some things are simply unavoidable, but we feel that proper diet and exercise combined with some basic health screenings can help keep our male residents healthy and happy!” Also emphasizing the importance of routine health screenings,
specifically regarding the detection of cancer as early on as possible, Georgia Blobaum of Advanced Medical Imaging advises, “Many men don’t prioritize health screenings and that can be seen in the numbers cancer patients every year. Cancers found early can be treated much easier with better results. Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI) provides screening for most of the leading types of cancers seen in men. Lung cancer is the second leading cancer for men and a new scan method is one of the Georgia Blobaum simplest cancer screening processes. Patients can be eligible just due to age and smoking Advanced Medical Imaging history, unlike most screenings that require referrals and/or symptoms. The screening itself is also very simple. The low-dose CT scan takes just minutes, patients can leave their clothes on, and the radiation is just similar to that of a mammogram. At AMI, other common male cancers such as cancer of the mouth, throat, stomach and colorectal cancer can be detected through scans.” Staying on track requires being mindful of your health in all of the different scenarios you’ll encounter. While there’s often an intentional focus on what we’re doing in our personal lives, it’s important to keep health and wellness in mind while at work too. “We take a personalized approac h to workplace wellness,” explains Katie Tiedeman of Proactive Solutions, Inc. “Our team works with men to be able to maintain or build up the physical stability needed for their specific work environments. Whether you are working in a sedentary environment and needing to balance that with increased activity in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, or working in a high-paced manual labor environment and needing to strengthen and protect your body from Katie Tiedeman wear and tear, we can design a program that meets your needs. Repetitive situations Proactive Solutions, Inc. can lead to the physical breakdown of our bodies long before we expect, and having the expertise of an on-site physical or occupational therapist can provide you with the tools to do your job to the best of your potential while protecting your body to be able to thrive for years to come. Ultimately we would all like to avoid any type of health situation that requires medical attention. By having an on-site specialist to consult when you have a health question, you are much more likely to address the issue when it is small and easy to fix. Proactive Solutions provides this opportunity to clients in a broad range of businesses and industries. However, sometimes avoiding a surgery to address a health concern is unavoidable. When you are left with no choice but to proceed with a surgery, this can affect your ability to perform your required job duties or return to work in a timely manner. Proactive Solutions also provides onsite physical, occupational, and massage therapy that can allow people to return to work at a much faster rate while they are recovering. In general, men tend to overlook or underestimate the importance of regular health screenings and reducing the physical strain on their bodies. The old mentality of ‘tough it out’ or ‘no pain, no gain’ can lead to health conditions that become very challenging and costly to reverse or repair. Many health conditions can be managed and minimized if we are aware of the early warning signs. Rather than put off seeking medical consultation, it is far better to have a problem or question addressed early for the least amount of negative impact to your health. Keeping your body safe and in shape in our younger years will lead to a much more enjoyable retirement!” Also offering advice on good health as it relates to the workplace, which also applies to common tasks performed around the house and leisure activities, Audiologist Leslie Frank of Nebraska Hearing
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Center notes, “At Nebraska Hearing Center we believe that being proactive in taking care of your health is very important. Men, in particular, may be at higher risk for exposure to loud and damaging noises. Wearing ear protection is important while hunting and working with and around loud machinery. We believe having your hearing checked is just as important as any other annual exam, and hearing evaluations at Nebraska Leslie Frank Hearing Center are always free. If assistive Nebraska Hearing Center technology becomes necessary, rest assured that it’s always changing and improving in hearing devices. Today’s hearing aids are so small you hardly know you are wearing them. With Surflink Mini Mobile, a small, simple, and affordable cell phone solution, you’ll even have the ability to stream music, TV, or phone conversations directly into your hearing aids. Protecting your hearing is so important. Many studies have shown hearing loss can lead to dementia, depression, and loss of balance. With so many exciting technological advances in the hearing aid industry, it’s never been a better time to hear your very best and take care of your overall wellbeing!” Among the other things that will help you maintain good health that we’ve discussed, along the same lines of keeping your body functioning optimally, come what may in your day-to-day life, Dr. Tara Mohl of Green Chiropractic emphasizes yet another area of importance – spinal health. “Spinal health is one of the most important but overlooked aspects of our health. The spine and nervous system not only affects how we look, feel and move but it also affects our overall health. The tendency Dr. Tara Mohl of being pain focused prevents individuals Green Chiropractic towards making that next step in overall wellness. Instead of focusing on the pain and symptoms, we focus on what is causing the problem instead of covering it up so we can help keep it from happening again. Chiropractic focuses on the alignment of the spine. This can benefit men in many ways. Proper alignment of the spine leads to proper functioning of the nervous system, cutting down on the frequency and intensity of certain types of aches and pains. Proper alignment can also help ease the discomforts associated with men’s issues such as work-related aches and pains or sports related injuries. If a man’s body is properly aligned it can help everything else function more efficiently (and hopefully, less painfully). Just like we go to our dentist for regular cleanings, early detection and prevention is key to spinal care. As people age, they don’t have to give things up but can continue to enjoy a full active life. Better spine, better life. The key to living a healthy and holistic lifestyle - get adjusted, keep your spine in great alignment and add in the other components of wellness like exercise, good nutrition, and healthy thoughts.” Moving on down the line of issues affecting men, hair loss is also more prominent. With that comes heightened exposure to the sun, which is a well-known cause of skin cancer. On both accounts, your hair stylist, although not necessarily thought of as a typical “health care professional,” can actually be very helpful. Brooke Ahlman Brookelyn’s Hair & Replacement
“As part of their education and training, stylists learn the warning signs to look for, such as irregular discoloration and moles,”
says Brooke Ahlman of Brookelyn’s Hair & Replacement. “It makes sense when you think about the fact that you can’t really examine the sides, back, and top of your head very well, and most of us don’t do that regularly. Your stylist has the perfect view of this area and can inform you of anything that should be checked out by a doctor or dermatologist, helping you to catch any problems early on before they get too far out of hand. As for hair loss, replacement methods and systems have come a long way. The hair industry is changing constantly, and I make it a point to keep up by going to trade shows, researching new options, and staying in contact with the different factories and brand representatives. One of the newest offerings I’ve added is a system called the Edge XT, which is undetectable in the front so nobody will ever know a person is wearing hair. With restoration, one achieves a more youthful appearance, which increases confidence and selfesteem. Gaining those things back can really go a long way towards improving a person’s wellbeing and outlook on life. There’s no surgery required or mishaps in public to worry about, so don’t let any misconceptions deter you from finding out more if you’re interested. You don’t have to be embarrassed about hair loss. If you’re starting to thin, don’t be afraid to give me a call. At minimum we can get you started with a hair loss therapy product line while looking at the different systems offered. I always like to keep my clients informed about what’s out there to try, and all of my consultations are free and confidential.” With more knowledge, awareness, resources, and support out there than ever before, there’s no excuse not to pursue anything that will help you maintain good health or improve your quality of life. Guys, we encourage you to stay on trend with becoming more proactive about your health and wellness, and there are plenty of qualified experts out there to consult if you have any questions or concerns. Stay healthy friends! JULY 2017 Strictly Business 73
Supporting Non Profits What Strictly Business Magazine is all about, and has been since the publication was founded 24 years ago this month, is promoting local businesses and organizations. In doing so, we strongly encourage our readers to be conscious consumers, as we feel that it is incredibly important to support local businesses that support the local community. Likewise, we hope to inspire our fellow businesses to make giving back a priority, and shine a light on those that feel the same. It’s heartwarming to report there are many of these, both small and large, that contribute so much to making our city such a wonderful place to live and do business. Here in Lincoln we are truly fortunate to have an amazing network of non-profit organizations doing such important work that touches the lives of others profoundly. There is great diversity within the non-profit community, which allows for all different types of needs to be met. This also affords citizens and companies the freedom to give back in whatever way they find to be most fulfilling and makes the best use of their time, talents, and/or income. Non-profits rely solely on donors and contributions to fund the work they do for the community. As such, every little bit counts towards both a better today and a brighter future. It is a great feeling to do your part and contribute to a cause that truly helps others, and to mobilize and encourage others around you in the workplace to do so as well. In leading by example, you are showing your team that you care and that they should too. With the opportunity to serve in any number of different capacities, it’s all about finding the perfect blend of bettering yourself and bettering the lives of others. Let’s say you choose to be on board or committee for a non-profit or fundraiser, benefit, etc. It’s a great opportunity to collaborate with those outside of your own business/industry, or those who are connected in some way, depending on the composition of the group and the objective(s) you’re setting out to accomplish together. Either way, you’ll make the acquaintance of other like-minded professionals, which in turn grows your network while doing good for the benefit of others in your community. Whether you’re an employer and employee, serving in this capacity allows you to showcase your individual talents and the level of dedication you put forth speaks volumes, widely recognized by those you’re working with on the project and also those who witness the success of your collective efforts. Giving back to the community should be an enjoyable and exciting opportunity to be a part of something that benefits everyone involved. Choosing a cause that is particularly meaningful on a personal level will likely provide you with a greater sense of purpose, as well as greater worth of and pride in your investment. It is not feasible to contribute to every charity, and you will likely be pulled in many directions when it comes to choosing which ones you want to support. Be careful—all non-profits are not created equal! Do your research before you finalize your decision on which organizations you will promote and invest your time and resources in, with a focus on how they spend their money and utilize their resources. While awareness is incredibly important, actions often do speak louder than words. The work that each non-profit does, and in turn your contribution to their cause, should impact the community in a real and meaningful way. We have compiled a list of non-profits right here in our community, some of which may be familiar and others that may be new to you – but all of which need and welcome your support. If you’re reading this, we encourage you to get involved with the ones that speak to you, whether it’s a team or solo mission. Lincoln is a better place because of the value we place on giving back here, but it takes consistent effort from each and every one of us to make the difference we want to see here at the community level and in the world. 74 Strictly Business JULY 2017
Survivors Rising is a working group dedicated to advocacy, education, and support for survivors of intimate partner violence. Our mission is to ensure that the survivor voice is represented in legislation and in the community and that offenders are held accountable. Survivors Rising was created by a small group of survivors of intimate partner violence who are passionate about the cause. We recognized the need for advocacy, education in the community, and support for all survivors. Survivors Rising is a catalyst for change. We’re committed to working with survivors to provide hope and tools for healing and to providing survivor engagement in all aspects of our communities. Our programs include: speakers bureau, education and training, legislative and policy advocacy, and survivor engagement to promote system change and safety in our community. There should be nothing about us without us. Survivors Rising: www.survivorsrising.org or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Survivors-Rising.
With a dedicated and united front of staff and volunteers who help the homeless and near homeless find possibilities when things seem impossible, the vision of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is to defeat hunger & homelessness and restore hope! Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, Matt Talbot is an inviting hunger relief and outreach center for those in need. Annually, Matt Talbot provides approximately 100,000 nutritious meals and 25,000 homeless prevention services to the working poor and homeless such as housing, case management, drug & alcohol evaluations, life skills classes, nutrition counseling, and help with obtaining vital identification documents. Most importantly, Matt Talbot provides beyond basic needs to embolden people to have hope. Matt Talbot has maintained a 4-star Charity Navigator ranking for three consecutive years and received the Better Business Bureau Integrity Award for the nonprofit sector in 2013. Contact Information: Susanne Blue, CMSW, Executive Director, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach – (402) 477-4116 | susanne.blue@mtko. org | www.mtko.org.
For 53 years, St. Monica’s has provided opportunities for women to transform their lives. Last year 288 women came to St. Monica’s to overcome addiction, improve their mental health, develop better parenting skills and become productive members of our community. You can help make those opportunities available to women in the coming year. Form a team for The Amazing Chase XII on Saturday, August 26, 2017 today! To sign up please go to our website www. stmonicas.com The Amazing Chase brings together competitors, volunteers, friends and families for a fast-paced scavenger hunt all across town with zany challenges at every stop. All summer your team of four can collect support for St. Monica’s, in fierce competition for the best starting time on Chase day. To find out more, please contact Valerie Murphy at valerie.murphy@ stmonicas.com or call (402) 441-3768 Ext. 111.
Ranking among the top 5% of all Catholic high schools in the country, Pius X High School provides an affordable, Catholic education in a positive environment. As part of the Pius X family, students deepen their faith and knowledge, and have opportunities to pursue their talents and passions. With its largest enrollment ever at 1,275 students, Pius X has served the Lincoln community for 60 years and works to instill seven core values – excellence, service, purpose, faith, integrity and charity – into the next generation of leaders. Contact us at (402) 488-1046 or email michelle.birkel@piusx.net. To learn more about Pius X High School and the Pius X Foundation, visit www.piusx.net or follow us at facebook.com/RestoreAllThings or @PiusXLincoln.
Youth for Christ Lincoln Area is a non-denominational, non-profit organization serving youth in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. We engage youth through three ministries: Campus Life to teens in high schools and middle schools, Juvenile Justice to jailed teens, and Parent Life to pregnant teens. Through regular programming and special events, YFC Lincoln Area works with over 2,400 local youth with the goal of engaging them in a healthy relationship with God. To learn more about our ministries, college internships, or to volunteer visit yfclincoln.org or call us (402) 420-7475.
Nebraska Recycling Council is a statewide, member-based, charitable nonprofit supporting collaboration between communities, businesses, solid waste and recycling industries to improve recycling collection and infrastructure. Our mission is to maximize the economic and environmental benefits of resource recovery in Nebraska. Visit www.nrcne.org or call (402) 436-2384. • Recycling Information: Nebraska Online Recycling Guide, Phone assistance • Education & Training: Webinars, Green team training, Networking events • Services: Waste assessments, Zero waste events, Zero waste community consultation, Hub & spoke consultation • Grants: Recycling equipment grants • Publications: Best management practices, E-Newsletters, Case studies • Annual Awards Luncheon: National speaker, Workshops, Business & Community Environmental Awards
Child Guidance Center Provides Hope and Healing for Children and Families. Child Guidance Center (CGC) inspires healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health care. Last year, the Child Guidance Center saw significantly more clients in several key program areas including Outpatient Services (27% increase), Outpatient Services-Schools (37% increase), Therapeutic Group Home (27% increase) and Extended Day Treatment (15% increase). We know that a child’s mental health is as important as their physical health. The Outpatient Services and the Extended Day Treatment Program operate out of our offices at 25th and O Streets. In addition, therapists provide counseling within 13 Lincoln Public Schools and substance abuse awareness and prevention in two schools. We provide therapeutic consultation at Don Sherrill and Nuernberger Education Centers. CGC also provides community-based evaluations, and risk assessments and transitional counseling at the Juvenile Detention Center. For more information about CGC programs or to make a donation, go to www.child-guidance.org or call (402) 475-7666. JULY 2017 Strictly Business
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Friendship Home is Lincoln’s only safe, confidential emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and their children. We save and change lives for approximately 1,600 victims each year by providing safe shelter and crisis services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Shelter at Friendship Home is offered in a communal shelter setting, apartments for families and transitional living. Our advocates work closely with families and empower them to become survivors through safety planning, referrals to resources, support groups and mental health counseling. Friendship Home also provides a safe environment and emotional support to children. Gift cards for gas and groceries, financial donations and volunteers to help with special events are ways to help. For more information about Friendship Home, visit www.friendshiphome. org. If you or someone you know needs help, call our confidential help line at (402) 437-9302.
Aiding Angels is a local, 501(c)3 non-profit organization providing FREE, professional housecleaning to the cancer heroes in our community during one of the most stressful times of their lives. A clean home and environment contributes to the welfare and recovery of patients. Brenda Schwery, local business owner of Maid To Please, has provided free home cleanings for years through another foundation where, unfortunately, women with cancer are the only recipients. In response to an overwhelming number of requests from not only women, but also men and children, Brenda founded Aiding Angels. Now, the void is filled and the much needed help is extended to everyone going through cancer treatment or hospice due to cancer. For more information on Aiding Angels, please visit www.aidingangels. com or contact Brenda at (402) 434-2472.
The Nebraska Sports Council is a non-profit organization that provides quality competition for athletes of all ages and abilities and promotes healthy and active lifestyle choices. Major programs include the NE 150 Wellness Challenge, which encourages all Nebraskans to get out and be active by participating in any physical activity, and the Cornhusker State Games, a 60+-sport Olympic-style athletic festival which attracts an average of 12,000 athletes to Lincoln/Omaha each July. Other events like the annual Pumpkin Run and Mud Run round out a full-year of fun and healthy activity offerings. 2017 program dates include the NE 150 Wellness Challenge, Jan. 1 – Dec. 31; Cornhusker State Games, July 21-30; Mud Run, Aug. 26 and Pumpkin Run, Oct. 7. Nebraska Sports Council programs and events require more than 3,500 volunteers and financial backing from more than 300 businesses annually. Those interested in supporting or participating in the Nebraska Sports Council can learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com or visit us in person at 4903 N. 57th St. in Lincoln or by phone at (402) 471-2544. 76 Strictly Business JULY 2017
Launch Leadership provides leadership training for middle school and high school students. For more than 50 years, we’ve empowered young leaders that build better schools and communities. Everything we do is focused on helping students find out who they are and how they lead. Then, we challenge them to think about how they can apply what they’ve learned to the real world. The result is a community infused with motivated, focused, ambitious young leaders. Our Summer Leadership Workshop brings together over 500 students for an action-packed week of fun activities and lifelong lessons. We also facilitate services throughout the school year, including One-Day Workshops and Leadership Retreats. Our all-volunteer staff is composed of college students, professional educators and professionals from other walks of life. Most staff members are alumni of our services, and they joined Launch in part to give help build the next generation of leaders.
Not all children are lucky enough to have lives free of abuse or neglect. Some become involved in the juvenile court system through no fault of their own. Court Appointed Special Advocates or CASA for Lancaster County, a local not-for-profit organization, recruits, trains and supports community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused, neglected, truant, or ungovernable children in Juvenile Court. CASA volunteers do their own investigation and report their findings directly to the judge. CASA volunteers provide a voice for children in court, expedite permanency, and ensure that children have safe permanent homes. To donate, volunteer or for more information, please contact CASA for Lancaster County at (402) 474-5161 or www.casa4lancaster.org.
At CBMC, we believe that when the Marketplace operates according to biblical principles, everyone wins! Our mission is to equip Christian Businessmen to live out their faith through their business and connect them to others who also believe this is our calling and privilege. Through our Marketplace Ambassador Initiative, we offer several programs to help individuals grow: First Steps, Operation Timothy, Living Proof, and Every Man a Warrior. These one-on-one or small group studies help participants develop skills and abilities as followers of Jesus. The Leadership Institute, which is specifically geared toward business leaders and owners, consists of a variety of Peer Advisory Groups (PAGs) including Trusted Advisor Groups, Forums, and the Executive Roundtable. Led by trained facilitators, these monthly groups utilize Biblical and Academic Study for growth, fellowship, and accountability. To learn more about CBMC or join us, please contact enix@cbmc.com or visit our website at Lincoln.CBMC.com.
Christian Record Services, Inc. is a ministry of compassion to people who are blind. Since 1899, Christian Record has worked to improve the quality of life for children, teens, and adults who are blind by providing free programs and services. All who are legally blind (20/200 with corrective lenses) or have physical impairments that prevent them from holding a book qualify for these free services: • Full-Vision Books: Children’s books that combine braille, audio, and large print • Gift Bibles and Bible Study Guides: Braille, large print, and audio • inSight4Vets: Audiobook “thank you” gift to legally blind military veterans • Lending Library: More than 1,500 specialized audio volumes • National Camps for Blind Children: Summer and winter camps • Subscription Magazines: Braille, large print, and audio formats • Wildlife STORYTELLERS: Audiobook players in soft plush animals To learn more, visit Christian Record Services, Inc. at www.ChristianRecord. org, call (402) 488-0981, or connect on Facebook or Twitter.
The Cornhusker Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors continually strives to be the leading voice promoting free enterprise within the construction industry in Nebraska. The organization’s main goal is to provide member companies and their employees with an opportunity to succeed winning work and delivering that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which they work. Whether a large or small company, joining ABC provides value. ABC offers training, continuing education courses and opportunities for networking and showcasing project successes. Our mission affords us the opportunity to share the industry through student event to help build workforce for Nebraska. For more information or to discuss joining ABC Cornhusker Chapter, contact Anne Klute at (402) 477-4451 or annek@abcnebraska.org. You can also visit www.abcnebraska.org to find out more.
Existing to promote the dignity, independence and well-being of older adults, Tabitha serves clients and their families across 28 southeast Nebraska counties at every stage of the aging journey through compassionate at-home care support, innovative living communities, exceptional rehabilitation, and health care and hospice services. Tabitha believes everyone should receive exceptional care—no matter their financial situation. This commitment is illustrated through Tabitha Meals on Wheels, celebrating 50 strong years. It is the first program of its kind in Nebraska and today the only Meals on Wheels provider in Lincoln/Lancaster County. Serving more than 500 clients daily, 365 days per year, Tabitha Meals on Wheels prolongs Elder independence and provides an invaluable safety check for vulnerable individuals in the Lincoln community. More than 70 percent of the program’s recipients cannot afford the $6.25 per-meal cost, despite their inability to pay; Tabitha continues to say “yes” through the strong support of donors. Tabitha is always looking for civic-minded individuals to join us in serving our community. For more information about how you can help Tabitha support our friends and neighbors Please call Tabitha at (402) 486-8520 or visit Tabitha.org.
It started with one home. The Reverend Charles and Alberta Danner lovingly opened their doors and hearts to a homeless child in need. As the number of vulnerable kids in their home grew, so did their needs. But the Lincoln community was there to wrap the couple with support, helping to purchase property and construct the CEDARS Home for Children. Seventy years later, providing refuge for children and youth who have no other safe place to spend the night is the heart of CEDARS mission, pursued through comprehensive efforts to help kids in crisis and build strong families. On CEDARS 70th anniversary, candid photos and heartwarming stories of children finding safety, stability and enduring family have been collected into a new historical book. Visit www.cedars-kids.org/ historicalbook to learn more. For more information call (402) 434-KIDS (5437) or visit www. cedarskids.org. JULY 2017 Strictly Business 77
The Pregnancy Center is a non-profit, faith based organization located in the heart of Lincoln just off O Street. Every month over 400 young women in our community come to the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need our love and support. Many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center offers complete information about every option available to a woman facing an unintended pregnancy. The Pregnancy Center also provides confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support, parenting classes and character-based relationship education in schools all at no cost to our clients or taxpayers. Call the Pregnancy Center at (402) 483-4247 or visit www.support. pregnancycenterlincoln.org for more information.
The mission of Community Crops is to provide education, advocacy and experiences to grow local food. Our vision is a healthy community for everyone--one in which all families can grow their own food, one where new farmers are supported through the challenges of growing healthy food for their community, one where every child has a chance to cultivate a garden alongside their regular lessons in math, English and science. Community Crops is a non-profit organization in Lincoln, Nebraska that was created in 2003 with one community garden, and now serves thousands of people annually with 12 community gardens, workshops on sustainable living and growing, youth gardening education, eight school gardens, a weekly mobile vegetable market and the Growing Farmers Training Program. The latter is a unique hands-on training program for beginning farmers that has provided in-depth education to over 220 farmers. For information on all of our programs and upcoming events and workshops please visit: www.communitycrops.org
Poverty limits opportunity. We don’t. Since 1965, Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties has been removing barriers for individuals living in poverty so that they have the opportunity to thrive. Our four impact areas are Early Childhood Education, Homelessness Prevention, Financial/Family Well-being, and Hunger Relief. Just some programs and services offered include Early Head Start and Head Start, which provide comprehensive early childhood education services to 421 babies, toddlers, preschoolers, pregnant women, and their families; rent, utility, and security deposit assistance; Weatherization, focused on increasing the energy of homes; matched savings opportunities to youth and adults; financial education; free tax preparation and health insurance enrollment assistance; housing; and free evening meals at our soup kitchen, The Gathering Place. Last year, Community Action provided over 72,000 povertyfighting services to nearly 16,000 children and adults. Our mission is to empower people living in poverty to reach economic stability. 78 Strictly Business JULY 2017
Founded more than 40 years ago, and grounded by the solid belief that every person has the ability to recover, CenterPointe makes pivotal treatment available for people suffering from mental and substance use disorders. Meeting people where they are and supporting them to gain control of their lives is what CenterPointe aims to do. CenterPointe provides a full range of services including crisis response, treatment, rehabilitation, street outreach, and housing. The majority of people in services are homeless or nearly homeless. CenterPointe has programs in both the Lincoln and Omaha communities. Support from the community is essential for ensuring high-quality care is available for people working to turn their lives around. Last year, the community helped more than 1,700 women, men, teens, and veterans to overcome homelessness, mental illness and addiction. For more information, to support this work, or begin a career at CenterPointe: www.centerpointe.org
Through a growing network of ambitious people, Nebraska Community Foundation is helping local leaders unleash the abundant assets and talents within their own place to build stronger, more prosperous communities across the state. Using philanthropy as a tool for community development, NCF works with organizations and individuals every day to plan the charitable gifts and legacies that make dreams come true. In just the past five years, donors have invested more than $125 million in Nebraska schools, hospitals, community centers, libraries, fire and rescue units, parks and recreation, youth programs and our natural environment through Nebraska Community Foundation. NCF isn’t your typical community foundation. All grantmaking decisions are made by local affiliated fund leaders in communities across the state. NCF serves over 250 Nebraska hometowns and supports 1,500 volunteer leaders through training, financial management, donor education, and planning for a brighter future. Visit NebraskaHometown.org, call (402) 323-7330 or email info@ nebcommfound.org for more information.
Help save lives. Donate blood. “I’ve never been asked.” That’s the number one reason why people don’t donate blood. Today, the Nebraska Community Blood Bank is asking you to donate blood to help save lives. Every 2 seconds someone needs blood. The rarest blood type is the one that’s not available when a patient is in need. That need is constant. Nebraska Community Blood Bank has been connecting people who need life-saving blood with generous volunteer donors for nearly 50 years. We provide life-saving blood to healthcare facilities throughout southeast Nebraska. Be part of our life-saving mission by becoming a blood donor with Nebraska Community Blood Bank today. Visit NCBB.ORG to learn more about hosting a blood drive or to sign up to donate blood at a donor center or blood drive near you. Connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter (@NCBBLincoln).
Voices of Hope provides 24-hour-a-day services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, incest, stalking, and related forms of abuse. We have provided free and confidential services to victims of these crimes in Lincoln/Lancaster County for over 40 years. Our services include the 24-hour crisis line (402-475-7273), 24-hour victim advocacy at hospitals, and daily walk-in services. We also offer support groups, crisis counseling, safety planning, assistance with protection orders, basic needs, and on-campus services at UNL. Last year, we answered over 6,000 crisis line calls and provided face-to-face services to nearly 2,000 victims. Our free and confidential services are available to women and men. We are in need of financial donations, as well as donations of basic needs items such as personal hygiene items, household items, diapers and wipes, and office supplies. Voices of Hope is the beneficiary of the Southpointe Friday Night Concerts in July. Stop by our booth and say hi. For more information, visit our website at www.voicesofhopelincoln.org.
For over 17 years, Domesti-PUPS has been supporting people in our local, regional and national communities through the assistance of animals. From therapy dogs in the classroom motivating children to excel in their learning environment, to pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living centers, Domesti-PUPS pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. Our service dog teams provide increased independence when paired with a disabled partner. These highly skilled canines can turn on lights, provide balance and mobility, retrieve dropped items, bring a bottle of water from a refrigerator, respond to medical emergencies and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide lifesaving measures for their disabled partners. For more information about Domesti-PUPS, visit www.domesti-pups.org.
Community Health Charities of Nebraska is a fundraising family of 22 Nebraska-based affiliates of nationally recognized health charities dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by a chronic health condition. This year, we have added Team Jack Foundation, Autism Action Partnership and Nebraska Community Blood Bank to our team. In Lincoln, we are proud to partner with United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County during the annual United Way/CHC Campaign. CHC-NE raises vital funds through workplace giving campaigns, corporate matching funds, individual gifts and foundation contributions to benefit these health charities. Dollars raised each year help our charities provide support for those with chronic health conditions as well as family members, friends and co-workers affected by chronic illness. Thank you for giving the gift of hope through your support. Lincoln Office: 215 Centennial Mall South, Suite 509 | (402) 475-2770 www.chcne.org | www.facebook.com/CHCNebraska
Theatre Arts for Kids is a challenging musical theatre program specially designed for the young and aspiring performer interested in learning about, participating in, and producing musical theatre. Through teamwork and workshops, performers gain lifelong skills as they build self-esteem and develop leadership ability in addition to building their skill base as singers, dancers, and actors. TAFK offers a FREE Musical TheatreTroupe, voice lessons, classes for performers ages 3-6 & 7-18, and fully staged Broadway musicals are our specialty! For more information about Theatre Arts for Kids, visit our website at TAFK.ORG, call (402) 202-1087 or email ta4kinfo@gmail.com.
The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) was formed with one goal in mind: to help nonprofit organizations help their communities. NAM was incorporated in 2002, and CEO Anne Hindery has led the organization since 2008. “We serve and strengthen nonprofits of all sizes and missions in Nebraska and western Iowa. By connecting organizations with information, education, advocacy and collaboration, we help our members representing health and human services, the arts, education and other areas focus their energy to better help the communities and people they serve,” said Hindery. NAM has 437 members in Nebraska and western Iowa. It’s offering a new, six-week training series called Board Masters. The training program gives new and experienced nonprofit board members the skills and tools they need to successfully implement their organizations’ missions. Other NAM programs include the Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands, DriveTime Networking, the Nonprofit Executive Institute as well as many diverse training opportunities. NAM is also recognized as the State Association for Nebraska by the National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits. You can learn more about NAM at www.nonprofitam.org. JULY 2017 Strictly Business 79
The Heartland Cancer Foundation was established to assist low income cancer patients with prescription cancer medications and gas money needed to go to and from cancer-related appointments and treatments. Our goal is to reduce the financial stress that often accompanies cancer treatment so patients can focus on their recovery, bringing energy and optimism to their journey. The Heartland Cancer Foundation is based in Lincoln, Nebraska and supports cancer patients who live in Southeast Nebraska and Northeastern Kansas. We are not affiliated with any clinics, hospitals, cancer treatment centers or organizations. All are welcome to call (402) 261-9974 or visit The Heartland Cancer Foundation at www.heartlandcancerfoundation.org to find out more, and those who need assistance may also apply online or to download an application. There are a variety of ways you can get involved – check out the website at www.heartlandcancerfoundation.org for links to upcoming events, to donate, or to find out more about fundraising opportunities available.
Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been strengthening the Lincoln community for more than 80 years by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents an outlet for recycling gently used household items and clothing. The sale of donated items in Goodwill’s retail stores remains the largest source of funding for its programs and services. Goodwill recognizes that services provided by peer agencies prepare people served by Goodwill to better succeed in Goodwill’s employment programs. It is with this understanding that Goodwill provides funding to colleague agencies to help with their own programs that align with Goodwill’s mission of willing workers employed and community resources maximized. For more information about Goodwill and its role in the Lincoln community, visit www.lincolngoodwill.org today. 80 Strictly Business JULY 2017
Founded in 1993, we are a nationally-recognized 501c3 nonprofit working with the National Cancer Institute and pharmaceutical companies to provide breakthrough treatments to cancer patients using clinical trials which we bring to the local community settings here in Nebraska. Every day we get closer to the cure. Why Cancer Clinical Trials are Important • They lead to the discovery of new cancer treatments and cures • They can improve the health of participating cancer patients • They benefit future generations, impacting thousands of lives • When our research is shared – across the state and around the globe – we get closer to the cure even faster We succeed in our work due to the collaborative support of our experienced physicians, hospitals, clinics, donors, and patients in communities across the state of Nebraska. And we share in the collective belief that there is always something more we can do. Visit our site at www.cancerallianceofnebraska.org
Lincoln G.O.L.D (Girls Organization for Leadership and Development) is a local non-profit dedicated to scholarship and leadership. Founded in 2015, this non-profit serves with a two-fold mission. It is a leadership development and community service program for high school junior and senior girls and a scholarship program for Lincoln area high school seniors attending a Nebraska college. Lincoln G.O.L.D was formed by individuals passionate about preparing young women for success and making college more attainable for students who demonstrate leadership and civic sensibilities. Lincoln G.O.L.D. is now selling tickets for the 2nd annual Gala, to be held on March 18, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. at the downtown Cornhusker Hotel. Join us for the celebration of the mentorship program and the scholarship auction where we raise money for the Lincoln area senior high students for college. Go online to Lincolngold.org for information to purchase tickets or email robinnetz@yahoo.com or call (402) 499-7697 for more information.
The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association is devoted to saving people from two of our nation’s top killers heart disease (No. 1) and stroke (No. 5). Powered by millions of volunteers nationwide, the Association’s goal is to improve the cardiovascular health of Americans by 20 percent by 2020, while reducing deaths from heart disease and stroke by 20 percent. Currently, one person dies every 40 seconds from heart disease and stroke. Through events right here in Lincoln like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women and Heart Ball, that startling statistic can change. For more information, visit www.heart.org/lincoln.
Sammy’s Superheroes Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit that raises money to fund research projects who are doing ground-breaking innovative work that will lead to modern treatment for childhood cancer. With only 4% of the National Cancer Institute’s budget earmarked for childhood cancer, and Nebraska ranking 3rd in childhood cancer incidences, Sammy’s wants to ensure that research is being conducted for ALL TYPES of childhood cancer and that the little fighters battling this disease are not forced to use treatments designed for adult cancers or from as far back as the 1950’s. Along with research funding, Sammy’s also has programs that reach out to families to offer support in one of the most terrifying and difficult times of their lives. For more information visit www. SammysSuperheroes.org or follow our social pages on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Since the early 1970’s, Lincoln Medical Education Partnership has been a model of community collaboration, serving many areas of community need. These include the training of Family Medicine residents through the Lincoln Family Medicine Program, cutting-edge cancer research through the Nebraska Cancer Research Center (NCRC), training schools to identify and help children with behavioral health issues through School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP), removing barriers for families by connecting them with resources and addressing substance use through Stepping Stones for Families, and educating individuals to become alcohol and drug counselors via Training for Addiction Professionals. To learn more about Lincoln Medical Education Partnership visit www. lmep.com.
Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln was founded in 1988 with the mission of bringing people together to build homes, hope, and community. Habitat Lincoln knows that decent, affordable shelter is critical in helping families achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance. Through affordable homeownership, families can invest in themselves and their communities. Over the last 30 years Habitat Lincoln has built or repaired 150 homes for low-income families in Lancaster County. Over 700 men, women, and children have a strong roof over their heads and solid foundation under their feet thanks to the thousands of volunteers and donors. Habitat homeowners have life changing outcomes: improved health, more educational opportunities, confidence, financial stability, and empowerment. Every Habitat house changes lives: those of the families who help build them and pay an affordable mortgage or loan and all those who offer them a hand up in a time of need. Learn more at www.lincolnhabitat.org.
Prairie Gold Homes (PGH) is a vocational education program which works with individuals who are transitioning from the Nebraska Department of Corrections to our communities. During the 12-week program, we provide training and certification through the Home Builders Institute, OSHA 10 hour and First Aid/CPR certification. Currently, we have two programming sites, one based in Lincoln; our second site is in McCook. Prairie Gold Homes works with community partners in the building of homes for those communities while providing the training for the classes. We have training site builds in McCook, Lincoln and Beatrice. Class size ranges from 8-12 individuals chosen from different Nebraska Department of Corrections institutions. PGH works with community employers to secure entry level positions for successful graduates. This is one of the big differences with the PGH program. We provide support to our students as they transition back to their families and communities. For more information about Prairie Gold Homes, please visit prairiegoldhomes.org.
You can make a difference in someone’s life! Fresh Start is home to 24 women striving to overcome homelessness. They need your help, because of struggles with addiction, domestic violence, physical or mental health, job loss, or a combination of these. They face overwhelming challenges to move from homelessness to self-sufficiency. Because of you, Fresh Start provides basic needs, safe housing, and case management. Fresh Start is more than a shelter; it’s a goals program designed to support women who are working diligently to improve their lives by recognizing and utilizing their strengths. Fresh Start has provided services for 25 years. Together we have given a fresh start to over 1,500 women that worked hard for a better life. Your support and generosity helps women who are building a better life and makes our community stronger! Donation Needs: Paper Goods, Cleaning Supplies and Monetary Contributions. Volunteer Needs: Daisy Thrift Shop Clerks Join us: FreshStartHome.org | Facebook.com/FreshStartHomeLincoln | Twitter.com/FreshStartLNK Contact Monica at (402) 475-7777, monicaz@FreshStartHome.org, or visit FreshStartHome.org for more information. JULY 2017 Strictly Business 81
Family Service Association of Lincoln works in collaboration with others, to provide quality programs and services, which effectively assist and strengthen individuals and families in our community. Having just celebrated its 125th anniversary, Family Service currently serves more than 5,400 children annually through four major programs: Youth Development before and after elementary school care and programming, Women, Infants and Children (WIC) nutrition education and vouchers for specific foods, Behavioral Health therapy and support services for students in Lincoln and Saunders County, and a Child Care Food Program with training, consultation, and reimbursement for in-home child care providers. For more information, or to apply to work part or full time in the Youth Development program, visit: www. familyservicelincoln.org or call (402) 441-7949.
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease in which a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone people need to get energy from food. T1D strikes both children and adults suddenly and is unrelated to diet or lifestyle. There is currently nothing you can do to prevent it, and there is no cure. T1D is a serious and stressful disease to manage. People with T1D must regularly monitor their blood-sugar levels, inject or continually infuse insulin through a pump, and carefully regulate insulin doses with eating and activity 24 hours a day. JDRF funds research to deliver new treatments and therapies that make day-to-day life with T1D easier, safer and healthier until we can prevent and one day cure the disease. Find out more about our local efforts to support those in our community living with T1D, as well as the research your involvement is helping make possible, by contacting the JDRF Lincoln and Greater Nebraska office at lincoln.jdrf.org.
Nebraska State Stroke Association’s mission is “The prevention of stroke through education for Nebraskans of all ages as well as to maximize quality of life for all Nebraska stroke survivors and their families.” Nebraskans of all ages are experiencing strokes. In this fast-paced world, we are often surprised by the age of individual that arrives at the emergency room with signs and symptoms of a stroke. KNOW THE STROKE WARNING SIGNS: • Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm, leg—especially on one side of the body • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination • Sudden severe headache with no known cause If you experience any of the above, call 911 immediately. Nebraska State Stroke Association is totally funded by donations and all money stays in Nebraska. Check out Nebraska State Stroke Association at www.nebraskastroke. org for events related to stroke awareness. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. If you are interested in hosting a stroke awareness program, please contact us at hello@nebraskastroke.org. 82 Strictly Business JULY 2017
Lincoln TeamMates, a school-based mentoring program, gives community members a chance to nurture their community’s future. Mentors meet with their student at school for one hour a week during the academic year. Mentors act as role models, building a relationship with their mentees that offers hope and a positive vision for the students’ life paths. The program works to help students graduate and pursue post-secondary education or career training. More than 95% of Lincoln TeamMates graduates in the past four years planned to attend a post-secondary institution. TeamMates appreciates the many Lincoln businesses that encourage and make it possible for their employees to volunteer, enhancing our community’s economic future. During this academic year (2016-17), TeamMates supported over 1,200 students. However, the demand for mentors grows each year, as parents, teachers and students see the profound benefits of mentoring. Over 700 students in Lincoln still await a TeamMate to help them thrive. Be like the businesses already investing in Lincoln’s future, support TeamMates today. Go to LincolnTeamMates.org and learn more about The Program. If your business is interested in supporting a specific school near you, please call (402) 436-1990.
What is a BBB Accredited Business? Better Business Bureau® (BBB®) serving Nebraska, South Dakota, The Kansas Plains and Southwest Iowa is a private, non-profit organization established in 1912. Its mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. Today, it is supported by over 9,000 BBB Accredited Businesses. BBB accreditation does not mean that the business’s products or services have been evaluated or endorsed by BBB, or that BBB has made a determination as to the business’s product quality or competency in performing services. It means BBB has concluded that the business meets BBB Standards for Trust and has pledged to support the objectives and standards of fair advertising and ethical business practices. Not all businesses qualify for BBB accreditation, so make sure to look for BBB’s seal that identifies the business as one that “Starts With Trust®.” BBB’s headquarters is located in Omaha at 11811 P St and it has a branch office at 300 N 44th St #100 in Lincoln. For more information, please visit bbbinc.org.
Don’t Miss Out!
This is an excellent opportunity for your non-profit to gain exposure among our readers, as well as for our readers to familiarize themselves with the needs of the various organizations and the valuable work that is going on in our community. If you are a local non-profit organization that is interested in participating in the next SUPPORTING NONPROFITS feature in Strictly Business Magazine, please call (402) 466-3330 or email Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com today!
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