Strictly Business Lincoln August 2017

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

LINCOLN • AUGUST 2017

TM

START SOMETHING: NEW COLLEGE OF BUSINESS OPENS AT NEBRASKA

KATHY FARRELL

INTERIM DEAN, UNL COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

• HUSKER HARVEST DAYS • BUYING & SELLING A BUSINESS • BACK TO SCHOOL • BUYING A HOME • WEDDING PLANNING CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • GOOD LIFE RETIREMENT SOLUTIONS • SARTOR HAMANN JEWELERS • HUSKER REHAB

Barrie Kuhn

Andy Neil

Megan Peck

Teresa Elliott

Jolee Urbanovsky

Jason Hardy

Venue Restaurant & Lounge

Cornhusker Bank

Cartridge World

Bridge to Better Living

Old Cheney Rehabilitation

SP Group, P.C.

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

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FOCUSING ON YOUR BRAND

PAIGE ZUTAVERN - President 402-730-0096 | Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Great Brands That Compete On Value: Get Familiar

Similar to, and expanding upon, what we discussed last month - the importance of sharing personnel news about the people who power your business and who also play a defining role in its brand identity – there’s another component of our publication that’s even more impactful.

It all began with the goal in mind of better acquainting those in our community with key business professionals in the area. We wanted to go beyond the standard content you’d commonly find in a news release, which is by design a summary that succinctly touches on several key points – news, position/duties, experience, accolades, perhaps a sentence or two of personal information depending on preference, and company details (boilerplate). While there’s a little room for creativity and nuance, the majority are fairly straightforward.

As the magazine gained momentum and developed out of its infancy stage, with a growing readership that afforded us a unique platform as an only-business-focused publication with all-local content, we decided to develop a special feature through which local business professionals could connect to our audience on a more personal level.

To that end, we created a standalone column in a Q&A format that allowed us to capture a more in-depth picture of the prominent professional and personal aspects of each individual. It seemed fitting to display the six professionals featured on the cover too, which increased visibility that much more. The result was a unique human-interest piece that’s one of our most noticed and well-read features in the magazine to date. Its popularity is not only evidenced by the feedback received by and from our clients, but also according to page views on our website.

The Star City Six column succeeds because it focuses first on the featured individual’s company and professional background that piques interest, but follows that up with more in-depth personal information that keeps it.

The professional aspect helps us understand his/her qualifications and backstory, positioning that persona as a credible expert in his/her field and with the company – thus, adding credibility to the brand.

The personal aspect helps us become familiar with the person who is in the role, which in turn helps us relate to him/her and compels us to “like” or “dislike” that person accordingly.

CONTENTS NEWS 4 Business 27 Personnel

COLUMNS

34 Non-Profit 46 Health

45 53 54 55

Friends4Lunch Lincoln Independent Business Association Downtown Lincoln Association Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

50 56 59 63 72 4

Husker Harvest Days Buying & Selling A Business Back To School Buying A Home Wedding Planning Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

FEATURE STORIES

“Personal branding is essentially While people are always interested in the ongoing process of establishing personnel news - new a prescribed image or impression hires, promotions, in the mind of others about an certifications, training, individual, group, or organization.” awards, volunteer efforts, causes supported, etc. – they are also generally interested in having an idea about who a person is with whom they choose to do business, or to whom they give their business and referrals. Our individuality, image (appearance + reputation), personality, viewpoints, priorities, affiliations, actions, and the life experiences we share with others are all a part of our personal brand.

The term “branding” tends to be related to companies, but today, nearly every individual has a personal brand. Although not necessarily something that a person has consciously built for him or herself, it exists nonetheless. How we perceive the world around us also helps us define it in our terms, and in the business world, that goes for the company and its team of professionals.

Consider the following definition courtesy of Wikipedia: “Personal branding is essentially the ongoing process of establishing a prescribed image or impression in the mind of others about an individual, group, or organization.” One’s personal brand contributes to the construct of the company’s brand, and vice-versa.

For a company, that’s big, as it drives business – because as you’ll hear me say time and time again, people do business with who they know and like. When there’s a sense of familiarity and commonality, you feel more confident and comfortable giving someone your business. Truth be told, it feels good to give business to someone in your community who you know really deserves it as opposed to a stranger you know nothing about.

We encourage you to check out our Star City Six each month to get familiar with the many talented professionals here in Lincoln who contribute to our thriving business community. And if you’d like to be in front of a large audience of fellow businesspeople and consumers right here in our city, I encourage you to get in touch to find out how!

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)

ASK THE EXPERT 19 ComPro 26 gear80

SPOTLIGHTS 20 49 52 71 80

Star City Six Restaurant Exposé: DISH Client Spotlight: Good Life Retirement Solutions Client Spotlight: Sartor Hamann Jewelers Client Spotlight: Husker Rehab

Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505 P 402.466.3330 • F 402.466.3476 STRICTLY BUSINESS is not responsible for unsolicited material. All rights to submission, including letters, will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to our unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially or creatively, unless otherwise negotiated with the author. Nothing may be printed in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. The publication of any advertisement in STRICTLY BUSINESS is not an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

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ABOUT THE COVER LINCOLN • AUGUST

2017

TM

OM STRICTLY-BUSINESS.C

ING: SOMETHINES START LEG S E OF BUS NEW COL KA OPENS AT NEBRAS

INTERIM DEAN, UNL

DAYS • HUSKER HARVEST A BUSINESS • BUYING & SELLING • BACK TO SCHOOL E • BUYING A HOM NING • WEDDING PLAN CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS S EMENT SOLUTION • GOOD LIFE RETIR JEWELERS • SARTOR HAMANN • HUSKER REHAB

Barrie Kuhn & Venue Restaurant

KATHY FARRELL SS

COLLEGE OF BUSINE

Andy Neil

Cartridge World

Megan Peck Old Cheney Rehabilitation

Lounge

Teresa Elliott

Cornhusker Bank

Jolee Urbanovsky Living Bridge to Better

Jason Hardy SP Group, P.C.

Open Open for for Business Business Ceremony Ceremony to to Cut Cut Ribbon Ribbon on on New New College College of of Business Business

ne Business Magazi Z.A.A. Inc./Strictly Lincoln, NE 68505 PO BOX 57397

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The University of Nebraska-Lincoln will celebrate the opening of its new College of Business from 3 to 5 p.m. on Friday, August 18.

Students, alumni, friends and more can attend the Open for Business: Ribbon Cutting and Back to School Bash by RSVPing at http://business. unl.edu/bash.

The $84 million, 240,000-square-foot building is the largest academic building project in the recent history at the University. The college is located in the center of City Campus at 14th and Vine Streets.

The event kicking off the 2017-18 academic year features live music, food and drinks, prizes and a celebration of the college’s community.

The bash is sponsored by Sandhills Publishing. The formal ribbon cutting ceremony takes place at 4 p.m. and includes speakers from university leadership, including Interim Dean Kathy Farrell.

Farrell believes the building symbolizes the strong growth seen at the college during the past six years. Many programs and services such as the Business Career Center, Honors Academy, Clifton Strengths Institute, Executive Education and others did not exist until recent years.

“This building will provide so many opportunities for our College of Business Community. We are grateful to the many who have helped make it possible,” said Farrell.

Donations from alumni built the privately-funded facility, which possesses an iconic look of sand-colored limestone and deep blue glass adjacent to Morrill Hall’s famous bronze mammoth statue and across Memorial Mall

from Memorial Stadium. Alex Fernando, a senior business administration and broadcasting major from Jefferson, South Dakota, embraces the opportunity to spend his final year at Nebraska attending classes in the new building.

“I’m very excited for the new building,” said Fernando. “It shows the growth of our college which also reflects the growth of the university. I’m involved with a lot of recruitment efforts at Nebraska such as showing prospective students around campus through a part-time job with Campus Hosts. The new building definitely makes an impression.”

Rik Barrera, associate dean of student services and chief operating officer, managed the building project on behalf of the college, coordinating construction with Hausmann Construction, who saw the project through to completion on time and budget.

“We have worked on this building project for five years, and when we move in there will be a new sense of pride and motivation,” Barrera said. “It will be a wonderful place to go to class, work, study, visit with colleagues and friends, get something to eat and hang out. This building will strengthen our already strong community.”

More than 4,200 students, 117 faculty and 65 staff are part of the College of Business. An additional 1,500 non-business majors take business minor courses.

To learn more and RSVP for the Open for Business event, visit: http://business.unl.edu/bash.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Capitol View Winery & Vineyards to Release Chamber Ribbon Cutting Marks Opening of New Wine Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers - North Capitol View Winery & Vineyards is set to release its newest wine this month – Vintner’s Blend!

Vintner’s Blend is a hallmark example of fine wine created by Ed Swanson.

It’s composed of an inviting bouquet of brambly fruit, spicy persimmon and a pinch of Bing cherry.

The palate is exquisite - it opens with dark chocolate, is layered with coffee and black raspberry, and supported by an earthy framework.

Refined and complex, this luscious wine will keep bringing you back to the glass. Suggestions for pairing are to serve with lamb, smoked meats or thin sliced ham.

You’re invited to join for the official uncorking on August 11th at 6:30 p.m.! Light appetizers will be served. Savor the late-summer sun and views of the Lincoln skyline, Capitol View’s Vineyard and surrounding countryside while sipping the newest wine, Vintner’s Blend, for the first time.

Capitol View Winery & Vineyards, located at 2361 Wittstruck Road in Roca, NE just 15 minutes from downtown Lincoln, 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.

Union Bank Partners With Propelr to Help Area Non-Profits Union Bank (UBT) announced an exclusive partnership with Propelr to help raise funds for area nonprofit organizations.

Each time a Union Bank customer uses his or her Union Bank debit card at area participating merchants, a donation is automatically made to the customer’s preselected non-profit organization(s). The program is free to the debit cardholder.

Over 125 area merchants with 6,000 locations and over 120 nonprofit organizations currently participate in the Propelr program.

Merchants include a wide range of services such as convenience stores, restaurants, grocery, clothing, coffee shops, health, and more. Non-profit organizations include private and public schools, churches, social services, etc. The merchant donations range from 2% to 20% of the purchase.

Cardholders may select 1-5 non-profits to support.

Anyone may enroll in Propelr who has a Union Bank checking account and debit card. Current UBT customers may simply enroll online at www. propelrcard.com. Persons who are not a UBT customer can stop in any Union Bank branch to open a checking account, select a debit card and enroll in Propelr.

Union Bank (www.ubt.com) is celebrating its 100th anniversary throughout 2017 with special events, special product opportunities, and community support. Propelr is one of several new programs, services and signature community gifts in 2017. The bank is providing significant financial support to the Lincoln Children’s Zoo expansion, Tabitha’s Meals on Wheels, Planting Trees in city parks, and an additional gift to be announced this fall.

6 Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

Physicians W E I G H T LOSS Centers has expanded to two Lincoln locations with the recent opening of its North location at 27th & Superior.

To officially mark the occasion, a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce took place the afternoon of June 15th. It was well attended

by Chamber representatives, the Strictly Business team, and members of the Lincoln business community. Jethro Hopkins, owner of the growing Lincoln franchise, and Scott Orlando, a representative of the Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers franchise who is responsible for research and development as well as outreach and training for franchises nationwide, both addressed the audience.

After the ribbon was cut, a reception followed, with guests having the opportunity to sample food items and learn more about the plans and products offered at Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers North and South locations in Lincoln.

Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers - North is located at 2601 Champlain Drive, Suite 200 (northwest corner of 27th & Superior) and can be contacted directly at (402) 904-6042.

Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers - South is located at 5733 S. 34th Street, Suite 200 (34th & Old Cheney) and can be contacted directly at (402) 483-7952.

To find out more about how Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers can help you work towards accomplishing your goals, stop in or call either location, or check out the website at pwlclincoln.com.

NDOL’s Boiler, Elevator Inspection Programs Reduce Fees, Allow Online Payments In an effort to reduce c o s t s, e l i m i n a t e paperwor k, and to reduce the lag time between inspection and certificate issuance, the Nebraska Department of Labor’s Boiler and Elevator Inspection Programs have developed online payment portals for their customers to use. Both portals charge a modest convenience fee; however, to account for this, both programs have reduced the fees charged for inspections.

In both cases, inspection fee reductions outweigh the convenience fee.

“The decision was made to reduce fees so that owners of boilers and elevators would have the ability to use the more efficient online payment system without it negatively impacting their bottom line,” said Chris Cantrell, Director of the Department’s Safety Division.

“Paying invoices online allows owners to receive their certificates in a timelier manner after the inspection has been performed, and reduces the amount of paperwork required. In some cases, we have processed payments and issued certificates within hours of the inspection. This usually takes two or more weeks when payments are made by check.”

More information about these two programs and their payment portals can be found online at: dol.nebraska.gov/Safety.

BUSINESS NEWS

Kingery Construction Awarded Contract for Community Corrections Center Project Kingery Construction was recently awarded the contract to build the new 160-bed female living unit from the Nebraska Department of Corrections. This facility will be part of the Community Corrections Center campus, located at 2720 W. Van Dorn Street.

Construction will begin this summer and is expected to be completed by early 2019.

Established in 1924, Kingery Construction is Lincoln’s oldest commercial contractor. The locally owned and operated firm’s portfolio includes schools, universities, hospitals, churches, commercial, government, industrial, and private projects. The experienced professionals at Kingery Construction have developed relationships with owners and architects that stretch back decades and continue to be proud of the company’s ongoing relationships and projects. For more information about Kingery Construction, please visit www.kccobuilders.com or contact Rod Berens at (402) 465-4400 / rodb@kccobuilders.com.

Community Members Help Lincoln Children’s Zoo With Groundbreaking Ceremony L i n c o l n Children’s Zoo officially b r o k e ground on the planned expansion that will b r i n g giraffes, tigers and spider monkeys to Lincoln in 2019. On stage with zoo president & CEO, John Chapo, were over 20 supporters and over 40 children from Christ Kids Preschool. Nearly 350 guests watched as the preschoolers joined Governor Pete Ricketts, Chapo and the others to break ground on the site that will soon be the zoo’s new entrance.

“This is a historic day for our zoo, our community and for the future generations that will pass through our gates,” president & CEO, John Chapo said. Governor Ricketts, Wendy Birdsall of Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, James Anderson of Lincoln Children’s Zoo board of directors and Don Mayhew of the Lincoln Board of Education all spoke about the importance of the zoo’s expansion and its benefit to the growing and thriving city of Lincoln.

Others who took part in the groundbreaking ceremony included: Abel Foundation - Jim, Mary, Jack and Kayla Abel; Acklie Charitable Foundation - Tonn Ostergard and Amanda Ostergard; City of Lincoln Councilman - Roy Christensen; Hausmann Construction - Joey Hausmann; Lancaster County Commissioner - Todd Wiltgen; Lienemann/Abbott Charitable Foundations Dorothy Pflug and Denise Scholz; Lincoln Children’s Zoo - Evan Killeen; Lincoln Parks & Recreation - Lynn Johnson; Nebraska Environmental Trust - Mark Brohman; Nelnet - Ben Kiser; Pearle Francis Finigan Foundation - Liana Sandin; Union Bank & Trust Kevin Keller; Zoo Campaign Leadership - Nick Cusick.

For updates and how to give to the Love Your Zoo expansion campaign visit LincolnZoo.org.

Talon Room Celebrates Grand Opening The Talon Room is officially open under new management and booking events for 2017 and beyond!

Since its debut this spring, the Talon Room has become host to many local events, both private and public. A distinctive event space conveniently located in the heart of downtown Lincoln, the Talon Room formally marked the occasion by welcoming guests to an open house on June 13th. The celebration kicked off with a ribbon cutting held in conjunction with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.

Whether you’re looking for a venue to celebrate your wedding with friends and family, thank your hard-working employees with a social, or party for the next Big Ten game, the Talon Room is the perfect space. It accommodates 250 guests for a seated event and 300 for a stand-up event. The Talon Room prides itself on providing a local event space that’s budget-friendly, with a talented and experienced team of professionals that will create a signature event that leaves a lasting impression. With its stunning urban rustic flair, the Talon Room is a unique place to host your unique event!

For more information about the Talon Room or for inquiries about booking an upcoming event, visit www.talonroom.com or contact Matthew Rogge at (402) 641-0943 / matt@talonroom.com.

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402.464.7567 AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS

Holthus Convention Center to Host Red, White & Ribs BBQ Competition Holthus Convention Center will be the home of this year’s Red, White & Ribs BBQ Competition, which will be held on Saturday, September 9th. In partnership with the Midwest BBQ Association, anyone is eligible to enter!

Gate and beer garden will open to the public at 1 p.m. The Kids Q competition is set to begin at 2 p.m. Children 12 and under are eligible to compete and will cook two burgers. Fare will be ready to serve at 3 p.m. Admission to attend is $12 for adults and $8 for kids (12 and under), which includes three ribs, pork sandwich, sides and a drink. Additional rib tickets will be available to purchase. Then, stay to cheer on the Huskers as they take on the Oregon Ducks! Kickoff is at 3:30 p.m. and game will be on the big screen! There will be tailgate games before and during game as well as a football skills contest at halftime!

Anyone interested in competing may contact the Holthus Convention Center at (402) 363-2675 / info@holthusconventioncenter.com.

Conveniently located on Highway 81 just north of the I-80 York interchange, Holthus Convention Center offers 40,000 square feet of beautiful, versatile indoor/outdoor event space. Let the staff at the Holthus Convention Center help you plan your next event! For more information, please visit www.holthusconventioncenter.com or contact Terri Carlson at (402) 363-2675 / tcarlson@cityofyork.net.

Graduate Lincoln Celebrates Grand Opening Graduate Lincoln opened on June 1st!

To mar k the occasion, on June 22nd hotel representatives, local officials, and local businesses alike gathered to celebrate the official grand opening of Lincoln’s newest hotel. The event commenced with a ribbon cutting, attended by members of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and the Department of Economic Development, and the festivities continued with live music, cocktails and bites.

The 16-story, 231-room Graduate Lincoln, located in the Haymarket District in downtown Lincoln, infuses the city’s unique sense of style into each detail while playfully paying homage to Nebraska’s vast parklands and grand landscapes. The hotel features John J’s Chow Hall, a classic American eatery, serving daily breakfast and dinner as well as weekend brunch. Additionally, the hotel has 15,000 square feet of meeting and event space including three ballrooms and two event spaces with the ability to transform into twelve flexible event spaces, as well as one boardroom, available to accommodate several types of events including social gatherings, weddings, receptions, corporate meetings and more.

To find out more about Graduate Lincoln or to book your upcoming stay or event, visit graduatelincoln.com or contact the hotel directly at (402) 475-4011 / info@graduatelincoln.com.

YOU’RE INVITED! FRIDAY, SEPT 8 TH 2017 5:30PM - 9:00PM

Festivities Will Include:

Silent & Live Auction Garden Education & Demonstration Live Music • Hors d’ oeuvres & Cocktails (addtl $10 & bring Build Your Own Fairy Garden your own flower pot) INDIVIDUAL TICKETS $30 • RESERVED TABLE FOR 6 (WITH SIGNAGE) $200 RESERVED TABLE FOR 8 (WITH SIGNAGE) $250 For sponsorship opportunities or to purchase tickets please contact Paige Zutavern at 402-466-3330

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

P R E S E N T E D B Y:

BUSINESS NEWS

Yield Champions Field Days Announced Dennis Nun, President of Yield Champions, has announced two upcoming field day events scheduled for August.

These programs give fertilizer and chemical dealers, agronomists and crop producers the opportunity to see cutting-edge production concepts at work in the field during the growing season and to hear from agronomy experts presenting strategies for increasing yields and profits, regardless of current market trends.

Nun says, “We show growers how to lower production costs on a per acre and per bushel basis and that remains the key to profitability for farmers.”

Nebraska farmer Todd Hoffman of Juniata, Nebraska has been witnessing his yields continue to improve over the past nine growing seasons. Todd says, “We had the best soybeans last year that we’ve ever had, overall. Our fields averaged 85 to 95 Bu/A. Our plant health has been amazing with the Conklin AgroVantage™ Program.”

Yield Champions exclusively markets the Conklin Company’s AgroVantage™ products for crop production. For more information, contact Dennis Nun at (402) 430-7727 or go to www.300BushelCorn.info.

Support Your Favorite Team With First National Bank’s Fan Cards

Bulu Box Gets Traction With EOS Implementation From gear80 Bulu Box is getting traction with its vision: Shipping 100 million subscription boxes by 2026 through its Turnkey Subscription Box Solutions.

Bulu Box chose John Fulwider of gear80 to help them implement the Entrepreneurial Operating System®, also known as Traction. The company is executing on its vision by setting Rocks each quarter and solving key issues; previously, Fulwider helped Bulu Box’s leaders craft a complete vision to take to their growing team.

About Bulu Box: While running the 2011 San Francisco Half Marathon, Paul and Stephanie Jarrett had the idea to launch a vitamin subscription box to help people live healthier. Six years and six million samples later, Bulu Box and subscription boxes are recognized as an industry with more than 3,000% growth. In 2016, Bulu Box created its “Turnkey Subscription Box Solutions” division to partner with select companies who want to launch subscription box programs. For more information, visit turnkey.bulubox.com.

About gear80: gear80 helps business owners get traction. All we do is 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.

First National Bank has been a long-time supporter of collegiate athletic programs in the communities it serves.

The bank is proud to collaborate with its university partners to offer the First National Bank Fan Card program, which allows students, alumni and fans to show their pride and support their local athletic programs with universitybranded debit cards. As the Official Bank of Husker Nation, First National Bank offers the Huskers Visa® Debit Card. The bank also partners with the University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Creighton University and Colorado State University.

First National Bank believes that experiencing athletic events creates community cohesion by bringing like-minded individuals together in support of their local teams. Whether at the collegiate or professional level, athletics bring members of a community together, draw people into the community and ultimately support the strength of the local economy. In 2016, First National Bank invested more than $3 million in sponsorships and donations to support professional and collegiate athletics across its footprint.

The fan cards are offered as a free option with First National Bank checking accounts. There is no annual fee and cardholders can choose their favorite fan card design. Cardholders also receive free university logo checks, one-of-a-kind fan experiences and chances to win exclusive ticket offers.

For more information about the First National Bank Fan Card program, visit www.firstnational.com/FanCards.

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS Roper & Sons Announces August Events At this month’s Topic Breakfast, being held at 7:30 a.m.

Thursday, August 17th, the group will be joined by Life and Retirement Coach Cindy Heider Kaliff. Are you a restless Baby Boomer making a transition from traditional work to new frontiers… and would like some guidance?

Join for Topic Breakfast to learn more. Held on the third Thursday each month, it 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 – 3:30 p.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 such as painting, ink designs, crafts and other artistic mediums. Great for all ages, regardless of artistic abilities.

Please visit www.roperandsons.com to learn more.

BBB Announces Speaker for Lincoln’s Integrity Awards Event Better Business Bureau (BBB) will honor metro Lincoln’s ethical businesses and students at its Annual Integrity Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, October 10th at the Cornhusker Hotel Marriott Convention Center Ballroom from 11:30 a.m. –1:00 p.m. The keynote speaker is Timothy Clare. He is a partner in the law firm of Rembolt Ludtke LLP, where he practices in the areas of estate and business planning, estate administration and probate. He is a member of the Board of Regents for the University of Nebraska, representing District 1, and served as Chairman in 2013. Additionally, he is the Vice Chairman of the West Haymarket Joint Public Agency, a three-person agency overseeing the Pinnacle Bank Arena and the West Haymarket Development project.

Mr. Clare is also active in many not-for-profit organizations in Lincoln.

He is a member of the Lincoln Community Foundation, past president of the Boards of the Lincoln Chapter of Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Lincoln Children’s Museum and Cedar’s Foundation. Additionally, he is a member of Rotary Club #14 and the Lincoln Independent Business Association.

Drawing from his experience as an attorney and community leader, Clare will speak about integrity and ethics in public service at the awards luncheon. For sponsorship opportunities and ticket information please contact Teresa Stitcher Fritz at (402) 436-2345 x8600.

No Cost, Confidential Safety and Health Consulting for Nebraska Small Businesses The intangible costs of industrial accidents and disease, although difficult to measure, are just as real as insurance premium costs. Our consultants help to identify and correct safety and health hazards in general industry and construction before they become dangerous and expensive problems.

This no-cost program is available to any business that has less than 250 employees on-site and less than 500 nationwide.

Reserve Your Consultation Today Information and consultations may be requested online, by phone, or by e-mail.

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ON-SITE SAFETY AND HEALTH CONSULTATION PROGRAM 10

Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

BUSINESS NEWS The Jasmine Room to Host Big Red Pig Roast, Husker Tailgate The Jasmine Ro o m by Venue has announced plans to kick off the Husker s e a s o n properly with a tailgate event of epic proportions! On September 2nd, John Benton, Executive Chef of Venue Restaurant & Lounge, will bring his talents to the Haymarket for the Big Red Pig Roast. He will be roasting a whole 100lb hog on the patio in the restaurant’s newest culinary addition, the La Caja China, an English China Roasting Box. This smoky, slow-roasted pork will be filled with tender flavor surrounded by a crisp, caramelized skin for the perfect tailgate sandwich! Serving this delicious dish with your choice of side, the food is just the beginning. Venture inside of The Jasmine Room for $3 Bud Lights, additional bar specials, a live DJ from the talented crew at Complete Music, and three giant projection screens to showcase our win against Arkansas State!

Admission is free AND you’ll enjoy the best food closest to the stadium and one of the cheapest beer specials around. Doors open at 3 p.m. so you can enjoy the tailgate before you head to the game, or stay to watch the game and party with a great crowd of Husker fans.

For more information about this event, email Lisa Petersen at lisa@ yourvenue.net.

The Jasmine Room by Venue is perfect for hosting any special event, from wedding receptions to corporate parties. Find out more online at www.yourvenue.net.

5 Elements Massage Celebrates 2nd Anniversary 5 Elements Massage is excited to announce August officially marks two years in business!

Located at 5221 S. 48th St. inside Envy Hair Salon, 5 Elements Massage is owned and operated by resident LMT (Licensed Massage Therapist) Erin Lange, who continues to enthusiastically spread the positive health benefits of massage. She has her sights set on expansion in the future, and is grateful for the support of her wonderful clients and the Lincoln community.

A massage is not just a “pampering once a year” kind of thing; it has the power to boost your health and overall wellbeing in many ways if utilized correctly. Regular massages help with depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, stress, insomnia, aid in removing acute pain and in managing chronic pain, along with its positive effects on many other issues in our daily life. 5 Elements Massage offers a wealth of services including the ever-popular Swedish and deeptissue massages, along with a much larger selection of modalities to pick from such as prenatal, heated bamboo, sports, hot stone, reflexology, fire cupping, salt or sugar scrubs, chocolate wraps, and more. Additionally, aromatherapy is available and can be added to all modalities for extra relaxation.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (402) 617-7992, visit 5elementsNE.com or find 5 Elements Massage on Facebook and Instagram.

Blu Velvet Relocates to Shoppes at Piedmont Blu Velvet has moved! As of August 1st, the local boutique has a new home at 1265 S. Cotner Blvd. in the Shoppes at Piedmont. Established in the heart of University Place, which has been home to the Blu Velvet for a little over a decade now, making the move to a more central location, but one with a very similar charming neighborhood business atmosphere, was perfect for beginning its next chapter. A grand opening event will be held on August 17th from 3-6 p.m. There’s still great summer fashion finds, and new fall styles arriving soon, so be sure to stop by and check out the new space!

Blu Velvet Boutique has all of the current fashion must-haves, from clothing and shoes to jewelry, bags and accessories. Stay connected with Blu Velvet on social media – Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter – to be the first to check out new arrivals and find out about promotions!

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Gain Business Exposure at Plaza Court Office Park

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We are looking for the following types of businesses who want to gain exposure: Medical, Office, Coffee Shop, Child Care Facility, Hotel, Personal Services, Acadamies and Post Secondary Education Facilities, and Others

For more information, please call 402-610-0523 AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS

Blush Bridal Boutique Introducing Signature Nebraska Sports Council: Don’t Miss the Bridal Appointments Fun at the 2017 Mud Run Blush Bridal Boutique is pleased to announce the upcoming launch of “Signature Appointments” beginning in September! These are private, afterhours appointments for brides and up to 10 guests.

Guests will be able to nibble on light bites and sip on drinks while a designated Blush Bridal expert finds the bride her perfect dress! Blush Bridal Boutique works closely with the bride’s friends and family to arrange for surprises throughout the evening, with little gifts and experiences that will make this an extra special memory of wedding planning. As an exclusive perk for Blush Brides, these appointments will only be offered one evening a month, so make sure to book yours early!

Blush is a fresh and trendy bridal boutique for Nebraska brides and their wedding parties. Blush Bridal Boutique offers gorgeous, exclusive bridal gowns, as well as delicate handmade veils, textured hairpieces, ornate accessories, and a large selection of hand crafted jewelry. The professionals at Blush Bridal Boutique feel strongly about creating trusting, honest relationships with our brides! Your first appointment is the beginning of a personal relationship that will last for a better part of a year, and you can count on Blush Bridal Boutique to make it a special, stress-free experience throughout.

For more information about Blush Bridal Boutique, visit BlushBridalNE. com or call (402) 261-5615.

Nebraska’s longestrunning mud/ obstacle race, The Mud Run, will take place Saturday, August 26 at Lancaster Event Center in Lincoln.

The 11th annual Mud Run, sponsored by Nebraska Lottery and Scheels, features a course laden with more than a dozen obstacles, including a creek crossing, multiple mud pits, fire jump, and the NSC’s signature, a giant slip-n-slide.

The fun begins at 9 a.m. with the mini-Mud Run, followed by the 3-mile events, including 3-person tethered teams, at 10 a.m.

More than 1,500 runners from more than 70 Nebraska communities and surrounding states are expected to take part. All participants receive a Mud Run soft t-shirt, coupon for a free Arby’s Roast Beef sandwich, a free age-appropriate beverage (Gatorade or beer), and access to the post-race party featuring a photo backdrop, vendor giveaways, music, food and beverages. Awards include medals for the top three male and female finishers in each age group and finisher medals for all other runners.

Deadlines are August 25 for the 1-mile Mini-Mud Run and August 22 for the 3-mile. Those interested can register or find information at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

Member FDIC

BUSINESS NEWS

MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante Expands Happy Hour Offerings

MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante has announced an exciting new addition to its already expansive list of drink specials during Happy Hour, held weekdays from 3-6 p.m.

Guests can enjoy any variety of wine, beer or cocktail at a discounted price during Happy Hour, which now includes the entire selection of Wineemotion™ wines that are on tap! Happy Hour specials are offered exclusively on drinks only, but as those who love MōMō are well aware, it’s hard to turn down the opportunity to enjoy pairing your choice of drink with something off of the restaurant’s distinctive menu!

Located in the Preserve Development at Pioneers Boulevard and Lucille Drive in south Lincoln, MōMō is a must-try experience for lunch, dinner, or drinks. MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante is an upscale restaurant & bar best known for creating modern takes on classic Italian fare - all made in-house from scratch by MōMō’s talented chefs with locally sourced, quality ingredients - plus its impressive wine list and specialty cocktails.

For more information, contact Anthony Bonelli at (402) 261-5966 or visit momospizzeria.com. You can also stay up-to-date about special events and new offerings by staying connected with MōMō on social media – Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Woods Bros Realty Agent Deb Wagner Coordinates Local Blood Drives D e b Wa g n e r o f Woods Bros Realty has a passion for helping people. As a frequent donor of platelets at the Nebraska Community Blood Bank in Lincoln and well aware that the need exists here in our community, she decided to take it a step further and partner with the organization to host local blood drives. Her passion for this particular cause came about because of her son, who years ago was diagnosed and lost his battle with Leukemia at the age of 8.

The first Blood Drive organized by Wagner was held in May at the Woods Bros Realty Lincolnshire location, and it was a big success - a record number of 14 first-time donors participated! Following up on that momentum, a second drive has already been scheduled. Mark your calendars for August 14th and join her at the same location to donate.

The event is open to all Woods Bros agents, family and friends, and anyone else who would like to give! It is also an option to visit the nearest NCBB donation center and participate in this drive.

To make it even more exciting, each drive is a “Battle of the Brands,” a friendly competition between Woods Bros & HOME Real Estate. The drive in May was a tie, so stay tuned for the results of the August drive to see who comes out victorious! The big winners are all of the people who will benefit from the donations.

If you’re able, please consider giving - it takes very little time and saves lives. For more information visit www.ncbb.org and use Sponsor Code WBR, or call Kari Lundeen at NCBB at (402) 486-9414 or Deb Wagner at (402) 440-1314.

Lincoln’s Full-Service Veterinary Clinic “Committed to promoting

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Call or click to request an appointment today!

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GRAND OPENING OF OUR NEW VETERINARIAN CENTER COMING SOON!

Talent Plus ® is a compelling citizen to have in any community.

That is why our associates donate their time, talent and treasure to four pillars each year. We are pleased to announce the 2017-18 pillars are:

www.talentplus.com | 1.800.VARSITY AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

13

BUSINESS NEWS

Flicker Promotions Celebrates 1st Anniversary Raising Cane’s Collecting School Supplies Flic ker Promotions for Students in Need recently celebrated one year in business with an event to remember! An open house was held at The Talon Room in downtown Lincoln on Friday, July 21st, with an invitation to join in the festivities extended to clients, colleagues, friends and family of Flicker Promotions and the business community at large. The occasion was officially marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, followed by enjoying appetizers and refreshments, networking, and entertainment provided by Derrick Heydon of Amplified Sessions. Owner Amy Doele briefly addressed those in attendance, and had very exciting news to share – with a marked increase in business, a sales contact was recently added in the New York/New Jersey area to service clients on the East Coast.

Doele and her team at Flicker Promotions extend their sincere thanks for the support over the past year and are looking forward to what the future holds for the company!

Headquartered in Lincoln, NE, Flicker Promotions is a premier concierge promotional product provider. Flicker Promotions relieves the stress of promotional marketing, applying their expertise along with the requirements provided to curate a collection of options specific to each client. Their job is to ensure a brand is promoted in a way that brings value to the client and the client’s customers. Flicker Promotions works with businesses, educational institutions and non-profit organizations of all sizes across the country. For more information, visit www.flickerpromotions. com or call (402) 540-3077.

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers is collecting new and packaged school supplies at their Lincoln and Grand Island locations. Through August 6, individuals 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 local private and public PK-12 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 local 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 franchise.

The Lincoln and Grand Island franchise—Southern Hospitality Ventures— was opened in 2006 by Justin and Jennifer Jones, who moved to Nebraska from Louisiana. Since opening their first location, they have set out to make a change in their community by becoming active community leaders with programs such as this one. Since 2006, the franchise has given back over $1.4 million to the communities in which their restaurants are located.

For current updates on what Raising Cane’s is doing here in our community, stay connected on Facebook and Twitter!

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

BUSINESS NEWS

Panology Tech Solutions Introduces New Local Networking Resource Panology Tech Solutions is excited to announce a new a n d exc i t i n g offering that has recently been made available to clients and those in our local business community!

The Panology team has launched a free networking subscription service for those who want to stay informed about the latest news and upcoming events. The group, called Network LNK, is open to anyone and for the time being, all correspondence to connect will be done via email. Upcoming events going on in the area will be compiled online and email blasts will be sent out regularly to keep everyone in the loop. If you’d like to be added, email info@panology.com or sign up using this link: https://goo.gl/aXVm87.

Through the Amazon Web Services Users group launched earlier this year, and now the new networking group, it is the goal of Panology Tech Solutions to bring together those in our community in order to share experiences, build knowledge, develop skills, and establish relationships that will help with growing and enhancing their businesses.

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, please call (402) 9379137, email info@panologyinc.com, or visit panologyinc.com.

Talent Plus® Announces 2017-18 Social Responsibility Pillars Ta l e n t P l u s deeply believes in impacting the surrounding community, which for them, extends internationally as well. This allows associates to express their desire to contribute to a specific organization and enables Talent Plus, as a Talent-Based Organization® (TBO®), to extend the arms of their talent to organizations to make a great impact and build a Talent-Based Community®.

Each year, Talent Plus surveys associates and asks them, along with the leadership team, for their input in choosing what’s called “Social Responsibility Pillars.” Four Pillars are chosen every year.

They are selected based on these criteria: 1. Talent Plus associates expressed a desire to work with an organization; 2. Talent Plus, in partnering with the leadership of the organizations, believes they can achieve the greatest impact by aligning with the organization; and 3. Collectively cover local, national and international regions to allow associates in their extended community to fully participate.

As Talent Plus enters their 2017-18 year, it’s their desire to continue to align themselves with the community that helped the company grow and the organizations that spend every day helping make a significant impact. The Talent Plus team is excited to partner with these four organizations in the coming year: CEDARS, Child Advocacy Center, People’s City Mission, and Food Bank of Singapore.

Talent Plus (www.talentplus.com) is the leading partner in building and sustaining high-performing and fully-engaged cultures through talent selection, development and analytics. Headquartered in Lincoln, Neb., Talent Plus also has an office in Singapore.

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Kensington Center is your perfect, new location!

Establish your business in Lincoln’s newest UPSCALE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT Building, leasing and managing retail, office, medical and restaurant spaces for upscale clientele in Lincoln’s SW entrance to the city!

High traffic intersection 35,000+ vehicles per day!

14th and Old Cheney Road | Lincoln, NE Kensington Center is adjacent to the Rock Island Bicycle Trail and current retail establishments include: Joyride Bicycles (Lincoln’s Specialized Bicycle Dealer), Powercycle (Lincoln’s first exclusive spinning studio), Culvers, Mr. Goodcents, Dairy Queen, & Scooters Coffee and Yogurt. Opening in 2017: a brand new 11,000 sq. ft. retail space and Old Cheney Rehabilitation!

Find out more at www.kensingtonre.com today!

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business 15

BUSINESS NEWS

Lasso a Texas-Sized Lineup of Summer Flavors at Cowboy Chicken It’s summertime, and the eating is easy at Cowboy Chicken. The local franchise, part of the fast casual chain renowned for its all-natural, wood-fired rotisserie c hic ken, geared up for the season with a scorching-hot lineup of the best sandwiches, sides and salads under the sun. There’s still plenty of time to try out the summer menu items, which are available for a limited time only!

Leading the charge is a pair of Texas-sized sandwiches – the Laredo and BBQ Chicken. Guests can complement these satisfying sandwiches with a pair of sides newly added to the regular menu – Roasted Veggies and Kaleblazer Slaw. Since nothing partners with a summer meal quite like watermelon, Cowboy Chicken is offering two ways to enjoy the taste of this delicious summer staple - Watermelon Slices and Watermelon Tea. And don’t forget dessert! A sizable serving of peach or blackberry cobbler, made fresh daily, is sure to satisfy the most selective sweet tooth. These seasonal offerings are accompanied by the restaurant’s roundup of savory summer salads, including the Monterey, the Southwest chicken salad, the West Texas Caesar.

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Cowboy Chicken serves hearty and healthy dishes that are available during lunch and dinner for dine-in, take out, catering and delivery. On-the-go diners can order on the Cowboy Chicken app, available through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, which allows guests to order ahead, pay with their phone at checkout and earn rewards.

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

Simple Strat Celebrates New Office Space With Open House, Ribbon Cutting Marketing agency Simple Strat recently celebrated their new office location with an open house and Lincoln Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting. Founder Ali Schwanke believes it’s the perfect environment for creativity, collaboration, and strategic thinking.

“There are many unique features that highlight our brand personality,” says Schwanke. “From Lego walls and branded tables to custom photography and window films, every aspect of the space communicates a strategic marketing message.”

Located in the historic Haymarket, Simple Strat is excited to contribute to the innovative culture of downtown Lincoln.

“Marketing is not done in a vacuum,” she says. “It often requires resources in technology, finance and other areas. This location makes it possible for us to easily collaborate with others.”

Simple Strat builds simple yet powerful strategies to help grow brands that work to improve people’s lives. Services include marketing research, strategy and planning, digital and social media marketing, design, video production, inbound marketing, and customized consulting. Simple Strat is a Certified Hubspot Partner and Wistia Partner.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit www. simplestrat.com.

BUSINESS NEWS

N E W ! Half-Day

Waggoner Law Office Debuts New & Improved Website Waggoner Law Office has launched a new version of their website.

As technology is ever changing, it was time the website grew up a little bit, not just aesthetically but also in content and functionality.

Waggoner Law Office’s goal is to provide a high level of service for clients every day.

Waggoner Law Office provides sound legal advice and quality representation to clients in many areas of the law.

To improve on their past website Waggoner Law Office has integrated many new features including attorney and staff profiles and a future blog. They want to communicate and connect with you.

As you explore the website you will find an opportunity to contact Waggoner Law Office via email with questions.

Finally but perhaps most importantly, the new version of the website puts the Waggoner Law Office team front and center. Waggoner Law Office wants you to know who they are and what they specialize in. They love what they do, are active in the legal industry, and believe in the services they provide. Get to know them so that they can get to know you.

Preschool Options T 402.483.6656 C 402.610.0169 F 402.413.8320

for kids 3 - 5 yrs old 9 am - 12:30 pm |Follows LPS Calendar

Participating in Step up to Quality Nebraska, Creative Curriculum, and ASQ – 3 assessments.

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1221 N Street • Suite 800 Lincoln, NE 68508 www.WillekeFinancialGroup.com

8310 Wendell Way (402) 483-4769 Hrs: Mon. - Fri., 6:30 am - 6:00 pm WorldOfKnowledge@neb.rr.com

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Waggoner Law Office has worked hard to bring their standard of service, “The Waggoner Difference” to you, their customers, every day, and now hope to show you through their new website. Check it out HERE: www.waggonerlawoffice.com.

Immanuel Communities Celebrates Residents at Community Event In celebration of seniors, the Immanuel Community Foundation was proud to host its annual appreciation luncheon for residents on June 15. The event welcomed over 840 residents, guests and employees who arrived in-style to share in celebration and hear inspiration from bestselling author of Immanuel residents receive inspiring words and a few autographs from Tuesdays with Morrie Tuesdays with Morrie, author Mitch Albom. Internationally renowned columnist and radio speakers is just one way the Immanuel team ho s t, M i t c h A l bo m. celebrates the nearly 1,000 residents served Also featured was a throughout 10 communities in Omaha and Lincoln. performance from the 100-Voice All-Immanuel Choir.

This annual appreciation event celebrates the nearly 1,000 residents Immanuel is honored to serve 365 days a year in 10 communities spanning from the Omaha metro to Lincoln.

Since 1887 Immanuel (www.immanuel.com) has been providing Christ-centered service to seniors, each other and the communities in which the organization serves. As a not-for-profit, serving arm of the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) Immanuel’s house of brands includes: Immanuel Communities, Immanuel Pathways, Immanuel Community Foundation and The Immanuel Vision Foundation. More about Immanuel’s brands: Immanuel Communities owns and operates 10 independent living, assisted living and long-term care retirement communities on six campuses; Immanuel Pathways operates three PACE® Centers in Iowa and Neb.; the Immanuel Community Foundation, a Resident Assistance Fund provides financial assistance to independent living residents; and the Immanuel Vision Foundation extends financial support to non-profit, charitable 501(c)(3) organizations that share purposes in alignment with Immanuel’s service centered mission.

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BUSINESS NEWS 402.483.7575 402.483.7575 31333133 S. 7th • Suite D D S. Street 7th Street • Suite info@pioneerprintinginc.com info@pioneerprintinginc.com

www.pioneerprintinginc.com www.pioneerprintinginc.com Color Copies Multi Color Color Copies MultiPrinting Color PrintingDigital Digital Digital Digital Black &Black White& White Full Color FullEnvelopes Color Envelopes CopiesCopies GraphicGraphic DesignDesign Engineering Engineering Service Wide Format Color ColorCrazy Fast Crazy Fast Service Wide Format

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We can tailor a service to fit any business, CALL TODAY!

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402-420-7758 info@spgrouppc.com spgrouppc.com

Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

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The Eclipse is Coming: Go Dark in the Park A historic event is happening on August 21, 2017 that will put Lincoln, NE at the heart of a once in a lifetime experience. The 2017 Solar Eclipse will be the first visible from the United States since July 1991.

Millions of visitors from all over the world will be coming to the US to watch this experience and take part in events, right here in the Capital City. Lincoln, which sits on the northern edge of the eclipse, will experience one minute, 24 seconds of totality and is only 43 miles to the north of the center of activity as it traverses our great state.

A viewing event will be held at Haymarket Park, and the Lincoln Saltdogs are offering a special “Black out Bundle” for eclipse watchers. Gates open at 11 a.m. Come early for the Science and Engineering Expo and visit a variety of fascinating exhibits in the promenade. Individual game tickets start at $6/$5 with UNL student ID. Group rates are available for 20 or more. Twentyfive commemorative eclipse jerseys will be worn during the game.

Purchase tickets at saltdogs.com/eclipse/.

Lincoln is a prime viewing area for visitors to experience the city and view the eclipse. To learn more about events leading up to the eclipse and reasons to plan for a weekend in Lincoln, visit www. lincoln.org/play/eclipse.

Heartland International, Inc. Recognizes 2017 National Premier Commercial Roofing Contractors Heartland International, Inc., a nationwide distributor of Conklin Commercial Roofing Systems, has named the recipients of their National Premier Commercial Roofing Contractor Award, Bill & Tanner Feland of Preferred Roofing Foam & Coating, Inc. of Bethany, Oklahoma.

This award recognizes the achievement of Preferred Roofing, Inc. and the Felands in qualifying annually as Conklin Preferred Contractors every year since 2003, their consistently being the top volume contractor Tanner Feland in the U.S. Bill says, “I chose Conklin because of its systems approach to roof coatings, offering a complete system with great products with realistic warranties. One of the most rewarding benefits of becoming a Conklin Preferred Contractor is that it has allowed me to give back to my community in a way I could have never imagined.

In 2016, my roofing business—Preferred Roofing Foam and Coating, Inc.—took an Bill Feland antiquated baseball complex and transformed it into a state-of-the-art facility that proudly serves the students, faculty, and staff of my alma mater, Southern Nazarene University (SNU), and the citizens of the surrounding community.

I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful project and give back to SNU and my community. Being a Conklin Preferred Contractor has provided me with many blessings. Without the right planning, team and tools —including Conklin Roofing Systems, this field of dreams would not have become a reality.”

Heartland International, Inc. is based in Lincoln, Nebraska and is responsible to screen and train contractors to install the Conklin Roofing Systems. For more information or to apply for one of our current openings, contact Dennis Nun at dennislnun@gmail.com or call (402) 430-7727.

BUSINESS NEWS

Look Great in Any Season

Jiffy Lube Collecting Donations in Support of MDA Summer Campers Lincoln and Omaha area Jiffy Lube service centers will MUSCLE UP® in support of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) for the sixth consecutive year. Beginning August 1 through August 31, when drivers visit a Jiffy Lube location and make a $3 donation to MDA, donors will receive a savings book containing more than $100 in savings including Jiffy Lube discounts such as $5 off a Jiffy Lube Signature Service Oil Change and $10 off Fuel Filter Replacement Service as well as coupons for Aeropostale, Enterprise, FTD, Office Depot and Office Max and Redbox.

Donations received will help ensure kids and adults living with muscular dystrophy and related muscle-debilitating diseases have the opportunity to experience a week where anything is possible at MDA summer camp — at no cost to their families.

Jiffy Lube does more than change oil; Jiffy Lube strives to positively impact the lives of others. For more information or to find a Jiffy Lube service center near you, visit heartland.jiffylube.com.

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EventLNK Announces Upcoming Meeting EventLNK b r i n g s together Lincoln’s e v e n t professionals by providing education and resources to enhance and support professional growth. The next event will be held on Tuesday, September 5 from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m., located at The Boy Scouts of America – Cornhusker Council, 600 S 120th St., Lincoln, NE.

Call Titus for a free estimate!

(660) 254-1485 | TitusSchrock@yahoo.com www.SchrockCommercialRoofing.com |

Join for a tour of the Boy Scouts of America – Cornhusker Council’s meeting spaces, Outdoor Education Center, indoor challenge courses and trap and archery range. This location is ideal for team building activities. The Boy Scouts of America is the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training.

To register, visit www.eventlnk.org/meetings. To find out more information about EventLNK, visit www.eventlnk.org or email Jill Smith at info@eventlnk.org.

Shasteen & Morris, P.C., L.L.O. Opens Office in East Lincoln Hampton Enterprises is pleased to welcome Shasteen & Morris, P.C., L.L.O. as a new tenant to Hampton’s Corporate Centre at 7441 O St., Suite 105, in Lincoln.

Shasteen & Morris, P.C., L.L.O. is a Nebraska law firm that assists injured workers and others who have been injured living throughout the state and country with legal matters including workers’ compensation and other personal injury cases.

Rolf Shasteen has been practicing law for more than 30 years. He practices in the area of personal injury and trial law, with a special emphasis on workers’ compensation and, generally, the area of personal injury caused by negligence. Holly Morris handles workers’ compensation and personal injury cases for clients throughout the state of Nebraska, as well as for out-of-state workers injured while working for Nebraska employers or others injured in the state of Nebraska.

For more information about Shasteen & Morris, P.C., L.L.O., please call the firm at (402) 464-0064 or visit www.shasteenandmorris.com.

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS B&R Stores Acquires Lovegrove’s Grocery Store in Waverly B&R Stores, Inc. has entered into an agreement to purchase the Lovegrove’s Grocery Store in Waverly, NE from the Lovegrove family.

“The Lovegrove’s Grocery Store has served Waverly shoppers for over 25 years, and its legacy as a family-owned business continues on,” commented Pat Raybould, president of B&R Stores. “We’re excited about the potential of the neighborhood store too, as it’s already a fundamentally strong business. We look forward to being a part of the Waverly community.”

The name will change to Russ’s Market Express, a new smaller Russ’s Market concept.

B&R Stores, Inc. was founded in 1964 by Russ Raybould. During the past 53 years, the company has grown to include 19 stores under several banners including Russ’s Market, Super Saver, Save Best, and Apple Market located in Nebraska and Iowa.

WISB to Host Monthly Luncheon Aug. 9th The Women in Sales and Business (WISB) monthly meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 9th at Venue in the NE/Lancaster Room at 4111 Pioneer Woods Drive, Lincoln, NE. The August meeting will be a mini-seminar by Karla Frese called “Life Reimagined.” Energize your life.

Love your work. Be connected. Life Reimagined helps you navigate life’s changes and challenges - big or small - to discover what’s possible and live the life you want. For those who attend regularly, please note the meeting will start early at 11:45 a.m. and run a bit long to accommodate the rich content Karla will lead the group through! Please make sure to RSVP and arrive early!

The meeting starts with lunch at 11:30 a.m. with meeting following from 11:45 a.m. until 1:15 p.m. 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.

Great Nebraska Beerfest Set for Aug. 26th

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

The Great Nebraska Beerfest is using its platform of the region’s premier beerfest to help others throughout the world. Over 90+ breweries will come together on Saturday, August 26th to showcase their craft beers all while helping to cure blindness globally.

This year’s beerfest will help fund outreach planned in Ethiopia later this year. The hope is to restore sight to over 1,000+ patients in a week’s time.

The Great Nebraska Beerfest puts the spotlight on Nebraska and regional breweries with many of the actual brewers and owners on hand to help sample their selections. Now in its 9th year, The Great Nebraska Beerfest is known for its short lines, shade, seamless organization at Werner Park and huge selection of beers, making it a not to miss event for beer drinkers of all levels. Beer connoisseurs will appreciate the complexity and rareness of the beers on hand and those looking to get into craft beers will have ample selections to choose from in helping to identify their pallet preferences.

Each paid admission to the event (accompanied with a valid ID that proves a minimum age of 21 years) will receive a banded bracelet and a 4 oz. tasting glass that allows attendees to receive 2 oz. pours as many times as they’d like at the craft brewery stations. General admission to the event begins at 2 p.m. Designated driver tickets are also available.

Purchase tickets at www.greatnebraskabeerfest.com.

ASK THE EXPERT: COMPRO 402-488-5100 www.comproins.com

by Chris McPike, Vice President ComPro Insurance

Healthcare Reform Progress Report

So, what is happening in Washington and does it affect me? Great question! Healthcare reform is a political hot potato once again.

Synopsis: We have watched several insurance companies withdraw from offering health insurance coverage to individuals and families.

Typically, these people are self-employed, work for a small business that doesn’t offer group health insurance benefits, or have retired before age 65. They do not have another option for health insurance. The insurance companies that have withdrawn were losing money on these policies. The result is that Nebraskans will have only one carrier in 2018 for individual coverage – Medica. And we can expect another year of significant increase in premiums if one insurance company is assuming the risk for the entire state!

Impact: This means no choice for those who are buying their own insurance and it will also mean spending a higher percentage of your budget to pay the premiums. But it doesn’t stop there. This is both an economic and a social issue. Any business that incurs a loss in one segment of the operation will try to compensate for it in another segment. This means that insurance companies may look at other product lines, such as group insurance, to offset those losses.

Healthcare is a basic need for everyone. The combination of rising premiums and increasing deductibles diminishes access to care. The Affordable Care Act intended to improve both affordability and accessibility. Seven years later (the ACA was passed in 2010), we are far from that objective.

What’s happening in Washington? There are weekly, and sometimes, daily headlines about the efforts to pass new legislation that will repeal, replace, and/or amend the Affordable Care Act. The House of Representatives passed the American Health Care Act of 2017 on May 4th. Then the focus moved to the Senate’s efforts to pass the AHCA or a similar bill. We’ve been watching as the Senators tried to modify the bill in ways that would generate enough support to get it passed.

There is agreement on the fact that we have a serious problem with the ACA; however, there are sharp divides on how to fix it; mostly based on political party lines.

Does it affect me? Yes. If you are among those who provide your own health insurance, you can expect very limited choices and higher premiums for 2018.

This will likely mean that more Nebraskans will choose to be uninsured. This outcome is a direct contradiction of the expectation that the uninsured numbers will decrease under the ACA. If you are a business owner or employee who participates in a group health insurance plan, you want stability in the health insurance market. You want issues such as rising premiums, deductibles, and prescription drug costs to be manageable. You do not want the struggles in the individual market to spill over into the group market.

The Kaiser Family Foundation (kff.org) provides current trends and opinions and analysis of proposed changes to the law.

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STAR CITY SIX

BARRIE Barrie Kuhn

VENUE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

Ve n u e Re s t a u r a n t & L o u n ge i s a locally owned fine dining restaurant featuring unique scratch-made dishes, an outstanding catering program, and a full service lounge with over 200 wines and crafted cocktails. Barrie Kuhn is the Bar Manager at Venue Restaurant & Lounge.

How did you get started in the business? - I got my first serving job 12 years ago while I was going to school at UNL. I started at Venue in the fall of 2009 as a server and bartender. I have been in my current position for the past 5 years, while also filling the mixologist and now most recently, the Sommelier role for the restaurant.

W h a t h a s b e e n yo u r m o s t i m p o r t a n t a c h i eve m e n t professionally? - Passing the Certified Sommelier exam in June!

This has been something that I have been studying for and working towards since I took the introductory course in 2015. It’s such a relief to have this goal accomplished. I plan on continuing to study and to hopefully attempt the next level exam in the future.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Adam and I celebrated our 7th anniversary this year. We have two very big fur babies, who are both rescues. Hank is a Great Pyrenees/ Shepard mix, and Duke is a Bloodhound mix. They are both pretty spoiled dogs and definitely keep us busy!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to go to get coffee and wander around Barnes & Noble for a bit. I have more books than I could ever read! My husband and I just purchased kayaks, so we are looking forward to getting out in those this summer. Or just taking the dogs for a walk and getting a drink with friends. Getting a nap in is always a plus!

What are you the most proud of? - Being part of a growing business that has also become part of my family.

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

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I started playing the piano when I was in Kindergarten and kept taking lessons through high school and into college. I was also in drumline in high school and my freshman year in college.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Musician. I would love to be a concert pianist or to be a member of an orchestra.

If you had a super power, what would it be? - Time travel.

What is your favorite book, or the last good book you read?

- I’m usually reading a few books at the same time. Right now I’m reading In a Dark, Dark Wood by Ruth Ware; Cork Dork

by Bianca Bosker; and Ester the Wonder Pig by Caprice Crane, Derek Walter, and Steve Jenkins.

What is your favorite movie? - Lonesome Dove.

What is your favorite TV show? - Friends.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Venue of course!

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Email: barrie@yourvenue.net; Website: yourvenue.net.

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

STAR CITY SIX

ANDY

Andy Neil

CARTRIDGE WORLD

Cartridge World is your first choice for topquality printing products, local service and expert advice. With a winning combination of home and business class print solutions, the team of professionals at Cartridge World can help you save up to 30% off big box store prices while you enjoy the brand selection you want, the quality products you need, and the unsurpassed value you simply can’t find anywhere else.

Andy Neil is the President and owner of the local Cartridge World franchise.

Tell us a little about your business. - Cartridge World is your local expert for anything printing! It’s all we do, allowing us to specialize in printers, printer repair and service (maintenance to extend the life of your equipment), and what most associate us with, printer cartridges.

We’ve been in Lincoln for almost 13 years and expanded into Omaha last year. By understanding our customer’s specific needs, we’re able to develop solutions for them. Whether you’re a large or small business or a consumer and occasional printer, we work hard to earn your business and save you money. Environmentally friendly, quality driven and service proud!

How did you get started in the business? - I was looking for a new challenge and started to research different business options. Cartridge World was new to the U.S. (they started in Australia) and through my due diligence, I discovered an unmet need in our market.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Fighting the ‘after-market’ stigma. Many of us grew up hearing if it’s too good to be true, it is. So when potential customers hear we can save them money, provide the same quality while keeping harmful plastics out of the landfills, they are skeptical.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? Staying true to my values and beliefs in all aspects of my professional life. I’ve always felt it’s important to treat everyone you meet with respect – employees, customers, competitors – the way you want to be treated.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have a beautiful, very caring and compassionate wife, Dee Dee. We have three wonderful daughters; Devin, who stays home with our extraordinary grandsons Lane and Lawson and is married to our great son-in-law Buck; Miranda, who’s studying in London right now and attends Wash U in St. Louis; and our youngest, Mia, who will be starting UNL this fall and is responsible for every family pet we have - Sadie and Jack Jack!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Losing my son Adam at 15 to juvenile diabetes.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spending time with my family.

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

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Chapter 25 (formerly Lincoln Kids Against Hunger, www.kahlincoln.org). Our family co-founded the Lincoln satellite. It’s a great organization driven by volunteers who put together simple, nutritious food packs that are distributed locally, nationally and internationally to orphanages, schools, churches for those suffering severe malnourishment. It’s a hands-on opportunity to really make a difference with just a little bit of your time.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Leonardo DiVinci. I want to know how he tapped into the full power of his brain!

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Email: andy@cwlincoln.com; Website: www.cartridgeworld.com.

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STAR CITY SIX

MEGAN

Megan Peck

OLD CHENEY REHABILITATION Located at 5431 S. 16th Street, Old Cheney Rehabilitation is the newest state-of-the-art facility in Lincoln, opening its doors this month.

At Old Cheney Rehabilitation, transitional care is provided for clients who require a regimen of therapy or skilled nursing care following an acute hospital stay in order to ultimately return home. Megan Peck is the Director of Nursing at Old Cheney Rehabilitation.

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How did you get started in the business? - My parents both had careers in the medical field so that was always my plan; I just wasn’t sure on the direction. I received my Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Arkansas. After talking with my best friend about her career as a nurse, I decided that would be an exciting and rewarding avenue to pursue. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Creighton and started my career as a Progressive Care nurse at St. Elizabeth’s. Almost all of the women in my husband’s family are nurses so it felt meant to be. There is no place safer than a Peck family reunion!

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- I was a Clinical Staff Instructor where I had the opportunity to be a professional mentor, educator, and resource in the development of clinical nursing practices for nursing students in their final year of school. This was my opportunity to show soon-to-be nurses what exceptional care looked like in an actual working environment.

Tell us a little about your family. - I was born and raised in Lincoln.

I’ve been married to my wonderful husband, Jason, since 2005. He is also in the medical field in operational management, but for veterinary practices. We have three active boys; Sam (9), Carter (7), and Jackson (5). Our house is not quiet!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

- When my husband and I moved to Iowa with our 3 young boys. It’s hard moving away from all of your family and friends, but it forces you to become more self-reliant. It’s when we came back to Nebraska that I discovered that I had gained the confidence to step into leadership roles.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Watching my kids play sports and spending time with my family outdoors, especially at Lake of the Ozarks, where we hike, fish, kayak, swim and ride our ATVs. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was a member of the U.S. Junior National racquetball team and was once ranked #1 in the nation. I was also a starting goalkeeper for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks’ soccer team.

What are you most proud of? - My 3 boys. They are each so unique, but they are all amazing. They impress me every day. When you watch your 7-year-old paddle 8 miles down a river in a kayak, you can’t help but burst with pride.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - As a nurse, you need all of your talents! You never know what the day will bring.

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If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Veterinarian. I love animals and that would definitely check the boxes of challenging and rewarding.

What is your favorite movie? - I love family holiday movies. Elf is my absolute favorite. I’ve watched it dozens of times, but it still has me rolling with laughter each time.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Email: mpeck@oldcheneyrehab.com; Website: www. oldcheneyrehab.com.

STAR CITY SIX

TERESA

Teresa Elliott

CORNHUSKER BANK 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. Teresa Elliott is the Vice President, Communication at Cornhusker Bank.

Tell us a little about your business. - Cornhusker Bank is a communitybased and oriented business, providing a wide range of financial services with a true commitment to making the community and our customers’ lives better.

How did you get started in the business? - My first role was Administrative Assistant to the President, and a friend at the bank suggested I fill out an application to be considered for the position.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Working full time and going to school at a later age in life to get an Organizational Communication degree, in order to move within the company to where I felt my strengths were better suited.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- I am immensely proud of the fact that I was involved in the inception and promotion of the bank’s now annual community event, One Day Without Shoes. We’ve been able to provide the People’s City Mission with over 100,000 pairs of shoes and over $60,000 in monetary funds over the last 7 years. It represents the heart of Cornhusker Bank and its employees by providing for the community in ways beyond their finances.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have an 86-year-old mother, a brother and sister-in-law in town, and a nephew I claim as ‘my child’ in Colorado. I also count my cocker spaniel, Bailey, as my family.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? That would be my divorce from a spouse after 21 years. Divorce forces you to really evaluate your life and make sure you are headed down a life path that will be rewarding and fit your values.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - That varies. I love to browse in a book store forever if I can. I also love to just be out working in the yard. Then there is spending time with family.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - At 60 years old I rappelled off the side of a hotel, here in Lincoln, for the first time as the reward for raising funds for Big Brothers, Big Sisters.

What are you the most proud of? - Helping others achieve their goals.

Whether just supporting them with encouragement or through actual mentoring, I take a great deal of pride in it.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - It is not the quantity of days you live, but the quality of those days, so never let a day slip by without thinking how you can improve others’ lives, and thereby your own.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Invincibility.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - People’s City Mission and Capital Humane Society.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The last truly great thing I read that has stayed with me because it had such complex ideas to work with was Ted Chiang’s short story, Story of My Life.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Outback Steakhouse.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Email; teresae@cornhuskerbank.com; Website: www. cornhuskerbank.com.

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STAR CITY SIX

JOLEE

Jolee Urbanovsky

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

BRIDGE TO BETTER LIVING Jolee Urbanovsky brings over 30 years of knowledge and experience working with Seniors to Bridge to Better Living. Her commitment, in the role of Transition Consultant, is to help Seniors find the best quality of life.

Tell us a little about your business. - Bridge to Better Living was founded locally in 2010 and serves as a resource for Seniors. At NO COST, BBL helps clients, families and their loved ones assess and find the Independent, Assisted, Memory Assisted and Long Term Care community best meeting their needs. Our motto is Placement with Passion. Consultants serve Lincoln, Omaha and surrounding communities.

How did you get started in the business? - My previous job provided me the opportunity to recognize the commitment and professionalism Bridge to Better Living has with Seniors and their families. When there was an opening for an additional consultant, I was blessed to have been chosen.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - There aren’t enough hours in the day to help all of the Seniors facing challenges.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? When a Senior or family gives me a hug and smile, I consider it the best payment of all knowing their lives are better.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband John and I have been married 23 years. We have 3 amazing kids; Kyler, Kaylee, and Jaxsen, plus a wonderful daughter in law, Makaela.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

- My grandmother taught me more about living life to the fullest than anyone. She demonstrated how even if the body is failing, one’s mind and spirit could still be 100%. Her zest and fight for life instilled in me that nothing is impossible and she is why I do what I do today. She was such an inspiration that at 94 years young, she was the Matron of Honor at my wedding.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spend time with my family.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I’m a licensed cosmetologist.

What are you the most proud of? - My kids! They make a positive difference in others’ lives. What more could a mother pray for?

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Never give up. Every situation has a solution.

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - That’s What Mama’s Do

by Jason Matthews.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am a strong advocate for the Alzheimer’s Association and host local support groups.

Our family is active with the Salvation Army Night Watch Program.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Presence Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist.

What is your favorite TV show? - The Voice. I love watching individuals follow their dreams and believe anything is possible.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - President George Washington. He has always been interesting to me because of his honesty, involvement, and willingness to get his hands dirty and help with what needed to be done.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

- Feel free reach out via email at jolee@BridgetoBetterLiving.com, or call me directly at the office at (402) 802-3301 or on my mobile at (402) 310-7823.

STAR CITY SIX

JASON

Jason Hardy

SP GROUP P.C. SP Group P.C. is a growing entrepreneurial accounting firm that serves growth-oriented companies and talented individuals in the Midwest. Founded in 2003, the company is operated based upon a strong belief in real relationships, power of team, competitiveness, and balance of work and family life. Jason Hardy is a CPA at SP Group P.C. Tell us a little about your business. - SP Group P.C. provides tax planning, tax preparation, business startup services, estate and trust preparation, QuickBooks support and training, payroll setup and reporting, business entity selection, IRS representation, and assurance services.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Like most accountants I’m challenged with finding a good work/life balance, especially during tax season.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? Passing the CPA exam stands out as a pretty significant achievement.

Tell us a little about your family. - I grew up in York and my parents still live there. I have one sister who lives in Kearney and one brother who’s moving to Grand Island. Lucky for me, he’s hired a moving company.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

- Without a doubt joining SP Group. The firm’s first office may have been small and some of the equipment was outdated but it didn’t take long to figure out their main priority, and what they truly cared about, was their clients and team. Over the years they have invested a tremendous amount of their time and money back into my development and I don’t know where I would be without their commitment to me.

They’ve continued to update the office and equipment but even if they hadn’t, I think the original copier could still be working today. The one thing that hasn’t changed is the commitment to their clients and team.

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What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - In high school I worked at a restaurant and every Sunday I prepared nothing but omelets for six hours. Since I did this for two years I’ve prepared thousands of omelets in my life.

It’s a unique skill that I rarely take advantage of these days.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Treat others how you would like to be treated.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Every year after tax season I go to Las Vegas with some of my college friends. I think if I had the ability to stop time I might be able to win some money.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I would love to be better at golf. Not like a professional or super good, just one stroke better than my coworker Mark Nave.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Football coach.

What is your favorite movie? - Every time it’s on I find myself watching The Shawshank Redemption. I just hope I never find myself giving ‘sound financial advice’ to my fellow inmates.

What is your favorite TV show? - Even though the show has been off the air for 20 years I still love Seinfeld. It feels like a lot of their themes can still be related to everyday life.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

- Phone: (402) 420-7758; Email: jhardy@spgrouppc.com; Website: www.spgrouppc.com.

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

402-608-1608 www.gear80.co

by John Fulwider, Founder gear80

Make Employee Complaining Go Away Forever

Jay Wilkinson solved complaining at his company, Firespring, with two simple tools.

Employees don’t vent in the halls—they solve their own issues.

Firespring, #829 on the Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies, runs the Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS), also known as Traction. Companies running EOS get employees solving their own problems at the department level with two tools: Issues List and IDS. Imagine Bob and Jane from your marketing team walking down the hall toward the water cooler.

Bob: “The salespeople aren’t using the new marketing materials. I wish those [insert colorful descriptor here] would shape up.”

Jane: “OK, put it on the Issues List.”

Bob (sheepishly): “Ya got me. I will.”

And the complaining stops right there. Bob’s confident his issue will get addressed and solved at marketing’s next weekly Level 10 Meeting.

Bob knows the “salespeople not using new materials” issue will get solved with IDS, a simple tool teams use to set issues up, knock ‘em down, and make ‘em go away forever. Here’s how it works: Identify: What’s the real issue here, the disease causing the symptoms? Let’s focus on that.

Discuss: With the real issue identified, everyone shares their best clarifying questions and ideas once—because more than once is politicking.

Solve: Someone volunteers to take action to solve the problem by next week, because we have a bias toward action.

With Issues List and IDS, you can become fire preventers rather than fire fighters. Unsolved issues are like millstones around your neck, weighing your business down for weeks, months, quarters, years.

It’s exhausting—but not at companies like Firespring, and Executive Travel (#4915 on the Inc. 5000 list), and Bulu Box (Silicon Prairie News’ Startup of the Year).

Business success is in direct proportion to your ability to solve issues. Successful people are just really good at solving their issues.

Successful people use EOS. Issues List and IDS are 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.

BUSINESS RUNNING YOU? We help people get what they want from their businesses.

Call Professional EOS® Implementer JOHN FULWIDER • 402-608-1608 john@gear80.co • www.gear80.co

PERSONNEL NEWS

NAI FMA Realty Promotes Five Associates NAI FMA Realty, a commercial real estate ser vices firm, announced the promotions of Diana Schilf, Michael Ball, Michelle Wangler, Chris Vasek and Kari Knoedler.

Diana Schilf is now Vice President, Michael Ball Diana Schilf Mar keting and Communications.

She joined the company in 1996 and has served as Business Development Manager for the past eight years.

She will spearhead NAI F M A’ s comm unications Michelle Wangler Chris Vasek and mar keting and generate new business leads. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Michael Ball now is Vice President, Sales and Leasing. Mike has over ten years of experience in the industry and will work with the president in annual goal setting, training, and generation of new leads. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University.

Kari Knoedler Michelle Wangler, ACoM, is now the Senior Property Manager. She brings more than 15 years of property management experience with the company in the retail and office sectors. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Accounting from Doane University.

Chris Vasek now is the Senior Associate Broker. He joined NAI FMA in 2007 and provides brokerage representation to landlords, tenants, and buyers. As Senior Associate Broker, he will focus on training and assist his fellow brokers with technology and other innovative processes to improve their business for their customers. He is a graduate of Nebraska Wesleyan University with a degree in Business & Economics.

Kari Knoedler, the former marketing administrator, is now the Marketing and Research Manager. Knoedler joined NAI FMA in 2006. With over eight years of marketing and research experience, she is dedicated to further enhancing the services for our client’s listings and assist in generating new leads. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Business from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

“Each of these individuals has been instrumental in our company’s growth and success,” said CEO Drew Stange. “I am confident they will be even more effective in their new roles, not only benefitting our clients but continue NAI FMA as innovators in commercial real estate.”

NAI FMA Realty is Southeast Nebraska’s leading commercial real estate services firms with over five decades of experience advising clients on strategic acquisitions and dispositions and providing landlord and tenant representation, property management, lease administration and project coordination services. As a member of NAI Global, a network of owner-operated commercial real estate brokerage firms, NAI FMA can facilitate transactions around the nation and the world. For more information about NAI FMA Realty, visit www.naifmarealty.com.

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AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

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PERSONNEL NEWS

Dan Fogell, William Gehrig Receive Outstanding Teacher and Staff Awards Two Southeast Community College employees were honored by their peers.

Dan Fogell and William Gehrig received the Wekesser Outstanding Teacher and Staff awards at SCC’s Lincoln Campus on Friday, July 14.

Fogell has been a biology William Gehrig (L) and Dan Fogell (R) instructor at SCC’s Lincoln Campus for 12 years. Former students and staff members nominated him for the award, one saying he “has the ability to inspire and motivate students.”

“The best part of my day is when I look at students and see the ‘light’ come on when they finally understand something,” he said. “If I don’t see that light, then it’s back to the drawing board to find another way.”

Gehrig is a custodian on the Lincoln Campus. He has worked at the College for five years. He was nominated by numerous students and staff who talked about his willingness to help others and go beyond the scope of this job.

“Working with all of them every day is a privilege,” Gehrig said. “SCC is a great place, and I like coming to work every day.”

In 1979, Robert and Edith Wekesser established a fund in SCC’s Educational Foundation to recognize people for outstanding service to the Lincoln Campus. Winners receive $500, a plaque and a balloon bouquet.

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

John Henry’s Welcomes Jordan Cartwright Recently featured in the July 2017 issue of Strictly Business as one of the Star City Six, Jordan Cartwright has joined the John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning team as the newest project manager and estimator.

While working for a local fire and water restoration company, Cartwright developed a working relationship with John Henry’s.

He admired the company culture and when a position became available, decided to pursue it and was chosen as the best candidate for the job.

John Henry’s was founded in 1996 by Jack and Deb Zohner and has since grown to 65 employees. While the locally owned and operated company continues to have a strong concentration on plumbing, heating and air conditioning services, as well as duct cleaning, there’s been a growing emphasis on remodels and excavation. Jordan Cartwright will focus on that side of the business and can provide a free estimate for the completion of your upcoming renovation project.

Those interested in any services offered may contact John Henry’s at (402) 435-5555 or via the website at www.jhlincoln.com. Free estimates for remodels can be scheduled anytime between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., 7 days a week, to accommodate your needs.

For anything else that might come up, the professionals at John Henry’s are always just a phone call away, providing reliable 24hour service, 365 days a year!

PERSONNEL NEWS

Immanuel Grows Leadership Team, Welcomes Four New Directors I m m a n u e l , Nebraska’s leader in senior living, is pleased to announce additions to its leadership team. These new directors will provide leadership across Immanuel’s evergrowing service area spanning a two-state area including Omaha, Lincoln, Des Moines and Council Bluffs.

Please join in welcoming:

Alan Jarecki

Jeannie Schlotfeld

Alan Jarecki as director of development and special projects.

Daniel Spicer Dena Stevenson As director, Jarecki will develop and lead new initiatives that support Immanuel’s mission of Christ-centered service to seniors. Jarecki has held leadership positions across health care industry and across Nebraska ranging from Omaha, to Hebron to Blair.

Jeannie Schlotfeld, MSW, LMHP as director of sales. Schlotfeld is a team manager with 15+ years of experience in health care, management, mental health and marketing. She has earned a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Nebraska-Omaha with a graduate certificate in gerontology. As director of sales, Schlotfeld will provide direct oversight of sales process including enhancement of strategies, and staff training.

Daniel Spicer CDM/CFPP as director of dining and culinary operations. Spicer has over 20 years of experience throughout the food and hospitality environments. In addition to receiving training as a chef, Spicer brings strong leadership skills to the Immanuel team after holding management positions at organizations like Leslie Hospitality, and CHI Health.

Dena Stevenson, SPHR, SHRM-SCP as organizational training and development director. As director, Stevenson will evaluate organizational development and improve processes for efficiencies across Immanuel’s service area. Stevenson has 20+ years of experience in leadership positions ranging from health care, to the banking industry to government agencies.

For more information about Immanuel and it’s house of brands, which includes Immanuel Communities, Immanuel Pathways, Immanuel Community Foundation and The Immanuel Vision Foundation, visit www.immanuel.com.

It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know & Who Knows You! At Strictly Business Magazine we strive to recognize local businessmen and women for their significant awards, promotions, ac hievements, and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330 or submit your news via our website at www.strictly-business.com.

Oak Electric, Inc. Welcomes Scott Virus Oak Electric, Inc. is thrilled to welcome Master Electrician, Scott Virus to the team, who will have a key role in the growth of the company.

He brings a wide range of experience and is an asset to Oak Electric, Inc. Scott has nearly 20 years of experience and is proficient in customer relations and he has exceptional problem-solving capabilities. He gains personal satisfaction in providing quality craftsmanship. His dedication to his family and his country are on par with Oak Electric’s reputation of providing honest, dependable service.

Oak Electric, Inc. is a locally owned, full service electrical contractor that has experience with residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

For more information, please visit www.oakelectriccompany.com or call (402) 440-5969.

SP Group P.C. Celebrates Team Members On June 18th, Cindy Harris, Team Accountant, celebrated her five year anniversary with SP Group P.C. Cindy was the first “hire” in the Aries Drive location. She has an agricultural background, growing up on a farm and graduating from UNL with a Bachelor of Science in Ag-Animal Science/Business Option. With experience in various industries, Cindy’s primary niche is agricultural business accounting.

Kelsey Appleby, Team Accountant, recently participated in the “Pink Bandana Beat Breast Cancer Mud Volleyball Tournament” in Prague, Neb. Her co-ed team of 6 finished #1 out of 256 teams. Proceeds from the tournament are given to five recipients battling breast cancer in the amount of $10,000 each. Kelsey is a 2016 graduate from UNL with a major in accounting and minors in economics and mathematics.

She has also studied abroad at Oxford University in England. Kelsey is a high school volleyball and NAIA college basketball referee in her free time but is currently in the process of acquiring her CPA certification.

Cindy Harris

Kelsey Appleby

SP Group P.C. celebrates Cindy’s five year anniversary and Kelsey’s championship win by keeping its four core values alive and well: Relationships, Teamwork, Life/Work Balance, and Competitiveness.

Call the office at (402) 420-7758 to congratulate them or visit SP Group P.C. at www.spgrouppc.com to learn more.

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business 31

PERSONNEL NEWS

Looking Ahead: Back2Family Welcomes Stacey Allison as Director of Family Care

Chad Klein Joins Doorstep Diner Catering as Partner and COO

Back2Family, a family-owned business and innovator in the child and family care arena, recently announced that Stacey Allison has joined the organization as the Director of Family Care for Lincoln.

According to President and CEO Ty Delley, Allison will be responsible for directing the organization’s growth in Lincoln, while helping develop marketing strategies in other regions of the country as Back2Family looks to expand.

“Stacey has nearly 20 years of experience in client and project management, customer service, sales, and relationship building in several different industries. In addition to Stacey’s experience, she has the compassion, care, and sincere desire to improve the lives of families and young people. We are incredibly excited to have her on board.”

Back2Family is dedicated to transforming evenings for families by providing high quality child and family care. Back2Family matches a Back2Family Partner to a family and offers customized care to meet each family’s unique needs including child care, transportation to and from school and activities, homework assistance, tutoring, household tidying up, meal preparation and running errands.

Through these services, Back2Family’s vision is to allow families more purposed and intentional time together, ultimately creating more confident, engaged, empowered children and families. Back2Family currently operates in Lincoln and Omaha and is co-owned by Ty Delley and her mom, Cathy Hobbs. Visit Back2Family’s website at www. back2family.com or call (402) 519-2165 to learn more.

Doorstep Diner Catering is pleased to welcome Chad Klein as Partner and Chief Operating Officer. Klein has spent the past 17 years in the food/restaurant industry increasing guest counts and sales and building highly successful teams in fast-paced environments through training, coaching and motivating.

As a key member of the Doorstep Diner leadership team, Klein assumes a leadership role in building, implementing, and overseeing all operational systems and procedures as well as providing leadership and vision to ensure the growth of the rapid expansion of Doorstep Diner Catering.

In less than two years Doorstep Diner Catering has quickly become a hidden gem and leading caterer in Lincoln, Nebraska. With hard work and creative vision, founders Laurie Fraser and Executive Chef Jeff combine their originality and culinary expertise to produce high-caliber catering services at their very finest.

“Watching Laurie and Jeff, I saw a drive to success and great business practices that made it an easy decision to join an already great team,” Klein expressed. “I’m ready to be a part of making Doorstep Diner Catering the top choice for catering locally and beyond.”

Doorstep Diner Catering offers full service catering for all types of occasions, ranging from large events to intimate dining for two. Services are offered for weddings, graduation parties, open houses, company events, box lunches, intimate gatherings, and more. For more information, visit www.doorstepdiner.com.

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

PERSONNEL NEWS

Clyde Malone Community Center Announces New Interim COO Kimberly Goins The Clyde Malone Community Center Board of Directors announces the hiring of Kimberly Goins as the interim Chief Operating Officer. Goins will oversee the day to day operations, including administrative and fiscal management of the center and work alongside the Board of Directors to construct an enhanced vision to better serve the ever-changing needs of the surrounding community.

Goins brings to the position over a decade of comprehensive experience working with national nonprofits, Inc. 500 and early stage companies in operations, marketing, fundraising and community engagement.

Having relocated to Lincoln from Dallas, Texas, Goins is the recipient of the Who’s Who in Black Dallas - “Rising Star” award and AfricanAmerican Chamber of Commerce “Young Professional of the Year” award. She was a finalist for “Marketer of the Year” from the American Marketing Association and is a graduate of Leadership Tyler Class 20.

Goins attended LeTourneau University in Texas. She is married to Anthony Goins; they are the proud parents of four children and three grandchildren.

The Malone Community Center mission is to honor and strengthen the African American community in Lincoln and Lancaster County by serving as a cornerstone for educational, cultural, and advocacy programs for all people. If you would like more information please contact Thomas Christie at (402) 560-4969 / christt@lps.org.

Pius X Names Courtney Johnson Advancement Director Pius X High School and Foundation are pleased to announce that Courtney Johnson has been named the new Advancement Director.

Mrs. Johnson was most recently employed by the University of Nebraska as the Education Abroad & Marketing Coordinator where she focused on marketing and public relations, advising, outreach, and program implementation, website and MyWorld design and maintenance, data coordination, and event planning.

Fr. Lee Jirovsky has been functioning as Interim Director of the Advancement Office at Pius X for the past six months. He worked closely with Michelle Birkel, who was the first Development Director of the Foundation and after much prayer, discerned to spend time more with family and new grandchildren. Over the course of twelve years, Mrs. Birkel built the Foundation into the $14 million support system for the school that it is today.

Mrs. Johnson is grateful for the opportunity to continue the impressive work of the Pius X Advancement team in continuing to make Catholic education both affordable and accessible in the Lincoln community.

Fr. Meysenburg was grateful for the help of members of the Board of Directors of the Foundation, as well as members of the Board of Advisors for the High School in their assistance with the process.

Pius X High School is the only Catholic High School in the City of Lincoln and employs over 120 teachers and staff members. Supported by 18 parishes and 11 elementary schools, it experienced record enrollment with over 1,275 students this past year.

Union Bank & Trust Welcomes Vicky Amen Union Bank & Trust recently hired Vicky Amen as Assistant Vice President & Trust Officer in Personal Trust and Wealth Management.

Amen brings nearly 30 years as a Nebraska licensed attorney to Union Bank. She most recently served as general counsel for an Omaha company while maintaining a private law practice focused on business law, real estate, and estate planning. Amen serves as a relationship manager, assisting clients with all aspects of trust and estate administration.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude from Oral Roberts University, and a Juris Doctor from the University of Nebraska College of Law. She is a member of the Lincoln, Nebraska State, and American Bar Associations, as well as a speaker on business law, business succession, and estate planning.

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. Visit www.ubt.com for more information.

Gracia Kremer Assumes New Role at Hospice Community Care of Nebraska Hospice Community Care of Nebraska (HCC) is pleased to announce that Gracia Kremer has accepted a new position within the company. Starting July 10th she will be joining the marketing team as a Community Liaison.

She has been the Administrative Assistant and Intake Coordinator for HCC since November 2015. Gracia has 14 years of experience working in the healthcare field. She brings to this position her ability and desire to form and grow relationships as she serves the Lincoln and surrounding communities. She strongly believes that when caring for people, there is no job too small or insignificant. Gracia enjoys family time with her fiancé, two children and their dog Patton. She loves golf, spending time with friends, traveling and cooking.

Hospice Community Care of Nebraska seeks to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of patients and families who are facing a life-limiting illness. It is the expectation of HCC that all employees and volunteers are strongly committed to the dignity and worth of each individual human being. For more information about Hospice Community Care of Nebraska, visit www.hospicecarenebraska.com or call Rhonda Saunders, Community Liaison, at (402) 405-1797.

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business 33

PERSONNEL NEWS

Cristina Abadia Joins Elton Chiropractic & Acupuncture The doctors and staff at Elton Chiropractic & Acupuncture are pleased to welcome Cristina Abadia, D.C. to the practice. Dr. Abadia was born in Bogota, Colombia, and raised in Los Angeles. She moved to Nebraska in 2009 to pursue her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Communication Studies at Nebraska Wesleyan University. She graduated from Life Chiropractic College West, in California, with clinic honors in 2016, and has since moved back to Lincoln.

Although Dr. Abadia takes care of people of all ages, from newborns, to geriatrics, she has specialties in pediatrics and pregnancy through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), and is Webster certified, a chiropractic technique specifically used to aid pregnant moms and their growing baby. She is fluent in Spanish, English, and German, and enjoys using her language skills to connect with people of all walks of life. Dr. Abadia believes that the human body has an innate ability to heal itself, given the appropriate care, which includes keeping the nervous system clear, through gentle and specific chiropractic care.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Elton Chiropractic & Acupuncture, please visit eltonchiropractic.com or call (402) 489-8880.

FireGuard Adds Professionals to Sales Team

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

FireGuard, a full-service Fire and Life Safety company, has hired Mike Kistler, Chase Orsborn, and Meghan Sedlacek to its sales team.

M i k e K i s t l e r, Engineered Systems Representative, brings over 20 Mike Kistler Chase Orsborn years of experience in sales, with 15 in the Life Safety field. Kistler’s vast knowledge of Fire and Life Safety systems will be a tremendous asset.

Chase Orsborn, Sales, attended the University of Nebraska, and will use his experience as a business owner to bring in new business, both in Lincoln and Omaha.

Meghan Sedlacek, Engineered Systems Sales & Marketing, brings over 15 years of experience in Sales and Marketing. Prior Meghan Sedlacek to joining FireGuard, she held leadership positions at PayPal and Farm Bureau Financial Services. Sedlacek will represent FireGuard in professional associations.

FireGuard eliminates the need to contact multiple companies by offering complete life safety solutions. The locally owned and operated company designs, sells, installs, inspects and services all types of equipment, including: Fire Alarm Systems, Fire Sprinkler Systems, Special Hazard Systems, Fire Extinguishers, Fire Door Inspections, Restaurant Systems, Exit & Emergency Lights, Fire Appliances & Accessories‌and more!

Find out more online at www.fireguardusa.com or contact the office at (402) 592-1999.

PERSONNEL NEWS

Kayla Meyer Named Lincoln YPG Coordinator Lincoln Chamber of Commerce President, Wendy Birdsall, has announced the hiring of Lincoln’s Young Professional Coordinator Kayla Meyer. The Lincoln Young Professionals Group, a division of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, is dedicated to empowering young professionals with educational, leadership, and networking opportunities.

Serving 1,400+ members, the Lincoln Young Professionals Group is one of the largest in the State of Nebraska and country. Meyer was the recipient of the Young Professional of the Year award in 2014. She comes to the Chamber having most recently worked at CEDARS Home for Children Foundation as director of Donor Relations.

Wyuka Funeral Home Where Family Matters Most

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Serving Lincoln for over 60 years!

The Legacy Arbors Congratulates Scholarship Winner Vonda Werts Vonda Werts has been chosen to receive a scholarship for the Nebraska Health Care Learning Center Basic Nursing Assistant Training from the Nebraska Health Care Foundation. Vonda is a medication aide at the Arbors who is working her way up the health care ladder and believes that this scholarship is the first step to doing so. According to Legacy Arbors Director of Nursing, Stacie Conner, “Vonda is well-known amongst the staff as a hard worker and one who always shows compassion toward everyone around her.

Her natural rapport with our residents will help her to achieve what she desires with her career.”

The Legacy Arbors Memory Care Community has been a part of the Legacy Retirement Communities family since 2005. If you would like more information regarding memory care, independent living or assisted living, please call (402) 436-3000 or visit www.legacyretirement.com.

You can also enjoy a taste of Legacy Living at Chef Showcase on Wednesday, August 2nd from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Visit Legacy’s Facebook page for more information.

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Tony Ways Named Director of Development at Christian Heritage Christian Heritage is pleased to announce the appointment of Tony Ways to the position of director of development. Ways comes to Christian Heritage having served as director of development for a private school in Oklahoma and as chaplain for the Kansas City Royals for two seasons. His current duties include donor engagement and serving as a spokesperson for Christian Heritage throughout the state.

“There are far too many young people left twisting in the wind in seemingly hopeless situations,” he says. “They feel useless, as they have few or no mature adults in their lives who have made a conscious decision to invest in them. Being involved in a mission that seeks to deliver hope to children and families is a blessing.”

Christian Heritage has offered hope to children and families in Nebraska since 1980 through foster care and parenting education.

Its administrative offices are located east of Lincoln at 14880 Old Cheney Road, Walton, and branch offices are located at Omaha and Kearney. Visit www.chne.org to learn more.

Ask us about

Commercial Single Stream Recycling!

Mid America Recycling recently installed a state-of-the-art automated recyclable sorting system—the first of its kind in Lincoln.

Now we can serve our community even better—making recycling easier for everyone be it from work or home!

midamericarecycling.com | 402-476-8502 AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

35

NON-PROFIT NEWS

Celebrate Back to School With Campus Life & Parent Life

Launch Leadership Announces Open Board Positions

What better way to go back to school than with kick-off parties!?

Campus Life High School, Campus Life Middle School, and Parent Life are all hosting great events to get the sc hool year started right.

You don’t have to sign up; just show up! Bring a friend or find one there!

Find your group below for your party’s details.

High schoolers: Mud Volleyball on Aug. 28 at the Campus Life House.

Husker Watch Party on Sept. 9.

Middle schoolers: Y Blast on Sept. 15.

Parent Lifers: Self-Defense Class on Aug. 29, 6:15 - 9:15 p.m. at Calvary Community Church. Bring your family and a friend!

Visit yfclincoln.org for more information on all these events.

Youth for Christ Lincoln Area is a non-denominational, non-judgemental, non-profit organization serving youth in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. We engage youth through three ministries: Campus Life to high school and middle school teens, Juvenile Justice to jailed teens, and Parent Life to pregnant and parenting 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 and others.

Are you a community member with a passion for bettering the youth of Nebraska? Launch Leadership is currently looking to fill several board positions!

Launch Leadership is a 501(c)3 non-profit, volunteer organization focused on developing leadership skills in young people. Its mission is to promote and develop youth leadership as a tool with which to better student leaders, schools and communities.

Launch’s goal is to spark the “fire” - an individual’s passion, courage and empowerment to change their schools, communities and the world through robust leadership skills. Services provided include two annual five-day summer workshops in Wayne, Neb. and dozens of yearround offerings all over Nebraska and in the surrounding region.

All create a positive environment where students are empowered to discover themselves, build confidence, and develop leadership skills.

Launch is based in Lincoln, Neb., with more than 200 active volunteers throughout the United States who have fostered a tradition of youth leadership for over 40 years. Collectively, they have created a culture of compassion, understanding, and collaboration.

During the month of August, Launch Leadership welcomes qualified individuals who would like to be considered to contact Megan Falke at (402) 320-2155 / megan@launchleadership.org. Find out more about Launch Leadership online at launchleadership.org.

CEDARS Cuts Ribbon on New Outdoor Classroom Recently, CEDARS Northbridge Early Childhood Development Center u n d e r we n t a l u s h transfor mation to update a key learning space. Designed by N a t u r e E x p l o r e, t h e n ew o u t d o o r classroom gives the children opportunities to explore nature while learning about the world around them. Spending more time in nature can facilitate better social and physical development, improve fitness, motor-skills and well-being, supports creativity and imaginative play, inspires collaboration and reduces violence and bullying.

As CEDARS celebrates its 70th anniversary, the child-caring organization is as committed as ever to providing incredible opportunities for safe and stable childhoods in neighborhoods with few quality options for families.

This project would not have been possible without the dedicated support from the community and volunteers, including sizable donations from the Woods Charitable Fund, Campbell’s Nurseries, Modern Woodmen, and 84 Lumber, along with volunteers from the Lincoln Police Department, and other community groups. With the help of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce the ribbon was cut on the new outdoor classroom declaring the playground open for the children.

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For more information about how CEDARS helps children and families call (402) 434-KIDS (5437) or visit www.cedarskids.org.

NON-PROFIT NEWS

Nebraska Community Foundation: Save the Date to Celebrate Mark your calendar for Nebraska Community Foundation’s Annual Celebration on November 2 at the Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center in La Vista!

NCF’s Annual Celebration is a gathering of Nebraska’s most ambitious citizens committed to building stronger, more prosperous communities across the state. This year’s event centers on the theme “Together a Greater Nebraska” and kicks off with training sessions designed for volunteers in NCF’s affiliated fund network serving over 200 Nebraska communities.

Nebraska Community Foundation invites the public to attend the affiliated fund expo demonstrating the incredible work of over 1,500 volunteers representing communities of all sizes. Attendees will share ideas, plan for action, break bread and celebrate success with a growing network of dreamers and changemakers. Watch our website – www.nebcommfound.org – for more details and a registration link, coming soon!

A few event sponsorships remain. For more information, call (402) 323-7330 or email info@nebcommfound.org.

American Heart Association Wants You to Go Red For Women in October One in three women dies eac h year from cardiovascular disease and stroke, making it the No. 1 killer of women in the United States. Make a difference for women everywhere by attending the Go Red For Women on Oct. 12 at The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel.

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Top sponsors: Bryan Health; Cline Williams; Firespring; Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital; Nelnet; Olsson Associates and Union Bank & Trust.

Pacesetter sponsors: Ameritas; Assurity Life Insurance; Cornhusker Bank; HomeServices of Nebraska; Kutak Rock LLP and Wilderness Ridge.

10/11 News and 106.3 KFRX return as the media sponsors. Matt McKay and Lindsey from KFRX will host the event.

Beginning at 4:30 p.m., and after information booths and an electronic silent auction, the night continues with a plated dinner, an inspiring survivor story and recognition of the BetterU Makeover Challenge participants.

Individual tickets and tables are available now at www.heart.org/ lincolngored. Event sponsorships are also available.

Proceeds benefit the lifesaving mission of the American Heart Association.

Last year, the Association invested nearly $1.7 million in 10 new and continuing studies in Nebraska alone.

The Go Red For Women movement, nationally presented by Macy’s and CVS Health, is a part of the American Heart Association’s national movement to end heart disease and stroke in women.

The event aims to raise awareness and change the startling statistics.

Heart disease kills more women than all types of cancer combined.

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NEWS HOW DO YOU DO BUSINESS? NON-PROFIT Grocery Store Donations Help Matt Talbot ALL PRO HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

RESPECT THE REVIEW Last month I detailed the importance of focusing on customer retention, the key to success for any business. Building on that idea, if customer retention is at the heart of everything you do, the response you receive will reflect it. Call it what you will – karma, Newton’s Third Law, the Golden Rule – but be fully aware that it’s not to be taken lightly.

How you are perceived by clients and the community at large based on how you do business will greatly influence how you fare Constantine Syiny, President with both customer acquisition and retention.

In the day and age of the online review, the feedback you get from customers is posted for all to see. Moreover, almost everyone checks reviews before making a major purchase, and in some cases, even just to scope things out for future reference. They also pass along this knowledge to others.

Reviews help prospective clients research your business to aid in the decision to choose you over the competition, and current clients will also evaluate the experience of others to determine whether they are taking a risk by continuing their relationship with your company or if you deserve their continued business.

At All Pro Heating & Air Conditioning, we pay close attention to our reviews and take them to heart, using them as a tool to reinforce what we are doing well and address what needs to be improved based on the feedback provided.

It almost goes without saying that positive reviews are great for a business, but it’s also the general consensus that negative ones are bad for it.

However, I disagree with the latter part to an extent. A negative review is an opportunity for improvement. Unfortunately, despite giving it our best effort, we can all agree that nobody is perfect. However, those who make an effort to correct their mistakes and learn from them are the ones who will progress and have continued success despite their shortcomings. Negative reviews give us insight into a person’s experience or at least their perception of it, and that’s very valuable information. Although it’s our hope that a dissatisfied customer would reach out to allow us the opportunity to rectify the situation, sometimes we just won’t be afforded a second chance prior to a review being shared publicly. Be that as it may, we can still use that to focus on areas that need improvement, so it’s not a total loss nor do we at All Pro let it discourage us. We’ll still go back to the customer to try and make it right. It’s not always easy, but we accept the challenge because it’s who we want to be as a company and the way we want to do business.

Something to keep in mind for those reading or leaving reviews alike is that oftentimes people are much more inclined to leave a negative review to warn others or express their frustration. A much smaller percentage of people who are happy with the service they received will go out of their way to leave a positive one. Taking the time to leave a positive review helps to even things out for a more accurate representation of a business overall, so it’s tremendously appreciated. Alternatively, if you’re concerned about something you’ve read in a review, or heard otherwise, consider asking about it or requesting references and then making the decision that you feel is best.

”

I encourage anyone who is reading this to leave reviews whenever possible, as it helps others and it also helps the business if its leadership chooses to let it. If you’ve had an excellent experience, share it. If you’ve had a subpar experience, share it. And if you’ve had a bad experience but the company went the extra mile to make it right, share that too. All reviews can be useful and will be respected by a business that has integrity and truly cares about its customers.

All Pro Heating & Air Conditioning – serving Lincoln and surrounding areas with all of their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs since 2008. Have questions or need assistance?

Contact Constantine and his team of professionals at (402) 405-2959 or visit the company’s website at allprolincoln.com.

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Survive Summer Months

Collection barrels at local grocery stores are helping replenish Matt Talbot’s food pantry this summer by making it easy for customers to donate needed items such as beans (dried, refried, pinto), canned meat, peanut butter, cereal, oatmeal, pasta sauce, mac & cheese, and dry items (potatoes, stuffing, rice, Hamburger Helper).

Two Russ’s Market’s (S. 17th & Washington and S. 33rd & Highway 2) completed their collection on July 4th. All Lincoln area Hy-Vee stores are currently accepting donations.

“Matt Talbot provides a significant amount of food pantries to families and individuals who live from paycheck to paycheck,” said Susanne Blue, Executive Director. “We are so grateful to Russ’s Market and Hy-Vee for making it easier for community members to help us out during our busiest season of the year.”

Donations can also be brought directly to the community kitchen and outreach center at 2121 N. 27th Street. To learn more about Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach or make a monetary donation, please visit mtko. org. For more information about holding a food or hygiene supply drive at your workplace, please contact Victoria Young at victoria.young@ mtko.org or (402) 477-4116.

Community Action Opens Office in Wahoo Community Action Par tnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties (Community Action), a nonprofit organization based in Lincoln, celebrated the opening of a new office in Wahoo on July 12, 2017. From this office, the agency will operate its Emergency Services program, which provides financial assistance with rent and utilities to near-homeless and homeless households paired with case management. This expansion is possible through a grant from the Nebraska Homeless Assistance Program.

The need for assistance with rent and utilities is significant. In Saunders County alone, according to 2015 Census estimates, over 2,000 individuals live in poverty – a number that has grown by 55% over the past 15 years. Households living in poverty are often just one life event (e.g. unexpected medical bill, job loss) away from crisis.

Community Action’s Emergency Services program provides the emergency assistance necessary to keep families safely and stably housed in times of financial crisis.

Households seeking assistance with rent must have an eviction notice; those seeking assistance with utilities must have a disconnection notice. Security deposit assistance is also available to individuals and families transitioning out of homeless situations.

Applications are taken over the phone Monday through Friday.

Residents of Saunders and rural Lancaster Counties may call (402) 277-7330 to apply. Lincoln residents may call (402) 471-4515.

Community Action offers 15 programs and services in the impact areas of early childhood education, homelessness prevention, financial well-being, and hunger relief. Its mission is to empower people living in poverty to reach economic stability. For more information, and to learn how to help, visit www.communityactionatwork.org.

NON-PROFIT NEWS

Tickets on Sale for 5th Annual Garden Party Benefit Tickets are now available for purc hase to attend the 5th Annual Garden Party, with all p ro c e e d s t o benefit DomestiPUPS (www.domesti-pups.org).

The event is set for Friday, September 8th, from 5:30 – 9 p.m. at a private residence. It 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). Heavy hors d’oeuvres and a selection of wine, beer and specialty cocktails will be served along with live music and a silent and live auction featuring items for both garden lovers AND pet enthusiasts. Another highlight, and one that’s new this year, the event will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display courtesy of Brett Ferguson with Light Up My Life Displays!

For over 17 years, Domesti-PUPS has been serving those in need in our community through the assistance of animals. Domesti-PUPs provides therapy dogs, service dogs for people with disabilities, and trained rescue dogs. Additionally, the Adoptables program provides rescue dogs with obedience training and placement in their forever homes. To find out more about Domesti-PUPS, visit www.domesti-pups.org.

Make sure to get your tickets today as this is an event you won’t want to miss! Cost of admission is only $30, and there are also options for reserved/sponsor tables of 6 and 8 people. Please contact Paige Zutavern for tickets or to discuss sponsorship opportunities at (402) 466-3330.

Nonprofit Salary and Benefit Report Now Available The 2017 Nonprofit Salary & Benefit Report, whic h summarizes the results of a compensation and benefits survey from approximately 200 nonprofits in Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, has been published by the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) and is now available for purchase.

The yearly Nonprofit Salary & Benefit Report is a tool to help organizations promote transparency, understand trends, attract the best talent and better manage their human capital. A record number of nonprofits participated in this year’s survey by providing NAM with information collected on salaries and benefits in 2016. The survey addresses questions regarding nonprofit employee pay, sources of revenue and benefits provided to employees. The report has been generated each year since 2007 as a way to build public trust, accountability and effective management of nonprofits in America’s corporate sector.

The 2017 Nonprofit & Benefit Report is a great way to ensure that Nebraska and Iowa organizations are attracting the best candidates with competitive salaries and benefits. Another way NAM furthers this mission is by offering an online Career Center. Regional nonprofit organizations can post job listings in NAM’s Career Center to recruit high quality talent, and job seekers can search for open positions.

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofits to enrich the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. Find out more online at www.nonprofitam.org.

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NON-PROFIT NEWS Fresh Start’s The Daisy Thrift Shop Celebrates 10 Years

Nebraska Community Blood Bank: Save Lives, Win Tickets

Come help celebrate 10 years at The Daisy Thrift Shop! The enthusiastic, helpful, and knowledgeable volunteer staff will make sure every experience is a positive one. The Daisy has a high volume of great quality clothes in stock for a very reasonable price, all tops $4.

Fresh merchandise is added weekly, so stop back often and SAVE! Each month The Daisy has a new theme, and special sales.

Did you know the women who live at Fresh Start have first access to the clothing donations and what they don’t select; The Daisy Volunteers sort through for the Shop? Every penny made at The Daisy goes right to Fresh Start! Fresh Start is a transitional shelter providing basic needs, safe housing, and case management to assist women who are homeless in becoming self-sufficient.

The Daisy is operated completely by volunteers, and those who would like to join the team are always needed and welcomed. Please inquire in the shop or call (402) 475-7777 for more information. Store hours are EVERY Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and EVERY third Thursday of the month from 4 - 7 p.m.

Check it out: FreshStartHome.org | Facebook.com/FreshStartHomeLincoln | Facebook.com/thedaisythriftshop. Contact Audrey at (402) 475-7777, audreyb@FreshStartHome.org, or visit FreshStartHome.org for more information.

How about taking one last family trip to the zoo or catching the latest blockbuster with friends before we say goodbye to the lazy days of summer? Through September 5, all presenting Nebraska Community Blood Bank blood donors will earn chances to win tickets, including a family four-pack to Henry Doorly Zoo, Lincoln Children’s Zoo or tickets to Marcus Theatres.

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Maintaining a stable blood supply during the summer months can be especially difficult as schools are out of session and people take vacations, but the need for blood remains constant. With your help as a volunteer blood donor you can make a life-saving difference to someone in need.

Visit NCBB.ORG to schedule your blood donation appointment today at one of the three donor centers or at a community blood drive. To learn more about the August 2017 promotion visit NCBB.ORG/ZOO. Nebraska Community Blood Bank supplies lifesaving blood to healthcare facilities in six counties throughout Nebraska. All blood types are needed—especially O negative (O-) and O positive (O+).

Only volunteer blood donors can make a life-saving difference to someone in need.

NON-PROFIT NEWS Help Families Struggling With Addiction Lancaster County Adult Drug Court is recruiting volunteers for the Celebrating Families™ curriculum to help families struggling with addiction.

Many Adult Drug Court participants with children need assistance in learning new parenting and relationship skills. Likewise, the children need guidance in understanding the change in family dynamics as their parent or caregiver moves through the recovery process.

The successful, evidence-based 16-week curriculum engages every family member, infants through adults. Families share a meal and discuss different topics (by age group), such as healthy living, nutrition, and communication. The program and materials were developed by the National Association of Children of Alcoholics specifically for children of alcoholics and addicts.

The program runs August 14 - December 11 with classes on Mondays, 5:15 - 7:30 p.m. at First Plymouth Church, 2000 D Street.

VolunteerLinc connects people with the service opportunities that fit their skills and passions. Besides hosting hundreds of volunteer opportunities on the website, VolunteerLinc also provides programming for businesses, nonprofit organizations, and faithbased organizations. For more info, visit volunteerlinc.org.

Survivors Rising Announces Upcoming Events for Domestic Violence Awareness Month Domestic Violence Awareness Month is in October and Survivors Rising is planning several events.

The month will kick off with a Women’s Fund Giving Circle FriendRaiser event on October 5th from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. It will be held at Vino Mas at 14450 Eagle Run Drive in Omaha. There will food, wine tasting, music and a brief presentation about Survivors Rising. The purpose of the event is to introduce Survivors Rising to the community and promote awareness of intimate partner violence.

The second event will be the Survivors Rising Second Annual 5K Walk/ Run. It will be held on October 14th at 9:00 a.m. at Millers Landing in Omaha. Registration will open August 1st and can be completed at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/survivors-rising-2nd-annual-domesticviolence-awareness-5k-walkrun-tickets-35922956530.

The purpose of Domestic Violence Awareness Month is to: *Mourn those who have died because of domestic violence; *Celebrate those who have survived; and *Connect those who work to end violence. More activities will be forthcoming for Domestic Violence Awareness Month from Survivors Rising and other programs. Follow them on Facebook or check out their website for updates!

Survivors Rising is dedicated to advocacy, education, and support for survivors of intimate partner violence. The local organization’s mission is to ensure that the survivor voice is represented in legislation and in the community and that offenders are held accountable. Programs include: speakers bureau, education & training, legislative and policy advocacy, and survivor engagement to promote system change and safety in our community.

For more information, please visit survivorsrrising.org or contact Kim at (402) 850-0301 / kimsurvivorsrising@gmail.com.

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Community Crops Presents The Solar Energy Workshop - Greening Your Home Series NEED HELP GOING SOLAR? Community Crops presents The Solar Energy Workshop-Greening Your Home Series set to begin Saturday, August 5th at Eisley Branch Library located at 1530 Superior Street.

Informational booths will be open for visitors from: 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., featuring the following businesses/professionals: Drew Coffey, J-Tech Solar; Michael Shonka, Solar Omaha; Bruce Hauschild, Nebraska Energy Office; Jeff Carpenter, Nebraska REAP; Bob Ruskamp, LES; Cliff Mesler, Central City Solar Garden; and Helen & Ken Deffenbacher, Syed Ali , and Dixon Power representing Nebraskans for Solar.

Topics covered will include: Know the Economics Involved in Owning Home Solar; Learn Your Solar Payback Rates; Schedule a Property Assessment Portfolio & Get Bid Prices; See a Solar Application & Learn the Loan Process; Understand an Agreement Between Shareholders of a Community Garden; and Educate yourself on Alternative Solar Choices Such as Virtual Net Metering & Sun Shares Those interested in attending must preregister online at communitycrops. org.

Community Crops is a Lincoln-based non-profit organization that helps people grow healthy food through a network of 12 community gardens, the Growing Farmers Training Program, school gardens, CSA (vegetable subscription) and educational classes. For more information about Community Crops, please visit communitycrops.org or contact Ben McShane Jewell at (402) 474-9802 or by email at ben@ communitycrops.org.

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business 41

NON-PROFIT NEWS Date Set for Childhood Cancer Glow Gold Rally

TeamMates Matches Go the Extra Mile to Meet Over the Summer

S a m m y ’ s S u p e r h e ro e s Foundation has set a date for its Glow Gold Rally in Omaha, Nebraska, which will be held on September 10th at Village Pointe Toyota. The event is the Foundation’s largest Omaha event and will raise money to support severely underfunded childhood cancer research. It also serves to raise awareness of the fact that the taxpayer-funded National Cancer Institute only earmarks 4% of its budget to childhood cancer, with Nebraska ranking 3rd in childhood cancer incidences.

Many TeamMates mentors and their mentees are going the “extra mile” this summer! The Extra M i l e C l u b wa s created in 2012 when mentor/ mentee matches who thought three months without meeting over the summer break was three months too many. They wanted to keep meeting, but, with schools not in session for the summer, the question became “where could they meet?” Lincoln’s Community Learning Centers (CLC’s) came to the rescue when they partnered with TeamMates to help find places for these matches to get together. Twenty matches met that first summer in 2012 at CLC sites across Lincoln.

The TeamMates-CLC partnership’s support of mentoring matches, as they stay on track for the new school year, is a crucial part of how mentoring is making Lincoln a better place to live. And the partnership continues. This summer alone there are over 20 sites for excited matches to meet, making it possible for students in every corner of the city to find a convenient place to meet their TeamMate and stay on track for the upcoming school year.

The Extra Mile Club serves as an example of the commitment that mentors have to their TeamMates and the importance that mentors and mentees place on their relationships— “inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring.” For more information on TeamMates, go to www.LincolnTeamMates.org.

The event will include a variety of activities for all ages, including a bounce house and face painting for younger kids, as well was virtual reality and an Apple experience booth for older kids - plus much more. Food and drinks will be included in the admission fee. There will be a short ceremony and the West Dodge Station Elementary Choir’s rendition of “Clouds,” a song written by Zach Sobiech, a pediatric cancer patient. The event will finish with one-mile honor walk to remember all those who fight and those angels we have lost.

The event will start at 3:00 pm.; admission is $15 for adults and $10 for kids. Register at www.SammysSuperheroes.org.

Sponsorships are still available. Contact Jeremy Stanislav at (402) 560-1578 or jstanislav@sammyssuperheroes.org for more information. Sammy’s Superheroes Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit.

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NON-PROFIT NEWS Friends in Faith Presents 2017 Lincoln Family Fest Friends in Faith is pleased to announce their biannual Lincoln Family Fest event celebrating Family Life. In past years Lincoln Family Fest was well attended, with this year’s goal to reach an audience of over 800 spectators.

This is a free event open to the public with special guest and artist “7eventh Time Down.” A free will donation will be collected to support youth ministry. Created to offer a wholesome venue for families to enjoy the company of each other and create a lasting memory, the event will be held in a beautiful meadow just 2 miles east of Lincoln on a horse acreage.

Gates open at 4 p.m. followed by Community Mass and Family Blessing with Bishop James D. Conley, Bishop of Lincoln, from 5-6 p.m.

Food trucks will be available selling meals, along with free family games such as bean bag toss, three-legged family race, water balloon toss and more. Beginning at 7 p.m., 7enventh Time Down will be uplifting spirits with their well-known singles played on the radio!

All are welcome to attend - if you are not comfortable joining for mass, please come by to partake in family fun, games and a live outdoor concert!

Check out the details online at lincolnfamilyfest.com, or to visit about the event contact Matt Kleinschmit at (402) 450-5632 / matt@ pridehomeslincoln.com.

HBAL Raises $10K for Habitat for Humanity The Home Builders Association of Lincoln’s (www.hbal. org) annual golf tournament was held on June 2 at Highlands Golf Course. The tournament raised $10,000 for Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln’s Build#150.

Flight Winners: First Flight - 1st Place (57): Mike Goings, Clair Munyon, Jayson Becker, Matt Reiling. 2nd Place (58): Dave Lakin, Nate Boesch, Chris Myer, Curt Hagerman. 3rd Place (58): Tim Vogt, Ben Vogt, Jay Hiatt, Brad Hudson. Second Flight - 1st Place (63) Matt Minchow, Ed Schulenberg, Steve Stevenson, Sam Manzitto. 2nd Place (64) - Gary McKinstry, Brian Gansmer, Eric Marshal, Brett Kolb. 3rd Place (64) Marlin Lyon, Marc Hausmann, Bob Sundquist, Todd Bohlmeyer. Third Flight - 1st Place (66): Denny Van Horn, Arlene Van Horn, Andy Van Horn, Michelle Van Horn. 2nd Place (66): Kris Carpenter, Alex Lowell, Lorin Dagel, Shawn Christen. 3rd Place (67): Dan Walker, Shane Podliska, Ryan Trausch, Kenny German.

The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation was established in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) charitable, non-profit organization dedicated to the future of the home building industry in Lancaster County.

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

Tabitha Announces Upcoming Events Tabitha, your answer for Elder Care, is pleased to announce upcoming grief groups, remembrance walk and hospice volunteer training.

Grief and support groups are 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. “Caregiver Drop-in Support Group,”- August 16, 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.) “Growing Through Grief Support Group,”- held Wednesday evenings, September 13 - October 18, 6 p.m., at Tabitha, 4720 Randolph St. To register, please contact Lani Glaser, at (402) 486-8546 / Leilani.Glaser@ Tabitha.org.

Tabitha invites you to join the Tabitha Hospice team for a special remembrance walk to celebrate the life of your loved one and share in the support of our community. The service will be held on Tues., September 12, 6 p.m., at the Sunken Gardens, 27th Street and Capitol Parkway. To register, please contact Lani Glaser (see above).

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, contact Jamie Scott at (402) 486-8577 / Jamie.

Scott@Tabitha.org.

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business 43

NON-PROFIT NEWS

EYE RUN Seeks Sponsors, Participants for 5th Annual Event Christian Record Services, Inc. is excited to announce early bird registration is open for the 5th annual EYE RUN, an eye health awareness event and fundraiser which will be held Sunday, October 8 at Holmes Lake Park and many other locations through virtual runners and walkers.

Created to engage the Lincoln community and current and potential clients who are blind, Christian Record held its first event, 5K4Vision EYE RUN, in 2013. Each year, the event has attracted increasing participation from Lincoln and other areas. The 2016 event had a total of 215 runners and walkers. For 2017, the organization hopes the event will draw 300-500 participants. Legally blind walkers or runners and their sighted guides may participate at no cost.

The EYE RUN offers three events for teams and individuals: One Miler Run/Walk, 5K Run/Walk, and 10K Run. In addition to the run/walk, the EYE RUN hosts the Healthy Lifestyle Choice Expo, which includes booths from sponsors and area agencies that offer supportive services to people who are blind.

Early bird registration is open through Sunday, September 3, and general registration is open through event day. Corporate sponsorship opportunities are available. Visit www.EYERUN.info to learn more.

Bryson’s Airboat Tours Hosts Ray’s of Hope Ride to Benefit Team Jack Foundation

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The second annual Ra y ’ s o f Hope Ride wa s h e l d on July 15th from 10-2 p.m. at Bryson’s Airboat To u r s , situated on the banks of the Platte River near Fremont, NE. It was amazing and emotional fun-filled day on the river for family and friends of the Team Jack Foundation who were in attendance.

Timothy Bryson, owner of Bryson’s Airboat Tours, would like to extend special thanks to those who helped put on such a special event with his team. This includes the fellow airboaters who came out to give rides and Justin and Joel Jelkin, owners of Edward Jones and Baby Huey’s, who sponsored the food. The Team Jack Foundation’s work in our community to benefit children with pediatric brain cancer, and the stories of strength and courage, love and faith despite such circumstances, is an inspiration to us all. Through events and initiatives year-round, working with families impacted by the disease and other childhood cancer foundations, the organization works to raise critical funding for research and find ways to make a difference both now and in the future.

To find out more about Team Jack Foundation, visit www. teamjackfoundation.org.

To find out more about Bryson’s Airboat Tours or to schedule an upcoming event, visit www.brysonsairboattours.com or call (402) 968-8534.

NON-PROFIT NEWS

Family Service of Lincoln Recruiting Staff This is always a n exc i t i n g time of year, as Family Service of Lincoln prepares for providing b e fo r e a n d after-school care and programming, beginning the very first day of public school. Each year great team members move on, due to schedule changes and graduations, and as a result, there are part-time and fulltime position openings to fill with new employees. Family Service works to find the best new employees to work with elementary school-aged children, and each of us can help by spreading the word to college students, camp counselors, athletes, retired persons, great babysitters – persons we would trust to care for children, at various Lincoln Public School sites.

Dynamic and caring persons are needed as part-time Teacher Assistants, to work before and/or after school programs at elementary school sites. A high school degree or G.E.D. is required, as are 6 months of experience working with children. Teacher Assistants help lead activities; such as, games, dramatic arts, homework, crafts, science, environment, sports and more. Organized self-starters are sought for the position of Education Site Supervisors, who are responsible for the programming, care, lessons, activities and teacher assistants at specific elementary school sites. These full-time positions come with benefits, paid time off, and holidays. A bachelor’s degree in a related field is required, as are 6-12 months of experience.

For more information and to apply, contact Human Resources at (402) 441-7949, or go to: familyservicelincoln.org/employment. Family Service is an equal opportunity employer.

LOC Ortho Open Reaches $100,000 Raised for Friendship Home in 11th Year On June 2, patients and friends of the Lincoln Orthopaedic Center (LOC) were treated to 18 holes of golf and a dinner reception at Wilderness Ridge.

The annual event celebrates the return to activity for LOC patients who had total joint surgery in 2016 while simultaneously raising funds for Friendship Home.

In total, $13,000 was raised through generous Lincoln Orthopaedic Center sponsors, a silent auction and free-will donations. The LOC Ortho Open also reached a remarkable milestone this year – over $100,000 raised for Friendship Home over the past 11 years.

Friendship Home, Lincoln’s confidential domestic violence shelter, offers emergency and transitional shelter, as well as safety planning, support groups and mental health counseling. Fundraising efforts like this golf tournament help Friendship Home maintain the quality of services to victims of domestic violence and their children 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

Many thanks to golfers, sponsors and LOC staff and volunteers whose participation and generosity helped make this year’s Ortho Open a continued success.

Registration Opens for Nebraska Recycling Council Awards Luncheon & Workshops Join Nebraska Recycling Council on October 19, 2017 for the Annual Awards Luncheon & Workshops: Collaboration is the Key, to be held at The Country Club of Lincoln. Ellen Martin, Vice President for Impact and Strategic Initiatives for Closed Loop, will be the keynote speaker. Ellen tracks the progress and impact of the Closed Loop portfolio and generates actionable insights for investors, municipalities, and industry. She will lead an industry-wide study on the capital landscape for circular infrastructure in the U.S. Afterwards, don’t miss out on a workshop.

Attendees will have the opportunity to choose from one of the following: “Teaming Up To Change Your Community’s Solid Waste Management System” - How do communities navigate the process of changing their solid waste management plan with a diverse group of stakeholders?

Hear from a panel of community leaders who have been through the process. Learn about accomplishments and lessons learned.

“Building Business Partnerships to Maximize Savings in Solid Waste Management and Recycling” - Where are the opportunities for businesses to improve recycling outcomes by pooling their resources?

A panel of experts will share their experiences from a variety of partnership models, from business to business, recycler to business, government, nonprofits and investors.

For more information and to register, visit: www.nrcne.org/2017annual-awards-luncheon-workshops.

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AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

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NON-PROFIT NEWS Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Presents 2nd Annual Lincoln’s Finest Event

Theatre Arts For Kids Presents 2017-18 Season: “The Roar of Broadway”

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in Lincoln is set to host the 2nd Annual Lincoln’s Finest event. To be held on Thursday, September 21st at the Jasmine Room by Venue in the historic Grand Manse, this event is much more than just your average networking cocktail hour. It includes food from a variety of Lincoln’s headlining restaurants, as well as an impressive silent auction.

Join Theatre Arts For Kids for another exciting season of productions! The 2017-18 Season theme will be “The Roar of Broadway, a season of Broadway animals.” TAFK just announced the line-up of shows and registration is now open for a host of great classes/performances.

Fall 2017 Productions: Madagascar - A Musical Adventure Jr. Dates: September 9 - October 28. Times: Rising Stars (ages 3-8) Saturdays 9:00 -10:30 am and Stage Stars (ages 6-10) Saturdays 9:45 - 11:45 a.m. Performances: Saturday, October 28 at 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. Cost: $200 for Rising Stars and $225 for Stage Stars.

Shrek The Musical Jr. Dates: September 8 - November 18. Times: Star Catchers (ages 8-15) Fridays 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. Performances: Friday, November 17 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, November 18 at 2:00 and 7:00 p.m. Cost: $350.

Spring 2018 Productions: Jungle Book Kids (Rising Stars and Stage Stars) Dates: January 13 – March 3.

Tarzan (Star Catchers) Dates: January 13 – April 14.

Watch for more details about the Spring 2018 Productions to be announced!

To register or learn more about Theatre Arts For Kids, visit the website at www.tafk.org.

Lincoln’s Finest honorees are the city’s most philanthropic young professionals committed to raising money to find a cure for cystic fibrosis – a fatal disease. Lincoln’s Finest honors up-andcoming YP’s who show exemplary leadership, are active in their community, and have excelled in their profession or business.

The Lincoln’s Finest event is an opportunity to celebrate honorees for their significant contribution to the community while also helping to improve the lives of people living with cystic fibrosis.

The evening will be a cocktail style reception with an opportunity to network with other young professionals and business leaders in the community.

The inaugural class of honorees in 2016 were Alli Burtch from Hudl; Matt Fox from Frank, Fox & Hoagstrom Financial Group; Noah Greenwald from INSPRO; Patrick Lusk from Olsson Associates; Jamie Mohrman from Kidwell; and Katie Spohn from Bruning Law Group.

Nominations are currently being accepted for the 2017 class and tickets are also on sale. For more information, visit lincolnsfinest2017.finestcff.org or call the Nebraska Chapter office at (402) 330-6164.

Local Professionals Obtain Training, Certification to Provide Leadership Coaching

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

The CBMC Leadership Coach Training Workshop recently took place, taught

by Jim Carr, President, Right Connections, LLC. Leadership Coach Training is the intentional development of businessmen to be: *Empowered by Christ; *Reflect authentic Biblical leadership; Model connectivity; *Serve within networks; and *Function as a part of a flexible, Spirit-led leadership team.

Two full-day intensive training sessions were held, with 8 weeks of small group work in between. This training is practical, utilizing discussions and role-playing to help the new leader be comfortable with the Leadership Coaching process. The local marketplace holds a unique set of challenges to and opportunities for faith. As a result of this event, there are now 12 more men in Lincoln and Omaha certified to provide leadership coaching!

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.

FRIENDS4LUNCH Last 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.

UPGRADE YOUR

HOME

Window Replacement And Installation

Thank you to our friends who joined us this month!

This Month: Cowboy Chicken Cowboy Chicken, located at 2801 Pine Lake Rd, Suite J, brought its signature fare and Western flare to diners in our community with the opening of its very first Lincoln franchise at the beginning of last year. For over 30 years, Cowboy Chicken has been cooking all-natural chicken over a wood-burning fire, offering an authentic, welcoming experience. Today, guests enjoy the same delicious, wood-fired rotisserie chicken, along with an impressive selection of homemade sides and exciting seasonal menu items.

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On behalf of our entire Strictly Business team, we would like to invite you to our next Friends4Lunch event we are holding on Wednesday, August 9th at Cowboy Chicken at 11:30 a.m. (Lunch prices range approx. $5-$10) Space is limited and RSVP is requested. Please email office@ strictlybusiness.com or call (402) 466-3330 to attend.

Ready To Launch A New Project

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.

Call For A FREE Estimate!

6030 Havelock Ave. Lincoln, NE 68507 402.261.3682 | yourexteriorexperts.com AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business 47

HEALTH NEWS

Nebraska Hearing Center to Relocate Lincoln Office

The Nebraska Cancer Research Center Welcomes Swetha Mereddy

Nebraska Hearing Center is pleased to announce the Lincoln office will be moving to a new building at 333 S. 70th Street, Suite 101 effective September 1, 2017.

The Nebraska Cancer Research Center (NCRC) Program has announced the addition of Swetha Mereddy as a Clinical Research Professional.

Swetha will work in conjunction with the oncologists at Nebraska HematologyOncology, PC and Southeast Nebraska Cancer Center to screen and enroll patients to national, state of the art, clinical trials.

Swetha received her MBBS degree from Kasturba Medical College in Mangalore, India. Prior to coming to NCRC, Swetha worked for Cancer Research for the Ozarks in Springfield, Missouri.

Over the past 32 years, NCRC has partnered with Bryan Health, Nebraska Hematology Oncology, PC, Southeast Nebraska Cancer Center and CHI Health Saint Elizabeth to enroll more than 2,000 patients and volunteers in treatment, cancer control and prevention studies. NCRC provides local access to National Cancer Institute-sponsored clinical trials, many of the same studies available at the Mayo Clinic, MD Anderson, and other renowned cancer centers.

The Nebraska Cancer Research Center is a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership. For more information on the Nebraska Cancer Research Center, visit the website at www.necancerresearch.org or call (402) 483-2827 or toll free (800) 487-8786.

Nebraska Hearing Center has greatly appreciated the support of Lincoln and its surrounding communities for more than 40 years and the team looks forward to continuing to provide better hearing at the new location.

The professionals at Nebraska Hearing Center believe that it’s important to monitor your hearing health annually like any other annual exam. That’s why Nebraska Hearing Center offers complimentary hearing evaluations and consultations. Research has shown that taking care of your hearing can help prevent other health issues, so there is no better time than now to call for your free evaluation.

To schedule an appointment or for more information, call (402) 4863737 or visit www.nebraskahearingcenter.com.

Don’t let Plantar Fasciitis keep you down.

Advanced Medical Imaging can help you get back to your favorite activities with Tenex Health TX™. It is a minimally invasive treamtment that reduces or eliminates Plantar Fasciitis pain. By not disturbing healthy tendon tissue, this procedure means quicker recovery times and less discomfort than traditional surgery.

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Ultrasound guided Performed by Interventional Radiologists Fast pain relief

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402-484-6677 | 7601 Pioneers Blvd | www.AMImaging.com Not affiliated with Advanced Radiology of Grand Island, P.C.

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

HEALTH NEWS

Child Guidance Center Provides Outpatient Therapy Services Within LPS Child Guidance Center (CGC) inspires healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health care. Child Guidance Center provides hope and healing to children who have suffered trauma from abuse or neglect, or those experiencing anger, depression, anxiety, and more.

Child Guidance Center provides a wide range of treatment options that include Outpatient Services for children and families. One component of treatment is provided through the Outpatient Services-Schools program where therapists work with children and youth in the following Lincoln Public Schools: Clinton, Elliott, Everett, Hartley, McPhee, Pershing, and Prescott Elementary Schools; and Dawes, Goodrich, Mickle, and Park Middle Schools. Therapy is also provided at Northeast and North Star High Schools. In addition, CGC provides therapeutic consultation at Don Sherrill and Nuernberger Education Centers. Child Guidance Center staff also provides on-site substance abuse education and treatment services for at-risk youth at Mickle Middle School, Northeast High School and, new this fall, at Lincoln High School.

For more information about Child Guidance Center’s mental health treatment services available for your child and family, please go to www.child-guidance.org, email Wendi Anderson, Outpatient Services Director at wanderson@child-guidance.org, or call (402) 475-7666.

Bryan Selected as Mission: Lifeline Gold Level Award Recipient Bryan Medical Center has received the American Hear t Association/ American Stroke Association’s (AHA/ASA) 2017 Mission: Lifeline Gold Level Recognition Award. Health care organizations that follow specific AHA quality improvement measures for treating severe heart attack patients receive Bringing faster, more effective heart attack care this award. Every year, to the region. Representing the teams that make more than 250,000 this possible: Leaders from Bryan ED and Cardiac people experience a Care, Bryan Heart, and Lincoln Fire and Rescue. severe heart attack known as STEMI. STEMI is the deadliest type of heart attack, caused by blocked blood flow to the heart. To prevent death, it is critical to restore blood flow as quickly as possible, either by mechanically opening the blocked vessel or by providing clot-busting medication.

The American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline program aims to help hospitals get treatment for these cases more quickly, beginning with the 911 call and continuing through hospital treatment. Bryan Medical Center is recognized for having an 85% composite adherence and at least 24 consecutive months of 75% or higher compliance on all Mission: Lifeline STEMI Receiving Center quality measures to improve the quality of care for STEMI patients. “Patients are getting better and faster care for severe heart attacks, thanks to new technology, improvement measures and Bryan’s partnerships with first responders throughout our region,” says John Woodrich, Bryan Medical Center president and chief operating officer.

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A Butler Builder® can bring your vision to life.

While Butler® building systems are pre-engineered, their final design is not predetermined. Using Butler’s advanced engineering capabilities, we can help you design a building from the ground up. Even special design elements like skylights, fascias, and entrance systems can be incorporated to produce not just any building, but your building.

For systems that meet your building needs, choose Butler. For the experience and expertise to get the job done, choose us, your local Butler Builder®.

Contact us at 402-475-5030 or visit us on the web www.tcwconstruction.com

2013 BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc. All rights reserved. Butler Manufacturing is a division of BlueScope Buildings North America.

©

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

49

HEALTH NEWS

www.LincolnVisionCenter.com

Registration Now Open for 10th Annual Multidisciplinary Pain Symposium

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Leslie M. Frank

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Satellite Offices Located In: SEWARD: BEATRICE: Lied Senior Center 301 S. 6th Street 1010 Manor Drive

Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

Husker Rehabilitation & Wellness Centers, P.C. proudly presents the 10th Annual Multidisciplinary Pain Symposium: A Continuing Education Event for Nurses. The event will be held on Tuesday, August 29th at Concordia University’s Lincoln Campus, located at 570 Fallbrook Blvd.

The Multidisciplinary Pain Symposium’s goal is to increase knowledge in the treatment of pain and examine the role of multiple different disciplines in care of complex chronic pain patients. It will provide 6.25 contact hours, which will count toward the allowable 10 non-peer reviewed hours for license renewal.

Speakers this year include: Adam Gentzler, DC, BS, ART, FDM; Kelly Zach, MD; Callie Engler, DPT; Ben Petersen, DPT; Pat Brinkman-Falter, BSDH, MS, PHRDH, COM; and Lyndell White, PharmD, RP. Sign-in begins at 7:30 a.m. The symposium will run from 8:00 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. with each speaker talking for 60 minutes followed by a 10-minute break with a 45-minute lunch provided.

Cost is $40 per registrant, which includes lunch and all course materials.

Please pay either online at the time of registration or call (402) 4773110 to make payment arrangements. Your registration will not be complete until payment is received. The link to register can be found on Husker Rehab’s website at www.huskerrehab.com.

Lincoln Family Medicine Residency Program Awarded Grant The Lincoln Family Medicine Residency Program’s project, titled Healthy Adolescents in Our Neighborhood, has been selected to receive a 2017 Adolescent Immunization Grant Award in the amount of $11,200 from the American Academy of Family Physicians Foundation. The AAFP Foundation Immunization Awards recognize Family Medicine residency programs for identifying and developing solutions to overcome barriers to immunizations and promote sharing of immunization best practices.

Since its inception in 1975, the Lincoln Family Medicine Program (LFMP) has established itself as one of the country’s preeminent unopposed, community-based residency programs, attracting some of the brightest resident physicians in the U.S. and around the world. A fully accredited program, LFMP was established by the Lincoln Medical Education Partnership (LMEP) and is affiliated with the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

A division of LMEP, the Lincoln Family Medicine Program plays a crucial role in meeting the Midwest’s need for primary care physicians. As a community-based residency program, over 250 community physicians will volunteer more than 40,000 teaching hours to its residents this year.

The physicians of LFMP provide care at the Lincoln Family Medicine Center located at 4600 Valley Road. The Lincoln Behavioral Health Center is also housed within the Residency Program there. Providing full-spectrum medical care, each patient receives double benefits: cutting-edge medical treatment from recently graduated physicians, plus decades of experience from supervising physicians. New patients are currently being accepted. For more information, please visit www.

LMEP.com or call (402) 483-4571.

From Start to Finish

RESTAURANT EXPOSÉ

An Unmatched Dining Experience, DISH is a New American restaurant in the heart of Downtown Lincoln. It has certainly captured the attention of those here in our community as a prominent member of Lincoln’s dining scene, standing out as one of the select few restaurants that fall into the classification of fine dining. The locally owned and operated establishment offers exceptional service and distinctively creative, high-quality fare in an upscale yet relaxed setting. Here it’s all about the experience – the staff works hard to cater to their guests’ specific needs – whether a business luncheon, romantic date, or evening out with friends. DISH sets the bar high and has sustained that level of excellence for quite some time now.

We have an appreciation for delicious food, cocktails, and great service so it doesn’t come as a surprise that we were very much looking forward to dining at DISH. Our team is an even mixture of firsttimers, frequent visitors, and we even had a couple industry veterans among us. For appetizers, we started off with the Brussel Sprouts, Corn+Crab Cakes, Beets 3 Ways, and Mussels. Our favorites were the Brussel Sprouts (a MUST try!) and Corn+Crab Cakes. So tasty! DISH recently introduced its Bites and Sips menu to complement the laid-back vibe of Downtown Lincoln in the summertime, so we had to add something from that into the mix. The tapas-style menu is perfectly suited for those looking for a light snack and a chance to wind down after work, which perfectly suited our party. We ordered the Asparagus Bruschetta from this menu which was a fun take on the traditional Bruschetta. It was unquestionably fresh and light.

For the main course, we ordered Grilled Pork Tenderloin, Chicken Breast, Beet Soaked Salmon, ChileEspresso Filet, and the Duck+Scallops. As far as our favorites go, our group was divided between Grilled Pork Tenderloin and the Beet Soaked Salmon – both were so original and packed amazing flavor into every bite! The Pork Tenderloin and Filet were perfectly cooked and extremely tender. We were overly impressed with the presentation and flavor that each dish brought to the table. Well done all around.

To cap off our extraordinary meal, we finished with dessert, which was delightful indeed. We ordered the Chocolate Torte, Butterscotch Pot de Crème, and Strawberry Semifreddo. DISH definitely does dessert right! The table favorite (although all 3 were devoured) was the decadent, delicious Butterscotch Pot de Crème, with whipped Crème Fraiche and salted caramel goodness.

It even garnered rave reviews from the one person in our group who doesn’t normally like sweets.

Aside from the fare, which was incredible, the service was superb! Our server was attentive, but not overbearing, and very knowledgeable about the menu items. He did a grand job of explaining the components of each dish, which we certainly appreciated! The wine and cocktail menus were solid, the local ingredients were outstanding, and the new menu is innovative. The chef and back of house staff produced a fantastic display of culinary brilliance and we found our service to be outstanding, which together made for a memorable dining experience that we’d highly recommend.

The restaurant design can be described as chic and contemporary, with a casual yet sophisticated feel. We loved the ambiance and attention to detail. DISH’s location along with the atmosphere, and of course the fare and bar offerings, make it the preferred choice for those seeking a quick after work meal or a nice sit-down dining experience. All in all, it continues to win Lincoln residents over, our group included. DISH should definitely be your next stop for a sensational dining experience in Lincoln that you won’t soon forget!

Stop in today, or make a reservation! (402) 475-9475 • 1100 E O St • www.dishdowntown.com • info@dishdowntown.com AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business 51

HUSKER HARVEST DAYS 2017

Mark your calendars - Husker Harvest Days 2017 will take place on September 12-14.

Now in its 40th year, Husker Harvest Days will bring together anywhere from 400-600 exhibitors to Grand Island, NE from across the nation and even abroad. These businesses, made up predominantly of farmers and ranchers, ag businesspeople, and ag-related companies, will have the opportunity to connect with thousands of people – in past years, attendance has been over 100,000, which is incredible. Its impact on our state’s economy is major, as is the impact of these businesses on our lives locally, regionally, and nationally. Agriculture is profoundly significant here in Nebraska - it’s a billion-dollar industry that accounts for a sizeable portion of our thriving business climate. In fact, estimated to account for around one-fourth of the state’s total economy, it’s a percentage share that’s unmatched elsewhere in North America with the exception of South Dakota. What’s produced here in Nebraska is feeding our fellow Americans, and those across the world too.

Husker Harvest Days is the world’s largest totally irrigated working farm show, and the area’s largest and most complete one, featuring the latest equipment, supplies and technologies available to today’s producers. Attendees have a multitude of opportunities at this event, which is geared towards Nebraska and western Corn Belt agriculture. The newest tractors, combines and harvesters, grain-handling equipment, and irrigation technologies will be on display. Watch and even participate in live demonstrations of these as well as new models of pickups and ATVs, with all of the experts on-hand to answer questions. Or, check out the field demonstrations, crop technology exhibits, and livestock handling demonstrations.

There’s so much more too; you really have to see to believe all of the amazing things going on at Husker Harvest Days, just ask anyone who has been before. With an exhibit field spanning 80 acres, it’s a massive display of what’s happening in agriculture today and what the future holds.

If you plan on attending this year, make sure to stop by and check out our featured exhibitors!

52 36

Booth Number: 260

Booth Number: 8

Booth Number: 359

844-763-3490 1501 NE Broadway Ave, Suite1 Des Moines, IA 50313 www.swingermfg.com

402-441-3240 3815 Touzalin Ave., Ste. 101 Lincoln, NE 68507 www.nebraskasoybeans.org

208-405-6187 2201 Hwy 30 W Fruitland, ID 83619 www.milstak.com

Booth Number: 250

Booth Number: DIBN1575

800-742-7746 1002 1st Street Friend, NE 68359 www.brothersequip.com

402-430-7727 P.O. Box 6664 Lincoln, NE 68506 www.yieldchampions.com

Strictly Business Business August AUGUST 2017 2017 Strictly

Swinger Mfg. is a company with products made by grain producers for producers. The Swinger hopper mover eliminates getting in and out of the semi-truck to unload grain from the field. With the easy to use fob, nothing stands in the way of the auger repositioning. Swinger utilizes two direct drive motors that provide enough power and torque to effortlessly move your hopper throughout the long days.

Swinger Mfg. warrants the Swinger for one (1) year from the date of purchase against product defects. Try the Swinger for 60 days and if you aren’t completely satisfied, we will refund you the full purchase price (excluding shipping).

If your Swinger needs repair during the warranty period, the product can be returned to Swinger Mfg. in Des Moines, IA. If you have additional questions about your Swinger, contact us today.at (844) 763-3490 or sales@swingermfg.com. Swinger Mfg. is located at 1501 NE Broadway, Suite 1 Des Moines, IA 50313.

The Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) looks forward to joining you at Husker Harvest Days 2017. Along with other commodities, we will be discussing the importance of Nebraska farming in international trade and marketing, animal agriculture and other related topics.

High Oleic soybeans arrived in Nebraska during the growing season of 2016, and they continue to improve product nutrition and extend shelf life. This variety has expanded the market for soybean oil and offers a premium to producers in specific areas. Take Action, a farmerfocused education platform, will also be on display to target weed and pest management and encourage farmers to utilize practices that decrease the impacts of herbicide-resistant weeds.

Stop by our booth and visit our other commodities in the Ag Commodities Building along Main Street at Husker Harvest Days 2017! For more information about the NSB, visit our website at www. nebraskasoybeans.org.

Brothers Equipment, Inc., a family-owned agricultural business specializing in fertilizer application parts and equipment, was started in 1975 in the small town of Friend, Nebraska. With over 40 years of experience, Brothers Equipment has been committed to finding innovative products and technology that increase your yield and profits, by providing equipment from a variety manufacturers to meet your specific application needs.

Our sales and parts departments are committed to service making sure your fertilizer equipment is ready for the field. Our inventory is fully stocked with new and used equipment and parts for all makes and models. Products we carry include: Salford/BBI Spreaders, PLA Sprayers, Kraus Blending, Case IH Fertilizer, Montag Dry, Banjo, CDS John-Blue, Hypro, Ace, TeeJet, Ag Hose, Raven, Shield NH3, KZ valves, and much more!

For more information and to see our online catalog, please visit www. brothersequip.com or call (800) 742-7746. You can also visit our facebook page at www.facebook.com/brothersequip.

At Husker Harvest Days’ booth #DIBN1575 (North Diversified Industries Building, towards the middle of the show site) once again Conklin’s AgroVantage System will be on full display with representatives from all across Nebraska. AgroVantage is the largest division of Conklin Company, and with more than half of the NCGA, national winners utilizing this system, you can see why they call it “The Company of Champions.”

Back in the late 60’s AgroVantage released it’s first wetting agent called Wex and from there has continued to develop a no-nonsense, systems approach to higher yields with a focus on lowering a producer’s cost per bushel. They have gone on to develop a state-of-the-art, online soil testing system, built in conjunction with MidWest Labs. Known for some of the best agronomy and soil science training programs, AgroVantage continues to both research, develop and manufacture a crop management system starting from the furrow and working backwards.

GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA SEPTEMBER 12 - 14, 2017

Tuesday: 8:00 - 5:00 • Wednesday: 8:00 - 5:00 Thursday: 8:00 - 4:00 AUGUST August 2017 Strictly Business

53 37

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Committed to Helping Individuals & Communities

Prosper

Good Life Retirement Solutions is locally owned and operated

by Andy Storz, with the goal of offering peace of mind and security through retirement and insurance solutions.

WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES YOU DIFFERENT FROM OTHER COMPANIES SIMILAR TO YOURS? The biggest difference is that we don’t offer any products that are variable. In other words, we don’t work with any products that could lose people the money they put in.

This was very important to me when starting this company, having seen firsthand the devastating results that market volatility can cause to people’s savings. I didn’t ever want to be in a position where I had to tell someone that he/she had lost the money that was invested. This philosophy also means that we aren’t for everyone; however, for those who value security, we do great things.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT DOING BUSINESS IN LINCOLN AND OMAHA? There’s a real sense of community doing business here. It’s amazing how often you meet people and it turns out you’re connected in some way. Being able to work with people who value building relationships is something that is very unique and special. I’ve been in Nebraska almost my entire life, so it made sense to start a business and a family here. I spent some time away from the area several years ago and found that I missed it, so this is home.

WHAT KIND OF COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS/GROUPS ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH? We’ve done a lot of great work with schools by setting up scholarships, providing food to families for the holidays, and providing clothing for children in need. I have personally been involved with the Knights of Columbus for a few years and give what time I can helping with their activities as well.

With my children being pretty young, I don’t have as much time to give as I’d like. But my oldest two are close to an age where they can come along so I’m planning to get involved in some sort of community activity in the near future.

DO YOU HAVE A BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY OR MISSION STATEMENT? Our goal is to provide individualized solutions based on a person or family’s goals and resources. These solutions need to bring safety, security, and peace of mind.

WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE OR INTERESTING THING ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS THAT MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW? When people find out we don’t have any offerings that would cause a loss of premium due to market volatility it tends to be surprising. It seems to help a lot of our customers feel more at ease knowing that we would never recommend something to them that may lose them money.

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU SEEN IN THE INDUSTRY AND YOUR COMPANY IN THE PAST FEW YEARS? The biggest one that has happened in the last few years has been the implementation of the Department of Labor’s Fiduciary Rule. While it promotes transparency, it also caused a number of investment companies to no longer work

with clients that they considered to not have enough assets. We’re still seeing the impact on the finance and insurance industries unfold. My hope is that ultimately consumers will be made more aware of how much of their money is being used for various fees and it will be easier for them to determine their options.

WHAT DO YOU SEE HAPPENING WITH THE BUSINESS IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS? Technology, Baby Boomer retirement, and government reform will be big drivers of the next five years. The increased use of robo-advisors will likely put a strain on traditional broker relationships and may force some consolidation.

As Boomers continue to retire their savings will be tested, and a large market downturn like the one in 2008 could put many in a terrible position. Lastly, government reform (or lack thereof) may drastically change pensions and social security. We’re closely watching what’s going on with many pension plans right now to see if that will be impacting people counting on them in the future.

WHAT IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES THAT YOUR COMPANY HAS FACED? The ongoing one is the bad reputation that a few have given the finance and insurance industries. Sometimes it’s tough to overcome the preconceived notion that someone in our field is only out to sell and will say whatever they need to make that sale. That simply isn’t the case. There are many great professionals who value building relationships with their clients and will keep their client’s best interests in mind.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST IMPORTANT ACHIEVEMENT AS A BUSINESS? For me, it was when I was given a Nebraska Admiralship in recognition of the scholarships that we created. Knowing that there was an appreciation for what we were doing for the community meant a great deal to me. Something like that will always be more meaningful than any kind of sales or business accomplishment to me personally, because the education we helped someone obtain will last their lifetime.

WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST TURNING POINT IN YOUR BUSINESS? Learning the impact that it was possible to make in the community by finding the right opportunities with which to offer help and get involved. I had come from a professional background where giving back was very impersonal and usually meant giving a check to a large organization. By working with people one on one, especially in the schools, we really found that we can make a huge difference in people’s lives by finding small needs that have a large impact. I think having those experiences really shifted the philosophy of the company to make giving back as important as gaining customers.

WHAT IS ONE GOAL FOR YOUR BUSINESS THAT YOU HAVE YET TO ACCOMPLISH? I hope to get to a place where we are putting a third of our revenue back into the community through givebacks and charitable sponsorships. This is the most rewarding part of the business for me so I’d love to see it grow more. Our goal for this year was 20% and we’ve been able to meet it so far, I think we can do better though.

You can get in touch with Andy Storz of Good Life Retirement Solutions at (402) 419-3426, via email at astorz@goodliferetirement.com, or visit www.GoodLifeRetirement.com to learn more about the company.

54 Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

by Coby Mach, President & CEO

402-466-3419 • www.liba.org

Do Your Employees Have These Benefits?

In July the LIBA Board of Directors asked me to testify about the property taxes levied by Lancaster County. Below is the message we delivered.

LIBA is strongly urging the Lancaster County Commissioners to lower the property tax levy in light of the 2017 evaluation windfall.

Last year commissioners received a raise of 1.15%. The new budget shows the commissioners are receiving a 5.7% pay raise this year. Our state senators are paid $12,000 per year.

Lincoln City Council members are paid $24,000 per year. County Commissioners are paid $42,484 per year and are budgeting a 5.7% raise. On top of this, their retirement payment is going up too. Each will receive over $3,000 a year in retirement and will get another payment to cover health insurance after they leave office. We understand that the pay increases are the result of a committee recommendation, however, if the Commissioners are going to accept these raises, we ask that they work harder to lower taxes.

Additionally, if the taxpayers cannot see any property tax relief in a year with such large valuation increases, perhaps it is time to look at employee benefits. Long-term employees (20 years) receive 5 weeks of vacation, 10 paid holidays off, another 2 days of paid Personal Holiday, 10 to 12 days of sick leave, free life insurance, a post-employment health plan, dental insurance that is around $5.00 a month depending on the union, and pay only $38 per month for their personal health insurance.

While we understand that some of these benefits may be subject to the Commission of Industrial Relations (CIR), we would again encourage the county to seek changes to the CIR. LIBA knows and understands that there is just not enough money to fix our existing county road and bridge problems. Additionally, funding for an East Beltway could be on the horizon. We know the Commissioners are considering an additional $1 million in funding for the County Engineer, and they are to be commended for that. We would also recommend establishing a sinking fund for the $1.5 million for the Raymond Road bridge that was delayed by the state.

In January, LIBA made a suggestion to a commissioner that forming a Blue Ribbon Roads & Bridge Funding Panel would be a good idea.

Today, we recommend to the full board that they form a citizen group from all corners of the county to study the funding issue. The problem will not go away, so let’s meet it head-on.

Finally, LIBA would like to weigh-in on the Railroad Transportation Safety District (RTSD). As the body that regulates the RTSD levy rate, we are asking that the Commissioners also lower that levy rate too.

This windfall is not coming from commercial property, office property, retail or manufacturing. The windfall is coming from homeowners. As a community we need to stand up for families and their ability to afford a home.

Certainly the Commissioners could find a hundred ways to spend this windfall. But we urge you to return it homeowners.

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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Lan House Aims to Bridge Cultures

Take one glance at Lan House’s menu and it’s immediately clear that the restaurant serves more than the typical American Chinese restaurant’s sweet and sour chicken variety. Spicy squid and shrimp, jelly noodles, spicy rabbit. It’s all there on Lan House’s sprawling menu.

“When I was growing up, I was exposed to food culture and the family business a lot,” owner Max Z said. “I want to make people happy. There’s a million ways to try and make people happy but there’s one simple way to make someone happy: give them good food.”

Z, who is from Lanzou, China, is bringing recipes and cuisine from his native region to downtown. According to Z, Lan House is the real deal, in terms of serving up genuine Chinese food. “We can back up our words,” Z said.

“This is the food Chinese people eat every day in China.”

Unlike many Chinese restaurants, noodles at Lan House are homemade and hand pulled. Z said homemade noodles make all the difference in a Chinese dish, especially to those who grew up eating them. “I know the Chinese and Asians in this country,” Z said. “They have trouble finding the good food and some people have homesickness. And myself too. I really miss my hometown noodles and I [couldn’t] find it in all of Nebraska. This is a beautiful city, there’s a college with talented young people so why not give them some food they want. I want to give them that.” Since opening, Lan House has seen a large amount of international students, especially from China and other Asian countries. Z said this is a testament to the quality of food at his restaurant.

The goal of Lan House extends beyond providing authentic Chinese cuisine, however. Business partners Pascale Muellner and Z both expressed a desire to have their customers engage in conversations about their culture. Though there is a more private space in the restaurant’s basement, the upper level of Lan House offers multiple communal high tables for various parties to sit together and talk. “Obviously not everyone has to do that but if they want to engage, they can,” Muellner said. “We totally believe in diversity, we totally believe in a world where everyone can get together and get along.

By sharing this authentic food from China, people will get a different idea about China and their food.”

Z offered the same sentiment, saying a cultural exchange is one of the main purposes for opening the restaurant. “Food is a big part of culture,” Z said. “Can you grab culture? Can you touch culture? You can’t. But there’s some substantive stuff that is culture. For example, food is a really big representation of American culture. You eat the food and you can easily get into a topic through it.”

Muellner said some customers come to Lan House expecting American Chinese food and are surprised at their authentic menu.

Lan House also offers family-style portions of food, usually enough for a minimum of two people. These larger portions also come with a prices double that of a single portion meal, something Z said can be confusing for some customers. He said he hopes to make the menu more understandable in the future for those unfamiliar with authentic Chinese menus and offerings.

Whether over a quick lunch or a lengthy dinner, Lan House aims to unite customers and cultures alike through their food. “That’s basically our vision, to join people together with traditional food,” Muellner said. “There’s an emphasis on traditional and authentic because, obviously, you can open a place and say it’s authentic and from the origin, but it’s really hard to provide that same quality. Obviously it’s never going to be 100 percent perfect, but as much as you try, you can get up there [in terms of authenticity], and then people don’t have to travel far to get that experience and that culture.

Not everyone has that possibility or chance.”

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.

LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

by Wendy Birdsall, President

402-436-2350 • www.lcoc.org

The Eclipse Is Coming

A historic event is happening on August 21, 2017 that will put Lincoln at the heart of a once in a lifetime experience.

On that day, we will experience the first visible solar eclipse from the United States since July 1991 and the first to sweep across the country from coast-to-coast since 1918. Visitors from all over the world will be coming to the United States to take part in events and view the eclipse, including events taking place right here in the Capital City. Lincoln, which sits on the northern edge of the eclipse, will enjoy just over one minute of totality. This makes Lincoln a prime viewing area for visitors to experience the city and see the eclipse.

I can’t overstate the impact this event will have on the tourism economy for Lincoln and all of the communities across Nebraska in the path of the eclipse. Hotels have already received bookings from groups traveling to Lincoln from all corners of the globe, including groups coming from places as far away as Australia and Asia. Most of the bookings are for multiple day stays and for multiple people as visitors are choosing to arrive early and stay late for the event.

There In the weekend leading up to the eclipse, Lincoln will be hosting many shows and events, including Kendrick Lamar, Crawford vs. Indongo Boxing Championship, Joe Bonamassa at Pinewood Bowl, Capital City Ribfest and much more.

You can find more information about all events leading up to the eclipse at the Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau website, www.lincoln.org.

A general timeline for August 21 is as follows: • 11:37:17 a.m. - Partial eclipse begins • 1:02:36 p.m. - Total eclipse begins • Approximate length of totality: 1 minute, 24 seconds On the day of the event, Haymarket Park will be a gathering point for the public and a venue for a Science and Engineering Expo to complement the viewing experience. A special Eclipse delay will be part of a noon starting time as the Saltdogs take on the Gary, Indiana, SouthShore Railcats. The day includes interactive exhibits and presentations as well as event t-shirts and free Eclipse-viewing glasses. The expo will be run next to the stadium along the promenade outside its gates to remain accessible to the public throughout the game. Continuous live images will be video streamed from the UNL student observatory (atop the Memorial Stadium parking garage) and the UNL Minnich Solar Telescope (perched on the Jorgensen Hall physics building) for periodic display on stadium viewing screens, or picked up by anyone’s personal tablets or smartphones.

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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In our local market, businesses are changing hands at a steady pace.

For buyers, it’s a life-changing opportunity to try their hand at something they’ve always dreamed of being – a business owner.

Or perhaps it’s building upon one’s current portfolio of businesses or pursuing a new ownership opportunity in a different industry.

Whatever the case may be, it’s a significant investment and should be thoughtfully considered before entering into an agreement and assuming ownership.

For sellers, it may be part of an exit plan as retirement arrives, a death occurs, a partnership dissolves, or it may just be time to move on and do something different. Having everything in place will make all the difference in getting what the business is worth with a smooth transition as the business changes hands.

These transactions are always best handled by the experts for parties on both sides, as are the items that need to be in place prior to selling and after buying to be set up for success.

There are many things that will factor into the results of a business sale or purchase.

Undoubtedly, the professional who acts as your agent to help you buy or sell is at the top of the list.

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The broker that you select to work with will play a key role in the transaction, so it’s important to choose wisely. “In Nebraska, there’s no agency requirement, which means by law, a broker isn’t obligated to look out for your best interests like a real Jethro Hopkins estate agent,” cautions Jethro Hopkins No Coast Business of No Coast Business Advisors. “It’s a Advisors common misconception; unfortunately you can’t extend your complete trust based on the professional title alone. There’s no special training, licensing, or requirements to be a broker here in Nebraska by law either, and due to confidentiality there’s little you can do to check references with respect to the details that would be most helpful to evaluate.

How can you tell if the broker is giving you an accurate price for the business if you’re a buyer, or negotiating in your best interests?

How can you tell if the broker is knowledgeable at pricing, listing, advertising, etc. if you’re a seller? How do you know the broker is capable of doing the paperwork correctly in either scenario?

This all leads to the question, ‘So how exactly does one pick a good, qualified broker?’

Well, first off, what you shouldn’t do is leave your future business plans and aspirations in the hands of the first one you come across.

Instead, let it be a well thought out decision based on information derived from your own personal investigation. There are some telltale signs you can follow along with your instincts, which as a business owner, you rely on often.

Is the broker willing to meet with you in person? - Meeting with several will give you a good basis for comparison, and it should happen face to face. If you receive a letter from a broker saying there’s a buyer looking in your industry, be aware that this is probably just a tactic to fish for leads. If you decide to pursue it and the broker does have a buyer for your business, the broker should only be asking you for a one-off agreement, and only sign an agreement to show your business to that one buyer. This means if that deal doesn’t go through with that particular buyer, the deal is off and there’s no extended listing agreement. You’ll then reserve the right to retain his/her services moving forward from that point on if you want or part ways if you don’t.

Is the broker from the city where the business is located? - It’s important to have a good understanding of the business community, climate, and conditions that would impact the purchase or sale of a particular type of business.

How long has the broker been in business? - In our local marketplace, reputation can be very telling of experience and ethics. It’s really all you have to go on given what I mentioned with respect to references. Instead of requesting references from a broker as you would with other professionals, ask around within the business community. Those people have the freedom to choose whatever details they’d like to divulge, and at minimum, can tell you whether they’d use that person again or not. Keep in mind that it’s not so much about personality, but more so about competence and results.

Has the broker ever owned a business him or herself? - If you have the opportunity to work with an owner of a business brokerage, it’s with the understanding that this person has their reputation on the line with every transaction represented by his or her business.

It’s not a person who is interested in doing just enough to get the deal done and the commission for it. Furthermore, if this person has owned another business in the past, that’s also a good sign, particularly if they’ve built it or been in business for a substantial amount of time. Someone who has personally gone through this before has had to learn some tough lessons. They know the ins and outs, and can apply this information and insight to their dealings with your business transaction.

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When does the broker want to get paid? - Using real estate as an example again, if you call me to sell your house and I want to get paid before I list it, how much work am I going to put into it? Or, let’s use an auto dealership as another example. They will pay you a price that gives them a healthy profit margin before they mark it up and resell it. Be wary of any broker who wants to get paid up front, is interested in personally investing in your business, or who is quick to go down on commission without much of a negotiation process. A good broker knows the work that will need to be put in to get the desired results, will be honest and up-front with pricing, and knows what he/she is worth. Depending on the industry and the current market conditions, it could take 6-9 months, and even up to two years to sell a business. It’s not generally a quick process, and shouldn’t be approached as such unless it’s the seller’s intention to sell it quickly and that person fully understands the potential ramifications of doing so. For buyers, if a broker is pushing the sale instead of giving you the time you need to review everything, you’re in a bad situation.

Is your broker rushing you into making a decision? - Along the same lines, buyers and sellers should both be wary of this unless there’s good reason given to reach a timely verdict either way.

There are certain timeliness that need to be adhered to, yes, but it’s a red flag if you feel as though you’re being badgered or not given enough time and space to make an educated decision. A

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

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said, for buyers and sellers alike, be aware of your surroundings, what the competition looks like, and projections for the future.

Any business will be affected by everything around it – it’s not an island.

It’s ultimately your responsibility as the buyer or seller to have a working knowledge of the basics, and aware of what’s prudent in certain situations that may arise. Do your due diligence regarding who you want representing you in the purchase or sale of a business – make sure to ask the questions and carefully consider the answers.”

While your broker generally will have a significant role in the process, there are other professionals you may need when you’re preparing to buy or sell a business, during the process, or once you’ve completed the transaction and are planning for the future.

For all of the above, your banker, accountant, and attorney are the ones you can plan on regularly consulting and working with throughout all of the phases.

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business transaction will be the single largest purchase a person will make, more than a car or even a house in most cases. Don’t go into it blind, but also don’t get pushed into it either. You’ll know what the deadlines are and it’s in your court, with the exception of perhaps a reminder here or there. If it’s a hard sale, slow down.

If there’s no solid reason why the deadline is there, slow down.

In any red flag scenario, slow down. If you have questions, ask them, and if you’re not satisfied with the responses or they’re not answered in a full and complete manner, slow down.

Is the broker asking you for the right paperwork? - For sellers, if a broker is willing to list the business without all of the right paperwork in place, you can be pretty sure that it isn’t in your best interest to move forward with that person representing you in the transaction. If you’re trying to sell your business without three years of tax records documented and available, banks will be much less likely to approve a loan on it, potential buyers will be wary thinking you are hiding something, and it’s just problematic in general. What is the broker using to make a valuation of the business if you don’t have the proper documentation or the accuracy is questionable? Furthermore, it reduces the value of the business because you don’t have provable income. If you’re a buyer, never let the broker fast forward through the closing documents. Reserve time to review, be thoughtful, and ask questions. At closing, you should always be sure to confirm the inventory on-hand; that what they said you are getting is there.

Next, you should make sure all of the equipment works. Check everything personally; start it up, test it out. By signing the closing documents, you are agreeing to the sellers claims that all inventory listed is accounted for and in working order. Always have the closing paperwork – offer to purchase, letter of intent, documents to transfer the business – reviewed by your attorney. Even though they may have been created by the broker’s attorney, having an independent evaluation is always advised.

Inventory is low currently, so it’s a seller’s market. That being 60 Strictly Business AUGUST 2017

Then there are the people you employ. When it comes to staffing, there are things for both sellers and buyers to carefully consider.

In some instances, the employees will remain with the business, while in others, the new owner will want to bring in their own team – and sometimes, it’s a blend of the two. If you’re a seller and know the buyer will not be retaining your staff, it’s going to be tough to break the news, but it must be done. Consider connecting them with a local staffing agency to set up a meeting, especially if you’ve worked with one in the past and know that your staff will be in good hands there. Or, if you’re buying a business and know that there will be key personnel gaps to fill, it can be tough to dedicate your resources to hiring at a time of transition when so much else is going on. Consulting with a staffing agency to see what they can do for you is wise at this point because with their help, you’re more likely to be hiring someone who is qualified for the position as they’ve already been screened, which is also a way to minimize the potential for turnover. It can take quite a bit of time devoted to hiring with promoting the position(s), reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and then there’s training. Having the right people in place is a major factor in a smooth transition when a business changes hands. With hiring comes onboarding and HR-related requirements, so if you’re a new business owner, you’ll also want to make sure to partner with a company that can help you with your needs in those areas.

With the purchase of an existing business, the goals moving forward will be dependent on a host of different factors. If it’s already successful or has a lot of brand equity – a strong reputation with an established clientele of repeat customers you may decide that not much needs to change and stick with a good thing. If you’ve decided to take a risk with one that will take some work getting to that point, it could mean a number of things will need to happen. If rebranding is part of the plan, you’ll want to consult with the professionals on this too. In short, with anything that’s done to change the image of the business, the design of all critical elements and promotion of it moving forward will need to align.

Buying or selling a business requires having all of the necessary things in place for the best possible outcome. While those are different for each party, what remains the same is surrounding yourself with competent professionals who can help you get to that point is critical. Being a business owner is such a rewarding venture, but it’s certainly not for everyone, and those who will succeed won’t do it alone. Best of luck in your future endeavors, entrepreneurs!

Back to

School It’s back to school time! What’s happening in the lives of students and their families this month as they prepare varies greatly depending on the scenario. What this looks like for parents sending their kids off to their first day of elementary school is different than parents sending them off to middle school or high school. Then there are the parents sending off their new college freshman who will be living on campus, in-state or out-of-state, young adults preparing for another year of college, and on to adult students who are returning to the classroom to pursue a degree, some of whom are making preparations at the same time for their children who are also going back to school. For all of these, there’s a lot to do and think about ahead of time. Not to worry - no matter what you need to be well-prepared, there’s a local resource that can help you with it! While shopping for clothes and supplies and orientation are a given, there are other things to consider too.

Nutrition plays a big part in our performance in all aspects of daily life, academics included.

“Proper nutrition is crucial for all of us, but especially for children as their bodies and brains are growing and developing,” says Natasha Plooster with Eat Fit Go. “Our body runs on the food that is given to it; therefore, the highest quality ingredients are needed for our children to reach their full potential. Wholesome, balanced and fresh food is integral for good sleep, happy moods, sustained energy and, what teachers love most, focus!

Natasha Plooster At Eat Fit Go, all we do is prepare fresh and Eat Fit Go balanced meals. They are packed with protein for satiety and energy, without any of the preservatives or added sugar that cause our bodies to crash after a few hours. Eating our food helps teach our younger generation what to eat and more importantly, how much to eat as they develop their habits for the healthiest life possible.

For many of my clients, Eat Fit Go offers a peace of mind that a healthy meal is waiting for them in their refrigerator, no matter how crazy the day may get.

As a mother of school aged children, my biggest challenge has always been finding the time and energy to prepare healthy meals for my family. With the demands of a busy schedule juggling work, school and activities, we love having the convenience of Eat Fit Go’s fresh and healthy meals that are ready to be enjoyed at the dinner table or in the car. I know that I’m doing something right when even my 2-year-old is asking for Eat Fit Go! His favorite is the Smart Chicken Fried Rice.”

She concludes, “We all strive to be the most super selves we can be.

Don’t be so hard on yourselves and know when to delegate. While you focus on work, school and activities, let Eat Fit Go do all the chopping, cooking and cleaning to stock your refrigerator with fresh and nutritious

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meals that will be ready to enjoy the minute you can slow down and refuel. And the best part is that your kitchen will remain spotless!”

As previously mentioned, but applying to all parents across the board, it’s hard to juggle the stuff of daily life and still have time left to pursue one’s own goals and dreams. That being said, it’s important to take the time for self-care and to better yourself, as you are the main role model for your child(ren).

Even for those who aren’t parents, balancing all aspects of one’s life - work, family, social life, community involvement, hobbies, etc. – is a formidable challenge. There’s just not enough time in the day. Add in trying to go back to school and further your education to open new doors, advance in your career, or obtain the job you’ve always wanted and it can seem like quite the tall order. But with so many different degree programs that have been designed based on these challenges and adapted to the needs of the “non-traditional” college student, it’s entirely possible. There are great options these days for degree programs completed in part or fully through online courses, making higher education more accessible for all.

For example, at Concordia University, Nebraska, there are options of 100% online, hassle-free business graduate degrees. This program was specifically designed for working adults. You can earn an MBA online in as little as 18 months, and still learn from faculty who are experts on the subject matter and who develop a personal relationship with their students. With rigorous IACBE-accredited curriculum, you can take what you learn in class and apply it to your job the next day. You’ll have the support of a connected community dedicated to your success from day one, and even after graduation.

Online MBA Programs offered at Concordia University, Nebraska include the following options: Accounting, Business Intelligence, Finance, Human Resources Management, Leadership and Managing Team through Change, Marketing, Nonprofit Management, and Risk Management.

For anyone who is returning back to school at the college level, whether it’s your first or final year, Kat Kreikemeier with Southeast Community College offers the following advice: “The best thing that students can do to prepare for the upcoming school year is to ask questions! If students, their parents or others in a supporting role have questions, now is the time to ask them. The more information you have prior to starting classes, the more Kat Kreikemeier prepared you’ll be to do your best. For Southeast Community students starting in future terms, visit the College campus or campuses where you’re considering taking classes. Take a look around, talk to instructors and advisors, and get a sense of how you see yourself there.

As for advice on avoiding common mistakes, don’t make decisions about your major, college choice, classes, etc. based on someone else’s experiences. Do firsthand research to ensure that the decisions you make work for you, your life, and your needs. Advice from friends and family can be helpful, but be sure that you’re doing what’s right for you!

Above all, seek the resources you need to be successful. Every college has a multitude of student support staff who are ready to assist you and resources that are available. Take advantage of that support, especially since you’ve already paid for those services in your tuition and fees.

Also, take each day one step at a time. When classes, assignments, tests, or finding the balance between college and life happens, remember that you can do it! Making the decision to go to college and walking in the building is the hardest part. Once you’ve made the commitment, there are lots of people cheering for you and are ready to support you—just ask!”

As for those who are planning to go back to school, but not in the immediate future, she also shares some words of wisdom. “Make sure that the college(s) you’re considering offers an academic program that

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will help you achieve your career goals. Southeast Community College has more than 50 programs of study where students can earn certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees in both career and technical areas and a robust academic transfer program that prepares students to transfer to four-year colleges and universities. Some career industries have specific educational requirements, and it’s important that you have the appropriate credentials (or the ability to earn those credentials).

Additionally, it’s important to do your homework about class schedules, terms, and costs. The most convenient or popular choice might not always be the best fit for your particular life needs. Find out when classes start.

Do they offer day and/or evening classes? What online class options exist? What will the total cost of your education be, and what special fees are included? All of these factors will help you make the best decision for your life. SCC starts classes four times a year (July, October, January, and April) and offers courses at a variety of times throughout the day.

Some programs have evening options for students. Additionally, SCC’s tuition is affordable, which helps students complete a quality education without accumulating significant debt. This is especially true for students taking academic transfer courses.

In closing, Kreikeimeier encourages, “Come visit us at SCC! The College will be hosting a series of Discovery Days on each campus over the next few months. Discovery Days provides guests the opportunity to learn about Programs of Study, meet faculty and staff and learn about support services and how to pay for college. It’s a great opportunity to visualize life as a student at SCC. For students considering coming to college, there is still time to enroll for the Fall Quarter, which begins in October. Visit www.southeast.edu/discoverscc for more information.”

The 2017-18 school year is upon us, but there’s still a little bit of time yet this month to get your ducks in a row. Young and young at heart alike, we wish you well in your future academic endeavors and hope the year ahead is a successful and fulfilling one!

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Buying

A Home

Start your story with .

Buying a home in today’s market here in Lincoln, Neb. is much different than it was even a year or two ago, let alone for past generations. With a disproportionate amount of buyers versus sellers, composed of more of the former and less of the latter, it’s not uncommon for homes to be sold within hours of listing, if not before even being officially listed on the market. It’s a climate that necessitates buyers being ready to act fast, with less room for negotiating and higher chances they’ll be the party paying for closing costs and other fees associated with the home buying process. Although it is a seller’s market in most all cases locally, luckily for buyers, interest rates remain historically low. Sure, it can be a little scary to make such a big decision so fast, but it’s still well worth making the investment.

Representation: Your Agent As a general rule independent of the market conditions, but especially with what’s happening currently, it’s critical to be represented by an experienced real estate agent.

“Inventory is very low, and the number of buyers is high, which has created a seller’s market,” confirms Ben Bleicher with Woods Bros Realty. “This makes for a situation that isn’t ideal for all buyers as houses are going for a premium.

That being said, buying a home is a much better investment than renting for a lot of reasons. The biggest is to build equity. Then there’s independence and freedom to renovate. Most landlords Ben Bleicher won’t allow tenants to do whatever they Woods Bros Realty want to a home, nor do most tenants want to invest in a property they don’t own. As a homeowner, you’re free to add that landscaping you’ve been wanting, paint your bedrooms any color you want, and renovate the place to your liking. The best thing about modifying your house is if you do the right renovations, you’ll benefit financially when you sell because it will be worth more money!

Even with the current market being what it is, there are ways to

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real estate agent on either side of the transaction, Derek Kats with Keller Williams Lincoln elaborates, “People often assume they can easily buy a home without the use of a licensed real estate professional. When making one of, if not the biggest purchase decision of your life, it seems rather unwise to go it alone, especially when a buyer’s agent is customarily free to use. decorative rock boulders | pottery | flagstone top soil | mulch | pond supplies fireplaces | brick ovens & more!

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On the flipside, when sellers decide to Derek Kats go the ‘For Sale By Owner’ route, they typically cannot sell the home for as high Keller Williams Lincoln of a price nor understand how to avoid the numerous pitfalls of a contingency-laden buyer contract.

Working with a professional realtor is critical as such an expert will assist in identifying many points in the market. A professional will discuss needs with the client and classify what’s most important, along with introducing numerous ideas relating to what is in a specific area locally in relationship to those.

Home buyers must be aware of what they need in their homes, not only now but also well into the future. Moreover, they have to understand the desires they have for their homes versus what they know they will need. This includes points relating to starting a family or operating a business, particularly a business based out of one’s home. The potential for growth in many aspects of one’s life will make a difference in terms of making a decision.

Thus, it is sensible to look at what may come about in the future and what is needed for a home to qualify as suitable.

A realtor can also identify many points relating to one’s credit, thereby looking exclusively into homes one can afford. This ensures a better sense of control over the process of finding a quality home.

successfully get the home you want without overpaying. Some of these are trade secrets, but what I can say is there are methods for finding properties that are not yet listed and negotiating fair prices on listings that are already active. It’s quite a compelling reason to work with an experienced and connected real estate agent.”

Pointing out more reasons beyond that, he continues, “The benefits to having an agent are vast; another important one being the fact that buyer’s agency doesn’t cost the buyer a dime. You get a real estate agent’s expertise and the sellers pay for our services on the buyer’s behalf; it’s already factored into their expenses and there’s nothing required of the buyer to take advantage.

Furthermore, we agents have knowledge about homes that most consumers do not possess. It’s wise to work with an agent who will protect your best interests as the buyer.

For example, condition of the high dollar items is very important.

The main exterior components to assess are the roof, windows, siding, and gutters. Mechanical-wise, the age and condition of the furnace and A/C systems are extremely important because either can set you back thousands if replacement or repair is needed.

As for the interior, the foundation floor and walls are the most important. If either is in poor condition it can cost a homeowner anywhere from a few hundred to tens of thousands to repair or add drain tile systems. If all of these are solid, finishes do matter, but don’t have to be deal-breakers. Updating a home can be very expensive, but adding better finishes does indeed add value to a home, whereas maintenance fixes don’t always.

I help clients get pre-approved (the most important first step), and then we search for houses that fit their wants and needs. Once we’ve identified a house they like, I make sure that the property is in good shape and run comps to see if the price was set correctly.”

In agreement on the importance of working with an experienced

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Buying a home should entail understanding one’s limits. An ethical realtor should help with identifying what is right with regards to one’s credit rating and how that will determine what is affordable and advised any particular situation. I feel it is critical, and my responsibility as a professional, to explain how buying a home involves limits on what one can afford at a given time. This includes educating my clients on how much money is involved in not only a home loan, but also regular maintenance and other costs. The potential for the home’s value to increase can be discussed too, but that is not necessarily a requirement.

The general growth in home values is appealing, but the recent slowdown in available home rates is important to look at in comparison. Such a slowdown makes it harder for people to find homes. This may also cause some homes to become more valuable as such resources become increasingly scarce on the market based on supply and demand alone.

A realtor will help you understand the factors at play in the market, identifying strengths and weaknesses as they come about.

This is done to evaluate what issues have to be observed in the market in general and what must be addressed when finding a home one can afford, but that will also best maintain its value so that you’re making a wise investment.”

Tessa Warner with Woods Bros Realty further emphasizes, “It’s very important to have a great team of industry professionals working with you! In addition to choosing a knowledgeable real estate agent that will help find you a home you love and guide you to a successful close, select a mortgage lender that will educate you and empower you to make a smart investment, as well as advocate for your

Tessa Warner Woods Bros Realty

needs. It’s important to understand the types of loans available to you, how your credit score is determined, and how your financial decisions will impact buying a home and building wealth through home ownership.

Your realtor is your first line of defense in making sure that the house you love is a good investment, and is your biggest and best advocate throughout the process. That means we listen to your needs and concentrate on finding the most functional and affordable home for you. We also connect you to other trusted industry professionals, such as mortgage lenders, home inspectors, electricians, plumbers, and any and all other professionals that might be needed to ensure you are educated and empowered to make the best decisions throughout the home buying process. Real estate agents also act as walking dictionaries who help translate all the industry jargon and help you understand how the various steps in the process will affect you now and in the future.”

She also offers the following advice to potential home buyers who are concerned about the current market. “It can be overwhelming to try and keep up with everything that affects the housing market, so ask your real estate agent what changes are going to directly impact you and your buying process. Then, educate yourself from there. In general, it’s important to be informed on interest rates and local market conditions, since most price points and neighborhoods vary greatly in what you can get for your investment. If you are considering a government-backed loan, ask your real estate agent where to find the most up-to-date information on legislation that could potentially impact your ability to qualify for that loan. Never be afraid to reach out to government officials locally and nationally to let them know how their decisions are affecting your ability to buy a new home.

It’s easy to get caught up in the story about how your co-worker sold her house in under an hour or how your relative paid $10,000 under market value for a house that sat for months, and then assume that your journey will take the same path. Take a deep dive into your local market conditions and then understand that everyone’s process is going to be different. For example, it might be a seller’s market in some price points and neighborhoods, but a buyer’s market in others. Talk at length with your real estate agent about the market value of homes you are interested in buying, and then take the steps you are comfortable with to put yourself in the best position to purchase the home you decide you’d like to buy.

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Most buyers start the process by looking online or wandering into an open house. However, the first step you should take is finding the right real estate agent for you, and then meeting with a trusted mortgage lender to find out what financing you qualify for. That will give you the security of knowing that when you find the right house for you, you are able to act quickly and confidently.”

Sandra Larsen with BancWise Realty also weighs in on financial considerations, offering the following advice:

Sandra Larsen BancWise Realty

“The most important factor to consider when getting ready to buy a home is the financing. Buyers put themselves in the most favorable position when they connect with a great local lender who can get them preapproved. To mitigate risk, this is one thing buyers can proactively do ahead of time that will make a big difference.

Most of us are not carrying around $100,000 - $1,000,000 in cash, so taking out a mortgage is the other option. Be prepared to breathe deep and be patient with the process. If you don’t already have a lender selected, seek a reliable, trustworthy referral from your Realtor®. Do be aware that most experienced Realtors® will ask the buyer to obtain preapproval before looking at homes. Here’s why: Let’s say you go shopping for a home and you fall in love…now what? You’ve

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Buy • Sell • Residential New Construction • Commercial

SUMMER SALE Summer is here and the market is HOT! Properties are going fast and I'm here to help you buy the property you want before it is gone! I offer only the best customer service, and will use my expertise to assist in getting top dollar when selling, as well as making sure you're getting a great home when buying. I look forward to helping you with residential or commercial properties.

BEN BLEICHER, REALTOR® 402.419.6309 ben.bleicher@woodsbros.com www.benbleicher.woodsbros.com 68

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put yourself on an emotional roller coaster of loving the home but not being able to offer on it because you’re not preapproved and you have a house to sell. Home after home comes on the market and then sells and in the meantime, you tour more homes, fall in love again, it sells and this keeps happening over and over. We as Realtors® care about our clients and this is not something we want you to experience. We want the process to be as smooth and as simple as possible so you’re able to enjoy what is supposed to be a good thing! When done in the right order, it’s super fun and exciting.

It is also better when the loan underwriting process is local, accessible, has reasonable terms, and can adapt quickly, because the federal regulations lenders have to abide by now are very cumbersome and time-consuming. Not to mention funny little unexpected requirements just pop up at the last minute. Be prepared to respond to your lender quickly when they request information. There are many good local lenders, but it’s best to know the person who’s helping you with the most important purchase in your life. Choose to work with someone you’ve met with in person, who can explain all of the different loan products and find one that’s best for you.

Your lender will also probably share with you Rule # 1 once you’re in serious house-buying mode, and especially once you’re under contract to buy a house: ‘Do not use your credit for anything; don’t do anything out of the ordinary financially without talking to me (your lender) first to make sure it won’t affect the loan process.

Don’t go buy a new car or new furniture or run up a $7,500 vacation on your Visa. Wait until the house closes.’

Going back to the importance of preapproval, in the current market conditions, most sellers won’t sign off on your offer without it. It’s a reasonable expectation to demonstrate to a seller how you’re going to pay for the home, right? As it stands now, most sellers in this market don’t need to accept an offer that is contingent upon your house selling either. There’s likely another buyer for that home who doesn’t have a house to sell. It’s a seller’s market for the most part in Lincoln these days. Making low-ball offers and asking for closing costs is, most of the time, not the best strategy to get the result you want, which is to buy the home you love. If you love it, other people probably do too. It is competitive out there but now is still a great time to buy a home.

Rates continue to stay low and relatively speaking, Lincoln’s home prices are reasonable compared to national averages. Please discuss your particular scenario with a caring and competent Realtor® who can guide you through the entire process. We are here to help you make smart, educated decisions and navigate through inevitable setbacks and any issues that arise. We’ll do it with a calm demeanor and offer sound advice for solving problems along the way.”

She concludes, “A key advantage of trusting a Realtor® when buying a home is simply experience. I am involved in buying and selling homes every day, while most folks will do it two to three times in their entire lives. Every endeavor has a standard process or professional protocol that takes place whether it’s planning a vacation, lighting a stage for a performance, catching a fish, or painting a house. Experienced practitioners in any profession complete the needed tasks to get from Point A to Point B better than one who does not practice that profession daily. Realtors® have had hours and hours of training, practice, and sheer repetition. Your Realtor ® has toured hundreds and hundreds of homes in different price ranges and with different condition issues. We’ve processed many, many transactions. We’ve seen what happens when it’s not done right and unfortunately, what the sad consequences are as a result. Ultimately you’ll be so glad you took the step to trust a professional who will be with you from start to finish.”

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important to get preapproved and establish a relationship with a local lender for optimal results. There are also other financial considerations, of course, but it’s an excellent starting point.

“The pre-qualification process will benefit a potential home buyer in multiple ways,” explains Mike Barrett with Cornhusker Bank. “The home buyer will be educated on the different mortgage products the bank offers. As lenders, we assist in matching up the right type mortgage with each customer’s situation. Home buyers will find out the amount of the house payment they can afford and the price range in which they should be looking.

We will also inform the home buyer of Mike Barrett any potential setbacks which could take Cornhusker Bank place during the process. This helps ensure no surprises come up at the last minute.

The entire home buying process can move seamlessly when the buyer has all the necessary information upfront.

Many homebuyers think they have to have a 20% down payment in order to qualify, which is not the case. Conventional loan programs go with as little as 3% down based on income guidelines. For prequalification (also referred to as preapproval), the potential home buyer typically needs to bring in current paystubs, W-2’s, tax returns and asset account statements.

Interest rates are still very attractive, with 30-year rates in the low 4% range and 15-year rates in the 3.375% range.

In the current housing market homes are moving extremely fast.

The housing inventory is at an all-time low and buyers need to act fast in order to get the home they want. My best advice to help navigate the current market would be to talk to your loan officer

before going out house shopping. It is more important than ever before to have your prequalification letter in hand when you are shopping for a home. You need to be able to act fast when you find the house of your dreams.

Cornhusker Bank has an experienced team of loan officers; we pride ourselves on customer service and helping the customers through every step of the process. The loan officers are involved with the customer from the prequalification process through closing, educating and guiding the customers through the entire process.

Even after a loan closes, lenders are still there to assist every customer. We also offer local servicing. This aspect really sets us apart from the competition and gives our customers peace of mind.”

Offer: Your Inspection Once your offer has been accepted (EXCITING!), you’ll proceed through the following steps: formal loan application, appraisal, and inspection, get your funds accessible, obtain homeowner’s insurance, final walkthrough, and ultimately, closing.

Regarding the inspection process, Randy King with King’s Home Inspections, an InterNACHI Certified Master Inspector who has been in business for over 19 years, and during which time has inspected over 8,000 homes, goes into depth about what you can expect: “One important part of buying a home is having a professional home inspection done prior to purchase. This is usually done as part of the negotiation phase during the purchase process.

Randy King King’s Home Inspections

Schedule your home inspection as soon as possible after getting your offer accepted; usually, home inspectors are in high demand and booked out several weeks.

Most home inspection companies offer something called a ‘Whole House Inspection,’ which is a comprehensive review of all aspects of your home. This includes electrical, plumbing, HVAC, structural, interior and exterior finish, roofing, grounds and landscaping.

These range from $400 to $600 depending on the size of the house, price, the number of major systems, etc. And it varies company to company.

A home inspector is a generalist by nature, and a home inspection is a thorough review of all these areas.

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An inspection can discover defects or issues with a home that the buyer (and many times the seller) is not aware of, and as a result, these issues can be dealt with prior to purchase. Additionally, other inspections such as termite, radon testing, mold, lead paint, and asbestos may be requested as the need arises.

When choosing a home inspector, look for one who has years of experience and credentialing with a national association, such as International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI). Also, look at the education and experience of the inspector. If possible, select one who is certified or a Master Inspector (meaning years of education and experience).

Remember, while a home inspection is comprehensive, it is not invasive. This means your inspector will review readily accessible areas of a home, but will not dismantle water pipes to look at the insides, video scope a sewer line, look behind walls, water test a furnace’s heat exchanger, or any other invasive, exhaustive analysis of parts of the home. Those types of inspections are specialized and far beyond what a home inspector does. The home inspector often will refer you to a specialist for further evaluation if a component is suspect.

Also, a home inspection is not a guarantee that nothing will go wrong with your house; you can purchase a home warranty to help cover things that may break or go bad. These are usually for one year and can be renewed. Ask your Realtor or representative at your title company for more information on home warranties. On older homes or ones with equipment over 20 years old, they are often a very wise investment.

Components in a house have a lifespan. Your home inspector can identify age of components and help you formulate a game plan on when to plan to remodel, replace, or upgrade components such as shingles, a water heater, an HVAC system, etc. This is important, especially if major systems have to be upgraded in the first few years of ownership, as it helps the buyers to know what major expenses they may be facing on a particular house.”

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Relocating: Your Mover A recurring theme about buying a home is it’s very exciting but tends to be a bit stressful at times. Moving is another one of those things that falls into this category. It’s a lot of work and can be a real pain, but something that must be done – we’ve all been there. The great news is that there are some things that you can do to make the transition as smooth as possible, though, which is the goal.

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“Star t pac king ear ly,” advises Lee Saltzgaber with Hear tland Moving.

“Packing and moving are time-consuming, and there is always more work than first anticipated. Be honest with yourself about how much you want to do yourself and what you want to hire someone to do for you.

For those who will be utilizing a professional moving service, always get an in-home estimate that can be explained and makes Lee Saltzgaber sense. This allows a professional to guide Heartland Moving you on how to prepare, how soon to get started, and what will need to happen in order to meet your deadlines. One of the biggest mistakes that we see is that customers start preparing too late and struggle to get caught up when it’s go time.

By getting as much packing as possible done early, it will make the end process much more manageable. If you are packing yourself, the goal is to pack anything that isn’t furniture in a box.

The more stackable items are, the more efficient your mover can be, and thus, the less it will cost you.”

To-Do List: Your Resources Congratulations, you’re a new homeowner! Now what? Generally, when one buys a home, there’s a vision for the future and it’s full of possibilities. This almost always includes things to do in the first few months, but can also include a long-term plan for upgrades down the line or items that need to be done ASAP. You’re starting out with completely new spaces in your home that can be transformed in just about any way you like – living and entertaining areas, kitchen and dining areas, bedrooms and bathrooms, landscaping and outdoor spaces, and so on. That can be a little intimidating, and if you don’t quite know where to begin, a consultation with an interior designer for the inside and a landscaping professional for the outside is a great place to start.

There are many instances when as a part of the agreement between buyer and seller, funds are provided for the new homeowner to allocate to repairs or updates that are deemed necessary. The most common of these are flooring, windows, roofing, major systems and appliances, and unfinished basements.

There will be the jobs that are done by the professionals and then the do-it-yourself jobs that you can take pride in completing.

The most popular DIY projects for new homeowners are painting, replacing fixtures, and sprucing up curb appeal, but depending on your skill set, this can really be whatever inspires you at your local home improvement store.

For the property’s exterior, it’s highly recommended to take a trip to Outdoor Solutions and stroll through everything Lincoln’s landscape headquarters has to offer. This includes an impressive assortment of decorative landscape rock, flagstones, boulders, mulches, topsoil, retaining wall, pavers and construction materials.

Then, enter the spacious storefront, and inside you’ll find outdoor pottery, garden products, pond supplies, patio furniture, and much more. So whether you’re going for an entire upgrade or just accessorizing your new digs, there’s plenty of inspiration to be found and variety from which to make your selections. You can pick up what you need and be on your way, or have it delivered right to your doorstep.

For those who are considering buying a home, now is a great time to do so. Home ownership, and being able to call a place your own, is fulfilling to say the least, and residential properties remain a wise investment. Or, perhaps it’s in order to accommodate a growing family, to be in a better location, to downsize upon retirement, or any other number of reasons tied to major life changes.

Regardless of the circumstances, if you let the local professionals come alongside and guide you through the process, you’ll be amazed at how much it’s simplified and easier to navigate. By doing your research and selecting those you will work with carefully, you’ll be in an ideal position to get the most out of what you’re putting in.

The perfect home is out there, and making it yours starts with reaching out to the right local professionals!

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Meet your team of experts.

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By this time of the year, there have been many weddings celebrated (Congrats newlyweds!). Although there’s still plenty of action happening before fall sets in, the nuptial agenda is winding down for most of us.

That’s not to say there won’t be a beautiful winter wedding or two coming up; with less of a well-defined “wedding season” in favor of the freedom to set the date anytime you please, year-round affairs have become commonplace.

Rewinding back to where it all begins, for those who recently got engaged or who are ready to begin the planning process, let’s get into those details!

Getting engaged is a beautiful thing and one of life’s most memorable moments, as are the wedding festivities that follow. Many future brides and grooms are at that point in their journey now or will be soon. With much planning ahead it may seem overwhelming, but should ultimately be as enjoyable as possible as you put together all of the details to bring your vision to life. While this is an expansive list of items to cover, as each wedding is unique and there is so much to explore, there are certain essentials and guidelines that don’t change much.

You’ll be making a lot of decisions together, that’s a given. With the guidance of our local experts, the process and your experience during it will be less stressful and more pleasurable – a memorable one in all of the most wonderful ways. {The Proposal: Where It All Begins} We’ll be offering some fun engagement ideas from our local professionals throughout this story, but first thing’s first, before getting down on one knee, one must find the perfect ring. Well known here in Lincoln as “The Engagement Ring Store,” it’s a safe bet that you’ll find what you’re looking for at Sartor Hamann Jewelers. For those who have never been, what is most impressive is the selection, and combined with their expertise and superior customer service, you’re definitely in good hands. Sartor Hamann considers its best form of advertising to be the multiple generations of satisfied customers who continue to refer their loved ones back for high-quality jewelry service. {(Save) The Date: Selecting The Venue & Setting The Scene} You’re engaged, and now the wedding planning has officially begun.

Where to start?

It’s best to have a few dates and venues in mind as the very first step.

Then you’ll begin narrowing those down based on the availability of those venues, booking details, and research on other events or happenings that are going on at the same time to determine if there’s reason for eliminating them as possibilities.

Some of the main things you’ll be taking into consideration beyond availability on a specific date would be location, occupancy to accommodate your guest list, set-up and amenities, décor and ambiance, vendor partnerships and any restrictions on bringing in your own, and then there are potentially others based on your preferences. When meeting with the representatives at each venue, ask any and all of the questions you can think of that would impact your decision. You can even call to inquire about the specifics before setting a meeting to conserve time and energy.

There are many fantastic venues here in Lincoln and outside of the city

but still in the general vicinity, with each having unique characteristics that make them desirable locations for a wedding, reception, or other related events.

“The Talon Room is the perfect venue to host your wedding reception, but what most do not know is that the venue is an ideal place to host many other exciting wedding-related event options,” says Matthew Rogge with Talon Room. “We offer the space for your ceremony, rehearsal dinner, and even for your anniversary party! The Talon Room is not only a great location for these types of events, but our Talon’td staff can help with every aspect of your wedding plans. My favorite saying is ‘We set it up…You make it a party!’TM. Matthew Rogge The urban rustic flair is sure to inspire the Talon Room creative decorator inside you, and we’ll come alongside to turn your vision into reality.

In fact, one trend that has stuck around for quite a while is the rustic wedding. Getting married in a barn for all of the farm to see is for some, but not for all. Sure, it’s great if you don’t mind sweating in the sweltering heat of a Nebraska summer. But the Talon Room offers a unique rustic venue, without the sweat! For your summer wedding, make sure to include the always trending air conditioning in your wedding venue.

When it comes to planning, I always tell every couple that they must enjoy the ride. Be mindful that some things are beyond your control, yet always plan for the unexpected. That is hard to do, but our Talon’td staff is always ready for whatever happens. It is always best to select your venue first, that way everything can be decided around the limits of your wedding space.”

Rogge also offers a piece of advice for those setting the stage for their engagement proposals. “Every man or woman looking to propose to his or her partner hopes to come up with the next big idea for their proposal. Even the most planned out idea sometimes falls short of their expectations. But, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t special! My favorite engagement idea is to video the entire occasion, without the knowledge of your partner, to help catch all of the spontaneous occurrences. This idea is fun for both of you to re-watch for inspiration as you plan your wedding.”

While some local venues have select offerings and booking will depend on your wants and needs, there are others that have it all, or at least pretty darn close.

“We are one of the only one-stop wedding venues in the Lincoln community,” says Jaclyn Howard with Venue Catering & Events.

“Between all of our concepts and offerings, we provide the ideal location for everything from the engagement to celebrating your anniversary for years to come. At Venue Restaurant & Lounge, we have four private dining rooms that seat from 40-80 guests.

We also have a formal dining room and a modern lounge. It can certainly be described as a romantic and elegant dining experience, Jaclyn Howard making it the perfect place for an engagement Venue Catering & Events party, bridal shower, or rehearsal dinner.

When hosting your event at Venue Restaurant & Lounge we take care of the linens, china, candles, flowers, the set-up and the clean-up. You don’t have to worry about any of those details; all you have to focus on is having an amazing experience.

Then let us take care of you for the most important day of your life in our beautiful downtown ballroom, The Jasmine Room by Venue. This historic room seats up to 400 guests. It is an elegant space that you, your family and your friends will fall in love with at first sight. The timeless, chic look for a wedding is and always will be huge. Who doesn’t want pictures that will not only look fabulous today but also will in 50 years?

The Jasmine Room by Venue is the essence of elegance.

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Whether it’s for an event we are hosting or for catering at another site, Venue is an excellent choice. One big rule of thumb in wedding planning is to focus on the quality of food and not turn to a caterer who just gives the lowest price. Unfortunately, it’s entirely possible to end up with frozen, processed, low-quality food that was the cheapest route, and guests leave remembering that their dinner wasn’t the best. We understand the budget constraints of a wedding, but we’ll never sacrifice the quality of the product when we accommodate those budgets. At Venue, we do our best to fit every bride and groom’s needs but the one sacrifice we will never make is the quality and value of the food.

Everything that we serve is fresh and made from scratch. You will taste and see the difference, whether that’s a taco bar, prime rib spread or BBQ pork sandwiches. We want your guests to walk away impressed, satisfied and full, whether that is a buffet or a plated dinner. Our food will do just that and set the right mood for the entire evening.

Or, if you are looking for something a little different for your engagement, let us make you dinner and bring it to you. We offer full-service catering and would love to be part of a romantic surprise.

When you have your wedding event with Venue you will receive the best service in Lincoln. We will work with you through the entire process. All of us at Venue are a family and we have a passion for food, love, and weddings. Let our family take care of yours and give you the wedding experience you deserve.”

She also touches on a popular request related to the wedding fare.

“A big trend that we are starting to see, which I love, is fun food presentation. This is something that we at Venue have been into for years so I am so excited that it is becoming more and more popular. So many people eat with their eyes, so why not give your guests a spread that is visually delicious and then tastes even better?”

Beyond the city and well past anything here in Nebraska might be what you have your sights on as the backdrop for your wedding affair.

Travel has become much more popular among couples, with destination weddings offering benefits that many enjoy. To set the stage for just about any wedding-related milestone – engagement, ceremony, AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business 75

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honeymoon – there are places all over the world that could be the site of your dreams. When planning a destination wedding or honeymoon, the earlier you start, the more availability and options you will have to choose from. It’s also wise to enlist the services of a professional; one who is experienced in wedding-related travel will have plenty of inside information that will help to guide your decisions, put together an itinerary and coordinate any special details, find the best pricing and package deals, and help you avoid any surprises upon arrival or during your stay. This isn’t something you want to book without personal assistance as there are many variables to consider and of course, the fact that it’s one of the most important moments in your life. Freedom Travel serves clients in Lincoln, Omaha and surrounding areas, and can help you plan for whatever it is that would constitute your perfect wedding getaway.

You don’t necessarily have to travel the world to achieve the feel of a destination wedding either. If the scenic beauty of nature, the charm of the countryside, outdoor chic, or something similar is how you’d describe the setting of your dream wedding, Capitol View Winery & Vineyards has plenty of space to accommodate, and can be transformed into a stunning outdoor wedding venue that’s nothing short of magical.

In the opposite direction, James Arthur Vineyards is a local favorite and regularly hosts wedding-related events. Lyndsey Trujillo with James Arthur Vineyards offers an overview of how one could utilize the venue for any and all of the various wedding festivities: “At James Arthur Vineyards we like to make everyone feel at home, including when we host special events. Our St. Croix room is the most intimate part of our tasting room, seating up to fifty people. The room overlooks both Lyndsey Trujillo the St. Croix grape vines outside and the James Arthur Vineyards production area inside. This beautiful, sunny room features a stone fireplace, wine-tasting bar, catering kitchen, and French doors leading to a private deck. It’s perfect for a rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or a bachelor/bachelorette party. We partner with Dinner and Co. as our own personal caterer, and guests are free to be as simple or creative with their menu. James Arthur Vineyards also partners with the Rabbit Hole Bakery (located in the Haymarket) for those who are looking to have specialty desserts for their occasion.

Our staff makes sure that all catering and desserts are picked up and available when guests arrive. Guests also have the choice to go on a tour throughout the vineyard or take a trip down to the cellar to experience the wine-making process at no additional expense. The wine truly speaks for itself, acting as the cherry on top of the special occasion. When you host an event at James Arthur Vineyard it’s an experience that lasts a lifetime.” {The Photo Album: Memories That Will Last A Lifetime} Your photographer (and possibly a videographer) should also be among the first on your checklist to book. The same holds true here – the best ones are in high demand.

The images from a wedding are treasured heirlooms that will be enjoyed for years to come. They’ll take your breath away the first time you lay eyes on them and allow you to relive the memories every time you look at them fondly, and those moments in time will live on through future generations. Since you only have one chance at capturing the perfect images during your special day, this is one thing with which it’s especially important not to take any chances. There are several critical factors to consider when selecting a photographer for your wedding.

Then, it’s all about planning the day out based on the moments that are of the utmost importance to have captured.

“With anyone who will be involved, especially those interacting with your guests, how they present and carry themselves is too important to overlook,” cautions Gina Zabloudil with Zabloudil Photography.

“With photography especially, don’t let your heart be led by the price tag. It’s a trap people fall into time and time again. Local reputable photographers have options that fit your budget without sacrificing quality, experience, or professionalism. If those are lacking, it’s a big

factor on the wedding day, which in turn affects the outcome of the images that are created. Meet with several photographers, in person before you hire, and if that’s not a possibility afforded to you, it’s a red flag.

We provide personal service throughout, an approach that we find to work well with the dynamics of a wedding. When everyone is on the same page and there’s familiarity and trust built, there’s a higher comfort level and you can see it in the results.

Gina Zabloudil Planning with an experienced professional Zabloudil Photography photographer is advised to make the experience a good one and to capture the images that are desired. It’s all about having the details in place and a timeline established with your photographer and the other professionals involved. If you value photography, time has to be set aside have those images created. Instead of waiting until after the ceremony, most couples opt to do the formal family and wedding party images beforehand. To address the issue of seeing the bride preemptively, a first look moment is arranged, and it’s truly such a special moment. We follow that up with the couple poses because they are priority, and then the formals of the bridal party and family groupings. These are done while everyone looks amazing and will be out of the way before the wedding ceremony begins and festivities are in motion. The logistics of a wedding day flow better this way, and there will still be plenty more photo opportunities to come.

Since Chad and I work as a team, when you book with us, you’ll get the benefit of two professional photographers, at no added expense.

More moments can be captured, with variety and differing perspectives, resulting in a more complete collection of images.”

She also notes, “Customization is a big part of weddings, and in our experience that extends into the images and the way they are displayed by couples. New for our 2018 wedding couples, we are offering our clients the ability to customize their wedding collections, based on the features they want to include. Options such as an engagement session, bridal session, and other service-based options and Wedding Albums, and high-quality photo products will be a la carte, so they are not mandatory as a part of a package but can be added based on preference. For modern weddings, many choose to have an Engagement Session, with the hired wedding photographer, at least a few months before, so they can be displayed at the wedding/reception.” {The Reception: Eat, Drink & Be Merry} For weddings, there’s quite an emphasis on entertaining your guests and making it a memorable event for all. The décor, the fare, the flowers, the music – all of these along with any other special touches you add will set the mood and make it magical.

While it’s common for special event venues to provide catering and bar services for those who book the space, others may not but will be able to present you with recommendations. Only once you’ve had the opportunity to discuss with your venue what is offered and/or allowed should you make your selection. It’s essential to understand the specifics of whether booking that venue means you are entering into an agreement to use their exclusive catering services or partners, or if you have your heart set on a specific company, that you are able to bring them in. Every venue is different, as is every caterer and wedding vendor for that matter, so it’s advised to meet in person and explore what is possible before making the final decision.

Catering is an art and there is a lot of talent and diversity to be found here in the Lincoln area. As such, there are plenty of options out there to fit any taste and budget. When selecting a menu, the more you have to choose from at each price point, the greater chance you’ll have of arriving at a meal that matches both. As previously mentioned, when it comes time to establish a budget, catering is typically one of the first areas to work the numbers depending on whether it’s provided by your venue or not.

Aside from price, which is important but certainly not the only thing that will ultimately factor into your decisions, working with someone who

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“Here’s how I like to open the conversation with the bride: ‘Congratulations on our engagement! Now tell me how the two of you met?’” says Laurie Fraser with Doorstep Diner Catering. “After all, how can I plan the perfect menu if I don’t know them, what is important to them, how their romance blossomed, or what they envision for their day? My job is to take the stress out of choosing a caterer and we make it as easy as possible. From helping a bride select a menu where the cuisine is complementary Laurie Fraser to everything else about her special day as Doorstep Diner Catering well as visually appealing, to letting her know how her day will proceed and what our role is, we do it all. Plating the head table is standard at Doorstep Diner Catering. After a long day of standing and smiling (and a few tears) we believe that it’s time for the bride and groom to relax and be served in elegance and style!”

Keep in mind that good caterers book up fast, so reserving them early is key to lock in the date. I recommend first finding your style so you can communicate that when meeting with your options and see what ideas they have to offer. What is it about you that you want to project on your wedding day? Maybe it’s a Garden Tea Party reception or an elegant Late Night Gala with appetizer stations and bite-sized desserts.

Before setting meetings, also ask for recommendations from friends, family, and coworkers. Then, narrow that list down to two or three caterers; any more than that and it’ll be overwhelming. At your initial meetings, ask questions about how your food will be sourced and cooked, the timing of the set up for the buffet or plated meal, if there is a service or delivery fee, and if staff will be onsite to assist in keeping AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

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your buffet line running smoothly or if you’ll have to enlist the help of Aunt Betty and the cousins.

I highly recommend using a wedding planner to help with all of the details. Wedding planners know how to negotiate and often receive discounts from vendors, helping you save money! They will also know what caterer will fit within your budget and theme and make recommendations, saving you time and energy!”

Fraser also offers a sampling of creative ideas and trends for those looking for inspiration. “If a unique surprise engagement affair is what you’re going for, how about an appetizer party? We love the interaction with the couple and hosting these is a blast! You choose the appetizers, we show up, and it’s audience participation time! Be prepared to get your hands dirty, drink a little wine or sip on a signature cocktail, and work with our executive chef to assist in creating elegant and gourmet appetizers, which you get to enjoy while we do all the cleanup! Then, in front of all of your friends, you drop to one knee and pop the question!

Shy? Want something more intimate? We’ll create a menu just for two, plate and serve, or better yet, leave it there ready for you to serve it to your bride-to-be so the two of you can be lost in the moment.

As for weddings and trends in catering, we’re seeing less family style plating and more upscale comfort food requests. Making it personal is key and dishes that represent the bride or groom’s heritage or upbringing are popular, as well as family favorites reinvented with a modern twist. Another trend is homegrown global flavor; infusing world cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients is the perfect choice for the foodie in you!”

Joe Armstrong with Cowboy Chicken also offers guidance on important things to keep in mind when planning, noting, “The most important thing about planning food for your wedding is to serve what makes you and your spouse-to-be happy! At Cowboy Chicken, we have a wide variety of offerings at a great price and would love the opportunity to help you find something that works for you. Make sure that for any catering company you choose to work with, they will be helping you with key details like the amount of food appropriate

for your event, timing, and who is responsible for delivery, set-up, clean-up, service, and providing necessary items like tableware and serving utensils.

We feel that the most distinctive quality of the services we offer is value. Not only do we provide a quality meal served buffet style, for a fraction of the price, but it comes with the plates and utensils at no additional cost. This can add up to huge savings! Our offerings also include a beverage service of tea and lemonade that can include cups, ice, Joe Armstrong sweeteners, and fresh lemons. For a minimal Cowboy Chicken additional cost, we can also provide servers who will assist with service and clean-up.

We have several catering options to fit any need, which allows us to create a menu that is perfect for your event. At Cowboy Chicken, we cook all-natural chicken over a wood-burning fire, or there’s our signature sour-cream-tomatillo enchiladas, and we have an abundance of homestyle sides to complement any of our entrees. So we can provide the classic chicken, potatoes, and green beans, or we can design a more elaborate menu including enchiladas, ranchero beans, and Spanish rice.

We are a family own business and aim for the warmth and comfort of our culture to be at the heart of everything at we do. This respect and passion are experienced in the bold flavors of all-natural wood fire rotisserie chicken, the selection of wholesome ingredients and the handcrafted preparations of our meals. We call it honest food. We have a worked very hard to create a great catering program, and with our dedication to great food and family values, we can help the bride and groom navigate their way through one of the hardest wedding details, menu selection and planning! We offer and an array of catering services and provide home-style, fresh offerings that will please the entire guest list. We are available for small gatherings like showers and parties, but can also accommodate larger functions like

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the rehearsal dinner or the big day” Sweet treats are yet another wedding reception staple with unlimited variations. There’s still plenty who go the traditional route of a beautiful wedding cake, while others are getting quite creative with their dessert, or doing the cake plus one or more dessert items. Whether you have a classic tiered cake in mind or one that’s decorated uniquely, want to serve your favorite treat or have a themed spread, or would like a dessert table with an assortment of indulgent options because it’s always nice to have choices, it’s advised to find a professional who can bring your dessert dreams to life. And for all of the other affairs leading up to the big day, you certainly can’t go wrong with serving a decadent dessert either!

“Rita’s is a completely new and different alternative for a dessert or treat at weddings or the events leading up to them,” says Mike Malone with Rita’s of Lincoln. “It’s especially nice for hot summertime weddings, but as Rita’s lovers know, anytime is a good time for your favorite Rita’s treat. For those who want to do something out of the ordinary, go beyond the traditional wedding dessert fare, or want to be remembered for having something unique and really tasty at their wedding, Rita’s is a great alternative Mike Malone to consider. With over 80 flavors of our Rita’s of Lincoln legendary Italian Ice and over a dozen flavors of our amazing, award-winning Custard, there is something for everyone. With so many options to offer, we can even complement the color selections of the wedding party attire and decorations! We can do anything from a drop-off catering event with minimal support from Rita’s Treat Team members to a full-service catering affair where Rita’s Treat Team members serve the guests and take care of all the set-up and clean-up required.” {The Look: Your Best Self for Your Big Day} While everything else is so important to set the stage, the bride and groom are the “stars of the show” and much of the focus is on them, as it should be.

When it comes to what everyone notices first and remembers about the bride, the dress is definitely it. However, to complete the look, there are a lot of other aspects to tie everything together – accessories, hair, makeup (and of course healthy, glowing skin), and anything else that makes her look and feel her very best. Cosmetic procedures, spa services, and diet plans are all popular among brides-to-be.

Dress shopping happens well in advance, while the other items are planned in close proximity to the wedding day.

“The average engagement timeframe has increased from 12 to 15 months, and at Blush, we recommend that you do your shopping and purchase your bridal gown 9-12 months before your wedding,” says Emmy Gorman with Blush Bridal Boutique. “About 75% of Blush Brides custom design some part of their bridal gowns. Bridal gowns generally take between 4-6 months to arrive; however, there are exceptions depending on the designer and style.

As for what’s trending in bridal couture and Emmy Gorman Blush Bridal Boutique new at Blush, she notes, “We love the variety of necklines available this season! For so long, strapless gowns were all you could find. Now, there are high necklines, plunging necklines, illusion, and tattooed lace. We love the options available for each of our bride’s individual style.

We are pleased to be launching ‘Signature Appointments’ beginning in September! These appointments are private, after hours for brides and up to 10 guests. Guests will be able to nibble and sip on light bites while we find the bride her perfect dress! Blush Bridal works with a bride’s friends and family to surprise her throughout the evening with little gifts and experiences that make this an extra special memory of

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wedding planning.”

In order to look and feel their best for the big day, many brides and grooms set the goal of slimming down. Whether you have a full year to dedicate to a healthy diet and exercise regimen or need to make a miracle happen less than a month out, there are effective options to consider.

“At Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers, we have different types of plans and services depending on where you’re at and where you want to be on your wedding day,” says Nancy Hopkins with Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers. “If you’re committed, you’ll see the results – in fact, if you follow the plan explicitly, we’ll guarantee it. On average our clients will lose 2lbs a week, so on our 16week diet that equals out to 32lbs, which is around what most are looking to lose for their weddings. But if that number is more or less, Nancy Hopkins just plan for the amount of time accordingly.

Physicians WEIGHT For those who want faster results, but don’t LOSS Centers want to sacrifice their health and wellbeing in doing so, I highly recommend Lipogenics treatments. It’s a non-invasive method; you come in and get hooked up to the machine and relax for 30 minutes. Then, within the next 24 hours drink the recommended amount of water and do at least 30 minutes of cardio, with the goal of sweating as much as possible. The treatment essentially breaks up the fat stores in problem areas by utilizing your lymphatic system, releasing it with your bodily fluids. Clients are limited to 2-3 treatments per week, with at least a day in between. With the ability to target certain areas, you’ll lose inches and define your body where it’s needed to look your best in your dress or suit style, or your honeymoon attire.

This treatment can be used alone or in conjunction with our diet plans to enhance your results.”

As previously mentioned, spa services are very often a part of

the bride’s preparation. That being said, they are also commonly incorporated into special bridal party events too.

“At The Spa at Bryan LifePointe you can schedule a private bridal shower party,” says Tiffany Olson with The Spa at Bryan LifePointe. “We rent out our teaching kitchen for four hours, and it’s a great space for that type of event. The bridal party can then have their pre-wedding prep - pedicures, manicures, and facials – done afterward, which many find to be very convenient.

For those who are recently engaged or even leading up the wedding, a spa date is a perfect way to treat yourself and the Tiffany Olson wedding party or family as a thank you for The Spa at Bryan being a part of your special day.

LifePointe Needless to say, the bride will definitely be ready for a massage after all the planning and just to relax as the big day approaches, so that’s a great bridal shower gift or many ladies will opt to treat themselves.

We also are doing a new process called lash lifts which have all the glamour of false eyelashes without the wear, tear, and price, which has already been very popular among brides-to-be. We ‘perm’ and tint the eyelashes which give them a longer appearance. The results last up to two months.”

On the topic of skin care, Olson specifically advises, “It is important to start taking care of your skin as soon as you know the big day is planned. Proper care and treatment will lead to a more balanced skin appearance not to mention the health of your skin. Consultations with our doctor and PA are always free so come in and let us show you how we can cater to your needs.

At the medical spa, we can treat any last minute acne that may arrive with our new laser that will take care of it on the spot. You can also

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Look & Feel Your Best, Stop By Either Location Today! www.PWLCLincoln.com North Location ∙ 2601 Champlain Dr. ∙ 402-904-6042 South Location ∙ 5733 S. 34th St. #200 ∙ 402-483-7952

Individual results may vary depending on duration, intensity and number of treatments received. LipoGenicsTM is a registered trademark of Health Management Group, Inc. ©2016 Physicians WEIGHT LOSS Centers® Inc., Akron, OH 44333. A Health Management GroupTM company. All right reserved.

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come in a few months before and our provider can start doing peel treatments, Botox or Laser Genesis for a smoother facial appearance that will make you look flawless for your pictures, no airbrushing/photo shopping needed.” {The Gifts: Another Tradition Made Modern} Those who are honored to attend wedding festivities and share such a special moment in a couple’s lives will also be customarily showering them with gifts! There are engagement gifts, bridal shower gifts, bachelor/ bachelorette party gifts, wedding gifts, and fun little gestures in between. From the bride and groom, there’s the bridal party gifts dayof, the newly trending gift when you ask them to be your bridesmaids and groomsmen, and perhaps you might even be considering small gifts as tokens of gratitude for to those attending the wedding and reception.

Whatever the case may be, you want your gift to be a memorable one.

Particularly in the case of wedding gifts, the goal is for the couple to be delighted upon opening it and to be able to use it or incorporate it into their married lives in some way or another. For some of the aforementioned gifts, customization is desired.

The tradition of wedding gifts remains household items, and there are a lot of really neat things out there in that category – it’s definitely just the standard-feature blender anymore!

Jana Clark with Habitat, Lincoln’s independent Kitchen, Gift and Gourmet Store since 1975, offers ideas for all types of gifts: “Do you want your wedding gift to be the one that is remembered? We have many amazing, knockout, never-to-be-forgotten wedding gifts. Our newest favorites are melamine serving pieces by Beatriz Ball. They are beautifully designed, elegant, durable, dishwasher safe white-ware pieces. Original Beatriz Ball pieces are aluminum serving pieces that can be baked in or chilled in, and Jana Clark they never need to be polished. Many of these Habitat pieces can be monogrammed. Annie Glass is another favorite. These are beautiful pieces made from recycled glass, trimmed in gold or platinum, and are signed by the artist. Acacia wood salad bowls and serving tools are a timeless gift as well. They definitely make a statement.

Are you looking for practical wedding and shower gifts? We have durable, oven-to-table, dishwasher safe enamelware trays, bowls, and platters. We always have a large selection of fun flour sacks, dish towels, dish cloths, placemats and napkins. We are also happy to help put together a basket full of our favorite gadgets - we have over 300 to choose from!

Other lines that make quality great wedding or shower gifts are Le Creuset, Swiss Diamond, Emile Henry, Wusthof, and Shun – quality brands that last.

Looking for a theme gift? Bicycles, bees, and pineapples continue to be popular across the board.

Planning a wedding? Many brides come to us looking to buy attractive oversized serving pieces for their wedding receptions. These pieces can be hard to find. We’re happy to track down specialty pieces from our large selection of vendors and will work with the bride to find just the right piece. We recently helped a bride with a five-tiered, 48” serving piece for cupcakes. It was AMAZING. At Habitat, we have a wedding registry and annual bridal events, and are happy to provide suggestions and help you find the perfect gift or specialty item.”

GREAT TASTE FOR EVERY OCCASION! Fresh Ingredients | Made From Scratch Dishes | Thematic & Customized Menus | Serving Options To Fit Your Style

WE’RE DOORSTEP DINER CATERING...

Great food & Great Service from our Doorstep to Yours!

866.505.2456 | thedoorstepdiner@gmail.com | doorstepdiner.com

5801 S. 58th Street, Suite A Lincoln NE 68516 402.261.5615 www.BlushBridalNE.com

Fine Wine.

Scenic Views.

Capitol View Winery & Vineyards is just 15 short minutes south of downtown Lincoln, and is a perfect destination for you to relax and unwind.

Our winery and tasting room, 2 ½ acre vineyard and historic barn provides a perfect backdrop for parties, graduation receptions, reunions, outdoor weddings and more!

Our winery experience will have you coming back time and time again!

www.CapitolViewWinery.com | 402.328.3494

If you’re one of the lucky couples who will soon be exchanging “I Do’s” witnessed by all of your loved ones and well-wishers, and with all of the celebratory events surrounding the occasion, you’ve got some serious planning to do before that day comes. Rest assured you’re in good hands with the caliber of professionals we have here in the Lincoln area, so make sure to use them early and often!

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Add 2 New Locations to

the Husker Rehab Roster!

HUSKER REHAB - SPEEDWAY VILLAGE OPENS

Husker Rehab is excited to announce the opening of a new loca�on to serve pa�ents in Lincoln. The newest loca�on is at 345 Speedway Circle Suite #3 and will be headed up by Kelli Reilly, MS, PT, ATC. The new clinic at Speedway opened on April 6th.

“Husker Rehab has long been ac�ve in the sports and performance community, however with this new facility, and the space and technology that comes with it, we can take our services to a whole new level. We will be able to help athletes from all across Lincoln either with their rehab or to op�mize their performance both on and off the field,” states Michael Zalman, co-owner of Husker Rehab.

In addi�on to a comprehensive physical therapy prac�ce with special�es in athle�c rehabilita�on, biomechanics, and sports nutri�on, this loca�on also features the DARI predic�ve mo�on analy�cs system. The DARI system’s world-leading mo�on analysis gives athletes and weekend warriors useable data on weaknesses and imbalances allowing them to work with physical therapy and prevent injuries before they occur.

Kelli Reilly graduated with dis�nc�on from the University Nebraska Medical Center in 2000. A na�ve of Shickley, Nebraska, Kelli a�ended the University of Nebraska Kearney where she obtained a degree in Fitness and Leisure Management: Athle�c Training. Kelli con�nued her academic studies at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana where she obtained a Masters Degree in Kinesiology and her na�onal Cer�fica�on in Athle�c Training. She taught undergraduate classes while at Indiana University and published research in Kinesiology.

Kelli returned to Nebraska to con�nue her professional educa�on at the University Nebraska Medical Center where she and only two other students, were chosen to represent their ins�tu�on’s physical therapy student body at the Na�onal APTA conference.

Kelli began her physical therapy career at New West Rehabilita�on and Sports Medicine where she worked for 9 years both as a clinical PT/ATC as well as a Clinical Instructor to UNK Athle�c Training students.

Reloca�ng to Lincoln in 2009, Kelli has been employed as a contract physical therapist for four Lincoln outpa�ent orthopedic clinics on a PRN basis, including Husker Rehab.

NEW NEBRASKA CITY LOCATION

Husker Rehab is also excited to announce their new loca�on in Nebraska City in the old Pendleton store right on the square at 115 S 8th Street. That clinic opened on June 1st with all new state of the art equipment and services and will be headed up

by Ashley Daily, DPT, ATC. The new Nebraska City clinic offers state-of-the-art treatments to support ones desire to get into be�er shape…or just get be�er. This clinic will provide physical therapy services for acute and chronic pain along with post-surgical physical therapy services for joint replacement or surgical repairs to ones shoulders, knees, or hips.

For more information or to schedule an appointment visit their website at www.HuskerRehab.com.

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“...we are excited to expand our unique treatment approach and have a positive impact on not only another area in Lincoln, but also another community in southeast Nebraska.”

- Ryan Wade, co-owner of Husker Rehab.

AUGUST 2017 Strictly Business

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