Strictly Business Lincoln - April 2023

MARCy HAAS Sweet Things by Marcy

STEPHANIE LAUX Kinetic Business

Eagle Nursery

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Celebrating Local and Women-owned Businesses

Now that spring has sprung, I have been thinking about all of the wonderful new businesses that have been blooming around our community. Starting a new business can be tough, but the best way to do this is with reliable people by your side. Luckily for us, the Lincoln community is bursting with experts in every field that are ready to help you get your roots planted.

This month, take a look into our story on starting a business to see all of the resources our city has to offer. Your dreams are closer to becoming a reality with the help of these amazing professionals in every industry.

I want to welcome any new business owner to the area. Starting a business in Lincoln is an amazing decision because of the richly connected community we have built. We have an amazing Chamber of Commerce that provides resources, networking events and lifelong connections. Your colleagues are your customers, friends and family around you. In addition to the Chamber, there are a number of networking groups specific to every industry, and those like Center Sphere, who bring together a group of professionals that may not have much in common, but together they can help each other in ways they didn’t understand before.

The benefits of doing business locally transcend the convenience and ease of buying something online or from a big brand store. For 29 years, our magazine has been emphasizing the importance of buying local, so it makes me proud that that is the message we have been dedicated to getting across.

In addition to the importance of locally-owned business, this month we are highlighting the wonderful women-owned businesses in our area.

As a business owner myself, I applaud all women who take the risk and put themselves out there to achieve their dreams. Women-owned businesses are essential to economic stability and recovery. Empowering women and their business ventures can be the most powerful way to drive economic growth.

Nearly a third of working adults in the United States own their own businesses, a figure that amounts to 54.5 million people generating their own paychecks, according to Washington State University College of Business. While most entrepreneurs operate locally, women are less likely than men to be found running businesses at a national or international scale.

The Mastercard Index of Women Entrepreneurs lists just three in ten entrepreneurs as women. On one hand, that’s good news: the gender gap between female and male entrepreneurs is at an alltime low of 1.7%, but there’s still plenty of room to grow.

I stand strongly as a woman and a business owner, and I am proud of the network of women that I have around me and in our community. Take time out of your day today to stop by a locallyowned/woman-owned business and show your support for the wonderful work they do.

No matter what industry your business is in, it takes courage to start your own venture without knowing how successful it will be. Nothing makes me happier than seeing our local business owners and women-owned businesses in our community succeed, and I hope Strictly Business can be part of your clear pathway to success. When we lift each other up, we all rise. Here is to moving forward, together, and to welcoming even more local business owners and women-owned businesses in Lincoln!

startingabusinessinLincolnisanamazing decisionbecauseof therichlyconnected communitywehavebuilt.

professional realty Group (prG) of BHHS Ambassador real Estate had a killer 2022, and 2023 is already off to a great start! Last year the team accomplished the closing of 259 transactions (133 buyers, 126 sellers), which equated to more than $70,000,000 worth of production, which placed them as the #1 Real Estate team in Lincoln! With the market changing and interest rates rising, it will be crucial for consumers to work with agents that know the true definition of being a fiduciary, and ones with an expertise of all real estate processes.

PRG takes the business of real estate as seriously as it should be, and they are exemplary when working with buyers and sellers across all angles of it, such as: Residential, Commercial, Investing, New Construction, Leasing, Land Development and more.

The team's goals, as always, are set extremely high, and their focus isn't just achieving these goals, but doing it in outstanding fashion. This is achieved by not just being good, but being the best! Not only are PRG’s agents highly trained before going into the field, but also constantly undergoing continuing education, in-field training and weekly sales meetings with focus on current events, market trends and skill sharpening. With the current amount of inexperienced agents in the market, it's easy for a consumer to accidentally pick one that won't properly protect them. Don't make that mistake, as it could

(402) 225-6526

PRG-NE.com 5605 n St S te 100 Linco L n, ne 68510

rEAlTOrS® of prG of BHHS

Top (L-R): Mark Salak, Tucker Velder, Danny Poethig, Ben Bleicher, Andy Sprieck

Bottom (L-R): Natassia Rekte, Andrea Bleicher, Jennifer Pfeifer

cost you thousands of dollars, legal trouble or worse. PRG makes the process smooth and offers protection you absolutely deserve. Another big deal for PRG is giving back to our community. The team donates to a number of local and national charities, plus actively participates in many events that help the community. If you have a cause PRG should consider supporting, please make sure to reach out. 2023 has already intimidated many who were considering buying or selling. There's no need to be afraid. PRG can help educate and help you determine the safest path forward.

PRG wants to thank all of their past and current clients for their support, and they look forward to serving you all in the future! Here's to an amazing year ahead!

Ben Bleicher has been in real estate for nine years. He established Professional Realty Group in 2018, followed by many record-setting years. Ben believes that consumers deserve protection, expertise, and a team that genuinely cares as they face one of the most expensive investments a person can make. Connect with PRG of BHHS for assistance with buying and selling residential, commercial, new construction, leasing and investments by contacting Ben at (402) 419-6309 (call or text) / ben.bleicher@bhhsamb.com or visit www.PRG-NE.com.

prODUCTiON TEAM:

Director of Operations Cemre Lively – Cemre@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Art Director Derek Nosbisch – Derek@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Writer Tessa Yeo – Tessa@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Creative Intern Abby Gonzales – Abby@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

SAlES TEAM:

president/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

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

Derek www.Strictly-Business.com

Cemre reQUeST A Free SUBSCrIpTION FOr YOUr BUSINeSS... Email: Cemre@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Online: www.Strictly-Business.com/subscribe-strictly-business

Tessa Abby

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Greenleaf Commercial real estate represents seller in $4.8m sale

Agents John Linscott and Adam Lowney from Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate are pleased to announce that they have recently sold a $4.8 million property in Lincoln. John and Adam represented the Seller in the sale of a 40,000-square-foot office building and a drive-through pad site located at 3201 Pioneers Blvd. Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is excited to announce that they have also been hired by the Buyers to manage the building.

To reach John or Adam, you can email them at john@ greenleafcommercial.com and adam@greenleafcommercial.com.

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is a full-service commercial real estate company offering professional asset management services and brokerage services including leasing, sales, acquisitions, consulting and development. Whatever your commercial real estate needs might be, Greenleaf’s team of professionals is here to help you succeed. For more information on Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate, call (402) 467-2525 or check out the website at www.greenleafcommercial.com.

in my own League Clothing Brand Brings retro styles to the Community

In My Own League (IMOL), owned and operated by Will Bates, started as a small idea that boomed into something big in 2020. Alongside his friend Aaron Taylor, who helps with brainstorming and creating designs, IMOL came to life. Bates has had a passion for design and clothing for several years and has a vision of bringing local communities together through his brand. Working with athletes is one of his goals, which he has already starting making a reality by partnering with Omaha Stockmen Football and creating retrodriven designs for their coaches and team.

IMOL is focused on two things, with logos to match: courage and nostalgia. Their main logo is a bear representing the courage it takes to step out into the world with your own ideas, the wisdom to learn from others and the leadership it takes to move forward and succeed. The second logo calls out to all the 90’s kids with a Hawaiian Punch themed surfer with a twist, which speaks to Bates vision of creating nostalgic pieces kids at heart and new generations alike will love.

If you’re interested in connecting with IMOL and working with someone who can’t wait to meet you, contact William Bates by emailing him at bateswilliam511@gmail.com or reaching out through Instagram @inmy_ownleagueclothing.

In My Own League is a clothing brand owned and operated by William Bates since 2020. They provide unique clothing designs with 90’s flair for sports teams, individuals, organizations and more. Head to their website at www.imolclothing.creator-spring. com to see what they have ready to buy, and reach out to bateswilliams511@gmail.com to get started on bringing your apparel ideas to life.

superior street storage provides highsecurity storage options

Superior Street Storage is a new storage facility that is now open and ready to serve all of your storage needs. The facility has many cameras to provide highsecurity for all of their clients’ belongings. Superior Street Storage has access hours seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., with staff available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The facility boasts 10×20 and 10×10 storage bays, as well as hard to find inside-climate-controlled RV and boat storage bays in sizes 12×25 and 12×40. Superior Street Storage also has a limited number of toy bays. These are 25×50 and 25×40, each with your own private 14×14 overhead door with key code, and are all climate-controlled as well. You can fit multiple investments in these bays such as an RV, boat and automobiles.

Superior Street Storage is owned and operated by Veteran Marty Fortney. Marty has been developing homes and planned communities in Lincoln since 1992. He also served in the Marines and is a Veteran of Foreign War in Kuwait.

Keep your investments safe, secure and out of the elements at Superior Street Storage. Located at 4660 North 35th St., Superior Street Storage is committed to offering you exceptional value for your hardearned money. For more information, go to superiorstreetstorage. storageunitsoftware.com, or call (402) 326-3381.

LnK and timpte, inc. Announce $22m manufacturing and distribution facility

The Lincoln Airport Authority (LNK) and Timpte, Inc., a Nebraska-based trailer manufacturing company headquartered in David City, have announced its new $22 million Lincoln Manufacturing Center development at LNK, with plans to break ground in the next 60 to 90 days.

The project is based on a long-term lease between Timpte, Inc. and LNK Airport not to exceed 50 years. The facility will be located on a parcel on the west side of the Lincoln Airport known as LNK Enterprise Park. The new Lincoln Manufacturing Center is estimated to be between 180,000 – 200,000-square-feet and will solely be built for the purpose of manufacturing equipment trailers, trailer components, trailer accessories, marine accessories, a wide range of metal fabrication, welding and paint processes and distribution of aftermarket trailer parts.

The manufacturing and distribution facility represents an estimated investment of $22 million by Timpte into the Lincoln Airport which is projected to create 80 quality jobs for Lincoln and take Timpte’s current overall employee base from 620 to 700 employees. The new facility built at LNK will support Timpte’s equipment trailer product line, parts distribution center, its’ sister entities Thunderstone Manufacturing and Lincoln Marine and support Timpte’s continued growth in the transportation industry.

The Lincoln Airport, owned and operated by the Lincoln Airport Authority, is a calm, hassle free travel spot for the people of Nebraska. For more information about flights and services, visit lincolnairport.com or call (402) 458-2480.

Altitude motion media Launches new podcast service

Altitude Motion Media is pleased to announce that they are now offering podcast services. Podcasts are a fantastic way for businesses to connect with their audience in a more relaxed and casual setting. By sharing stories, insights and knowledge in an entertaining and engaging way, businesses can build a loyal following of listeners who appreciate their content and feel a connection to their brand. Additionally, podcasts can be a great way for businesses to establish themselves as thought leaders in their industry, while still being able to keep the tone light and conversational. With the ability to listen while driving, exercising or doing other tasks, podcasts offer a convenient and enjoyable way for audiences to learn, be entertained and stay up-to-date with the latest industry news and trends. As part of their service, Altitude is including consultation on preparing for your podcast, episodes, on-site recording time, transcripts, full editing, music tracks and consultation on internet hosting. Altitude is very flexible and happy to connect and discuss the individual needs of every business.

Altitude Motion Media is a full-service media company that consistently provides the highest quality video production, photography, podcasts, drone services and 360 property tours. Their services increase your potential to succeed by producing content that stands out while building on your brand and reputation. For more information contact Ryan Lindbeck at (402) 417-0678, team@ altitudemotion.com or visit www.altitudemotion.com.

ALLo highlights Business solutions and security services

Cybersecurity is critical because it helps to protect organizations and individuals from cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity can help to prevent data breaches, identity theft and other types of cybercrime. Organizations must have strong cybersecurity measures to protect their data and customers.

While central to your security plan, a network firewall, even a nextgeneration device, is not enough to protect you from today’s sophisticated attacks that originate from global criminal organizations. ALLO Business Solutions employs next-generation firewalls coupled with cloud-based artificial intelligence, real time monitoring, event logging and other advanced techniques to keep you and your business safe.

ALLO’s security team includes security experts with the highest degree of cybersecurity certification, seasoned network engineers and other security experts who work collaboratively with you and your IT support to craft a security plan that covers on-site protection, cloud-based requirements and mobile devices. The team remains vigilant, responding to your change requests immediately and analyzing potential threats in real time. Enhance your fiber-optic service experience with these additional features for an even greater connectivity and security benefits. To discuss your company’s future security needs please contact ALLO at (402) 480-6500.

ALLO specializes in providing world-class communications and entertainment services by creating and operating gigabit communities. ALLO currently serves over 35 communities in Nebraska, Colorado and Arizona, with a total population of more than 1,000,000 supported by more than 1,300 team members. For more information about ALLO, go to allofiber.com, or call (402) 480-6500.

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tfLC encourages Businesses to Celebrate earth day with tobacco-free policies

The tobacco industry has had a devastating effect on the environment. From the production of cigarettes to their disposal, the environmental consequences of tobacco use are immense and far-reaching. Businesses can play a key role in reducing these effects by implementing policies that promote a tobacco-free workplace and supporting employees who want to quit. This year on Earth Day, April 22, Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) challenges you to consider implementing a tobacco-free policy or review your current policies to make sure they are up to date. Tobacco-free policies can encourage employees to quit tobacco, which has significant benefits for the employee, the employer and the environment. Tobacco-free workplaces reduce medical costs by increasing employee health, lower absenteeism, increase productivity and increase the culture of wellness in the office. Supporting employees to quit tobacco also helps the environment by reducing waste, preventing toxic chemicals from poisoning the environment and protecting pets and wildlife from tobacco pollution.

Implementing tobacco-free policies is a win-win-win! If you already have a tobacco-free policy, take time on April 22 to review them, remind your staff that you support them in quitting tobacco and provide resources like the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUITNOW). If your business does not have a tobacco-free policy, Tobacco Free Lancaster County can help you implement one! Email info@ tobaccofreelancastercounty.org and let them know you are ready to be a tobacco-free business. For more information about Tobacco Free Lancaster County, go to tobaccofreelancastercounty.com.

Lutz to present solutions to meet Your Business’s hr needs Webinar April 12

Lutz will be presenting the ‘Solutions to Meet Your Business’s HR Needs’ webinar on April 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The ever-changing world of HR can be tricky, and when culture and top talent are at stake, it’s crucial to get things right. If you feel stuck with human resources challenges, you’re not alone. In this webinar, Lutz experts Steph Hand and Chris Bouchard will help your business solve its HR woes by assessing the right time to hire an HR professional and analyzing your options to improve operations and culture moving forward.

Other upcoming webinars include ‘A Letter to My Surviving Spouse’ on May 10, ‘Data Analytics & Financial KPIS for the Nonprofit Industry’ on June 14 and ‘Ready to Hire, but Can’t Find the Talent?’ on July 12. Find Lutz’s full event calendar and past recorded webinars at lutz.us/lutz-events.

Lutz is a business solutions firm for people seeking a partner to help energize and heighten economic and organizational success. Their experienced team provides accounting, financial, talent, M&A and technology services. Lutz works to simplify complexities, help make critical business decisions and focus on the things that are truly important to you. They embrace your business as their own to spark the right solutions and help you thrive. That’s their promise: to mind what matters. Learn more at www.lutz.us.

The J stands for joy. There’s joy in a clean car. There’s joy in supporting local. There’s joy in the chats with our greeters/dryers/managers/ owners. There’s always joy when visiting JetSplash. It’s a different kinda car wash experience.

skin experts to hold LiBA ribbon-Cutting Ceremony April 19

Skin Experts is excited to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) on April 19 at 4 p.m. at Skin Experts, 4400 Lucile Dr., STE 101. This event is free and open to the public, and there will be coffee and food provided.

Skin Experts is adding a modern touch to the skincare and facial treatment industry that goes beyond the surface level. They brought their skincare revolution to Lincoln on November 15 with the grand opening of their new location. By combining the most advanced technologies with revolutionary skincare using ingredients for proven results, their experts are here to create long-term change you can really see. You will be able to customize your facial for your skin and add any booster at no additional cost for any skin type. From sensitive to combination skin, Skin Experts offers a transformation worth sharing. Skin Experts offers luxury, hi-tech facials for all skin types at an unbelievable price. When it comes to skincare, they combine revolutionary technology from Europe and Asia with carefully curated ingredients that work synergistically to help skin look fuller, fresher and younger. See a transformation worth sharing! For more information on personalizing your skincare, visit www.skinexperts.com or contact hellolincoln@skinexperts.com / (531) 500-5224.

small Business Workshop Led by sCore Lincoln set for April 15

SCORE Lincoln is hosting "What's Involved in Starting a Small Business" workshop on Saturday, April 15, from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Turbine Flats - Resonator, 2124 Y St. This workshop will help startups and small business owners gain answers to essential questions needed when starting or running a business. They will provide an overview of ALL the things you need to be planning for and thinking about to create a successful business. Attendees will learn from experts in the related field and can ask questions specific to their business interests. Topics include:

• Business Plan

• Practical Accounting and Tax Considerations

• Financing Your Business

• Legal Structures for Small Business

• Marketing - traditional and online

• Insurance Needs

Attendees may sign up with SCORE for free one-on-one mentoring. The full day costs $49 and includes lunch. The registration fee will be reimbursed by Community Development Resources upon attendance at the workshop. Register now by going to https:// score.tfaforms.net/17?EventID=a105a000009oBpv.

SCORE Lincoln, the local chapter of the nation’s largest network of expert business mentors, is a nonprofit organization and a partner of the SBA. Dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground and achieve their business goals, SCORE has provided FREE mentorship and education to more than 11 million entrepreneurs since 1964. For more information about SCORE, or upcoming workshops and events, visit www.lincoln.score.org or call (402) 437-2409.

sp Group, p.C. enjoys Annual Bowling team Builder

After a day of orientation for SP Group’s tax season interns, by late afternoon it was time for some much-deserved fun and relaxation. Along with the entire SP Group team, it was off to the bowling alley. This team builder outing has become an annual tradition. It gives the whole group a chance to socialize with the interns, get a little break from the office and to let everyone show their competitive side. Eight lanes were rolling with the sounds of pins dropping as bowlers rolled spares, strikes, some doubles, a turkey or two and an occasional gutter ball. As always, a few friendly wagers were won or lost.

SP Group, P.C., a growing entrepreneurial accounting firm, was founded on these four core values: relationships, the power of team, life/work balance and competitiveness. They like to win at SP Group, and they believe competitive sports-minded culture makes a firm better at achieving success for their clients. Follow SP Group on Facebook (@SP Group, P.C.) or Twitter (@ SPGroupPC). For more information, please call (402) 420-7758 or visit www.spgrouppc.com.

AmanaCare introduces new Care360 program

AmanaCare has introduced the Care360 program model to their care methods. Care360 was designed with the whole person in mind. AmanaCare will help you cultivate the things that are valuable to you.

The first pillar of the Care360 model is community and family involvement. AmanaCare caregivers can assist in transporting clients to community events, letter writing and even assist you in managing your social media to stay in touch with loved ones. Next, Care360 focuses on maintaining an active body and mind. AmanaCare caregivers provide assistance with physical therapy exercises as ordered by your doctor and physical therapist, nutritious meals and mentally engaging activities such as board games and puzzles.

Religious and spiritual engagement is another important aspect of the Care360 model. They strive to keep you or your loved one engaged in your faith practice however they can. Caregivers can transport clients to and from church or assist them in finding online or in person services.

Lastly, Care360 focuses on evaluating and maintaining a safe home environment. AmanaCare aims to help you or your loved one flourish at home. Their staff will provide regular home-safety checks and minor home maintenance to ensure their clients are safe.

Amana is Hebrew; it means truth, faithfulness, guardian, devotion and integrity. AmanaCare is a faith-based company that is family-owned and operated providing faithful, personalized non- medical care that people can trust. If you or a loved one needs assistance to manage tasks of independent living, contact AmanaCare to find out how they can help at (402) 440-5878. For more information, go to amana-care.com.

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Anytime fitness reopens two Locations Under new ownership

Anytime Fitness is excited to announce they have reopened two locations in Lincoln that are now under new ownership, Blue Star Investments. The first location is Anytime Fitness S 27th St. at 7301 S 27th St., reopened on January 30, and the second is Anytime Fitness Pioneer Woods, located at 4131 Pioneer Woods Dr., reopened on February 1. There hosted two Grand Opening Events with the Chamber in late March to celebrate.

The new owners are so excited to bring health and fitness back into the lives of many who relied on Anytime Fitness in Lincoln. They have had an incredible experience getting to know this community and reopening the doors for the members that are so happy to be back in their fitness home. They have made enhancements to both clubs and continue to find opportunities to improve these clubs for their members. They are offering a Join for $1 promotion for new Anytime Fitness members.

Blue Star Investments is one of the fastest-growing franchise groups of Anytime Fitness. Through new development and acquiring existing Anytime Fitness clubs, they’ve grown to 28 locations in 8 states in the last five years, and are honored to add Lincoln to the map. The motto of Anytime Fitness is to improve the self-esteem of the world. No matter where you are in any fitness journey, their job is to get you to a healthier place. If you'd like more information, visit www. anytimefitness.com and type in "Lincoln, NE" to connect directly with your location. You can also contact Rebecca Wagner at rebecca. wagner@anytimefitness.com.

deGUns to host personal defense event with rob pincus June 30

DEGUNS is gearing up to host another personal defensefocused event with worldrenowned firearms trainer and second amendment activist Rob Pincus. The focus of this event is Home Defense Tactics. The event will take place on June 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. at DEGUNS, 252 N 134th St. in Lincoln.

This is your chance to hear from an industry expert on the latest home defense tactics and how easily they can be incorporated into your routine. Rob Pincus is a professional trainer, author and consultant. He and his staff at I.C.E. Training Company provide services to military, law enforcement, private security and students interested in self-defense.

DEGUNS aim to provide registered buyers with the best tools for shooting sports, hunting or whatever their firearm needs may be. The retail store is 110,000-square-feet standing on 34 acres of land. They have over 1,000 guns on display from all the top-tier brands and over 10,000 in stock. This spacious location gives DEGUNS the opportunity to offer customers thousands of new products, training classes, CHP (Concealed Handgun Permit) classes and the helpful knowledge to further their firearm experience.

DEGUNS is Nebraska’s Largest Gunstore with an outdoor shooting complex, training rooms, large ammunition selection and thousands of guns to choose from. To get in touch, call (402) 875-6500 or email ffl@deguns.net. For more information, go to www.deguns.net.

hBAL to present 2023 tour of remodeled homes April 29 and 30

The Remodelers Council of Lincoln is excited to announce the 2023 Tour of Remodeled Homes which is set for April 29 and 30. This year’s tour will include eight homes featuring kitchens, primary suite addition and whole home remodels. Admission is $5 and admits adults to all homes. Children 12 years and under are free. You may purchase tickets at any Tour home. For a complete list of entries or to view the online guidebook, please visit www.hbal.org/events/tour-of-remodeled-homes.

Entry # Address remodeler

1 5450 Rockford Drive Lincoln Cabinet

2 5459 Rockford Drive Lincoln Cabinet

3 2450 Sewell Street CS Kitchen & Bath Studio

4 2925 O'Reilly Drive Willet Construction, Inc., Remodeling Specialists

5 2410 Winchester South GoodeGuy Construction, Inc.

6 5217 S. 62nd Street Lincoln Cabinet

7 2600 Wimbledon Court Buss Design and Renovation

8 6540 Everett Street Fulton Construction & Remodeling

The Remodelers Council of Lincoln was started in 1986 and today includes approximately 85 members. The Remodelers Council provides an array of activities for its members to promote their business and network with others in the residential construction industry.

The Home Builders Association of Lincoln is a visible, effective and respected trade association which promotes home building through professional education, member communication and civic participation, and which represents builders and associated professionals in community, government and industry forums. For more information, visit www.hbal.org.

it’s not What You Know, it’s Who You Know and Who Knows You!

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

new medical Apparel store right fit Uniforms opens in Lincoln

Right Fit Uniforms, a new medical uniforms and apparel store, is excited to announce that they are now open in Lincoln. They held a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on March 22 to welcome the new business to the community. It was a successful event that introduced friends, family and medical professionals to Right Fit’s wonderful new retail space and amazing inventory!

Right Fit Uniforms has many colors, fashionable styles and fitness apparel that are 100% awesome. In addition to scrubs, they offer products such as athleisure and other medical apparel. Check out the new store in Lincoln at 5221 South 48th St. STE 8. They are open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and are closed on Sundays.

Right Fit Uniform’s mission is to provide quality, comfortable and modern medical uniforms in a clean and spacious environment, accessible to health care professionals at a great value! It’s not just a scrub but the feel, look and comfort that bring out your inner confidence. For more information, go to rightfituniforms.net or call (531) 500-2970.

Kingery Construction Co. to host Construction Career days April 20

Kingery Construction Co. is excited to announce that they will be hosting Construction Career Days on Thursday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s never too early to start exploring your career interests whether you are in middle school, high school or college. The career day will be located at Haymarket Park at 403 Line Drive Circle within Lot 19 in the south parking lot. All students who are interested in the field are invited and encouraged to come explore the possibilities for them after school and learn more about why they should choose construction.

There will be hands-on activities, construction demonstrations and construction career booths. This event is public for anyone who is interested, please direct any questions to Jereme at (402) 5255535. This event is in cooperation with buildournebraska.com.

Kingery Construction Co. believes the construction process goes beyond the building and strives to build legacies for every owner through the construction process. They believe this is far more than building a structure; it’s about building relationships with their clients and partners, creating a quality product that is timeless and speaks to a community of owners and employees that spend a large portion of their day in the building. To learn more, visit www.kccobuilders.com.

nebraska innovation Campus to participate in one day Without shoes drive

Nebraska Innovation Campus is a proud partner for the annual “One Day Without Shoes” event. Organized by People’s City Mission and Cornhusker Bank, the event aims to collect new or used wearable footwear for people in need.

From April 3-14, NIC Partners and the Lincoln community are encouraged to bring new or wearable used shoes to Nebraska Nova’s office (Suite 1100 | Entrance A | north most building) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. The footwear will be distributed to Nebraskans in need by People’s City Mission.

There is no cost to be involved. To learn about all the ways you can support this drive, go to www.cornhuskerbank.com/daywithout-shoes.aspx.

“With this amazing amount of shoes and money we collected we will be able to help thousands of people,” shared Pastor Tom Barber of People’s City Mission. “Thank you to Cornhusker Bank for creating this event and thank you to the City of Lincoln for all of your kindness.”

Nebraska Innovation Campus is a campus designed to facilitate new and in-depth partnerships between the University of Nebraska and private sector businesses. NIC is adjacent to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and strategically provides organizations with access to needed research faculty, facilities, and students. For additional information about campus facilities, leasing opportunities, events, and a virtual campus tour, please visit INNOVATE.UNL.EDU.

LhrmA Announces April program to focus on diversity and inclusion in the Workplace

Lincoln Human Resource Management Association (LHRMA) is delighted to announce their April Program that will be focusing on diversity, inclusion and intersectionality in the workplace.

The program will take place on Tuesday, April 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the SCC Jack J Huck Continuing Education Center at 301 S 68th Street Pl. This program will be hosted both in-person and virtually. Anyone who registers for the virtual option will be sent a link to join prior to the program beginning. It is recommended virtual attendees login at 11:50 a.m. for any pre-program announcements. For in-person attendees registration and check-in will occur at 11:30 a.m., lunch and networking until noon and program will end at 1 p.m.

The program will feature Peter Ferguson as the speaker. Built on the value of relationships, he has a foundational commitment to empower, educate and engage. Ferguson is the coordinator of culture, inclusion and scholar development of Lincoln Public Schools District and owner and chief belief officer of Peter Ferguson B.H.S., L.L.C.

Registration is free for current LHRMA members and $25 for nonmembers. The deadline to register is Monday, April 10. You can register virtually by visiting lincolnhr.org/event/april-lhrma-programdiversity-and-inclusion-intersectionality.

The mission of the Lincoln Human Resources Management Association is to provide for the interchange of ideas, experiences and methods concerning the relationships between management and employees, and to provide professional ethics and acquaintanceship among those involved in professional human resource management. For more, visit LincolnHR.org or contact membership@lincolnhr.org.

eschliman Commercial real estate Announces Vanity fur move to expanded Location

Ted and Robin Eschliman of Eschliman Commercial Real Estate (ECR) are proud to announce the relocation of Vanity Fur to their new expanded Lincoln facilities at 1233 Arapahoe in Lincoln. They worked with their clients and represented the tenants in the leasing of the new 2,000-square-foot space.

Established in 2010, Vanity Fur is a locally-owned dog grooming business in the heart of the Country Club Neighborhood. Staff groomers have years of experience and believe in quality over quantity, caring for each dog as if their own. Management strives for the highest industry standards for station safety, comfort and cleanliness. Service is by appointment only with special pride reducing stress by not stacking and limiting kennel time. They can be reached through their website or calling (402) 261-4596.

Robin and Ted Eschliman, husband and wife team of Eschliman Commercial Real Estate provide site selection services for office, retail, warehouse, land and commercial investment prospects, as well as listing and consulting services. Robin also produces a 13-year-old economic development show “Grow Lincoln” on 1400 KLIN AM with local guest interviews and covers Lincoln businesses opening, closing, moving and expanding. For more information about Eschliman Commercial Real Estate, visit their website www.ecrproperty.com or contact them at (402) 420-3239 / info@ecrproperty.com.

sCC ranks 60th nationally on stacker and niche top 100 List

Southeast Community College (SCC) ranks 60th among the top 100 community colleges nationwide in a list compiled by Stacker, a wire service that provides data-driven feature content to thousands of news outlets.

Stacker looked at data from Niche’s 2023 Best Community Colleges in America to compile the list. According to its website, Niche connects colleges and schools with students and families and provides in-depth profiles on every school and college in America.

The data is based on rigorous analysis of academic, financial and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education, along with reviews from students and alumni. The community college list includes public junior colleges, public technical schools and all other public, two-year colleges. The heaviest weight was given to factors of Academics Grade (40%) and Value Grade (27.5%). Niche’s Academics Grade incorporates factors such as acceptance rate and quality of instruction, as well as student and alumni surveys regarding academics of the school. Niche’s Value Grade incorporates statistics such as average student loan amount, alumni earnings and student surveys regarding value.

Other factors are Professors Grade (7.5%), Campus Grade (5%), Diversity Grade (5%), Student Life Grade (5%), Student Surveys on Overall Experience (5%), Local Area Grade (2.5%) and Safety Grade (2.5%).

SCC plays a vital role for our communities in southeast Nebraska by bridging the higher education affordability gap and filling a need for a qualified workforce in Nebraska. Find more information about Southeast Community College at www.southeast.edu.

BUsiness neWs

megaBus returning to Lincoln with expanded interstate Bus service

Two transportation companies are teaming up to provide more interstate bus routes from Lincoln. MegaBus, the cross-country carrier known for low fares, has announced plans to restart services in Lincoln this spring.

The company said in a news release that it has partnered with Burlington Trailways to offer daily service from Lincoln to 22 cities, including Chicago, Denver, Des Moines, Iowa, and Indianapolis. “This partnership will offer robust expansion opportunities in the Midwest,” Colin Emberson, vice president of commercial for Megabus, said in a news release. “Creating the opportunity for customers to travel as far west as Denver is particularly exciting. We’re proud to be able to offer customers new, convenient travel options.”

Megabus offered bus service between Lincoln and Chicago, with stops in Des Moines and other cities in Iowa and Illinois, from the spring of 2017 to the spring of 2020, when it ended because of COVID-19.

Burlington Trailways has offered interstate bus service from Lincoln since taking over former Greyhound routes in 2005. The new Megabus service will depart from the Burlington Trailways bus depot at 5250 Superior St.

Megabus offers city-to-city bus tickets as low as $1 for your travel around the North America, all bookable from your computer or smartphone. The Megabus model was designed with the customer in mind, and they can’t wait to hit the road with you! For more information, go to us.megabus.com.

Center sphere Announces April event schedule and Annual Golf tournament

Center Sphere is pleased to announce an upcoming Network-Wide Coffee and Connections on Wednesday, April 5. The event will be held from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at CMG Home Loans, 5800 Hidcote Dr., STE 106. This event will be hosted by Noelle Jacquot.

In addition, Center Sphere recently announced that their Annual Charity Golf Tournament will tee off on Wednesday, July 26. Check-in for the golf tournament will start at 9:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 11 a.m. sharp! The event will be at Tiburon Golf Club, 10302 S 168th St., in Omaha and the cost is $300 per four-person team, with lunch included. They ask that at least one Center Sphere member be on each four-person team. Go to CenterSphereGolf.com to secure your team.

All proceeds from the golf tournament will support Rejuvenating Women, a nonprofit committed to providing hope and restoration to individuals who have been trafficked and sexually exploited in Nebraska and throughout the country.

Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event visit www.CenterSphere.com or connect with Director of Membership Ashley Hinze at Ashley@CenterSphere.com / (402) 690-4434.

Mahoney State Park

Saturday, May 6 | 11 am - 9 pm

• Unlimited tastings of Nebraska wines, craft beers, and spirits

• Call 402-882-2448 to reserve lodging

SCAN TO GET 10% OFF TICKETS!

SIPspring2023.eventbrite.com

DROP-N-GO CATERING

Our variety is perfect for office staff, meetings, employee parties, friends, or any size crew! We have several packages to choose from or order individual meals.

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BUsiness neWs

Venue restaurant & Lounge to offer take and Bake meals for easter holiday

Venue Restaurant & Lounge is pleased to announce that they will be offering take and bake meals available for pick-up or delivery in honor of the Easter Holiday. The deadline for ordering is 4 p.m. on Wednesday, April 5. You will be able to choose delivery or pick up on Saturday, April 8 from 3-6 p.m. or pick up on Sunday, April 9 from 9-11 a.m. If you choose to pick up you will be able to get your food between Venue Restaurant & Lounge and Hobbytown in the Pioneer Woods Shopping Center located at 70th and Pioneers Blvd.

Meal packages serve either two to three or six to eight people. There will be a flat delivery fee of $8. Meals will include a choice of beef tenderloin with red wine demiglace, herb roasted chicken with lemon herb cream sauce or six pepper crusted prime rib. All choices will include sides of mashed potatoes, root vegetables and brussel sprouts, rolls with butter and spinach strawberry salad. To place your order, visit venuedelivered.com/easter.

Venue Restaurant & Lounge is a part of PILLAR Restaurant Group, a locally-owned company that also consists of Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs, Piedmont Bistro by Venue, and Venue Catering & Events, with the Jasmine Room by Venue and the Scottish Rite Ballroom by Venue. For more information, go to yourvenue.net. Additional questions can be directed to Craig Zimmerman at (402) 488-8368 / craig@yourvenue.net.

remy refinishing offers diY Kitchen Cabinet painting program

Remy Refinishing is offering their DIY Kitchen Cabinet Painting Program, where you can save 50% off cabinet painting. Do you feel like you could paint your own cabinets but are unsure of all the details? Remy Refinishing will spray paint your doors and drawer faces in their shop, and then teach you how to brush and roll your own frames, and how to uninstall and reinstall your cabinets. The Remy Refinishing team can do any percentage of the job you need them to. If you want to paint your frames but can’t transport or install your own doors, there is no problem. They can also drill new handles and install new hinges for you if needed.

The purpose of this program is to open up the possibility for more people to use Remy Refinishing’s services in any capacity at all. This program is available for homeowners or other contractors that may not have a shop to spray cabinet doors in. Give Owner Jeremy Day a call at (402) 570-9427 to find out more.

Remy Refinishing opened in 2015 and has since grown to five employees and a shop space where they produce sprayed cabinets. Their goal from the beginning has been to provide a high-quality painting service to happy customers. Remy Refinishing specialize in cabinet painting and other fine finish paint jobs such as front doors, staircases and fireplace mantles. For more information, go to remyrefinishing.com.

Access family medicine partners with Good Life fitness for eight Week Challenge

Access Family Medicine has teamed up with Good Life Fitness for their Eight Week Transformation Challenge that started on March 20 and ends May 14. The challenge includes 42 workouts, one class per week, food logs, water logs, body composition testing and measurements, and before and after photos. If you would like to see beyond the surface and to what is happening inside your body during the challenge, it is recommended to get your blood work panels done at the beginning and end of the challenge. Access Family Medicine has been providing their staff to test Basic Metabolic Panels and Lipids Panels. Tests are not required for participants, but they offer more insight into your overall health.

If you are interested in learning how you could implement the practices of the Eight Week Transformation Challenge into your own life, contact Access Family Medicine for guidance on how to do so.

At Access Family Medicine, they believe that one-on-one interaction is a key factor in providing excellent health care. They strive to create the most individualized care imaginable that is uniquely centered on each patient’s personal needs. Helping patients prevent, diagnose, and treat health issues with affordable solutions is what sets Access Family Medicine apart from their competitors. For more information about Access Family Medicine and the benefits and services they provide, visit accessfamilymedicine.com. Further questions can be answered by phone or email at (402) 858-1510 / info@accessdpc.com.

BBB opens Applications for 2023 torch and spark Awards

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has opened the applications for the 2023 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics and the 2023 BBB Spark Awards, the only accolades that don’t honor the profitability, popularity or growth of individuals or organizations, but rather those that put integrity into action and do right by the customers they serve. Applications are due by April 28.

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics honors organizations whose leaders demonstrate a high level of personal character; ensure that the organization’s practices meet the highest standards of ethics; and consequently generate trust with its customers and the community. The Torch Award embodies BBB’s mission of advancing business trust. BBB has four separate Torch Awards competitions – Metro Omaha/Southwest Iowa, Lincoln/Greater Nebraska, South Dakota and the Kansas Plains.

The BBB Spark Awards honor entrepreneurs, startup founders and emerging business owners under the age of 45 who prioritize ethical decision-making. BBB has four separate Spark Awards competitions –Metro Omaha/Southwest Iowa, Lincoln/Greater Nebraska, South Dakota and the Kansas Plains.

Entries are evaluated by one of four independent, voluntary panels of judges from either Omaha, Lincoln, Sioux Falls or Wichita. Each panel is comprised of members from the business, nonprofit, and academic sectors of their communities.

For more information on how to apply, go to bbb.org/local/0714/ torch-awards or bbb.org/local/0714/spark-awards. If you have questions about either the BBB Spark Awards or the BBB Torch Awards for Ethics, please contact BBB VP of Communications & PR Josh Planos at jplanos@bbbinc.org.

Visit BBB.org for more information on the Better Business Bureau.

by Chris Mcpike Individual & Senior Benefits Manager, Agent

it’s tax time

We all know that April is tax month. But here are a few health-related items that are important to know as you file your taxes for 2022.

Are premiums deductible? If you are selfemployed, the health insurance premiums that you pay can be deducted as an Adjustment to Income on Schedule 1 of Form 1040. If you are not self-employed, you probably won’t be able to deduct your premiums. Those with very high medical expenses may qualify to include premiums as an itemized deduction.

Form 1095 - If you were enrolled in health coverage during 2022, you should have received Form 1095-A, 1095-B or 1095-C. The form you receive is based on the source of your health insurance; did you have an individual policy or an employer group plan. The form verifies that you had health insurance coverage. If your insurance was through the Health Insurance Marketplace, Form 1095 includes the amount of Premium Tax Credit that you used during 2022. This information is used to determine whether you used more or less than you are eligible to receive. Give this form to your tax preparer.

HSA contributions – If your policy in 2022 was a high deductible health plan, you can contribute to a Health Savings Account until the tax filing due date – April 18, 2023. You can make contributions for the previous tax year. Your contribution is deductible as an Adjustment to Income on Schedule 1 of Form 1040.

for those over age 55

What is best way to pay for Dental & Vision i nsurance?

We can pay for our dental & vision care with an insurance plan, a discount plan offered by our provider, or by paying out-of-pocket for everything. There are lots of statistics showing that a person is more likely to have regular checkups for their teeth and eyes if they have insurance that helps cover the cost. They are less likely to go if they are concerned about having a sizeable bill to pay. When evaluating a dental or vision plan, find out the value of the benefits you will receive in comparison to the premium you will pay. For dental plans, you should expect to pay a premium that covers the value of preventive care plus an allowance for other services that you might need. Compare the premium on your vision plan to what your out-of-pocket expense would be for your eye exam plus the percentage of the cost of glasses or contacts that the plan will pay. Call ComPro if you would like to know more about dental or vision insurance.

ComPro offers health insurance plans for Employee Benefits, Individuals and Medicare. They are your trusted and local resource for health insurance! To make an appointment with one of their licensed insurance agents, call (402) 488-5100. For more info, visit www.comproins.com.

Regina STaR CiTY SiX

Regina Read S KIN E XPERTS

Meet Regina Read, the spa director at Skin Experts.

Tell us a little about your business. - We offer hi-tech, affordable, luxury facials that are lifestyle friendly and safe for the whole family! We customize the treatment to every person’s individual needs.

How did you get started in the business? - I began as a makeup artist on the west coast, but my personal skin type had always had me at the dermatologist for severe acne since my early teens. That experience had me hyper-focused on the correction and treatment aspect of the beautification/wellness process and I pursued that portion of the industry. I stepped out of that career and adjusted it to more of a wellness aspect massage therapy, aesthetics and permanent makeup licenses. I spent years on all aspects of the industry but my passion is in the area of skin.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Consistent growth in an industry where I truly get to take care of others through my passion and education. I enjoy using my personal experience and knowledge to take care of clients’ needs and help them meet their goals is my priority.

Tell us a little about your family. - We are a blended immediate family and we split our time between here, Iowa and Florida. With our extended family living mostly in Oklahoma, it’s in the air and in the car a lot but it’s worth it.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - My biggest workouts of the week are on my days off! I usually do long outdoor runs and enjoy spending time with my family and our two dogs.

i f you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Photojournalist and firefighter. Such a childhood ambition, but it was more in the last decade that I started being fascinated with a public service career!

What is your favorite movie? - My son and I can watch Fantastic Mr. Fox on repeat.

Who inspires you? - My son. He is such a gift. He is 13 and he and I are running his first half-marathon in Chicago together this year. I am so excited.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “My mission in life is not merely to survive but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” - Maya Angelou

i f you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Authentic.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I truly believe in the community and growth of those around us. We have and will support anyway we can as a business. We’ve been able to support a variety of local charities in our short amount of time here. Please reach out to see how we could serve yours.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Momo’s! I love it and it's just next door to our business. The cedar salmon is my favorite, but I will absolutely not say no to any pizza on that menu.

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

STaR CiTY SiX a manda

Amanda Swenson

PURECARE DRY CARPET CLEANING

Meet Amanda Swenson, the director of marketing/office manager at PureCare Dry Carpet Cleaning.

Tell us a little about your business. - We are a locally-owned family business that provides not only the greenest but the cleanest dry carpet cleaning services in Lincoln and surrounding areas. We can install, repair and maintain the quality of your floors for the life of your floor.

How did you get started in the business? - I worked behind the scenes for years. Even ten years ago I wrote up the business plan with Ela on our living room floor, and then watched PureCare grow to where they could sustain my role. The Schlisner’s have been in the flooring industry their whole life. It's all they really know!

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I am the type of person that wants to do it all! I have a hard time saying no.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I'm always setting goals and breaking them. I have three jobs, so I would say that maintaining high performing numbers and being top sales is always my achievement.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have a 17-year-old senior that is graduating from Lincoln Southeast this year. She is a cheerleader, a lifeguard and has two jobs. I wonder where she gets that from! I also have a fat cat and an old chihuahua. Otherwise, PureCare is my family.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Honestly the biggest turning point in my life was learning to love myself and be true to myself after leaving a toxic longterm relationship and choosing a healthier lifestyle.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - What’s a day off? I really enjoy hula hooping, roller skating, shopping and doing crafts. Whenever I have the free time, I do any or all of those.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was a Capital City Clogger for ten years, and I know quite a bit of sign language. My dream was to be an interpreter for the hearing impaired at music festivals. I could still get this accomplished if there were eight days in a week.

Who inspires you? - Ela Schlisner. She has been a constant role model in my life for over 20 years. She is so smart, driven, resilient and realistic.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - "She overcame everything that was meant to destroy her.” This is my life, even my day to day.

i f you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Radiant.

i f you could have a super power, what would it be? - I would like the power to warp time.

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

- You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero. It is an easy read and is so motivating with a bunch of sass and witt. Who wouldn't like it!

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Mary Ellen’s.

i f you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She was such a boss!

i f our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - purecarecarpet.com.

Jenni STaR CiTY SiX

Jenni Tran

T RUE N ORTH T ECHNOLOGIES

Meet Jenni Tran, the integrator at True North Technologies.

Tell us a little about your business. - True North Technologies is a digital marketing company that is dedicated to cultivating people, businesses and communities. Here at True North, we excel at transforming your business vision into your website or social media and tell your story.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I would say obtaining my Nebraska Real Estate Broker’s license has been a huge accomplishment that I’m very proud of. I would also say constantly exploring new opportunities that take me out of my comfort zone and help me grow!

Tell us a little about your family. - I was born in Lincoln and grew up here. I have three kids, Braxton, Ella and Bowen. They all have very different, very large personalities and I love it. We also have two dogs and two cats, so we have a VERY full house!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Meeting my now husband and moving back to Lincoln to settle down. I have been faced with huge opportunities to grow and learn here since I’ve moved back and feel that it was a big turning point for my career and my family.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to read and take naps in my down time! We also like to take our dogs to the dog park, and on nice days play games out in the back yard with family, friends and the kids. I also really like to do puzzles, but many times it is too hard with the kids and animals to keep them from breaking it or losing pieces!

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - One of my favorite quotes is “comparison is the thief of joy” because as simply as it says, everyone is running a different race with different finish lines. I try hard to make a conscious effort each day to keep this at the forefront of my mind to achieve better results for myself instead of spending my time comparing my work or results to others.

if you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - I would like to be remembered as resilient or persistent. Sometimes, the best successes come from trudging through the muck and coming out on the other side!

if you could have a super power, what would it be? - Super speed so I could get to far away destinations quickly with very little travel time to be able to enjoy the sights for longer!

Which talent would you most like to have? - Something crafty or artsy. I don’t have the creative vision or talent to create beautiful art but it’s something I’ve always wanted to be able to do well and be able to enjoy it.

What is your favorite TV show? - Friends! I’ve watched the entire series multiple times and still love to re-watch it when I run out of new shows on my list to explore.

What is your favorite local lincoln restaurant? - Taco Inn. I grew up having it often as it was always a favorite of my dad’s and now my kids and I enjoy it on a regular basis. I actually just had it for lunch today!

if our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?Jenni@go-tnt.com; (402) 817-1512 ext. 1018; Go-tnt.com.

STaR CiTY SiX m a RCY

Marcy Haas

S WEET T HINGS B Y M ARCY

Meet Marcy Haas, owner of Sweet Things by

Marcy.

Tell us a little about your business. - My bakery specializes in authentic southern-style desserts. Our desserts are made from scratch, with real butter, real vanilla and real love. We offer local delivery and pick-up, and we are also exclusively sold at Lila Mae’s Southern Kitchen. Some of the most popular items at my bakery are the Kentucky Butter Cake, Peach Cobbler, Cupcakes and many more.

How did you get started in the business? - I have been baking for over 40 years. My mother taught me how to bake basic southern staples such as biscuits, cornbread, tea cakes and sweet potato pie. I eventually played around with making pound cakes, cookies and other things, and ended up growing my passion into a business.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Expanding into a commercial space and partnership with a local restaurant. Also most recently, teaming up with James Arthur Vineyard for a decadent evening of wine and desserts at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 21, in our party room. We will be pairing JAV wines with my scrumptious cakes. Tickets are $27.50/person and are available at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 21.

Tell us a little about your family. - My family consists of my husband Tony, my sons Matthew and Christopher, grandson Kingston, and fur babies Eugene, Roger and Sage. My family outside of Nebraska is HUGE. I’m the youngest of nine children and aunt to 30-ish nieces and nephews.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - On a day off, I love to cook a delicious meal for my family.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I never sought out to become a baker, but I have always been an entrepreneur. I used to own a company called Les Concierge of Alabama before moving to Nebraska. The concept was similar to DoorDash, Instacart and other services of that kind. Who inspires you? - Although they are both deceased, my father and mother are my inspiration.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - The best advice I have ever received was from my mother. She always told me that I can do anything I put my mind to, and I live by that.

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

if you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Unstoppable” by Sia. if you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I enjoy doing research so I would probably choose to be a lawyer.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I’m involved in a few organizations including Friendship Home of Lincoln, Veterans Memorial Garden Advisory Council and Delta Sigma Theta, Inc.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Quiet by Susan Cain.

What is your favorite movie? - O Brother, Where Art Thou?

What is your favorite local restaurant? - JTK.

i f our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 540-6982; info@sweetthingsbymarcy.com; sweetthingsbymarcy.com.

STaR CiTY SiX STephanie

Stephanie Laux KINETIC BUSINESS

Meet Stephanie Laux, the outside plant engineering manager at Kinetic Business.

Tell us a little about your business. - Kinetic Business provides premium network solutions through an enhanced fiber network to businesses primarily in rural areas in 18 states. The company also offers managed communications services, including SD-WAN and UCaaS, and highcapacity bandwidth and transport services to businesses across the U.S.

How did you get started in the business? - I started in this business right out of college. It was my first professional job. I had just graduated from Northwest Missouri State University (Go Bearcats!) and I was eager to jump into the working world. I have now been with the company for 25 years this June and have had many opportunities in different areas of this organization.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I am a female in a predominately male industry, so I would say that has been the biggest challenge I’ve faced in my career. However, the tide seems to be shifting, especially in the past 5-10 years, which is great to see.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Jim and I have been married for four years, and we have a mini Brady Bunch with our four children, Morgan, Isabel, Sydney and Easton.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Play golf, read a book, cook and spend time with family.

Who inspires you? - My grandmother Roberta. She had 13 children with my grandfather who was in the Navy, so she often did the parenting alone. After the Navy, my grandfather worked hard to provide for his family as a lineman for the power company, but my grandmother was a source of their strength and tremendous faith. She raised her children to know and love God, to love others without judgement, to serve others, and to be kind. If I could be half the woman she was, I consider that a win. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - I have two! “We can do hard things” – Glennon Doule, and “We can choose courage or comfort, but we can’t have both. Not at the same time.” – Brené Brown.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Crochet or crafting! It’s not really something you do in an engineering department.

Which talent would you most like to have? - Dancing for sure. I am not graceful and look pretty ridiculous dancing, so to have that natural talent would be so fun!

What local nonprofit organization are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I think Lincoln is blessed with many nonprofit organizations to wrap arms around the people in our community. Many of those organizations are supported by the United Way. I believe in their mission to provide multiple organizations with funding to do the amazing things they do and support their work.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst.

What is your favorite movie? - The Breakfast Club.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Some of our regular go-to places are Heoya south, El Potro, El Chapparo, Lazlos, Cheesesteak Grill and Ollie & Hobbs!

if you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Jesus, hands down. No question.

if our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?Stephanie.laux@windstream.com; windstream.com.

STaR CiTY SiX Jake

Jake Kessler EAGLE NURSERY

Meet Jake Kessler, a landscape designer and sales team member at Eagle Nursery.

Tell us a little about your business. - Eagle Nursery is a full service landscaping company offering residential and commercial landscaping design and installation, landscape maintenance, hardscapes, landscape lighting, tree spading services and snow removal.

How did you get started in the business? - I got started in this business through a friend. I knew sitting behind a desk was not for me, so he encouraged, hired and trained me in the field. I have since spent the last 20 years in the landscape business.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Weather can hinder production greatly with its unpredictability. From rain preventing a design from getting completed on time to snow coming at unexpected times; it can strongly impact our work at times. Maintaining sustainable crews through this can often be a challenge as well; the work is not easy.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?Earning the trust of my teammates and clients through Eagle Nursery is a powerful achievement for me. Communication and transparency are vital in our business, and I am thankful that I have earned this with my team.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am married to my wife, Jessica. We have three sons: Jackson (18), Jameson (5) and Joey (2). Jackson is headed to college in the fall, and Jameson to Kindergarten. We enjoy traveling, especially to Lake Okoboji, and are greatly involved in sports.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?Meeting my wife was an integral point in my life. We have been able to establish a life of faith, family and success. Together we thrive on not only raising the best humans we can, but being strong role models for those around us.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - On a day off I enjoy relaxing with the family (even though I cannot sit still long), and watching our sons play and do the things that bring them joy, especially basketball.

Who inspires you? - My family. They always challenge me to be the best version of myself.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Your eyes are on the front of your head for a reason –always look forward, not to the past.”

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

Which talent would you most like to have? - I would appreciate having stronger organization skills. I am very dedicated and hardworking, but my organization skills could improve.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach. They support our local community 365 days a year.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - My favorite book growing up was Where the Red Fern Grows.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Brewsky’s.

if our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(402) 781-9337; jake@eaglenurseries.com; eaglenurseries.com.

Compro promotes Justin moerer to General Agency Account and services manager

ComPro is pleased to announce that Justin Moerer has been promoted to general agency account and services manager. Justin will continue to work with the Employee Benefits Team as their account manager. For agents that work with ComPro’s General Agency, Justin will be their first point of contact for questions, issues, enrollments and more. He has been a tremendous asset to the ComPro team since day one on the job as part of the Operations Team.

He has worked his way up through learning the different areas of the business and by building relationships with ComPro’s clients and agents. Justin is a licensed health insurance agent. He knows the industry and will be a strong resource for ComPro’s sub-agents. Justin’s attention to detail, technical skills and positive attitude are a valuable asset to the ComPro team.

ComPro is committed to helping their clients connect the dots of their health insurance. Their agents work one-on-one with each client to educate them on their options so they can make an informed decision. They offer health insurance for individuals, Medicare and employee benefits. Let the agents at ComPro help you! To make an appointment, call (402) 488-5100, or visit comproins.com.

horisun hospice expands nursing staff

HoriSun Hospice is pleased to announce the addition of Becky Herdt, LPN as visiting hospice nurse, and Rebecca Parks, RN as nurse case manager to its team.

Herdt received her LPN from Southeast Community College and joins HoriSun with over 20 years of work experience in assisted living and skilled nursing communities. Additionally, she has worked as a nurse in family practice. Becky believes in the philosophy of hospice and appreciates the interdisciplinary team approach, in which each patient has the support of the full hospice team to receive maximum comfort and care.

Parks received her RN from Southeast Community College in 2020 and her Bachelor of Theology degree from the Institut Biblique Européen in Paris, France in 1995. Prior to joining the HoriSun team, Parks worked in adult psychiatry at Bryan West. In 2022, she became board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse. Parks completed her nursing degree after returning to the United States from India, where she had lived for nine years with her husband and children. Parks enjoys working in hospice as she likes getting to know each patient, while supporting their loved ones as well.

HoriSun Hospice believes that hospice care affirms life. Our mission and promise to our community is simple – to provide the best care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all whose lives are affected by a life limiting illness or condition. Comfort, compassion and caring are our guiding principles. Visit www.horisunhospice.com for more information.

The Lincoln Airport has new getaway flights.

Becky herdt

rebecca parks

Lincoln federal savings Bank Announces role Changes for Grant Carter and ryan trausch

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is proud to announce role changes for Grant Carter and Ryan Trausch.

Grant Carter, previously, vice president, commercial real estate loan officer is now vice president, commercial real estate and construction loan officer. Carter will continue to grow the Bank’s commercial real estate loan portfolio and will now originate construction loans for homebuyers and builders.

Ryan Trausch, previously, vice president, commercial and construction real estate loan officer is now vice president, assistant loan servicing manager. Trausch will now be responsible for working with the servicing staff to ensure the accuracy and ongoing maintenance of the loan portfolio including payment processing, insurance and tax escrows and collateral filings and releases.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is a depositor-owned financial institution specializing in residential home loans, construction loans, home equity products, commercial real estate loans and deposit services. The corporate office is located at 8400 Maddox Dr. in Lincoln. Learn more at lincolnfed.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

merritt Concrete Welcomes General manager terry howell

Terry Howell has joined the team at Merritt Concrete as general manager. Terry joined Merritt Concrete in early December 2022. He brings with him over 30 years of experience in the concrete industry.

Terry is a true expert in all things concrete. He spent his first 20 years in the industry on the labor side of the business before transitioning to the production side in 1997. For the past 20+ years, Terry worked at Beatrice Concrete in various roles, eventually transitioning into batching and management. His favorite part of the job is working closely with customers to ensure they have the best service possible. His new role at Merritt Concrete has brought back the excitement he initially felt about the job and allows him to be highly hands-on with customers.

Terry is a native of Berthold, ND. He moved to Nebraska in 1997. He and his wife have seven children and 14 grandchildren. In their free time, they love to ride motorcycles, spend time with their grandchildren and go out to eat.

Merritt Concrete has supplied the Lincoln community with readymix concrete and construction materials since 1894. They are proud to have served the community for over 125 years. Their volumetric mixing trucks measure and mix your concrete on demand for jobs large or small. With their trucks, you only pay for what you pour. For more information, go to merrittlincoln.com.

Grant Carter

ryan trausch

farris engineering hires Chad mcCarthy as senior plumbing designer

Farris Engineering is proud to announce that they have hired Chad McCarthy as senior plumbing designer. Chad is bringing over 17 years of experience with him to this new role. Since earning his associates degree in architectural technology, he has been designing plumbing systems for health care, hospitality and commercial projects.

Chad holds a Certified Plumbing Design (CPD) and a Green Plumbing Design (GPD) certificate through the American Society of Plumbing Engineers, making him a leader in the industry with advanced skills in the design and specification of plumbing systems. Working with Farris Engineering will allow Chad to gain new experiences with different projects.

“I came to work for Farris Engineering for the opportunity for new challenges and diversity of project types,” Chad said. “I’m excited to be a part of the engineering design team that brings your buildings to life.”

Chad also enjoys riding motorcycles, four-wheelers, going camping and spending time with his children, wife and grandkids. He also enjoys just hanging out at his house and using his Green Mountain smoker.

Farris Engineering is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering with additional expertise in fire protection engineering, lighting design, building commissioning services, technology systems design and life safety systems engineering. They look forward to tackling your projects head-on with this talented team of employee-owners as they Bring Your Buildings to Life. To learn more, visit farris-usa.com.

Caring friends in home Care promotes Lisa Artz to site Coordinator

Caring Friends In Home Care is pleased to announce the well-deserved promotion of Lisa Artz from lead caregiver to site coordinator. Lisa joined the Caring Friends family in January. Lisa resides in Stromsburg where she owns West Side Bar and Grill. She is the oldest of three siblings and loves to travel, rescue animals, cook and care for others. She was born and raised in Lincoln.

In her new role as the site coordinator, her primary purpose is to be responsible for coordinating care and services for clients while establishing and maintaining schedules for clients and staff. She will ensure that clients will receive timely, high quality and efficient home care services by supervising, training, coaching and leading the caregivers.

Caring Friends In Home Care serves its clients wherever they call home, providing services from housekeeping, bathing, dressing, laundry, meal preparation and transportation to appointments with no minimum number of hours required.

With over 20 years of experience within the healthcare field, Caring Friends In Home Care strives to go above and beyond. Your care will be directed by you and your own individualized choices. Give them a call and make a plan that will allow you your independence in the comforts of your own home. For more information, visit caringfriendsinhomecare. com or call (402) 207-1050.

Visiting Angels Lincoln hires on-Call Coordinator Amber C. nore

Visiting Angels in Lincoln has hired Amber C. Nore as its new part-time on-call coordinator. Amber holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in Legal Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Human Relations. She brings over 25 years’ experience in business and leadership development, customer service, sales, marketing and social services. In her role, she will provide parttime after-hours office coverage for any client or caregiver needs that may come in.

At Visiting Angels, comprehensive home care is customized for seniors based on their individual needs and preferences. Their dedicated and reliable caregivers have helped thousands of older adults live happily and safely in the comforts of home while providing their families with peace of mind. If you would like to learn more about Visiting Angels, call (402) 735-0999 or visit www.visitingangels.com/lincoln/home.

Lincoln federal savings Bank promotes seven team members

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is excited to announce the promotions of seven individuals.

Amy Haeffner began her career with Lincoln Federal in 1998. As senior vice president/ loan production manager she will continue to seek growth opportunities, improve and oversee mortgage lending business at the Bank.

Michael Farmer joined Lincoln Federal Savings Bank in 2013. In his new role as senior vice president/compliance officer, Michael brings over 25 years of banking, compliance and internal audit experience. As assistant vice president/commercial real estate loan officer, Derek Wiedenfeld will continue to develop and grow the Bank’s commercial real estate portfolio and relationships with customers each day helping them achieve their small business goals.

Tina Hoff has worked at Lincoln Federal since 2021 as customer service supervisor. Her drive and exceptional customer service skills have led her to her role as assistant vice president/customer service supervisor.

Tiffany Murray began her banking career in 2017, and will now take on the responsibilities of assistant vice president/mortgage loan officer, overseeing the loan process for her clients from application to loan closing.

In her role as assistant vice president / mortgage loan officer, Katie Thompson will continue to place her customers in mortgage products tailored to their specific needs and provide a collaborative and personalized relationship with each of her customers.

Eric Bertrand began his career at Lincoln Federal in 2020. In his role as mortgage loan officer assistant he is now able to assist his loan officer with taking applications, closings and quoting interest rates.

Learn more about Lincoln Federal Savings Bank at lincolnfed.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Luxury Landscape Welcomes Allan Christensen as Office Manager

Luxury Landscape is excited to bring on Allan Christensen as the new office manager.

At Luxury, Allan oversees and completes all office managerial tasks, from invoices and billing to payroll and stellar customer service!

“My three boys Aksel, Soren and Callum, along with my wife Kristin motivate me to get up and come to work each day. The boys are usually up at the crack of dawn anyway, so I might as well get up and get some work done too,” said Allan.

When Allan’s not making a customer laugh on the phone or cracking jokes with the crew, he enjoys writing, reading, watching Nebraska football, baseball and volleyball. He loves hanging out with his precious family, which mostly consists of trying to corral three boys under five years old! Something most people don’t know about Allan is that he comes from a family of teachers. His wife, mother, aunt, sister and a cousin are all current or retired teachers.

Luxury Landscape offers an array of services for outdoor spaces, with their most popular being installation, design and consultation, landscape maintenance and residential snow removal. The company began with Ken and Jackie Svoboda’s passion for creating unique and creative landscapes, using their 40+ years of landscape experience and offering it to their clients. For more information about Luxury Landscape and the services they provide, visit luxurylandscape-llc.com.

dr. Leah Gibson opens pioneer family eyeCare in Lincoln

Leah Gibson, OD is pleased to announce that she has opened her own practice, Pioneer Family EyeCare, after serving the Lincoln community for 10 years. Dr. Gibson will continue to provide medical and routine eye care for patients of all ages. Her goals include providing more personalized exams and taking time to meet the needs of each patient.

Dr. Gibson is a native Nebraskan. She grew up on a farm in central Nebraska. After graduating from Callaway High School, she attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She received her Bachelor of Science and moved to Memphis, TN to attend Southern College of Optometry. Returning to practice in Nebraska and being closer to family, was an important goal that was achieved in January 2013. Raising two small children took precedence for several years. In November 2022, the long term goal of opening her own practice arrived as Pioneer Family EyeCare opened its doors.

Pioneer Family EyeCare is located at 70th and Pioneers. As a group, they bring 95 years of combined experience in the optometric field. All ages are welcome, whether that is for routine eye health exams, treatment of various ocular diseases, emergency red eye visits, or pre and postoperative care. Pioneer Family EyeCare also has a large selection of glasses and contact lenses. Most insurances are accepted. For more information, visit www.pioneerfamilyeyecare.com or call (531)249-5457.

Chairman’s Merit Award

Watts Electric Offutt Runway Repair

The Excellence in Construction© Awards honor the area’s most innovative and high quality construction projects and world-class safety, inclusion, diversity and equity programs. To read about the awarded projects, visit abcnesd.org.

Project of the Year

Jung Electric Terminal Building Renovations

Excellence in Safety Award

Kidwell

Omaha Public SchoolsWestview High

2023 Excellence in Construction© Eagle and Pyramid Projects

Project

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mosaic’s partners in possibilities fundraiser to feature Uplifting member stories

Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is proud to announce that it will be hosting its first ever “Partners in Possibilities” fundraising luncheon on Thursday, April 13 from noon to 1 p.m. at Hillcrest Country Club.

You are invited to join Mosaic for this one-hour event and discover how you can help Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska further its mission of relentlessly pursuing opportunities that empower people. A plated lunch will be served, and music will be performed by Andy Pappas. For more information and/or to RSVP, please email amber.nore@ mosaicinfo.org or call (402) 617-5932.

Mosaic members will be sharing their stories and their experiences at Mosaic throughout the event. Music Speaks Therapy will also assist Mosaic members in a special performance of “You’ve Got A Friend In Me” by Randy Newman.

The “Discover the Possibilities” virtual events are still available for those that cannot make the in-person luncheon. These events are held on the third Tuesday of each month from 10 to 10:30 a.m. where the public can learn about Mosaic’s mission to “relentlessly pursue opportunities that empower people.”

Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is part of Mosaic, a whole-person healthcare organization reaching across 13 states in 750 communities and providing supports to more than 5,200 people. Mosaic is an affiliated social ministry organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, a member of Lutheran Services in America and a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. To learn more, visit mosaicinfo.org.

teammates mentors and mentees Gain Connections with Local Businesses

On March 2, TeamMates held a Connection Academy, an hour in the evening of fun, food, activities and connection for mentors and their mentees. Each mentor/mentee experienced three different activity stations throughout the hour. After enjoying food donated by Chick-fil-A, they headed to their first station. The activity leader, a representative of the business, engaged everyone in the unique activity/project and unleashed the fun.

In addition to LPS Community Learning Centers, these local businesses provided the great variety of activities: Makit Takit, Japanese Water Marbling; Sunflower Cookies, Cookie Decorating; JOANN Fabric and Crafts, crafting kits; and Hobby Town, unique card and board games.

Teammates takes fun seriously. Fun leads to connection and connection leads to impacting relationships. So, TeamMates is extremely grateful to those generous businesses and organizations that made the evening possible.

“Thanks again to all involved for providing us an opportunity to make some sweet memories together – literally and figuratively,” said Teammates Mentor Mary Ekeler.

TeamMates Mentoring makes a meaningful impact in the local community and beyond by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring. They are hoping to recruit 300 additional volunteer mentors this school year for Lincoln youth. To learn more about TeamMates Mentoring in Lincoln, contact their office at (402) 436-1990 or visit lincolnteammates.org.

Lincoln Community foundation Launches new strategic plan and Branding

Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) launched their new strategic plan and brand refresh on March 30. LCF board and staff, Parlay Consulting Firm and a 12-person Strategic Planning committee outlined the long-term growth and community leadership plan for the next three years.

“Our new strategic plan establishes a unified organizational purpose, articulates a set of practical visions and strategic priorities and outlines the pathways that will lead to successful realization of those priorities and fulfillment of our purpose,” said Alec Gorynski, president. “LCF’S modernized branding will help us facilitate our new mission of inspiring our community to give, act and lead.”

The Lincoln Community Foundation, established in 1955, provides leadership and tools that connect donor generosity to local needs and passions. The Foundation has distributed more than $214 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. The Foundation serves as a faithful steward for many types of philanthropic gifts and helps donors create lasting legacies of giving. They have distributed more than $185 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. To learn more, visit www.lcf.org.

Child saving institute to Break Ground on $46m Capital Campaign this spring

Child Saving Institute (CSI) continues to make strides in its efforts to enhance the future of care in the Omaha community with expanded services and doubling its physical footprint through its $46 million capital campaign — Campaign for Hope.

The organization is ready to begin construction this spring at its centrally-located campus near 45th and Dodge Streets in Omaha.

CSI has diligently evaluated the evolving needs of local children and families including the rapidly growing need for pediatric and adolescent therapy, an expanded emergency shelter, supportive early education services and additional access to high-quality early childhood education. To expand these services, CSI will nearly double its physical building space. This two-year project will allow for an on-site mental health clinic to be added to the facility, a newly built emergency shelter housing 16 beds for youth, four additional early childhood education classrooms with a STEAM classroom and innovative treatment childcare classrooms added within its early childhood education center to address the needs of preschoolers unable to attend traditional school environments. The Campaign for Hope will allow the organization to continue to meet the dynamic needs of those it serves today, and over the next 100 years. The Omaha community can join the effort in building a stronger community through Child Saving Institute’s Campaign for Hope initiative by visiting childsaving.org/campaignforhope.

Child Saving Institute (CSI) is dedicated to preventing, intervening and healing child abuse, neglect and trauma. For 130 years, CSI has been “responding to the cry of a child” and meeting the changing needs of metro area children. CSI serves approximately 2,500 children and families each year. To learn more about CSI and the programs and services offered, please visit childsaving. org or follow CSI on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

r endering courtesy of tACKarchitects

habitat for humanity Celebrates sold-out Women Build Workshops

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln will be hosting Women Build Workshops at Nebraska Innovation Studios throughout the month of April. With support from the Home Builders Association of Lincoln, attendees will be able to learn how to use power tools to assemble and create a different furniture project each class. Mead Lumber is providing the materials for each class which will be led by local furniture builder, Lenora Allen from SheBuilds.

All four classes quickly sold out, with the proceeds going to benefit Habitat’s Women Build campaign, a fundraising and volunteering campaign in May that will help build a townhouse for two families in need of safe, affordable housing in Lincoln.

Women are especially impacted by the issue of affordable housing. Finding a safe, affordable home to raise their family is one of the biggest challenges many Lincoln women face. The Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln Women Build campaign harnesses the power of women helping women.

Habitat Lincoln has partnered with more than 197 local families, serving more than 840 men, women, and children through the construction of new single-family homes, as well as simple and critical repair projects. They look forward to continuing the mission to bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope. To learn more, contact Director of Development Deanna Walz at (402) 310-7884 / dwalz@lincolnhabitat.org or visit lincolnhabitat.org.

people’s City mission Launches in-house employment Agency

One of the leading causes for keeping people homeless is the lack of employment opportunities. For people staying at the People’s City Mission (PCM), this can even happen in a strong job market.

To help solve this issue, PCM has just launched an in-house employment agency for their clients. This newly formed program will work to better connect various companies in Lincoln with qualified individuals staying in their shelters, especially for jobs that companies may be having a hard time filling at the moment.

In addition, the Mission will provide job training to their clients, including how to improve their interview skills, develop a strong work ethic and project a strong professional appearance. Staffing will include one full-time employee and a number of volunteers.

People’s City Mission was started in 1907 by local churches, offering food and shelter for transient and impoverished men, women, and children. In 1987, PCM moved to their current location and now houses 350 men, women, and children nightly in their emergency shelters and the Curtis Center transitional housing program. PCM gives 91.7% of every dollar to the need, which is one of the highest of any charity in the city. As Lincoln’s homeless shelter, People’s City Mission’s work is more than 97% funded by community donations. For more information or to donate, visit pcmlincoln.org or call (402) 475-1303.

matt talbot Kitchen & outreach Celebrates Volunteer Appreciation month

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is ready to celebrate! Volunteers are the heart and soul of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach, and for over 30 years and counting, they have faithfully served at this organization.

In 2022, an average of 470 unduplicated volunteers served each month and contributed a total of 24,562 hours of service. Groups and individuals help out in a variety of ways, including hunger relief, laundry and shower services, reception, meal card scanning, organizing donations, trash pick-up and more.

There are also seasonal volunteer opportunities, such as in the spring and summer with the onsite Hope Garden. The Director of Hunger Relief & Volunteerism Victoria O’Neil works with interested groups and individuals to find where help is most needed around the organization. People of all ages are welcome to volunteer, provided an adult is present. To find out more about how you can help at Matt Talbot visit mtko.org and click the “Volunteer” tab at the top of the page. You can also contact Victoria at (402) 817-0623 or victoria.oneil@mtko.org for more information. Volunteers make a substantial investment in Matt Talbot and services couldn’t be provided without this huge community effort.

For the past 30 years and counting, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach has been helping individuals and families facing poverty and homelessness find possibilities when things seem impossible. Learn more at mtko.org.

American heart Association raises funds and Awareness at Lincoln heart Ball

The American Heart Association is proud to share that this year’s Lincoln Heart Ball successfully raised funds and awareness in the local community. The Ball brought hearts together to save lives and strived for equitable health for everyone living in Lincoln. With more than $225,000 raised, funds will support the life saving work of the American Heart Association to fight heart disease and stroke. Co-chaired by Monte Froelich, the event was a culmination of the Heart of Lincoln, an American Heart Association campaign centered around every individual to address critical issues and drive work to equitably improve and save lives for everyone everywhere. The Heart Ball marks a special moment in time to reflect, honor and celebrate the progress made through the determination, dedication and passion of all who support the Heart of Lincoln.

“With a fresh venue and a dedicated Executive Leadership team, the Ball was a great success,” said Froelich. “We cannot wait for next year’s event. Our sights are set even higher!”

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, they fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. For more information, visit heart.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1.

Angels Among Us to host Birds and Beers fundraiser April 27

Angels Among Us is excited to bring back their popular fundraiser event, Birds and Beers for its fourth year. The Birds and Beers fundraiser will take place on April 27 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Angels Among Us provides financial and emotional support to families that have a child battling cancer and walking alongside them for the length of the treatment. The support that people give towards the cancer patients in need is priceless and the Birds and Beer event will allow people to do that while simultaneously having a great time!

The event has been called an extravaganza in the past, as there has been widespread excitement towards the local vendors that are showcased. Angels Among Us will be highlighting Nebraskan craft beer, cider and spirits that have always been a hit with the crowd. There will also be numerous local chicken sellers. Tickets include all-you-can-eat and unlimited drink samples, a commemorative beer glass and a unique item to take home. To register for this event, visit myangelamongus.org or contact the team at (402) 672-3613.

Angels Among Us provides financial and emotional support to families that have a child battling cancer that lives in or is being treated in the state of Nebraska. They are able to support and pay these bills for the length of time that the child goes through cancer treatment (anywhere from 6-36 months). For more information, reach out to Amy Kent at (402) 934-0999 / amy@ myangelsamongus.org or visit www.myangelsamongus.org.

the nebraska statewide Arboretum to host spring Affair plant sale April 27-29

The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum (NSA) will host their 2023 Spring Affair Plant Sale on April 27-29 at the Lancaster Event Center in Lincoln.

Spring Affair is the Great Plains’ largest plant sale, attracting more than 4,000 visitors and featuring more than 800 varieties of perennials, annuals, herbs, succulents and trees, in addition to gardening vendors and educational nonprofits.

A Preview Sale will be held on Thursday, April 27 from 7-9 p.m. Tickets to the Preview Sale are $20 for NSA members and $25 for non-members.

Free general admission to Spring Affair will be held on Friday, April 28, from 2-6 p.m. and on Saturday, April 29, from 9 a.m. to noon. To register for the Preview Sale or for more information about Spring Affair, visit plantnebraska.org/spring-affair.

The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum plants Nebraska for healthy people, vibrant communities and a resilient environment. The organization offers resources to help Midwest gardeners improve their home and community landscapes, encouraging plants and landscapes that are beautiful and beneficial for ourselves as well as the larger environment. To learn more, visit plantnebraska.org or contact the Arboretum staff at (402) 472-2971 / arboretum@unl.edu.

Lincoln YmCA Kicks off summer with healthy Kids day event April 29

On Saturday, April 29 the Lincoln YMCA will be celebrating the 31st Anniversary of Healthy Kids Day, the Y’s national initiative aimed at improving the health and well-being for kids and families, held from 10 a.m. - noon at the Copple Family YMCA, 8700 Yankee Woods Dr. This year’s event will feature healthy activities, cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts and friendly competitions to motivate and teach families how to develop and maintain healthy routines at home.

“It’s so important for kids to stay active over the summer, both physically and mentally,” shared Kelsey Fincham, Copple Family YMCA executive director. “Healthy Kids Day is a fun, free communitywide event that encourages families to take advantage of all the great summer resources that the Y has to offer."

The Y hopes to use the day to get more kids moving and learning, creating healthy habits they can continue while they’re away from the classroom. Healthy Kids Day is a reminder to families that everyone can help ensure all children have access to what they need to reach their full potential, even during out-of-school time.

For more information on YMCA Healthy Kids Day, please visit ymcalincoln.org/events.

The YMCA of Lincoln has served the community for over 150 years, promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind, and body for all. For more information on the Lincoln YMCA along with a list of branch locations, visit ymcalincoln.org.

friendship home encourages public support to prevent domestic Violence

Friendship Home needs your support to help prevent domestic violence. It is their vision that someday the need for their services will cease to exist, that domestic violence will not be tolerated by anyone in the community and that all homes will be places of love, support and safety. Friendship Home envisions a community that embraces any survivor or child who experiences domestic violence, foreseeing a society that courageously holds batterers accountable for the crimes they commit and allows survivors of domestic violence to stay in their own home and rebuild their lives free from fear. As neighbors and friends, please join in their commitment to survivors by taking bold action to effect change. Friendship Home invites your business to empower freedom from domestic violence by requesting a Friendship Home representative to come to speak to you and your employees.

By requesting a speaker, you can provide your employees with the opportunity to learn about the many complexities and barriers associated with domestic violence, sexual violence, dating violence and stalking on an individual level and a community systems level. To request a speaker for a presentation, visit www.friendshiphome.org/contact.

Friendship Home provides crisis services, emergency shelter, and transitional housing to survivors of domestic violence and their children. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call Friendship Home’s 24/7 crisis line at (402) 437-9302. To learn more, visit www.friendshiphome.org.

City impact Launches new mental health and Wellness series April 28-29

City Impact is pleased to announce that they will be launching a twoday Mental Health and Wellness Series to take place on April 2829 that is open to the public. As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the event will feature suicide survivor, bestselling author, Stanford University graduate and former NBA cheerleader Erika J Kendrick. Although Erika was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and generalized anxiety, she didn’t allow her “brain pain” to stop her from slaying her mental monsters.

The two-day series will be hosted on City Impact’s main campus. On Friday, April 28 at 5 p.m., there will be a Cookie Monsters event, designed for parents of children ages 8–13. Erika will share content from her latest acclaimed middle-grade novel, COOKIE MONSTERS, a tender-hearted story about emotional growth and mental health support.

On Saturday, April 29 at 9 a.m., there will be a workshop where Erika will lead participants through her award-winning Mental Fitness program and workbook, “Who Moved My Happy?” This session will provide each participant with tangible tools to learn how to stay “anchored in your happiness.”

City Impact in Lincoln is a faith-centered nonprofit that empowers under-resourced communities through holistic youth, family, and neighborhood development. For more information about the series, sponsorship opportunities or how to invest in the mission of City Impact, visit www.cityimpact.org.

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Voices of hope to host 11th Annual BowlA-thon fundraiser April 29

Voices of Hope will be hosting their 11th annual Strike Out Sexual Assault Bowl-A-Thon Fundraiser on April 29 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Teams of four to six are eligible to bowl for prizes such as best team name, best uniforms or costumes, best team spirit and highest and lowest scores.

Every year this fun event not only raises awareness about services available in the community, but it helps to raise funds essential to offer the 24-hour-a-day support for survivors provided by Voices of Hope. If you have any questions about this event, please contact Resource Development Coordinator Yaquelin Lizarraga at yaquelin@ voicesofhopelincoln.org or (402) 476-2110.

Voices of Hope provides free and confidential services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and incest. Last year, the organization answered more than 8,000 calls from individuals needing help or information related to domestic violence and sexual assault, and assisted more than 2,500 victims and survivors through services such as safety planning, counseling, protection order assistance, support groups and legal and medical advocacy. Learn more at voicesofhopelincoln.org.

Bright Lights’ 2023 star search to take place April 15

Bright Lights is excited to announce that this year’s Star Search will be taking place on Saturday, April 15 from 10 a.m. to noon. Gather up your team and get ready for a fun, family-friendly and team-based scavenger hunt around Lincoln! All proceeds from the event will benefit Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures, a local nonprofit that has been offering handson summer learning camps for K-8th grade students for 37 summers. Teams will need to check in at 9:30 a.m. for Star Search. After checking in, the teams will take off using a scavenger hunt app to follow missions around Lincoln and earn points. A team may consist of families, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and anyone else as long as everyone can fit into one vehicle. You can even put together two teams and compete against each other! When the game ends at noon, teams will meet up for a provided lunch and prizes will be awarded to the top teams. Costumes are encouraged, as well as an adventurous spirit and a willingness to have fun! Register your team online at brightlights.org/events.

Bright Lights provides energized, engaging, and fun summer learning opportunities. Their week-long half-day and full-day camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills and build new relationships. Find out more about these opportunities at BrightLights.org.

Brain injury Alliance of nebraska offers free resource facilitation program

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska offers a free service that assists individuals with a brain injury, families, and caregivers through its Resource Facilitation program. Resource facilitators serve as points of contact for individuals and families across the state seeking help with brain injury. Additionally, resource facilitators network with community providers and service systems to educate others about the unique needs of people with brain injuries. Providing this education and awareness can then increase the support systems available for people living with brain injuries and reduce the stigma about brain injuries.

Brain injuries are often labeled an “invisible injury.” Often, it is the most extreme physical symptoms such as seizures, weakness, and paralysis that tend to be associated with brain injuries. However, there are far more subtle symptoms that affect individuals who have experienced a brain injury.

Symptoms such as memory and reasoning impairments, social agitation, impulsiveness, and lack of initiative often cause problems with completing daily tasks and maintaining productive employment and relationships. Without proper recognition and help in developing strategies to manage these symptoms, livelihoods and families are often negatively impacted.

To learn how you can partner with the Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska’s Resource Facilitation program, visit biane.org/partner-with-us.

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska was founded in 2009 to create better futures for all Nebraskans through brain injury prevention, education, advocacy and support. For more information, contact Peggy Reisher, MSW, executive director, at peggy@biane.org or (402) 890-0606.

Junior League of Lincoln provides diapers through Lincoln Littles’ Child Care providers

The Junior League of Lincoln (JLL) and Lincoln Littles have partnered to provide diapers through one of Lincoln Littles’ 28 qualified childcare providers. The recent partnership ensures families won’t have to keep children home from childcare due to a lack of diapers.

According to the National Diaper Bank Network, one in three American families with small children report experiencing diaper needs. Despite the apparent need, there are no federal or state programs that provide funding specifically for purchasing diapers. SNAP and WIC assistance cannot be used to purchase diapers.

“Junior League understands the childcare crisis currently facing Lincoln,” said Anne Brandt, Executive Director of Lincoln Littles. “Families already struggle to cover the cost of childcare and by reducing the worry over diaper need, this partnership will give families a little piece of mind.”

JLL is a nonprofit organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through effective action and leadership. Since its inception 100 years ago, JLL has contributed over $2,000,000 and 375,000 volunteer hours to the Lincoln community.

Lincoln Littles is transforming the landscape of early childhood by expanding high-quality choices and supporting families, early childhood providers, teachers, businesses and our community.

The Junior League of Lincoln is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. To contact JLL, email juniorleagueoflincoln@gmail. com or call (402) 464-2050. Find out more at jll.org.

sCip opens registration for “hop, sCip, Jump and rUn”

Looking for a great familyfriendly event to kick off your summer? Head over to Antelope Park on June 2 for an evening of outdoor fun at “Hop, SCIP, Jump and Run,” benefiting School Community Intervention and Prevention (SCIP). This year’s event, which is brought to you by Family Health and Wellness Center, will run from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and will feature a variety of booths and activities sponsored by local nonprofits.

After visiting booths and participating in the activities, enter your name into the drawing for prizes and then put on your running shoes for a one-mile fun run throughout the park. Due to generous sponsor support, participation in the fun run is free again this year for those who pre-register. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers of the fun run. To register in advance, go to www.scipnebraska.com.

SCIP works with schools throughout Nebraska by providing tools and resources to address behavioral and emotional health issues that impact children, adolescents and their families. SCIP’s mission is to provide an effective prevention and early intervention process for youth with behavioral health concerns so they may achieve healthy, productive lives. Money raised at this event will help SCIP provide needed resources to schools and families throughout the state of Nebraska. For more information, visit scipnebraska.com, or contact Duncan Tucker at dtucker@lmep.com or (402) 327-6843.

epilepsy foundation nebraska to host Annual Walk to end epilepsy may 13

The Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska will be hosting its annual Walk to End Epilepsy on Saturday, May 13, with registration beginning at 9 a.m. at Tri-Faith Initiative, 13136 Faith Plaza in Omaha. There will be a vendor area, kids zone, photo opportunities and more.

Advocates, healthcare professionals and supporters for epilepsy from across the state will come together to honor individuals dedicated to furthering awareness and recognizing achievements within the Nebraska epilepsy community.

Join the Epilepsy Foundation in-person to raise the awareness and funds to END EPILEPSY. With each step taken and dollar raised, they are closer to reaching their goal: a world free from epilepsy and free from fear of the next seizure. To receive a free event t-shirt prior to the event you will need to have raised $50 or more by April 14. For those who have not fundraised $50 or more by April 14th, you will have 30 days post-event date to fundraise and have the official t-shirt shipped directly to you.

For more information on sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, please email Heather Bernard at hbernard@efa.org.

The Epilepsy Foundation is a national voluntary health agency dedicated solely to the welfare of the nearly 3.4 million people living with epilepsy in the U.S. and their families. The Foundation works to ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences and to promote research for a cure. To contact Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska, email Nebraska@efa.org. For more information, go to epilepsy.com.

space Limited for hCf free oncology symposium April 19

Heartland Cancer Foundation

(HCF) invites all healthcare professionals to attend their free Oncology Symposium on April 19 at Southeast Community College’s Jack Huck Continuing Education Center and will feature keynote speakers Dr. Matthew Lunning and Madison Kaltenberger. Registration and dinner will be from 4:30-6:00pm, and the FREE CEU presentations will follow. This event is ideal for physicians, nurses, social workers, and advanced care practitioners. Space is limited to 150 attendees. More than 11,000 Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. The Heartland Cancer Foundation believes no cancer patient should fall behind on treatment because they struggle to afford their everyday expenses. HCF aspires to provide compassion and hope and remove barriers to care by covering home, auto, and utility costs for local cancer patients in need of additional support during their treatment journey. This practical aid makes a big difference for people who are struggling with both a cancer diagnosis and financial hardship. Heartland Cancer Foundation’s mission is to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in the community so they can focus on what matters most: healing. Thank you to the Heartland Cancer Foundation’s wonderful circle of donors and supporters that come together to care for those in our community. For more information and to register for the Oncology Symposium, please visit www.heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

registration now open for 45th Annual nesC Conference April 20-21

The Nebraska Safety Council will host its 45th annual conference on April 20 and April 21 in Lincoln. Safety, wellness and human resource professionals are encouraged to attend to earn up to three continuing education credit hours, enjoy an awards luncheon, tour Robber’s Cave, network with safety, wellness, and HR professionals, as well as participate in educational workshops.

Day one will be held at Robber’s Cave from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will feature guest keynote speaker, Richard Hawk, and three breakout sessions with a variety of topics to select from including leadership, safety, traffic, wellness and more. An awards luncheon will be held, and organizations and individuals will receive recognition for the Worker 360 wellness award, Nebraska Safety Council safety award, and Legacy awards. Individuals are encouraged to stay for an afternoon of tours at Robber’s Cave followed by a networking reception and evening entertainment.

Day two will be held at the Nebraska Safety Council from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will consist of feature workshops with an open exhibit hall over the lunch hour. The workshops will feature various safety talks and health training sessions.

Registration is open for day one, day two, or both days! Visit www. nesafetycouncil.org to register online. For questions or to register over the phone, contact Development Manager Samantha Gentry at (402) 483-2511 ext. 116.

To learn more about the Nebraska Safety Council, visit nesafetycouncil. org, call (402) 483-2511, or email nesc@nesafetycouncil.org.

dreamCatchers strong opensApplicationsfor trail rideAcademyand peer support program

DreamCatchers Strong is now accepting applications for Trail Ride Academy, an all-around horse experience that focuses on confidence and finding your strengths along with basic Western riding lessons. DreamCatchers is also taking applications for their Peer Support program, focusing on emotional health recovery, grief support and authenticity. They provide the horse, the equipment, and the lessons, and participants experience one-on-one weekly sessions with Director Jodi Freeman. No horse experience is necessary, and sessions are available to teens ages 13 and up, and adults.

Trail Ride Academy and the Peer Support program will begin in April and will expand during the summer months.

For information and to apply for either program, please email info@ dreamcatchersstrong.org with “Trail Ride Academy” or “Peer Support” as the subject. To be added to the VIP list and be the first to know about upcoming activities and events, send an with “VIP Opt-In” as the subject. Anyone interested in supporting clients who are unable to afford the cost may arrange to make tax-deductible donations by emailing jodi@dreamcatchersride.org.

DreamCatchers Strong is here to support individuals by sharing their love of the magnificent creatures that are horses. It has been proven both scientifically and by observation that horses and humans have a unique emotional bond. That bond is a big factor in healing from emotional trauma and finding confidence. Learn more at dreamcatchersstrong.org.

Christian record services receives Grant to increase Braille Access Worldwide

Christian Record Services (CRS) has received $597,000 from the General Conference of Seventhday Adventists to increase its braille production capacity. Funding will enable the ministry to add additional production space at its headquarters in the Lincoln Trade Center, purchase additional braille embossing equipment and add one staff member to meet the increase in production.

After a three-year period, CRS expects to cover ongoing costs within its operating budget, which is primarily supported by faithful donors of the ministry.

“We are incredibly grateful to be the recipient of these funds, and are excited about the opportunity to expand our production capacity,´ Diane Thurber, president of CRS, says. “With this expansion, we will contribute to braille literacy and address the book famine that currently exists, with less than 10% of published works available in accessible formats in developed countries and less than 1% in undeveloped countries.”

The ministry’s current production capacity enables it to fulfill member requests from within the United States and its territories. However, to meet the need of new braille requests, CRS will add production capacity for the existing library of braille books and resources that could be offered worldwide by special request through contracted service agreements. It is anticipated the expansion will be completed by late summer 2023.

For more information about Christian Record Services or to donate to provide more braille resources in the United States and worldwide, visit www.christianrecord.org, call (402) 488-0981 or email info@ christianrecord.org.

memories for Kids Guild to host Cinco de mayo fiesta

The Memories for Kids Guild will be hosting a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta on Friday, May 5. It will be a day to celebrate their sponsors and donors, family memory recipients and the work and mission of Memories for Kids to create lifelong memories for children who have a parent with stage IV cancer.

At 10:30 a.m., a virtual mimosa toast will kick off the day, followed by sponsor shout-outs, real-time updates on the donation tracker and videos of past memory recipients. The day will culminate with an in-person Cinco de Mayo happy hour starting at 5 p.m. at Champions Run, 13800 Eagle Run Dr., in Omaha. Families who receive a memory are able to take a break from the cancer diagnosis and spend time together, creating memories and briefly relieving the sadness of living with a terminally ill parent. Families have enjoyed trips near and far, to Okoboji and Honey Creek, IA, Colorado, California, Wyoming and Florida.

Memories For Kids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Their mission is to create lifelong memories for children who have a parent with stage IV cancer. For more information, go to memoriesforkids.org.

the Bridge Behavioral health Announces first Annual sock, soap & hope drive

For nearly 40 years, The Bridge Behavioral Health has provided a continuum of services for people suffering from substance use and related mental health conditions. In a typical year, 1,100 individuals will access services at The Bridge and most of whom have no insurance or are eligible for Medicaid. Whether they seeking withdrawal services, respite or residential treatment, The Bridge provides them with the necessities to ensure a dignified and comfortable stay. Some of the most requested items are socks and personal hygiene products.

This April, The Bridge Behavioral Health is hosting its first annual Socks, Soap & Hope drive. The Bridge is seeking new/unused socks and hygiene items such as travel-size deodorant, shampoo and conditioner, body wash or bar soap and lotion, as well as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and menstrual products. Donations can be dropped off at 721 K St. in Lincoln.

If your organization is interested in hosting a donation drive or you have questions, contact Taylor Brethouwer at tbrethouwer@ thebridgenebraska.org or (402) 413-2203.

For more information about The Bridge Behavioral Health, go to thebridgenebraska.org.

Big Brothers Big sisters Lincoln to host Big putt Golf tournament April 27

Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln is excited to host their first annual Big Putt Golf Tournament on April 27 at the Woodland Hills Golf Course; 6000 Woodland Hills Dr. in Eagle from noon to 5 p.m., with check-in starting at 11 a.m. Get ready to golf with your friends, coworkers or anyone wanting to support a great organization!

For those interested in attending, tickets for individuals are $100 and teams of four are $400. This will cover an 18-hole game with a golf cart and provided lunch. There will also be a raffle with prizes being given out at the end of the event. Mulligans will be available for $5, and hole sponsorships are $75.

For more information and online registration, go to www. woodlandhillsgolf.com or call (402) 475-4653.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln makes meaningful matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and young people (“Littles”) ages 7-16 throughout Lincoln. They develop positive friendships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. Bigs can provide new and inspiring opportunities for Littles to explore the community and learn skills that they may not have otherwise had an opportunity to experience. Learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln at bbbsl.org or contact Kyle Bishop at kbishop@ bbbslincoln.org / (402) 464-2227.

hopespoke to host Gourmet Comfort Classic Celebration may 5

The Gourmet Comfort Classic, a celebration and fundraiser for HopeSpoke, will be Friday, May 5, at the Scottish Rite Ballroom in downtown Lincoln. This benefit gala celebrates favorite comfort foods while supporting HopeSpoke’s mission to ‘inspire healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services.’

This year’s theme is Best Latina Comida (Latin food), featuring local chefs competing for a trophy and cash prize based on guest votes. Social hour begins at 6 p.m. with cocktails, live music and a silent auction, followed by dinner and a short program. All proceeds help HopeSpoke provide mental health services for more than 1,000 vulnerable children, teens, adults and families annually. Thanks to generous support through this event, HopeSpoke is able to provide a sliding fee scale as low as $0 for families to access therapy regardless of ability to pay.

Individual tickets are $75 and can be purchased at hopespoke. home.qtego.net.

HopeSpoke is honored to welcome Union Bank & Trust Co as Benefactor Sponsor and ABC Electric and Chateau Development as Visionary Sponsors of the Gourmet Comfort Classic. For a full list of sponsors, visit hopespoke.home.qtego.net. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

For more information about the Gourmet Comfort Classic, or to arrange for tickets or a sponsorship, please contact Becki Roberts at broberts@hopespoke.org or (402) 475-7666. Learn more about HopeSpoke at hopespoke.org.

servenebraska Calls for Volunteer nominations for 2023 step forward Awards

ServeNebraska is now accepting nominations for the ninth annual Step Forward Awards. The Step Forward Awards celebrates those who volunteer their time and energy toward making Nebraska communities better and are the most prestigious awards given to volunteers in the state.

Award recipients will be selected by Nebraska’s governor and honored at the 2023 Step Forward Awards ceremony in the fall. Businesses, civic clubs, schools and other organizations are encouraged to submit the names of individuals who they wish to recognize for their efforts. Nominations must be submitted by June 1.

Nomination categories include Adult Volunteer, Youth Volunteer, Senior Volunteer, Volunteer Group, Corporate Community Volunteer, National Service, Veteran Volunteer, Disaster Volunteer and Lifetime Achievement.

ServeNebraska is governed by a 18-member, bi-partisan board appointed by the governor. ServeNebraska’s mission is to mobilize Nebraskans to strengthen their communities through collaboration, volunteering, and national service. ServeNebraska oversees AmeriCorps programming, hosts the state’s most prestigious volunteer awards, and provides training and technical assistance to program staff throughout Nebraska. To learn more, visit www. serve.nebraska.gov/awards.

Lincoln City Libraries’ summer reading Challenge to return summer 2023

Lincoln City Libraries’ Summer Reading Challenge has been a tradition for Lincoln’s children for over 75 years. By popular demand, special events and incentives for teens and adults were added to the already popular program. Last year over 5,000 adults, 1,800 teens, and 9,500 children read for fun, information and entertainment during June and July.

Parents and grandparents who participate in the Summer Reading Challenge provide a powerful message to young people about the importance of reading, especially summer reading, which helps kids improve reading fluency and keeps them from experiencing a loss in academic skills during the school break.

Community sponsors like the Lincoln Saltdogs, the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, Lincoln Public Pools, Runza, Amigos and Yogurtini, to name just a few, sweeten the deal for everyone by providing free food and fun for readers. Participants can also enter drawings for $100 gift packages to area businesses.

Registration begins on May 26. Check the library website, lincolnlibraries.org, for more information and a schedule of events at library branches.

The Foundation for Lincoln City Libraries was formed in 1954 to provide annual support for the programs and services provided to our residents through Lincoln City Libraries. This support is only successful because of volunteer involvement and public support through the Foundation. For more information to donate or volunteer, please visit foundationforlcl. org, email foundationforlcl@gmail.com, or call (402) 441-0164.

Community Action Campaign Continues Building a home for head start

Community Action continues to raise funds to complete facility renovations that will create a Home for Head Start at 1843 K Street. Of the $4.5 million Home for Head Start campaign goal, over 60% has so far been raised for the two-phase renovation of the facility formerly used as a post-secondary education institution. The project will transform the space located at the intersection of K Street and Antelope Valley Parkway in Lincoln from one used for adult education to one for early childhood education. At Community Action’s K Street center, 197 children and their families participate in Head Start programming.

Community Action has been providing early childhood education services through Head Start since the 1960s and serves 493 children and families across its service area. Renovations will include building new classrooms with easily accessible restrooms and handwashing sinks, indoor and outdoor play areas and spaces for support services offered to Head Start participants and other neighbors.

Community Action completed the first phase of improvements on the lower east portion of the facility in April 2022. The second phase of improvements on the west and upper east portions of the facility are set to begin in the first half of 2023.

To learn more about Community Action’s Home for Head Start, or to give to support the campaign, visit www.communityactionatwork.org.

Gracepointe by tabitha Announces Updates and move-in specials

Nebraska nonprofit Tabitha’s GracePointe Assisted Living & Memory Care Suites in the heart of Lincoln is undergoing some great upgrades, and to celebrate, is offering move-in specials.

A newly updated and relocated first floor wellness gym in the hub of the community offers a convenient way to get active and social. Behind the scenes, on each of GracePointe’s three floors, main kitchens are being renovated with the latest appliances and tools. This will enable staff to further optimize the culinary experience while crafting the delicious chef-inspired meals residents count on.

GracePointe provides a maintenance-free lifestyle with around-theclock personal care that gives residents the time to focus on what’s important to them and what they love to do. It is a great fit for those looking to simplify life. They no longer have to worry about cooking, cleaning, laundry, meal prep, yard work or snow removal.

GracePointe also specializes in services for those experiencing the effects of dementia including Alzheimer’s disease. Days are filled with enriching activities focused on health and wellness.

As part of Tabitha’s Continuum of Care, GracePointe’s resources are wide-ranging. This means Tabitha can seamlessly support residents as their needs evolve. Residents are able to build and maintain great relationships with staff and neighbors.

As the state’s quality award-winning expert for older adults, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Tabitha is Your Answer; learn more at Tabitha.org.

At ease UsA to hold Yoga and self defense Classes for Veterans and healthcare Workers

At Ease USA will be teaching Veteran trauma-informed yoga classes on Sundays from 2 to 3 p.m. from April 30 to May 21. The classes will be held at At Ease USA, 10605 Burt Circle in Omaha. Trauma doesn’t just affect the mind; it can also be held in the body. Trauma-informed yoga is an approach that addresses the specific needs and symptoms of trauma survivors. A safe, secure and predictable environment surrounded by a like-minded community is the foundation for this type of practice.

In addition, Veteran and healthcare worker self-defense classes will be held the fourth Sunday afternoon of the month from noon to 1:30 p.m. The classes will take place April 23, May 21, June 25, July 23, and August 27. Classes are free for female veterans and frontline healthcare workers.

Those interested in either class should contact Beth Kramer at beth@ ateaseusa.org or (531) 247-4040 to register.

At Ease USA is committed to providing access to confidential trauma treatment to active military, veterans, and their loved ones suffering from PTSD. AEU offers behavioral health services through an in-house clinical manager and a network of trained PTSD professionals. For more information, contact Beth Kramer at beth@ ateaseusa.org or (531) 247-4040, or go to www.ateaseusa.org.

i’ve Got A name ‘Walk for freedom’ registration to Close April 10

I’ve Got A Name, a nonprofit organization that fights sex trafficking in Lincoln and throughout Nebraska, will hold its annual Walk for Freedom on Saturday, April 22 at 11 a.m. before the Nebraska spring football game, and the registration deadline is coming up quickly.

Local research indicates at least 900 girls are sold in Nebraska each month, 200 girls in the Lincoln area alone. The Walk For Freedom is designed to create statewide awareness that sex trafficking exists where we live. Participants will disperse around Lincoln wherever Husker fans gather, wearing their “It Happens Here” Walk For Freedom t-shirt and passing out information cards. I’ve Got A Name encourages families, friends, businesses and community groups to register and walk together for greater impact. Registration is $15 and includes the Walk t-Shirt. The deadline to register and guarantee your preferred shirt size is April 10. Learn more and about this year’s Walk For Freedom and register online at ivegotaname.org/walk2023.

I’ve Got A Name has a mission to protect and restore the lives of those who are vulnerable or victims of sex trafficking. To get behind their mission and raise local awareness, visit ivegotaname.org or email Paul Yates at paul@ivegotaname.org.

CBmC Lincoln to offer “Becoming a spiritual reproducer” training series in April

Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC) in Lincoln is offering a six-week, one-hour training series titled “Becoming a Spiritual Reproducer (BSR)”. BSR is a small group, video-based training and discussion series for Christians to learn how to become a disciplemaker. The series will cover the following topics:

• What is disciplemaking

• Why make disciples

• Goals of disciplemaking

• How to make disciples

• Tools for discipleship

• Cost of disciplemaking

• Qualities of a disciplemaker

Each session includes an instructional video, a “Disciplemaker’s story” video and questions for discussion. The weekly series will be conducted via zoom. The training includes the participant’s guide and online access to CBMC materials. Cost to participate is $25. For details about this series including time contact CBMC Lincoln at (402) 204-1997 or email Larry at Lmiddendorf@cbmc.com.

CBMC equips men in the marketplace to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually. Lincoln CBMC is part of a global ministry in over 330 cities in the U.S. and 90 countries. CBMC offers Christian peer advisory groups for business owners and leaders, young professionals groups, one-on-one mentoring, Bible studies, leadership development and events. Information about CBMC can be found at lincoln.cbmc.com or connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne).

down syndrome Association for families to host strokes of Luck Golf tournament may 10

Down Syndrome Association for Families (DSAF) is gearing up for their upcoming Strokes of Luck Golf Tournament, to be held on May 10 at Highlands Golf Course in Lincoln. The tournament will start with check-in at 8:30 a.m. and a shotgun start at 9:30 a.m. The tournament will feature an 18hole game and a four-person scramble. Backswing will have a Golf Pro on Par three to challenge participants to “Beat the Pro”! Sponsorship is available and the sponsor will receive a Dormie Network Vacation Package! If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please email director@ dsafnebraska.org.

The Down Syndrome Association for Families formed in 1995 as a way for parents to network and share the accomplishments and challenges of their children. Many families who have, or are expecting a child with, Down syndrome don’t always have reliable support or have access to accurate information about Down syndrome. DSAF provides that support and information, along with a vision of what a blessing their child will be in their lives.

Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska recognizes that every person with Down syndrome is an individual who has a unique purpose and set of abilities. It is their mission to provide support and a positive vision for the future for individuals with Down Syndrome and their families, friends, educators and professionals who share in their lives. For more information about the organization, visit dsafnebraska.org or call (403) 421-1338.

Last month recap

This month was full of excitement with our Friends4Drinks and Friends4Lunch events! We celebrated St. Patty's Day a week early with the crew at McKinney's Irish Pub. We love this time of year at the pub, the energy in the whole restaurant when you walk in is energizing. For Friends4Lunch, we filled up on the best Philly cheese steaks in town at daVinci's. Everyone left feeling full and happy, with leftovers in tow! We appreciate those who joined us this month, we're looking forward to seeing who you bring with you in April!

Cheers to springtime! In April, we're meeting at Lila Mae's Southern Kitchen for Friends4Drinks. Join us on Thursday, April 20 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. to hang out and network. You can find them at 2110 Winthrop Rd. We couldn't be more excited to be at Lila Mae's with their bar newly opened. We're looking forward to the amazing cocktails we've already been reading rave reviews about online. Make sure to order some of their Lincoln's Choice Award-nominated Lila Wings as well or you'll be missing out!

On April 11, we'll be meeting at MiTierra's Family Mexican Restaurant from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for Friends4Lunch. Come meet us right up the road from the SB office at 8320 Northwoods Dr. They have something for everyone on their menu, and the best bean dip in town. We're stoked to share our love for this place, make sure to check out our Restaurant Exposé on them in this issue on page 50. These events are open to anyone in the business community who is interested in connecting with others and supporting local eateries. There is no cost to attend, you only pay for what you order. No RSVP necessary, but appreciated. Feel free to contact the Strictly Business office at (402) 466-3330 or email cemre@ strictlybusinessomaha.com with questions. We can't wait to see you!

r SV p is encouraged for these events. p lease let the Strictly Business team know if you plan to attend by calling (402) 466-3330, emailing cemre@strictlybusinessomaha.com, or marking yourself as “Going” on the Facebook event pages.

The Benefits of Regular Auto Repair from A1 Automotive

repairs vehicles running on: unleaded fuel, diesel fuel, batteries and alternative fuel. They offer the following automotive repair and maintenance services:

• Oil changes

• Routine Automotive Maintenance

• Tune-Ups

• Auto air conditioning repair

• Heating systems repair

• Custom computer chips

• Steering & Suspension

• Exhaust systems repair

• High Performance Vehicles

• Diesel Truck Repair

• Fuel Injection Service

• Wheels & Tires

• Wheel Alignments

• Hybrid Vehicle Repair

Peace Of Mind

One of the most significant benefits of regular auto repair is the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your car is safe and reliable. Regular maintenance will ensure that potential issues are caught early, leading to fewer surprises. If you are in a situation where you need to be somewhere quickly, you can rest assured that your car will get you there safely and on time.

Cost-Effective Solutions

Regularly maintaining your car can save you money in the long run. Catching problems early on can mean less expensive repairs than waiting until they become more severe. In addition, vehicle maintenance can increase your car’s longevity by preventing wear and tear caused by ignoring routine checkups. Finally, when it comes time to sell your vehicle, you’ll get a better return on investment than if you neglected it.

Better Performance

Regular auto repair helps keep your engine running at peak performance levels by removing dirt and debris from its moving parts. This improves fuel economy while reducing emissions from the exhaust system, which helps protect the environment from unnecessary pollution. Additionally, regularly checking up on fluids such as oil and transmission fluid will extend the life of these components, keeping them operating at their optimal level for prolonged periods.

If you are tired of dealing with the same old auto repair shops and are looking for that personalized family where you are more than just a number in a system, then head to A1 Automotive.

• Transmission Repair

• Engine Repair, Replacement, Rebuilds

Your car is an essential part of your life, and it’s important to take care of it. Regular auto repair is necessary to keep your vehicle in good condition and ensure it runs efficiently and safely. So let’s dive deeper into the benefits of routine auto repair.

LinCoLn ChAmBer of CommerCe

by Jason Ball president

Announcing Women in Business 2023

Last fall, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce proudly announced the significant expansion of our programming for the women of Lincoln’s business community through the addition of RISE Lincoln to our ongoing event lineup and financial support from the JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Fund.

We welcomed the new year with a sold out RISE networking event and launched two of our RISE coaching communities, both offering women a unique and impactful platform to connect and grow. Three additional RISE events will be hosted throughout 2023, each at a different location with varying themes to offer valuable insight and resources specific to women. New coaching communities will also open with engaging sessions scattered throughout the year, focusing on uncovering what inspires the participants to grow. Each coaching community is comprised of 10 – 12 women with important discussions, led by our certified RISE professional coaches.

And now, as we conclude Women’s History Month, we are excited to announce plans for our annual Women in Business half-day conference in partnership with the University of Nebraska – Lincoln College of Business. On April 20, we will convene Lincoln’s business community to hear a presentation from this year’s featured speaker, Cassandra Worthy. Cassandra is the founder & CEO of Change Enthusiasm ® Global, which helps organizations focus on transforming their workplace cultures from merely surviving change to growing through change. She is a dynamic speaker who will encourage and motivate our Women in Business audience.

This year’s keynote address is made possible through the support of the JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Fund. This new fund was established to connect women to new pathways to leadership roles in Lincoln and we are incredibly honored to have been selected by the family of JoAnn Martin to receive funding through this Lincoln Community Foundation endowment for our Women in Business programming. JoAnn was such an important part of the Lincoln community for many years and this fund will ensure that her legacy lives on in a tremendously impactful way for years to come.

It is an exciting time for both our Women in Business and RISE programs, as we continue to explore new avenues for expanded engagement. This year, in addition to presenting an exceptional keynote speaker and an impressive panel of local business leaders, our program will also include an elevated focus on engaging college students and young professionals. It is our hope that through our programming, the future leaders of Lincoln will have a platform to connect with mentors and peers to help position them for rewarding career and leadership opportunities in Lincoln.

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce remains dedicated to continuing our investment in the future of women in Lincoln’s business community. Through strong partnerships with respected institutions like the University of Nebraska – Lincoln College of Business and with incredible support from our investors, members and the JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Fund, we look forward to further connecting and celebrating the outstanding women of Lincoln.

For more information about RISE Lincoln and our RISE Coaching Communities, visit riselincoln.org. To register for our upcoming Women in Business event, visit lcoc.com/events.

The Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together. For more information, contact Derek Feyerherm atdfeyerherm@lincoln.org.

Business Insurance Tips with Farmers Union Midwest Agency

Farmers Union Midwest Agency (FUMA) provides insurance and financial guidance to individuals, family farms, and business of all sizes. Through their agents, they strive to build better communities by protecting where you work, where you live, what you own, and the ones you love. It is their individual and organizational goal to provide quality products and the highest level of customer service to not just meet their customer’s expectations, but to exceed them. The team at Farmers Union Midwest Agency is proud to serve clients not only in Lincoln and surrounding areas but additionally with their 70 agents throughout Nebraska and Kansas. With multiple different policies and coverage options, FUMA is a company that customers can trust to protect their families and belongings they value the most. Their personalized approach provides individualized services from professional agents that can tailor a package to suit each customer’s needs.

If you’re a CEO or entrepreneur, then business insurance is essential to protect your company from potential perils. Most states also require businesses to carry some form of liability coverage. But what exactly does business insurance cover, and how do you go about getting it?

How to Get a Business Insurance Policy

Most major insurers offer several forms of business insurance. However, there are other specialized insurers who can provide better rates or better coverage depending on what type of protection you need. Always speak with a trusted insurance agent about pricing options for distinct levels of coverage before choosing any policy. An independent agent can provide you quotes from different insurers and help you compare each policy’s rate and features. This will allow you to make an informed decision about which policy is right for your business. They’ll also make sure you understand all the terms and conditions before signing up for a policy.

What Does Business Insurance Cover?

Business insurance covers a variety of risks that any company can be exposed to. This includes things like property damage, personal injuries, employee-related claims, and legal fees in case of a lawsuit. It may also provide protection against fallout from cyberattacks such as data breaches and identity theft.

The type of coverage you’ll need will generally depend on your company’s industry and number of employees. Depending on the type of policy you choose, it may also cover areas related to your particular field. The amount of coverage varies widely by policy, so be sure to ask your insurance agent for specific coverage details.

Starting or owning a company is risky business. While some industries come with more inherent risk than others, any business can experience unexpected hardships. Accidents, negligence, criminal activity, and natural disasters can all occur at a moment’s notice and with dire consequences.

One of the best ways to protect your company and its employees is to get business insurance. If you have questions about coverage or how to get started, then FUMA encourages you to contact them today for a free quote. Their independent agents are always available to support you and your business however they can.

by Bud Synhorst, president

decisions are made by those who show Up!

As business owners and leaders in our community it is necessary to pay attention and participate in local elections. From my time working in politics, the phrase, “all politics is local,” holds true for the business community. While it appears when we watch the evening news, everything political happens at the national level. But, in reality, the biggest decisions impacting our daily lives happens right here in our local elections.

Many often forget until it is too late that we have local elections for mayor, city council, school board, and airport authority in years when there are no other elections happening in Nebraska. The Lincoln elections for 2023 are happening on April 4th and May 2nd.

Looking back at the last three city elections to elect a mayor and city council district representatives, the turnout numbers are not great. The 2019 Primary Election had 31.17% voter turnout and the General Election had 36.84% turnout. In 2015, the Primary Election had 23.80% turnout while the General Election turnout was 30.10%. Finally in 2011 the Primary Election turnout was 13.73% and the General Election turnout was 21.42%. We can all agree these turnout numbers are not what we would hope for in a local election which has a tremendous impact on property taxes and policies for our city.

Often times when talking about elections, I use the phrase, “decisions are made by those who show up.” When looking at these past three elections, the average turnout for a Primary is 22.9% and for the General it is 29.45%. Lincoln, we can do better! We must do better!

Comparatively, during federal elections, the average turnout in a Primary for the last two non-presidential cycles was 29.31% and a General Election, 59.47%. During presidential elections, average primary turnout for the past two cycles was 36.2% and the General average was 75.58%.

How you can “show up?”

1. Know when elections are happening in your community. Frequently people are uninformed as to when the elections are happening in their communities and miss the elections. In 2023, the dates are April 4th and May 2nd.

2. Know the rules for absentee (or often referred to as mail-in) voting. Know the dates to apply for a ballot and the process. Make sure you have all the information you need to make it happen. You can contact the Lancaster County Election Commission office to learn more about absentee/mail-in voting.

3. If you are someone apprehensive about voting absentee or by mail, you can vote in person at the Election Commission office located at 601 N. 46th Street in Lincoln.

4. Vote – no matter whether it is on Election Day, by mail, or in-person early voting it is our duty as Americans to get out and vote.

5. Make sure your friends, family, and neighbors are aware of upcoming elections and encourage them to vote.

6. Research the candidates and vote for the one who will best represent your values. Let’s be honest – finding information about voting has never been easier with the access we have to information on our phones and computers with the internet! We really have no excuse to not show up and vote.

I believe we must complete our duty and vote in every election. There are many ways we can participate in the process. Now it is our responsibility to make sure we are informed and voting in our local elections.

LIBAstudiesandpromotesthesetypesofissuesthatareimportanttobusinesses and our community. If you have an interest in joining, please call LIBA at (402)466-3419.LIBAmembershipisnotrestrictedtojustbusinesses.We alsohave“individual”membershipsforthosewhowanttohelpinfluenceour localgovernmentdecisions.

Mi Tierra Family Restaurant has been providing Lincoln delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine since 2018. After they recently opened their second location at 8320 Northwoods Drive, we took the opportunity to try this new restaurant so close to our office!

Jesus Guitron is the chef and is one of the owners of Mi Tierra Mexican Family Restaurant. Jesus was born in Cuautla, Jalisco, Mexico. He grew up in a small town in the highlands of Jalisco.

In 2002, Jesus decided to move to Nebraska, where he worked as a chef at a Mexican restaurant for over ten years. After several years of hard work, Jesus decided to make a second investment with his savings, and in partnership with his cousin and uncle, opened a new Mexican restaurant created with their own ideas and decor. Above all, the most valuable of Mi Tierra’s recipes came from their grandmothers, mother and ancestors which give great value to every dish.

When we got to Mi Tierra, we instantly took note of the beautiful woodwork and carved pieces found on tables, chairs, and booths throughout the restaurant. Despite only recently opening, we were surprised to find the place bustling on a Monday night. The restaurant was super clean with lots of space and a big bar. The wait staff was friendly, helpful and eager to make our experience great!

The Ceviche con Camaron was a blend of shrimp, lime, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, avocado and cucumbers. All of the ingredients were perfectly ripe, and we recommend munching on this with some of Mi Tierra’s chips!

The Quesadilla Flor de Calabaza was the vegetarian option we chose. This quesadilla featured battered and fried zucchini flowers, mushrooms, onions, and cheese served with rice, beans and avocado. The flavor of this dish was super interesting and unlike anything we had tried before. The zucchini flowers had a texture similar to shredded mushrooms, but it is definitely something to try for yourself.

Mi Tierra has an incredibly extensive menu with amazing choices which makes choosing your meal super difficult. To start, we tried the Mi Tierra Margarita and the Caribbean Margarita. The Mi Tierra Margarita is a restaurant classic with Patron tequila, grand marnier, orange and lime juice over ice. The Caribean Margarita was the perfect blend of mango and strawberry flavors with tajin and lime juice on the rim. These were both super refreshing and smooth, and will be perfect for the sunny summer days yet to come.

While sipping on our drinks, we indulged in the free chips, salsa and bean dip. This was the first time we had seen a restaurant provide free bean dip, and it was super flavorful and different from the refried beans with your meal. There were two different salsas, mild and hot, served alongside fresh chips.

We got to sample a good amount of dishes to really get a handle on the nine-page menu. While this was a Mexicancuisine lover’s dream, our small team marveled at the huge portions placed in front of us. We’re not kidding when we say huge... Luckily we all love leftovers!

The first highlights were the Ceviche con Camaron and the Quesadilla Flor de Calabaza

We got to try two of the newer Mi Tierra dishes, the Mi Tierra Chimichanga and the Mar y Tierra (Novillo y Camaron). The chimichanga had tender steak, fresh guacamole and pico de gallo, and super flavorful rice. This was definitely a fan-favorite and a must try. The Mar y Tierra (Novillo y Camaron) combined juicy steak and flavorful shrimp both cooked to your liking. We chose the garlic shrimp and it absolutely stole the show of this dish.

To close out this amazing experience, we tried the Fried Ice Cream and the Flan for dessert. The fried ice cream had an amazing crust and the smooth vanilla ice cream was the perfect way to cleanse our pallets after a flavorful meal. The flan had incredible presentation and intoxicating smell that really got us hooked.

Overall, we had a great experience and enjoyed the chatter and lively ambience of the restaurant as the night went on. Mi Tierra is the perfect date night spot to share the big dishes, or to go out with your friends to get a margarita or two!

doWntoWn LinCoLn AssoCiAtion

by Todd Ogden, president

four Black-owned Businesses You need to Visit

In Lincoln, we are lucky to have a diverse collection of business owners, and downtown Lincoln is no different. Take a look at four Blackowned businesses in downtown Lincoln that bring their own special flair to the Haymarket.

roots Collective

Roots Collective is a salon located on 11th and M. Roots Collective is owned by Addis Browne and will celebrate five years in Downtown Lincoln in a couple of months.

Browne wanted a salon that feels like a home away from home. The goal of Roots Collective is to provide a safe space and strive for inclusiveness for hair of all curl patterns.

You can book an appointment on their website, rootscollectivesalon.com.

Gravity lincoln

Lincoln’s hottest club is Gravity Lincoln. Bottle service, VIP, and live music? What’s not to love in a nightclub? Gravity Lincoln is the elevated nightlife of Downtown Lincoln.

Owner Derek Jones is familiar with Lincoln’s DJ scene and helps feature local performers and DJs for Gravity’s events. Each first Saturday of the month is Superbia, an inclusive party for our LGBTQ+ community.

See the full list of events at gravitylincoln.com.

Stur 22

Stur 22, formerly Sturfast, is a Caribbean and African restaurant and cocktail lounge. This chic and welcoming restaurant serves up the heat with its Caribbean and west African flavors.

Head into Stur 22 between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. for their fast and affordable lunch options. Whether you decide on a protein bowl or some jerk chicken wings, you’ll choose a winning meal either way. Check out Stur 22’s lounge specials stur22lounge.com/sociallounge-specials.

Screamers

It’s no shock that Screamers made it on this list. The intimate cabaret stage is fun for the whole family (on Tuesdays, kids eat for free!) Owner Kevin Witcher gives a dining experience that you will remember. It's not unusual for your server to break into songs. Going here transports your life into a musical with your favorite American classics.

Customers can come in every day of the week for a different decade during the lunch hour. Every day of the week will be a different decade, ranging from the 50s to the 80s, with staff performing hits from the respected eras.

Foundedin1967,theDowntownLincolnAssociationprovidesservicesandchampionsinitiativesfor maintainingandenhancingourvibrantdowntown.Ourvisionistocreateanenergeticdowntown environmentwherewelive,learn,work,invest,andplay.DLAhasevolvedintoamulti-faceted organizationsupportingawiderangeofprogramsandactivitiesincludingmaintenance,economic developmentandadvocacy.Foracompletelistingofdowntownbusinesses,eventsandresidences visitdowntownlincoln.org.‘Like’usonFacebookatfacebook.com/downtownlincoln.

Dr. Todd Johnson

ready for the 2023 season?

Summer vacation is nearly here! The children are surely excited, but if you are the parent, you may be wondering how you are going to keep your kids busy throughout the summer. Lincoln provides a large variety of different activities, camps and classes that will keep your kids moving and enjoying their summer break in a fun and even educational environment. Create a summer full of memories for you and your children and check out what some local businesses and organizations are offering for kids this summer!

Educational Fun for Everyone

Bright lights is gearing up for another action-packed summer. For summer 2023, camps take place June 5-9; June 12-16; June 19-23; June 26-30; and July 10-14. Camp topics include science, technology, math, art, literature and music with most having a STEAM connection. There is also an international experience for middle school students and a Camp Assistant program for high schoolers.

Roper Elementary is the main site for Bright Lights camps this summer with Before Care and Lunch Care services available at select locations. The program has expanded to middle and high school buildings for some camps, including camps that require specialized labs. Additional community site locations (such as UNL, Pioneers Park and Holmes Lake) have enhanced learning, emphasized career awareness and allowed the program to expand camp offerings.

“We offer five weeks of hands-on summer learning to students in grades K-8 through a variety of half-day and full-day camps. Students can choose a topic and explore a passion, sharing the experience with peers who have a similar interest,” said Executive Director renee Ford. “They’re having so much

fun they forget they are also learning! You can visit www.BrightLights. org to see a full range of our camp topics and our schedule."

Scholarships are available and can be applied for during registration. Through the generous donations of committed community organizations and individuals, Bright Lights is able to offer needbased scholarships to students to help families cover the program fees associated with Bright Lights camps. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis as long as funds are available. Each student is eligible for one scholarship that may be applied to either a half-day or a full-day camp. The scholarship application deadline for summer 2023 is May 1.

“Bright Lights adds to the community by providing enrichment learning opportunities outside of the traditional school day and classroom,” Renee said. “Our focus on hands-on learning is meant to inspire curiosity in students and encourage critical thinking, which are important skills to have for a growing and thriving community.”

Bright Lights was founded in 1987 by two moms, Barbara Hoppe and Jan Dutton, wanting summer mental Olympics for their small children as they began to see budget cuts in the public school summer program. The concept grew from a graduate school project for Barbara and Jan, leaped onto the kitchen table and took flight three months later. Both women equally funded the first year’s operation. They hired teachers with reputations in subject area expertise and with a strong ability to work with students in hands-on learning.

For an educational summer full of fun and inspiration, sign your children up for a camp with Bright Lights!

Gear-ing Up for Summer!

play it Again Sports is your neighborhood sporting goods store providing great value and exceptional customer service in a clean and fun environment. You’ll find quality used and new sports and fitness equipment that can fit any budget.

renee ford Bright Lights

Buying brand new sports equipment and gear can be expensive, so visit Play It Again Sports to see what they have to offer and how they can help your kids to stay active all summer long. Plus, it’s a great place to invest in quality gear at an affordable price for a new sport your kids want to try, rather than breaking the bank for something they may decide they don’t enjoy.

“As a store, we focus on providing quality equipment and gear for various sports, including baseball, softball, golf, disc golf and fitness activities. While we don’t offer specific educational activities for children during summer, we strive to assist young athletes and help them achieve their goals by finding the most suitable equipment for their skill level,” explained Owner Kyle McMurray . “Our knowledgeable staff is always ready to guide and recommend products to ensure young athletes have the tools necessary to succeed in their chosen sports.”

Play It Again’s services offer numerous benefits to families and kids in the Lincoln area. They strive to provide exceptional customer service when it comes to sports equipment, ensuring that they have products that cater to everyone’s needs, whether it’s a new hockey stick or a gently used golf set. For fitness equipment, they offer a unique “white glove” delivery service, delivering and setting up treadmills, exercise bikes and other equipment at people’s homes, allowing them to focus on their workouts rather than the hassle of equipment setup.

“As the owner of Play It Again Sports, I consider it both a privilege and a responsibility to continue serving the Lincoln area and its surrounding communities. Our team is committed to maintaining the reputation of being the go-to destination for new and gently used sports equipment,” Kyle said. “We are excited about the future of Play It Again Sports in Lincoln and look forward to providing exceptional service and quality products to our customers. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you!”

Play It Again Sports’ commitment to providing high-quality products and services to Lincoln and the surrounding communities sets them apart and ensures that families and kids have access to the equipment they need to stay active and healthy.

indoor Games to Beat the Heat

This summer, visit Sun Valley l anes & Games for your prime onestop destination for fun for the whole family. If you are looking for a place to cool down during the hottest days of summer, Sun Valley has fun-filled options for anyone to enjoy.

“We have several great activities to offer kids this summer. First and foremost, we have 32 bowling lanes all equipped with the Hyperbowling, which is a fun variation of bowling where the bumpers become an interactive and necessary part of the game,” said Brian Kleinknecht , Operations Manager at Sun Valley Lanes.

“Bowlers take aim at LED targets on the bumpers to multiply their score based on which target they hit. The levels change and become more challenging as you advance through the game. Hyperbowling is a game that kids and adults can compete at on a level playing field.”

In addition to bowling, Sun Valley Lanes boasts mini-golf, laser tag and an arcade.

“Our Lucky Putt indoor mini-golf course introduces modern technology to traditional mini golf, in the form of LEDs, electronic sensors, fun graphics

and automatic scoring,” Brian explained. “Lucky Putt is high-tech mini golf where the higher the score, the better! Earn bonus points as you navigate through the obstacles in an attempt to score a “Lucky Putt” for a huge bonus! With automatic scoring, you don’t need to carry around a scorecard as the game tracks everything on its own. The course is also food and drink friendly, so enjoy your favorite beverage while you play with our convenient drink-holding stations located on each tee box. Our ten-hole course is open and ready for you to play!”

The multi-level Combat Zone Laser Tag arena takes laser tag to the next level. Not only do the players want to tag their opponents, they can tag interactive targets and base modules to earn even more points for their team. Laser tag can be played with as few as two people or as many as 24.

The Fun Valley Arcade is a great place for kids to hang out and play an assortment of arcade games. With over 30 games to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Players will earn digital tickets, based on their performance in the games, which can then be used to redeem prizes from the redemption center.

Lastly, Sun Valley Lanes is the perfect place to host a summer birthday party! Reunite your child and their classmates before they head into the next school year with a day of fun activities and delicious food. Reach out to Sun Valley to learn more about how to schedule your child’s next birthday.

Sun Valley Lanes offers a fun and safe place for families to go out to have a good time. Activities can be enjoyed by individuals of all ages, so don’t worry about anyone in the family getting bored. The air-conditioned facility and cold drinks make it a great place to cool off during the summer months!

This summer is jam-packed with activities for children of all ages and their families. Check out these fun resources to get your calendars full of educational activities, indoor games to beat the heat and gear to get your kids moving all season long!

Kyle mcmurray play it Again sports

Brian Kleinknecht sun Valley Lanes & Games

Graduation day is one of the biggest moments of a student’s life. While graduation marks the end of one’s schooling, it’s also the beginning of the next chapter, whether that’s additional school, starting a new job, moving to a different city or embarking on a new adventure. Friends and family gather to celebrate achievements and forthcomings for the guest of honor, so be sure that the day is made special for the graduate.

Each school is unique. From seniors walking down their former elementary school hallways in their caps and gowns to decking out their cars in school colors, high school graduation traditions vary, even within the same geographical area. What remains the same is the cause for celebration. No matter how you or your graduate chooses to celebrate, make sure to remember the accomplishments and hard work it took to get there. Make it unique and involved with what you are interested in. The best graduation parties are always the ones that really feel like a culmination of who the graduate is and what they did in their time at school.

If you are new to graduation party planning, here are a few tips on how to make this a special celebration.

Invitations: Make an invitation that serves as a keepsake for guests and yourself! Feature graduation photos or school photos of the graduate and create your own unique design through one of many available invitation-makers online. You could even handcraft your invites to add a personal touch or message for every guest.

Decorations: Use school photos to adorn the party scene! Guests love to look at your graduate throughout the years while reminiscing on memories that they may have been a part of. For added fun, have guests sign a guest book or another object, and write words of advice for a prosperous future. You can also embellish the party space in the graduate’s school colors. Position flowers and balloon clusters on party tables and in other prominent places in the room.

Games and Activities: Graduation parties usually happen around the same time as other students, so you want to make sure yours has something unique to keep guests engaged. You can base games and

activities around the graduate’s interests or find a venue that has an interactive element like a bowling alley.

Favors: While favors are an unnecessary part of a celebration, they can be a fun addition for your guests to remember your grad by. Popular favors include mini prints of graduation photos, treat bags featuring school colors, custom keychains or something relating to your grad. The sky is the limit!

Believe it or not, it’s time to be planning those celebrations now, and these Lincoln businesses are ready to help make your party the best one in town.

Knock the party Out of the park with Knockerballs

Make the graduation party especially memorable by bringing Nebraska Knockerball to the celebration! A knockerball is a single chamber inflatable sphere with inner handles and adjustable shoulder straps. They can be used singularly to perfect your rolls, flips and wheels, but when two or more Knockerballs come together, the experience is catapulted into rip-roaring laughter and exhilarating knocks and rolls that will keep you coming back for more. Manuel Walker is the owner of Nebraska Knockerball, who shared some more information on this enjoyable new offering.

“Knockerball packages begin at six, but we can go all the way up to 12 knockerballs to truly give your party crowd the best enjoyment and allow more to participate,” shared Manuel. “We can also bring more than the knockerballs to the party – we have several yard games, including Giant Jenga; Giant Connect Four; yard dice (called ‘Yardtzee’); cornhole; tugof-war; human foosball; and foot darts, in which you kick Velcro soccer balls at a 12-foot-tall inflatable dart board. Recently we also added

manuel Walker nebraska Knockerball

an inflatable lumberjack axe throw game to our collection. Lastly, while we are not a DJ service, we can provide two giant Bluetooth speakers to really amp up the party!”

Manuel knows how much is happening throughout the day when celebrating one’s graduation, so he wants you to rest assured that when you rent from Nebraska Knockerball, you will get to be a part of the party rather than be the one running it. He takes care of handling the knockerballs and yard games so that you can enjoy your time spent with guests.

“What makes us especially unique is that we are the only company providing these services in Nebraska,” Manuel said. “This is all new to the local market. We are so excited to be here and remind people what it’s like to have fun again – and what better time to do it than when celebrating the great achievements of your loved one?”

Nebraska Knockerball has also opened a physical location at 2350 Judson St., Unit 1 to offer event space with their fun, interactive games and activities all year round. If you’re worried about the weather ruining your special day, contact Manuel to get information on how to book the space for your graduation

Downtown Venue with Class

Another wonderful and convenient downtown location for graduation parties is the Talon room. Nuzzled in the historic Spaghetti Works building, Talon Room has been established as the perfect venue to host any kind of social gathering in downtown Lincoln. The “Talon-t’d” staff at Talon Room will plan and execute the event you envisioned.

In addition to the unique and gorgeous venue, Talon Room has an on-site kitchen that can accommodate all of your food needs. They allow for outside catering for a percentage fee based on attendees, but check out their delicious options for in-house catering. They also have a liquor license and bar service, so they can provide beverages of any kind for your party.

They provide start-to-finish planning, and, if you are celebrating with other graduates, they offer plenty of space to host a combined party. Talon Room’s staff works hard to ensure that your day is perfect so that all in attendance can relax and celebrate. Owner Matthew rogge gave us a few things to keep in mind when planning a graduation party.

“When you are planning your celebration, approach it with an idea of how many guests you would like to invite and how much work you are anticipating putting in to plan it and set up,” explained Matthew. “Most families planning a graduation party realize after the party is over just how much work it takes to host it at their home. We provide the ease of allowing you to simply show up, have a good time, and leave without having the hassle of cleanup after. This way, you can truly focus on the graduate and celebrate their success.”

Talon Room has an on-site kitchen that can accommodate all of your food needs. They allow for outside catering for a percentage fee based on attendees. They also have a liquor license, so they can provide beverages of any kind for your party.

Talon Room will be offering special 2023 graduation party rates on select dates, so reach out to them today to get started on planning your big party!

Catering perfection

For catering recommendations, we suggest Tipsy Tina’s Taco Cantina for their mouth-watering tacos made from quality ingredients and the made-from-scratch salsas, dips and dressings that perfectly complement the tacos. Tipsy Tina’s catering menu includes a taco bar, where you can build your own taco or create some of their most popular options: Carne Asada, Carne Fajita, Al Pastor, Carnitas, American or Pollo. Add on Elote

or Chile Bites; chips and dips or salsas; seafood or fiesta salads; a side of rice or beans; churros; and Jarritos, or Mexican sodas.

“Another catering option we provide is our Taco Box. Pick out up to four different types of tacos, and we will make a total of 12,” said Nathan Stewart, co-owner. “You have a variety of taco options to choose from; it’s your chance to try each corner of the menu. Try our Chorizo taco alongside the Buffalo Chicken, Shrimp and Sweet Potato tacos. We even have breakfast tacos!”

Even if you’re not planning on ordering catering, Tipsy Tina’s is a great place to enjoy with friends and family for a night out on the town to celebrate. They have 32 draft beers, over 200 tequilas and signature blended drinks.

In addition to the team at Tipsy Tina’s, another great option is McKinney’s irish pub. Mckinney’s Irish Pub offers a selection of over 20 different beers on tap, 40 different Irish whiskeys and serves Irish and American cuisine. Their kitchen hours are Monday – Sunday from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., and their bar is open from 11 a.m. – 2 a.m. Mckinney’s also provides outside catering options and has a party room for events that can hold up to 40 people.

“We provide it all when it comes to catering. We have all the linens, dishware, catering pans and private servers to help insure your party goes well,” said Nathan. “Our party room has no rental fee, but we require a $200 minimum in sales, which can be from a mixture of food and drinks. As a locally-owned business, we are committed to catering to almost any of your needs.”

In regards to party planning, Nathan has some advice to make sure the day goes as smooth as possible.

EVERY MOM, DAD & GRAD

matthew rogge talon room

nathan stewart tipsy tina's taco Cantina

“We never want our customers to be disappointed or surprised by what we have put together for their party,” Nathan advised. “No matter where you decide to cater from or host your party at, make sure to double check with the vendors at least a week before the event. Double check all food and drink menus as well as provide a final head count to make sure no one gets left out!”

Make Graduation Day Sweet

After late-night cramming sessions, writing (and rewriting) those essays and all those extracurricular activities, they’ve done it! Congrats to your grad, and to you, for making it through those highs and lows. To celebrate their big day, add a decadent touch to your graduation parties. l ulubee Artisanal Chocolates has a full selection of handcrafted artisanal bonbons, caramels, chocolate bars, and toffee. You’re bound to find an elegant treat for your friends and loved ones that are sure to leave them saying, “Wow!”

Chocolatier and owner of Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates, Gaylene Steinbach, has made Lincoln a little sweeter through her passion for small-batch, artisanal chocolates. Her creations are nothing short of art. For this graduation season, consider some of the options Lulubee has to offer.

• Celebrate the Class of 2023 – Adorn your favorite chocolate bars with a label of your school logo or “Class of 2023” to make a tasty invitation or delicious party favor.

• Show Your School Colors – Commemorate their alma mater with hand-crafted bonbons decorated in the school colors. Whether these treats become part of a dessert bar or are tucked into a two-piece favor, it’s a decadent way to pay homage to their school days.

• Thank Those Helpers – Whether it’s teachers, counselors or friends, give those special people an extra-big thank you with customized gift baskets. Lulubee has a variety of options that can feature your school colors, or ask them about making customized thank-you bonbons.

“We love working with our clients to develop customized gifts for every occasion,” shares Gaylene. “Let’s work together to make this year’s graduation party one to remember!”

Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates is committed to decadent flavors, allnatural ingredients, and the patience to make these treats divine. In addition to bonbons, they also offer English toffee, chocolate bars and delicious flavored caramels and chocolate turtles. Attractive wrapping and packaging make these a perfect gift to give a loved one, family member, friend or coworker.

Celebrate Nebraska-Style

Wherever you are graduating from, celebrating in Lincoln means that you have some kind of tie to the community. What better way to celebrate than to feature a Lincoln staple at your party! The Mill and Nebraska Innovation Campus’ “The Club” is the perfect setting for coffee lovers and Lincoln lovers alike.

The Mill is proud to be offering catering options as well as The Club, a private gathering space at Nebraska Innovation campus. This space is available for a variety of gatherings and is available with a reservation.

Host your next event at The Club at The Mill Coffee & Bistro at Nebraska Innovation Campus. Within the comforting and memorable walls of The Mill, they can provide you and your guests with the space and privacy you need to host your graduation party. With creative beverage and food options available, the Mill will cater to your needs, and give you and your guests an elevated experience! The Club rental rate is $1500/4 hours and can be deferred by food and beverage purchase. All food and beverages must be catered by The Mill.

• Comfortably seats 50 people or 125 for stand-up cocktails

• Private bar available with beer, wine and mixed drinks

• Food options from small appetizer plates to multiple course dinners

• HD Television with HDMI hookups and WiFi available

The Nebraska Innovation Campus is designed to facilitate new and in-depth partnerships between the University of Nebraska and private sector businesses. NIC is adjacent to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and strategically provides access to research faculty, facilities and students. For future or graduating Huskers, there is no better place to celebrate their achievements than through a UNL-supported entity.

Inflate the Fun

A big part of your party is being able to cater to families and people of all ages. To keep those kiddos happy and laughing all day long, we recommend contacting Lincoln Inflatables. They can bring your event to the next level with inflatable bounce house units, boxing rings, waterslides or even a dunk tank. They’re known for their prompt communication, punctuality and quality customer service.

“Our lineup includes activities for individuals of all ages,” shared Owner Jason Gayed . “The inflatable bounce houses are a favorite of kids, but the dunk tank, for example, provides quality entertainment for everyone. We strive to make sure that everyone at every event is having a great time!”

No matter the age of your graduate, you would be surprised how much fun a group of young adults can have with a few inflatables around them!

Gaylene steinbach Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates

Jason Gayed Lincoln Inflatables

Lincoln Inflatables has been in the industry for more than 14 years, giving countless community members fun memories. Contact them today to ensure their help in providing outstanding entertainment at your graduation party!

Brew Up a Good Time

rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee is a specialty coffee shop franchise that has been around since 1993. It’s most known for being a thriving coffeehouse featuring classic rock and roll music and great food! With locations in three states, our local Rock ‘n’ Joe is especially unique as it is home to a wine tasting room featuring wines from Whispering Winds Vineyards as well as 13 other Nebraska wines. Furthermore, the coffeehouse features Nebraska craft beers, a huge variety of artisan drinks and a delicious line of breakfast and lunch foods.

The coffeehouse’s unique atmosphere is amplified by Rock ‘n’ Joe’s spacious outdoor patio for customers who want to take in the beautiful summer weather. Inside, you’ll find all types of seating from high top tables to cozy chairs by the fireplace, as well as a private conference room that works fabulously for bigger meetings or those who work from home and are looking to switch up their environment.

If you’re looking for a relaxed venue or catering for your party, reach out to Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee to get more details on how to make your graduation celebration absolutely perfect. party on

Wheels!

For the 21+ graduates, consider renting a party bus from Tailored Dreams limousines and party Buses to really go out with a bang and make it a night that everyone will be talking about all summer long. Tailored Dreams is Lincoln’s premier party bus company, known for their friendly drivers and for creating an experience tailored to your particular group. Tailored Dreams has multiple party buses available that can fit anywhere from 26 to 45 passengers. These buses can take you to a destination of your choice while jamming to music that gets everyone dancing and having a good time. Just reserve your bus ahead of time, and then tell your chauffeur where you want to go when you arrive for your party, and they’ll get you there and back safely.

“Our fleet consists of six party buses,” shared Owner DeeDee l oomis . “Each bus has a Bluetooth sound system, loud speakers, heating and A/C and fun LED lights. There have been so many groups that have had the time of their lives with us on our party buses! Our team takes pride and joy in making every occasion perfect.”

Their reputation for delivering a fun time has spread. Take it from one of their recent clients: “We just wanted to extend a huge thank you for making our Party Bus experience so phenomenal. The chauffeur was amazing, and the experience was nothing short of a blast. They kept the party bumping when we couldn’t decide on music, and kept everyone having a great time.”

One of the things that make Tailored Dreams unique in this industry is that they are the only party bus company in the area that has handicap accessible buses in their fleet. They’ve thought of everything in order to create a custom driving experience at an economical price. Tailored Dreams will work with you and your guests to make sure everyone has a great time. Don’t hesitate to call them – reservations book up quickly!

Celebrations that Take the Cake

If you aren’t one for big parties or have plans with friends or family, it is still important to recognize the importance of your grad’s achievements. What better way to do that than with a special dessert from Sweet Things by Marcy .

Sweet Things by Marcy is a locally-owned bakery in Lincoln that has a vibrant menu of sweet treats. Owner Marcy Haas works hard to provide the Lincoln community with her delicious cakes, pies and other desserts. For graduation season, Marcy can help you find the perfect dessert for your get together.

If you are planning a larger party, Marcy offers cupcakes and southern tea cakes by the dozen. Reach out in advance to make sure she can get your party needs done in time for the big day. Have your guests talking about Marcy’s flavorful cupcakes for weeks after graduation, or impress your family with one of the many cakes offered at Sweet Things.

“My bakery specializes in authentic southern-style desserts. Our desserts are made from scratch, with real butter, real vanilla and real love,” said Marcy. “I have been baking for over 40 years. My mother taught me how to bake basic southern staples such as biscuits, cornbread, tea cakes and sweet potato pie. I eventually played around with making pound cakes, cookies and other things, and ended up growing my passion into a business. “

Sweet Things by Marcy is also exclusively available at Lila Mae’s Southern Kitchen. If you are looking for a full catering experience, reach out and see what Lila Mae’s and Sweet Things by Marcy can do for you and your party.

Congratulations, graduate – you did it! It’s time to celebrate your success and the start of the next chapter. As Nora e phron once said, “Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead.” Get ready for this next stage of life and reach out to these local businesses to make your graduation party one to remember!

deedee Loomis tailored dreams Limousines and party Buses

marcy haas sweet things by marcy

Cleaning up debris, performing the necessary lawn treatments, servicing the irrigation system, planting and mulching, installation of new landscape features, power washing and painting, various property repairs, putting in a new deck or patio, making improvements to your outdoor living and entertaining space(s)…there’s a lot going on right about now, and plans being made for the duration of the spring, summer and even fall already. Busy season has arrived, indeed. When the first string of a few nice days with no snow cover hit, you can bet that your lawn care professional or landscaper of choice is being inundated with phone calls from that time forward. The same holds true for anything related to grounds maintenance or exterior construction/renovation. If you’re not one to plan ahead or have this in place well before that time, all is not lost, but you’re going to need to get on it relatively soon to ensure you can secure a spot on the schedule this year.

The only thing that can make great weather even better is a gorgeous landscape to enjoy it with. You might be a do-it-yourself landscaper, or perhaps you’d rather enlist some professionals to help you transform your property. Regardless of which route you’d like to take, Lincoln has seasoned landscaping and outdoor living professionals that can offer their advice and/or labor to help you create the perfect landscape, just in time for summer!

Fine Outdoor living

As providers of fine outdoor living, landmark Nursery and landscaping in Eagle wants to fully understand your goals, so they can create a space that is designed for you. They start every landscape project by simply listening and getting to know you.

Next, they pair you with the perfect member from their design team who will be dedicated to you from consultation to completion. The talented designer and experienced horticulturist will collaborate, inspire and guide you along the way until it’s time to put your feet up, and take it all in.

No dream is too small, or too big. Allow Landmark Nursery to tailor the perfect plan for your lifestyle, property and budget. They take great pride in their landscape services, so that you will take great pride in your outdoor living space for generations to come.

If you’re looking to upgrade your current outdoor living space, the hardscaping design team at Landmark has your back. Take your living space outdoors through the addition of hardscaping, which as the name suggests, is the hard, non-living design elements that are incorporated into the landscape. Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, patios, walkways and even decks are all examples of modern hardscaping. Combining the two in a way so that they complement one another is key. Hardscaping adds usable outdoor square footage to the property and increases your home value, while improving its livability.

Automatic Sprinkler Advice

Since 1997, Hunt irrigation, inc., The Water Smart Company, has been exceeding the needs of clients and providing expert services for residential sprinkler and commercial irrigation systems throughout Lincoln and surrounding communities. They have been successful at providing

Water Smart Irrigation Systems and service by remaining finely tuned to the needs, wants and expectations of their clients.

To deliver this kind of dedicated service requires a staff that stays on the cutting edge of every new irrigation concept and idea. Hunt Irrigation’s success in meeting this goal has resulted in the most sophisticated, comprehensive and responsive program of irrigation care and customer service available anywhere in Southeast Nebraska.

Hunt Irrigation, Inc., strives not to be Lincoln’s largest sprinkler company but Lincoln’s best. They custom design each lawn and landscape to your lawn’s specific needs and leave the rush jobs to the cookie cutter companies. Hunt Irrigation specializes in water conservation and save an average of 50,000 to 120,000 gallons of water per year per residence. As the temperatures warm and the lawn and garden begins to thaw, there is no better time than springtime to make sure your automatic sprinkler system is ready for another season of efficient lawn and garden watering. Just a few simple steps will go a long way towards saving water, money and preventing a mid-summer landscape catastrophe at home. Get the warm watering season off to a great start with the following tips from Hunt Irrigation:

1. Inspect your backflow device for any possible damage, prior to pressurizing the system.

2. Slowly begin to fill the system with water and make sure to never open the water too quickly as this may damage the mainline or valves.

3. Turn each individual zone on and inspect for damage and normal wear and tear.

4. Inspect each fixed spray nozzle for obstructions and clear with a small screwdriver or if obstruction is severe enough, replace the nozzle.

5. Inspect each rotary head to make sure that they are not only oscillating, but that they are not over rotating or watering sidewalks and driveways.

6. If you have a drip system be sure to clean the filter and inspect the landscape beds for leaks.

7. Lastly, check the programming in the controller and make sure that you are watering at the proper times of the day and that the run times for each zone do not exceed the absorption rate of the soil. Of course the staff at Hunt Irrigation is always there to lend you a hand. They offer trained irrigation techs that can perform this service for you. Hunt Irrigation, The Right Choice, The Professional Choice, The Water Smart Choice!

“In addition to lawn maintenance, we can also help you upgrade your outdoor living area by adding lighting to the area,” said Owner Jeremy Hunt, “We take into consideration the safety, security and aesthetic components to create a complete and balanced custom design. Plus, we are certified to install systems that are safe and energy-efficient.”

Outdoor lighting on driveways, pathways and steps will help you to avoid potential accidents and increase the safety, security and value of your home, as well as discouraging unwanted guests by illuminating hidden areas.

relaxing and Beautiful Outdoor living Spaces

luxury landscape designs and installs big and small beautiful landscapes for both residential and commercial customers. Luxury completes paver patios, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, arbors, water and fire features, just to name a few of their services!

“The trend for 2023 in landscaping continues to be popular from previous years, which is outdoor living spaces. They want somewhere beautiful and quiet to entertain or wind down from a busy week,” shared Jackie Svoboda, owner. “Our customers want an outdoor kitchen, a dining area, a water and fire feature, ample sitting areas for guests and privacy. We love designing these projects! The drought we have experienced the last couple of years wreaked

Jeremy hunt hunt irrigation

Build Your Vision, Build With Quality

havoc on shrubbery and trees, so we are doing quite a few landscape renovations.”

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Everyone gets excited for spring, including the team at Luxury! This is when we get to dust off patio areas and furniture and plan for an enjoyable season ahead. There’s plenty to do to prepare, but please remember to not cut down ornamental grasses and perennials too soon in the spring. There are several good insects and pollinators living in these plants, and cutting too soon disrupts these amazing creature’s habitats. Wait until the daily temps are consistently in the 50s.

This year Luxury is ready to get back in action and be better than ever before. They are committed to providing the best possible experience for their customers and for their team.

“The last couple of years were challenging for us. Meaning it was difficult to find great employees to hire. We retained our amazing crew, although small, so our project completion schedule was way behind, Jackie explained. “We learned from this and made some amazing adjustments and started looking for respectful crew members to add to our crew early this year. We have also restructured our business and are ready to serve our customers with great communication and an improved timeline…as long as the spring weather cooperates!”

If this is your first season of landscaping and outdoor living preparation, Jackie shared some advice that can help you get started.

“Gather a couple of estimates from different companies. This way you’ll get to meet the owners or the landscaper that will be doing the project on your property. Ask a ton of questions, including the history of their company, who will be on your property, what you can expect from start to finish,” advised Jackie. “During the consultation, the landscaper should also be asking you questions, such as your style, how you want to use your outdoor space, favorite colors, maintenance levels, etc. Pick someone that sees your vision and offers great communication.”

Jump into spring and warmer days with a new and improved outdoor living space from Luxury Landscape!

lawn Care with Flair

Since 2002, TDK lawn Care, inc. has been taking care of its clients and providing a complete, honest and professional lawn care service that includes lawn mowing, fertilizing, aerating, over seeding, yard cleanups and snow removal. For both residential and commercial work, no job is too big or too small.

“After last year, planting draught resistant grass and plants are at the top of every one’s mind. Over the next several weeks the temperatures will slowly warm up and our attention turns from snow removal to lawn care,” says l ee Schumacher , owner, “This is a perfect time to start the healing process from last year’s drought and extreme heat. By changing our practices we can help our lawns survive Mother Nature’s twist and turns that she has for us this year."

To help repair the damage from last year’s drought, aerating while at the same time broadcasting grass seed around 5lbs per 1,000-square-feet is an easy way to help rejuvenate your lawn.

Aerating is the process of making finger size holes in your lawn and depositing the removed material on the surface to break down. This allows fertilizer, water and oxygen to get to the roots where healthy grass originates. In areas where the soil has a high clay content, compaction and thatch buildup is more prevalent and aeration should be done twice a year.

Lee also has tips for landscaping newbies that may not know where to start.

Jackie svoboda Luxury Landscape

Lee schumacher tdK Lawn Care

“Clean all debris and leaves from the lawn and landscaping and assess the damage from last year. After doing this, talk to a professional to create a plan for the season. Make sure that they are insured, licensed and have a good work ethic. I would also stay away from national online companies to find your landscaper,” advised Lee. “Contact your landscapers now as their schedule will fill up fast during this time of the year."

TDK Lawn Care’s mission is to create an annual lawn care program that focuses on your corporate or individual needs. TDK Lawn Care offers several different options, giving you the lawn you deserve at a price you can afford. Timely, dedicated and knowledgeable are in the name!

Best Time to plant Trees

Eagle Nursery provides landscape design, hardscaping, landscape lighting, installation and maintenance services for residential and commercial properties. They are proud to utilize Nebraska-grown trees, shrubs and perennials. If you aren’t sure where to start with your landscaping plans, Eagle Nursery can send one of their professionals to your property to work with you and determine your preferences and goals for your landscape.

“If you are interested in planting trees, the best time to do so is when they are in their dormant period – typically early spring or late fall,” explained Owner Tom Scharfen. “Trees are lifelong investments for your property, so it’s important to give them all the resources they require to grow. Unlike flora, shrubs and trees can be trickier to plant and raise, so we recommend going to a professional when making larger plant purchases and plantings.”

According to research conducted by the USDA Forest Service, trees create about three times more economic advantage than their cost due to how much they can raise property value. Each large tree adds about 1% to the value of a house. Plus, they produce energy savings, storm-water runoff reduction and cleaner air.

“An advantage to installing trees, particularly larger trees, into your landscape is that you have instant curb appeal, plus shade,” Tom said. “Other projects can take years to add the same value that a single large maple or oak, for example, can add overnight. This is the perfect time to take on those large projects—particularly when it comes to ‘spaded trees,’ or transplanting larger trees that are already well-established.”

When choosing which kind of tree to plant, it can be extremely helpful to work with an Eagle Nursery expert. They will help you choose a tree that will not only survive but thrive in Nebraska’s turbulent weather. Experts at Eagle Nursery have extensive knowledge about native Nebraska species of plants and trees that will help you build a flourishing ecosystem in your landscape. Eagle has 70 acres of trees in production, in addition to five greenhouses for perennials and shrubs, so you’ll absolutely find the ones that will work best with your vision.

Nothing runs like a Deere!

The very heart of a live landscape is the establishment of a healthy lawn. No matter how much you invest in fancy plants and trees, they always look their best when they are adjacent to green, lush grounds. Regardless of the size of your yard or your landscaping project, AKrS Equipment can provide an extensive array of John Deere equipment you need to get the job done right. AKRS offers John Deere turf, compact utility tractors and compact construction equipment, plus a host of attachments to accomplish any yard or acreage project.

When it comes to choosing a mower or keeping up with lawn maintenance, AKRS is in your corner. The John Deere equipment they sell offers the lowest cost of ownership in the industry, and their mowers have, over the years, proven to operate longer with fewer repairs and maintain their value better than any other product on the market. AKRS even has a service available to keep your equipment in top working order.

“AKRS Equipment offers a Ready to Mow Service in the Omaha and Lincoln communities, where we will come to your home or business and perform routine maintenance on-site and ensure that

Transform Your Outdoor Space

Imagine your ideal outdoor space and start living it with the help of Eagle Nursery! We are a full service company dedicated to quality work, materials, & integrity service.

Patios | Walls | Water Features | Fire Pits | Trees | Shrubs | Annuals

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your equipment always performs well,” said Turf and Commercial Equipment Sales Professional Nick Wessel . “For larger repairs, we offer pickup and delivery to one of our AKRS locations.”

For commercial mowing, one of the hottest trends in mowers is the John Deere QuikTrak Stand-on Mower, which AKRS offers. These stand-behind mowers serve up advanced maneuverability and speed to allow you to mow more and feel less fatigued at the end of the day. On the residential side, the John Deere line of Lawn Tractors provides mowing with a variety of attachments to make landscaping chores simple and easy.

“Customers can stop in at their convenience and learn what equipment best fits their needs,” Nick said. “The earlier they pay us a visit, the sooner we can get them up and running with the guidance and equipment they need to maintain the best lawn in the neighborhood. Come see us and take a test drive on any John Deere product. After all, Nothing Runs Like a Deere!”

Aeration 101

Before you jump right into applying aesthetic landscaping features, a little lawn maintenance needs to be done. If you don’t have a good foundation of healthy soil and grass, everything in your outdoor space will suffer. Luckily, lawn care can be easier than you think; it just requires some basic knowledge and a little attention week to week.

How do you know if your lawn needs aeration? larry Svoboda from ray’s lawn and Home Care dove a little deeper into this

topic with us to explain the signs to look for, as well as the importance of hiring a professional to get the job done.

“If your lawn is a high traffic area, you’re probably a person who should be aerating their lawn,” said Larry. “When soil gets compacted, it inhibits the flow of the essential air and nutrients that support a thicker, healthier lawn. Soil compaction could be caused by children playing, animals running on it, or even if you simply like to entertain outside. An easy way to tell if your lawn may need aerating is to watch and see if rainwater puddles in places where it used to be absorbed. While aeration machines can be rented and it’s possible to do it yourself, it can also negatively impact your lawn if done incorrectly or if it doesn’t even need done. If timed improperly, it can stress out your lawn very easily. We always recommend having professionals come to check the health of your lawn in terms of nutrients, water need, and soil density before starting any larger lawn projects."

Ray’s provides Lincolnites with a five-application treatment plan to keep your lawn lush and green all year long. It includes guaranteed grub control, weed control, pre-emergent, postemergent, fertilizer and insecticide treatments. They also have additional treatments for fungicides, aerating and renovation. painting professionals

Whether you are freshening up the current exterior color of your home, looking to try a new shade or trying to really make your outdoor living area pop, a new coat of paint on the exterior of your house can positively change the entire look of your property. In addition to this, according to CertaPro Painters, a good paint job adds value to your home, and quality paint acts as an extra layer of protection from the outside, keeping your home safe from weather, insects, and dust. It can even keep wood from rotting and prevents you from facing larger repair costs in the future. Invest in your home now with Walter’s painting i nc. and let them both beautify and protect the exterior of your home.

nick Wessel AKrs equipment

Larry svoboda ray's Lawn and home Care

“Our crew here at Walter’s Painting can transform your chipped and peeling exterior into something out of a magazine,” said Jeff Walters, owner. “We can also spruce up your exterior wood, including decks, stairs or pillars. It’s amazing what a new coat of stain on wood can do for your home, making it look like new while also protecting it from the harsh weather that will inevitably arrive in Nebraska!”

Another great way to freshen up the look of your property is through pressure washing. Walter’s Painting Inc. can pressure wash your home exterior, including pools, fences, hardscapes, concrete, brick, wood surfaces and decks. When is the last time you washed your driveway? For many of us, the answer is probably never! Walter’s Painting can easily and quickly clean it for you, giving your property a clean, fresh look. pool prep

Since 1998, Strawberry Springs has been serving the Lincoln and Omaha metro areas. They provide unmatched attention to detail, complete customer satisfaction and great service.

Whether starting up a brand new pool or one that has been closed over the winter, a proper start-up will get you swimming faster and enjoying the pool more, and help prevent problems during the summer months.

1. Remove, clean and store pool cover with cover cleaner deodorizer and perform housekeeping chores such as brushing, vacuuming and emptying skimmer baskets of dirt and debris.

2. Add water. Water level should always be approximately half way up the skimmer opening.

3. Prepare equipment following manufacturer’s recommendations.

4. Balance water by taking one quart of pool water to your professional OMNI dealer for a complete water analysis. Follow the dealer’s instructions for balancing the water.

5. Continuous disinfection. Regular sanitation consists of using OMNI Chlorination Stix or one inch to three inch tablets in your skimmer or automatic chlorinator. At all times, maintain a free chlorine level of at least 1.0 ppm, to continuously kill bacteria.

Strawberry Springs is your trusted partner in making your pool and spa environment work well. They can bring new and cutting-edge design and efficiency to your project. When they’re done with your pool it will be perfectly clean, balanced and ready for the new season!

Hand-Crafted Concrete Creations

Concrete Craft of lincoln can provide nearly endless solutions to bring your outdoor living space to life through their beautiful concrete solutions for patios, driveways, walkways, pool decks and more. They can transform your patio with exquisite designs and classic looks, or they can banish the boring, plain, gray concrete walkways on your property with stamped concrete in patterns, designs, and colors that bring out the best in your surroundings. Even more, they offer a stamped concrete seat wall and fire pit system that is a fast and economical way to create the outdoor entertaining area of your dreams. This cost-effective method will give you a fire pit that looks like natural stone but is made with the more durable material of stamped concrete.

A stamped concrete driveway, resurfaced concrete driveway or stained concrete driveway is sure to give your home an impressive entrance and upgrade the overall appearance of your home. With their various stamp patterns and integral coloring processes, Concrete Craft can replicate popular, expensive materials, such as brick, cobblestone and natural slate. No matter what outdoor concrete project you want to take on, Concrete Craft will help you totally transform your space and become the envy of the neighborhood – all without breaking the bank.

Spring brings with it plenty of landscaping tasks that are crucial to getting right if you want your lawn, shrubs, trees, flowers and other plants to thrive. We recommend getting in touch with these professionals to make sure you start on the right foot!

Jeff Walters Walter's painting inc.

UNPLANNED Life Changes —

As Heraclitus put it so wisely, the only constant in life is change, and while change is inevitable, that doesn’t mean it’s always a pleasure. Unplanned life changes can give rise to emotions of every ilk—from shock to anger, fear, helplessness or disorientation.

For seniors and their loved ones who find themselves unwittingly faced with an unexpected situation, life can, at first, be uncomfortable. We believe, however, that there is great comfort in human experience and knowing we are not alone in life’s journey. Take, for example, the COVID pandemic. It meant tremendous change and was, at first, shocking and disturbing to everyone’s routines. As a community, however, we made the adjustments we needed to create a new normal—at least for the time being.

Maybe no group of people has faced more challenges during the pandemic than seniors and people hospitalized or at home dealing with illness or injury. Senior communities and rehabilitation centers and advisory services in Lincoln did an amazing job of keeping life as comfortable as possible for residents, including those faced with sudden changes and moving to senior living amid the pandemic. Seniors in the region are uber-blessed to have access to such an incredible senior-care and rehabilitation that can guide seniors and their families through unplanned change and make sure they never feel alone in their journey.

We are told to “expect the unexpected,” – but how does one do that, really? Unplanned life changes can be uncomfortable and come with a string of emotions, ranging from anger and fear to helplessness and worry.

We spoke to local businesses and professionals who offered some words of wisdom and encouragement for us to share with our readers, seniors and their loved ones who want to prepare for the event of unexpected changes – or those who may be going through unforeseen changes right now. The most common advice received is to plan ahead before something unexpected even happens. While it may seem obvious, it’s not always at the top of our minds when we seem to be living a healthy, stable life. If you are going to plan

No one life is the same. We understand that here at Wyuka. We are here to serve your family.

Here at Wyuka, it is an honor to care and a privilege to serve. We’re Wyuka Funeral Home and Cemetery, a place of rest.

ahead for anything, we encourage you to, at the very least, plan ahead for the inevitable.

Uniforms for Care Workers

A new medical clothing store has hit Lincoln! Right Fit Uniform’s mission is to provide quality, comfortable and modern medical uniforms in a clean and spacious environment, accessible to health care professionals at a great value! It's not just a scrub but the feel, look and comfort that bring out your inner confidence.

Right Fit Uniforms has many colors, fashionable styles and fitness apparel that are 100% awesome. In addition to scrubs, they offer products such as athleisure and other medical apparel. Check out the new store in Lincoln at 5221 South 48th St. STE 8. They are open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and are closed on Sundays.

Throw Your Worries Away

Worry Free Home Care is an in-home service provider that assists individuals and families. They are dedicated to helping their clients lead dignified, independent lifestyles in the comfort and safety of their own homes by carefully assessing and fully understanding their needs and selectively placing trained personnel to meet these needs.

Worry Free Home Care also specializes in respite care. Respite care provides short-term relief for primary caregivers. It can be arranged for just an afternoon or for several days or weeks. Care can be provided at home, in a healthcare facility or at an adult day center.

The caregivers at Worry Free Home Care are trained to meet the variety of needs that you or your loved ones have. With their Personal Care Service, you or your loved one will continue to live in a comfortable environment. They also ensure that your independence is preserved.

As a reliable senior and adult care provider in Lincoln and surrounding areas, Worry Free Home Care is here to assist you with getting to appointments and other outings. They will provide you with transportation assistance to take you anywhere.

Watch for Warning Signs

The Waterford Communities encourages any senior who is dealing with unexpected changes to look at it as a new chapter of their life in which the focus is on their health and their connections with friends and family. The Waterford Communities is comprised of three different senior living homes: Williamsburg Campus and College View Campus, both of which are assisted living communities, and Wilderness Hills Memory Care. Each home provides a high staffto-resident ratio, daily home-cooked meals, regular housekeeping, and security, among other features to give you peace of mind.

“When you move into an assisted living community, you have assistance and amenities offered to you at your convenience,” said Dan Klein from Waterford. “Take advantage of this! These offerings are there to make your day-to-day routine easier, which in turn also gives you more time during the day to do as you please. This may be improving your health, spending more time with friends or family or devoting more time to a beloved hobby.”

Some of the warning signs to look for that will let you know whether or not assisted living is a necessity:

• Not eating enough food, or enough of the right foods

• Experiencing a bad fall or being at risk for a fall

• Wandering or forgetting to take a medication

• Poor personal hygiene

• Cluttered or dirty living spaces

“Many families realize that their parents and grandparents simply need more support than they can easily provide. Unfortunately, there’s only so much one person can do before their own quality of life begins to suffer severely,” shared Dan. “Assisted living communities and their staff act like an extension of your family. They step up to fill in the gap between ‘need’ and ‘ability’ that arises as our loved ones age. The truth is everyday life tends to become more difficult throughout retirement, especially when living alone, managing a specialized diet or suffering from chronic illnesses."

Assisted living communities offer physical benefits as they help to significantly relieve the burden presented by aging bodies. They aim to minimize falls, emphasize mobility and accessibility and support their residents’ independent movements by installing sloped ramps, hand railings, raised commodes, walk-in showers and bathroom grab bars. Proper senior nutrition is another big benefit of assisted living. Ensuring seniors receive enough key vitamins and minerals each day to support their health is always a top priority of The Waterford Communities.

“When life changes unexpectedly, it’s difficult – that’s no doubt,” said Dan. “You can rarely ever change what has happened to you – but you are in control of how you respond.”

long-term Care, Wherever You Need

Home Care partners supports seniors’ needs throughout their long-term care continuum with care management and thoughtful, quality, dedicated care brought to wherever your loved one resides. Their care management services provide consistent, high-quality communication with healthcare and other service providers, as well as expert resources. The caregivers at Home Care Partners dedicate their professional lives to caring for others and providing them with the greatest quality of life, wherever they call home. Home care is an option for families who are looking for support and care management in their health care continuum.

dan Klein the Waterford Communities

“Our services give families peace of mind to allow their loved one to stay in their familiar place and avoid a move at this time,” said Managing Partner Karla Frese. “This will often allow a senior to stay in their home or in their independent or assisted living setting without the need to move to a higher level of care. Our partnerships within the healthcare community allow us to provide care together in the home setting to help reduce hospital readmissions and to promote health and healing.

When suddenly faced with the need for additional care, Karla suggests looking for an opening before starting the conversation with your loved one. It may be helpful to reference an article you recently read or something you saw on the news to break the ice. For example: “I’m starting to think about estate planning, do you have any advice?” or “I just read an article about gathering all your important papers. Can you show me where yours are and what you’d like us to do just in case?”

“Express love and concern, and most importantly, listen,” said Karla. “Expect resistance and be honest about your expectations and/or limitations. Respect your loved one’s wishes. Make sure they are participating in the conversation as much as possible. It’s important to center your caregiving plan on the wishes of the person receiving the care.”

Home Care Partners offers a care manager who will help organize appointments and provide consultation, assessment, planning and evaluation with the right professional at the right time. The care manager also supports the family by creating a plan of care, building a care team, medication management and assistance with long-term care policies.

“The shared focus and oversight on health, home management, and maintenance keep everyone on the same page – without one person getting burned out,” explained Karla. “For example, when there are multiple appointments, a caregiver can transport mom or dad to an appointment for hearing, vision, foot care, hair, etc., and the daughter or son can save their day off for other important commitments.”

Home Care Partners invites you to reach out to them today to learn more about how their services can benefit your family.

local Community You Can Trust

For over 26 years, legacy retirement Communities has served adult seniors with a variety of living options including, independent, assisted Living, memory care and support services in between. They are a trusted resource with four locations and are proud to be locally founded and owned in Lincoln. In working with hundreds of families over the years, Legacy recognizes that every situation is unique and personal.

The best thing about the numerous amounts of resources for seniors in our area is that you never have to go through the unexpected, hard times alone.

“Reach out to us and let us help! Our experienced team of retirement living advisors is equipped to help you by first listening to best understand your situation and to support Seniors and their families in navigating their best options,” said Legacy Sales Director Kayla Schaf. “Our philosophy is simple: people come first and everyone needs support. We invite you to start the conversation and let us support you or a loved one.”

Legacy is one of the few communities in town that remain owned and operated right here in Lincoln. The true benefits of

Karla frese home Care partners

Kayla schaf Legacy retirement Communities

local ownership and having a stable team makes the difference in providing a great culture and thriving community. Legacy also boasts tremendous longevity of staff and department managers. Legacy is blessed to have 30% of staff who have been with the company for over ten years. You will see that their team members make Legacy feels like family and all the difference in making the Legacy a great place to live.

Kayla’s experience while working at Legacy has made her more knowledgeable on how to help those who may be considering a move to a community for the first time.

“Considering a change like moving from one's home is lifechanging. It often involves emotions and difficult conversations. Giving yourself time to think and researching your future options takes time and often gets delayed or ignored,” said Kayla. “We find that those adult seniors who lean into the unknown and seek help resources before a crisis finds support and guidance and overcome the fear that comes with exploring a major change. Our goal is to empower people to stay in the driver's seat of their life and decisions! We are here to help you get started and support you wherever you are at in the process.”

Don't wait for the late-night medical episode that forces change and urgency. Consider the impact that your decisions have on the people you love. How do your decisions and choices impact those around you feel? Consider reaching out and talking to the trusted people at Legacy Retirement Communities to gain some perspective.

Minimize Stress

When people think about home care, they typically think of needing help with showering and dressing, toileting, meal preparation, medication reminders and other daily living needs for their loved one. While Visiting Angels does all of those things, one of the greatest benefits they offer is the companion piece their caregivers add to the daily lives of their clients.

Life changes can be a temporary situation or long-term; Visiting Angels can help with both.

Julie day Visiting Angels

"The best way to minimize stress for both seniors and their families during times of change is to start planning sooner rather than later. “It is always a good idea to meet with us and get information before you actually need the care. Our clients who start early with just a few hours per week are often happier and more confident when their needs grow and they already have a trusted relationship with a reliable company,” explained Julie Day , client care coordinator. "Many families exhaust themselves as caregivers before they finally reach out for help.”

Visiting Angels only delivers well-screened caregivers to provide each family with peace of mind to help navigate a new chapter. Each of their caregivers has a strong employment history in caring for seniors, along with reliable references from previous clients, agencies and volunteer agencies.

"What makes us unique is we don’t just put names in open shifts. We meet as an office to discuss our clients’ needs and which caregiver best fits those needs,” Julie shared. “Our clients’ personal preferences in terms of personality and style of caregiving are accommodated. In addition, our follow-up is second to none.”

Julie makes sure clients continue to thrive and adjusts everything to their changing needs. By contacting Visiting Angels early on in these life changes, families can be relieved of stress and avoid burnout. Julie is always happy to sit down with families and help evaluate their needs. It is a good idea to educate yourself now so when you feel like you need a little extra help, you can be confident in knowing how they can help you.

As we age, or when we deal with sudden injury or illness, we inevitably deal with the need for medications, which can become a huge hassle, and finding a pharmacy you can count on can be a challenge. That’s why we recommend Nebraska lTC pharmacy LTC pharmacy was founded by Fairbury native Shannon Shultz in 2011, when she recognized a need in the community for a pharmacy that did more than just count pills and slap labels. With that in mind, the goal of Nebraska LTC Pharmacy is to continue to offer the “small-town” level of service while providing the highest level of care for their patients.

You’ll notice the high level of care from your first call to the pharmacy: No automated systems, no punching in prescription numbers, just great personal care. They want to help you with your or your loved one’s medications and preserve your independence, providing everything from free-adherence packaging, free delivery, in-home consultations, medication reconciliations with your physician and more. They provide individualize patient care that increases safety and prolongs your independence at home.

Nebraska LTC Pharmacy eliminates the need to travel to a pharmacy to pick up prescriptions by offering delivery services, and they help you to keep better track of medications by increasing the adherence of the packaging with easy-to-use blister packs. Nebraska LTC offers free at-home consultations to assess your current medication situation and help sort through current and old prescriptions, disposing of anything that a patient is no longer needing or may be expired. Their goal is to provide unmatched care, customer service and attention to detail that far exceed that of retail pharmacies.

When giving care to an individual taking medications, contact Nebraska LTC to confirm that prescriptions are safe to take together. The pharmacist will do a medication review and contact any doctors involved with a patient’s care to ensure there is understanding all around.

More Than Housing

When looking for independent senior-living options that include opportunities for engagement, check out the lincoln Housing Authority. They pride themselves on providing “more than housing” and nowhere is that more evident than at Burke Plaza, Crossroads House and Mahoney Manor, where more than 270 older adults reside and have access to a wide variety of social and personal support services through the Resident Services and Congregate Housing Services programs. The foundation for the Resident Services Program is the Resident Services Specialist at each building. Their job is to provide general support to residents and offer a range of activities and programs to enhance the overall quality of life at each building. The Congregate Housing Services Program (CHSP) brings the services of two full-time social workers who share time between all buildings. These social workers are able to work with individuals who need additional supportive services such as case management, personal care, house-keeping assistance and transportation.

The Foundation for the Resident Services Program is the Resident Services Specialist at each building. Their job is to provide general support to residents and offer a range of activities and programs to enhance the overall quality of life at each building. Activities range between pot-luck meals and garage sales to shopping trips and movie nights. They also plan and educate the tenants on the building’s emergency and urgent-response systems. The Congregate Housing Services Program (CHSP) brings the services of two full-time social workers, who share time between all buildings. These social workers are able to work with individuals who need additional supportive services such as case management, personal care, house-keeping assistance, and

shannon schultz

nebraska LtC pharmacy

transportation. The CHSP also serves hot meals six days a week in the dining rooms at Burke Plaza and Mahoney Manor.

Specialized Care

p roMedica Hospice is a mission-based organization providing quality care for patients with life-limiting illnesses. They are working to create a stronger, more cohesive approach to delivering care at the right place, right time. We spoke to Hospice Administrator Kass Mounce, who explained to us why hospice is important and how ProMedica can offer the care your aging loved one needs.

“Hospice care is a specialized care that focuses on supporting patients and their loved ones,” explained Kass. “The emphasis is on comfort and quality of life, rather than finding a cure. Hospice care enables patients to live each day to the fullest as comfortably and dignified as possible. ProMedica Hospice has a social, clinical and spiritual team of experts who care for patients who use a team approach to customize a care plan specific to the needs of the patients and their family.”

As mutual care providers, they work closely with your healthcare professionals to make sure specific protocols are followed closely. Pain and symptom management is their primary focus.

“You don’t have to give up hope to get hospice,” Kass shared. “Many patients and the loved ones who care for them say they wish hospice care had started sooner. When you need care, we’re ready to provide it; any day of the year, any time of the day, we can initiate hospice care for you or your loved one. Treatments that provide our patients with comfort and relief can continue, uninterrupted, even after we’ve started providing hospice care. Wherever you are in your health care journey, we’re there to meet you.”

Enjoy Your Older Years

Aging brings about a number of life changes. You may be looking into retirement, welcoming a new grandchild or moving into a senior community. There are a number of challenges that can occur as you age, like unplanned health issues or a decline in mobility. Both the positive and negative transitions that come with aging can be overwhelming, especially if you’re the type to resist change. It can be stressful to feel like you’re losing the things that bring you joy. With Caring Friends in Home Care it is possible to maintain your health and quality of life at any age by allowing us the honor of coming into your home to help with day to day activities such as housekeeping, meal preparation, assist with bathing, laundry and transportation to run errands like getting your hair done or picking up groceries.

"Finding healthy ways to cope and even embrace aging is the key to enjoying your older years, and we are here to help with that. Caring Friends In Home Care is unique in that we have smaller time frame commitments, and we hire local caregivers so we will never charge you mileage," said Virginia Cole, COO, "We understand how important it is to stay at home for as long as you can and fortunately there are plenty of strategies you can use to stay happy throughout the aging process and we are here to be a part of those."

Time passes no matter what we do, so make the most of your senior years by staying healthy physically, mentally and emotionally. Aging isn’t always easy, but learning to cope with aging will help you find fulfillment in your retirement. Regardless of the how life changes come your way, you can embrace healthy aging to stay happy and well, and Caring Friends In Home Care is here to help. We recommend reaching out to these local businesses to help you get through unplanned changes and adjust to the next chapter of life. Look to these folks for help when you need it most!

Kass mounce promedica hospice

Virginia Cole

Caring friends in home Care

Do you have an entrepreneurial spirit? Do you have an idea that could add to the commerce and personality of the Lincoln community? Do you feel empowered to take things into your own hands and seek out new opportunities? If so, you’ve probably dreamed of owning your own business and putting your spirit to the test. Is it a little intimidating? Sure it is, but if you have the dream and the spirit to follow through, why not test your ideas and give it a try? Just be certain that you are truly dedicated before taking the plunge, because starting a business can be a bit of an arduous and highly detailed process, but the rewards can cover the price of entry.

The U.S. Small Business Administration offers a 10-step plan for starting a business, which includes: conducting market research; writing a business plan; funding your business; selecting your business location; choosing a legal structure for your business; choosing your business name; registering your business; getting federal and state tax IDs; applying for licenses and permits; and opening a business bank account. As part of this entire process, we suggest working with a business coach who is a good match for you, hammer out some details and test your grit. We talked to some savvy business experts in the Lincoln area to get some tips for walking the path to business ownership and outfitting your business and employees for success.

Are you ready to be a doer and take the plunge with your next great idea? Several local businesses shared their advice for up-and-coming entrepreneurs and how they can help you make your vision a reality.

Technology Solutions

panology Tech Solutions is a technology solutions firm, providing computers, networks and cloud to local small businesses. They serve exclusively small businesses with fewer than 100 employees. When starting a business, Panology can help you get the most out of your technology budget.

Panology makes technical support and cloud services accessible to small and medium sized businesses. By lowering the barrier to cloud adoption through automation, you can begin (or accelerate) the movement of your workloads into the cloud with ease. Increase your agility and keep the technology that your business relies upon running, while you focus on what your business does best.

“Our offerings have been designed with the needs and challenges of small-businesses in mind,” said Owner Darren lichty. “We take great pride in being able to help our clients achieve their goals for their businesses, making technical support and cloud services easily accessible and affordable. Additionally, we help to find efficiencies that can greatly benefit a business in a number of ways.”

By educating small business owners on the options available to them, they are in the position to make an informed decision – one of many they’ll be making as they get their businesses up and running. Moving forward,

darren Lichty panology tech solutions

Panology’s technology growth plan allows for the integration of faster and more advanced technology as a business grows. It does this by identifying and resolving any technology deficiencies early on in order to prevent growing pains when a business decides to expand its operations. By implementing this in the very beginning, you’re setting yourself up for success and ensuring that the technology you’ll come to rely on is always working hard for you at peak performance.

“As a business grows, so do the demands upon their technology. It is at this point that small nuances can become major problems. Worse yet, the technology that is serving your business needs fine today can (and often does) hinder your business as it grows. Using what we have learned during an assessment, we put together a technology growth plan. We identify the technology that will stunt your business’s growth, and define a concise plan to resolve those deficiencies early,” Darren explained. “Our technology growth services do not stop there. As your technology partner we keep your technology growing with your business. Your business continues to grow without having to suffer the technology ‘growing pains’ that many others do.”

At Panology Tech Solutions they value customer satisfaction, quality of service and loyalty to their customers. They pride themselves in providing comprehensive solutions that fit their client’s needs and budget. A fundamental component of these solutions is the assurance of quality at every step. Ensuring that these solutions also remain concise, preventing excess, is essential in proving their commitment to loyalty. Panology’s pledge to uphold these values is vital to their objective in building a strong relationship with the clients they are grateful to serve. The strength of these relationships will drive the success of their clients.

it Must be a Sign

Signage is a big piece of making your business known in the community and telling the public that you’re ready to provide them with your goods and services. Regardless of where you are at in your new business planning, Sign pro of Lincoln has something to offer.

“We offer a wide variety of products for the different stages of getting a business going,” said Owner Julie Shald. “In the early stages, we can offer temporary signage such as ‘Coming Soon’ banners, yard signs, and temporary window signs. When your opening date is closer, we can give you many options for building signage, both interior and exterior. If your business is mobile or has delivery or service vehicles, we can produce a wide variety of vehicle graphics to meet any need and budget.”

Once you have the business up and running, Sign Pro can continue to help you with signage for special events, sales, or promotions. They encourage you to keep them in mind over the years as your business grows to help you keep your signage and graphics looking great.

Your Built Environment

So you’ve made it through all the brainstorming, paperwork, strategizing, funding, locating, building and minutia to start your business. Now it’s time to make it a place that people want to work safely and happily and customers or clients want to frequent. We know the next step: Contact AO i Corporation to ace the built environment! They offer comprehensive services for new construction, renovations, and expansion, provide furniture options that leverage environments to create greater value for businesses, and offer an entire line of sustainable prefabricated modular interior construction.

“AOI focuses on the built environment, whether that be in your private office, small business, or a corporate tower,” said Director of Marketing penny Johnston . “We have everything from MillerKnoll

Julie shald sign pro

penny Johnston Aoi

highly ergonomic task chairs to DIRTT (Doing It Right This Time) modularly constructed walls, and everything in between.” Integrating technology needs for growth is crucial to starting a business. You’ll save a lot of time and effort down the road if you plan for long-term technology needs in spaces like huddle rooms or meeting spaces. AOI can help you strategize your built environment for now—and when you grow, considering your specific needs.

“Every buyer’s situation is so different, which is why our furniture consultants are trained on things like ergonomics and warranty, to help you make the best product decisions,” Penny said. “Our design professionals are trained on local codes and life-safety issues within the built environment, as well. To that end, we also have online planning guides available through our various manufacturers, so if you do not need personal help just yet, we have other avenues for you. We help you make the most informed decision possible, whatever your situation.”

Among AOI’s newest products are Framery Pods, which are soundproof pods that make a perfect place to have meetings, brainstorming sessions and important one-on-one conversations in private without disturbing the entire office—or the office disturbing them. This is just one example of what they deliver as Nebraska’s authorized dealer for Framery, a globally recognized brand known for offering innovative workplace solutions to many of the world’s leading companies, including Microsoft, Puma, LinkedIn and Tesla. AOI is also a certified dealer for MillerKnoll furniture, which transforms ordinary spaces into collaborative, innovative environments for the 21st century.

“AOI is the only full-service MillerKnoll dealer in the state of Nebraska,” Penny said. “As a company, AOI’s unique products and services will effectively achieve your future goals, creating an environment that fosters innovation and collaboration, while showcasing beautiful, design-driven furniture that will grow and change with your business!”

Scroll-stopping Video

With the rise of social media and time spent staring at screens, advertising and promotion has had to shift their focus to the digital. As a business owner, you may understand your business and vision better than anyone else, but why not find a professional that can make your ideas come to life in an eye-catching, strategic video that really makes your business shine? That’s where the pros at Altitude Motion Media come in.

“We specialize in making scroll-stopping videos to help promote businesses,” said ryan lindbeck, founder of Altitude Motion Media.

“This is a great tool to use on social media, your website or email campaigns to put your name out there in a way that catches people’s attention. We find that most businesses commonly overlook the fact that video is extremely valuable for their initial marketing plan, but studies have shown that it increases dwell time, traffic, leads and sales - leading to a great ROI.”

If you have a smartphone, it most likely has a pretty good camera that can capture video, so you may be thinking – what’s the point of hiring a professional if I can do it myself? Most people underestimate the time and precision it takes to put together a high-quality video, and Ryan and his team are committed to making sure you have the time to focus on what you do best.

“It’s very important to hire professionals because time is the number one resource entrepreneurs have,” Ryan explained. “By hiring professionals, especially in video, it helps you worry about the things in your business that only you can do, and allows the professionals to get the other things done quicker and with their expertise.”

There are many resources online out there that may boast a quick turnaround or cheaper price for an advertisement, but the experience of working with a local, small business is the best incentive you could ask for.

ryan Lindbeck Altitude motion media

“Our company is unique because we are a small, family-owned business, so we understand starting a business,” shared Ryan. “When it comes to our videos, we can operate quickly and still provide very high quality content. We love being creative and helping other businesses tell their story. We want people to know that it doesn’t have to cost as much as you might think to get a great video out there to promote yourself, and we’d love to help you in the process of building your brand!”

If you’re looking for a way to get your new business’ name out there in a way that really pops, reach out to Altitude Motion Media and make your vision a reality!

people in Your Corner

Cruise & Associates can help make sure your business gets off to the right start. Many small businesses fail within the first five years. To be successful, you need to know how to run your business efficiently. Business owners know how to do the job but don’t always understand all aspects of their business, and this can be the difference between success and failure. Cruise & Associates provide education programs to help meet your specific needs. Their staff will work with you to develop a custom strategy because what works for one business doesn’t necessarily work for everyone. What makes their programs unique is that they are oneon-one trainings. They are there to answer questions specific to your business. The Cruise & Associates team can provide education on entity structure planning, cash flow planning, business operations and documentation and employee benefits.

“Cruise & Associates can also provide bookkeeping, accounting and payroll services. Our bookkeepers will make sure your employees get paid, payroll taxes filed and handle the filing of payroll reports to the federal, state and local agencies. We can take care of accounts payable and receivable, create invoices and send out statements,” said robert F. Cruise, president of Cruise & Associates. “This will free up the business owner to focus on running his or her business and not having to worry about paying employees and making sure the correct taxes get filed. If this is more than you need just getting started, we can also do Quickbooks consulting where we log in and make sure things are being entered correctly and if not make adjustments. “

One of the most challenging parts of starting a business is estimating your income. Business owners tend to overestimate their income and underestimate their expenses. It is better to take a conservative approach. That is why it is important to make sure you have enough cash to start up. It could take a while for the business to start making money and having a little cushion will help take some of the stress off. When starting a business, you need to know what you want to accomplish and how you plan to do it. A good business plan can be a determining factor if a business succeeds or fails. This will also help you stay on track and keep the business moving in the right direction.

“A professional will help ensure that all the steps through the business startup are being handled correctly. People know that employees need to be paid, however, they may not know how to file payroll taxes or payroll reports. Even relatively simple things like setting up a separate checking account for the business are not often thought about,” explained Robert. “People think it is my company, so it doesn’t matter if my personal and business accounts are the same. This is where an accountant would be a tremendous resource to make sure a new business owner knows all the hoops that need to be completed and how to best set things up for tax purposes. A lawyer is another key person to make sure you and your business are protected.”

Overall, Cruise & Associates thrives on knowing that your business is successful because of the things they taught you. They want to know that you will carry your new found learnings with you throughout your business journey and beyond.

“Cruise & Associates does not want to be there just to help you get started. We want to help educate you to be a better business owner. We

robert f. Cruise Cruise & Associates

realize that what you need when you first start out will be completely different than what you need in three years,” said Robert. “We will be there every step of the way to provide you with guidance to help make your business succeed.”

Fill the Gaps

Technology is critical to the success of your business operations, and lutz emphasizes that it’s important to invest in solid IT equipment to help make sure processes are running efficiently. Their IT professionals can offer support in assessing your business technology needs and recommend the best options for you. Furthermore, the Lutz Tech team can provide your startup with everything from managed network and IT services to custom software and application development to help your organization optimally function.

They are designed to be your one-stop service as their expertise extends beyond IT operations. The Lutz Accounting and Financial teams can help you not only manage but optimize your financials so that you can focus on what truly matters—running your business. The Lutz Talent division can help relieve your staffing burden by searching, vetting and hiring the top talent your business needs. In addition, the Lutz M&A division can help market your company for sale, recapitalization or new investment as well as assist you in assessing future transactions through Quality of Earnings (QoE) reporting and transaction structuring.

“Starting a business is exciting but can also be overwhelming. There are many decisions to be made along the way, and engaging professional partners from the start is very beneficial. As a business solutions firm, we help our start-up clients with decision points in the areas of tax, accounting, technology and talent,” shared Client Advisory Services Manager lauren Harris. “Tax considerations include selecting an entity type and understanding

the related income tax impact as well as understanding the applicability of other taxes for their business, such as payroll tax, sales tax, personal property tax, and more. We also consult in the areas of software selection, technology infrastructure and building the right team – whether that is hiring internally or determining what could be outsourced to a third party.”

Ultimately, Lutz can work with new business owners to fill the gaps and ensure they have considered these items that are crucial for their business’s success.

Taking Steps Forward Together

Starting and growing a business come with extensive responsibilities. With this in mind, it’s important that you focus on your strengths and hire the right experts to handle the parts of starting a business that are highly specialized. Luckily, the team at S p Group, p C , is ready to be by your side during the beginning stages of your business and beyond.

“Starting a business can be an intimidating process to tackle on your own,” said SP Group CPA Erica Vossler . “We strive to alleviate some of the headaches that come with getting started, including business planning, entity selection, payroll management and bookkeeping, and financial-statement preparation. Having a trusted accounting firm at your disposal will let you focus your time on the things you truly do best, instead of getting bogged down in the details.”

One of the crucial steps in the process of starting a business is choosing an entity type, and it’s a step that often is missed by first-time business owners. You must choose whether your business is a sole proprietorship, limited-liability company, partnership or corporation.

“This is a critical decision from a legal and ownership standpoint, but it can also have far-reaching implications from a tax perspective,” Erica said. “Consulting with both an attorney and an accountant about your entity selection before you start your business is a wise step in the planning stages of your new business.”

Engaging an accountant in the planning stages of a new business allows an entrepreneur to leverage that professional’s experience and knowledge to address both short- and long-term concerns. An accountant that serves business clients is aware of the potential pitfalls and blind spots that a new business owner may face and helps navigate the complexities of the tax code and tax planning, as well as, the day-to-day tasks of bookkeeping and payroll processing.

“SP Group, PC, has a wealth of experience assisting business owners at every stage, from initial startup, through the growth years, and into succession planning or sale of a business,” Erica explained. “We provide a complete array of services including entity selection and business advisory, payroll and accounting, audit and assurance and tax compliance and planning. SP Group values long-term relationships. Our strength is knowing you and your business over many, many years. We provide you advice based on a complete understanding of your personal, family and business goals, and taking that journey together. We succeed when you succeed.”

A personal Touch to payroll Services

TAC payroll Solutions provides full-service payroll solutions, bookkeeping services and more while keeping up with the ever changing payroll laws and regulations at a fair and reasonable cost. They are dedicated to providing your business with the personal attention it deserves.

Owner and Manager Terry Clark has over 20 years of experience in multi-state

Lauren harris Lutz

erica Vossler sp Group, pC

terry Clark tAC payroll solutions

payroll and bookkeeping. With the latest software technology available, Terry’s attention to detail and experience, plus being a member of the Lincoln community, all set TAC Payroll Solutions apart from the big box companies.

As a small business owner herself, Terry has some advice for those just getting started on their own journey.

“I found that it was a little more expensive to get things set up than expected, and I hadn’t budgeted for that. Sitting down with a professional before making big decisions would have saved me a lot of time and money,” said Terry. “Hiring an accountant and attorney first is key to getting your business set up correctly.”

Terry and her team bring a personal approach to providing payroll and bookkeeping services at a fair and reasonable cost. They love being a part of the Lincoln community and pride themselves on bringing good customer service to every interaction they have.

Work with Experts Who Care

Getting advice from your peers can be a great tool, but finding an expert that can see your goals and help you realize them takes things to another level.

Fiserv enables money movement for thousands of financial institutions and millions of people and businesses. They help you make smart decisions and set realistic goals financially. We spoke to National Senior Sales Advisor Dan rau , who everyone knows as Rowdy, to learn more about the services Fiserv has to offer, and the bits of advice you need to take your business to new heights.

“My greatest value add to a business is my vast network and expertise and experience in Financial Technology (FinTech) solutions,” explained Rowdy. “My income and success is directly connected to the growth and success of my clients and portfolio. My network allows businesses easier opportunities to build long lasting partnership and vendor relationships.”

Finding the small ways that could be saving your business money is one of the things Rowdy knows best. He shared a tip with us for new businesses that are trying to save an extra buck.

“Businesses now more than ever can gain back all, some, or none of their fees with merchant processing,” Rowdy said. “Merchant processing fees are tax deductible operating costs, so passing the 3-4% fee to customers when inflation is set this time at 7.7% allows the business to increase deductions while paying less or zero in merchant processing fees.”

One thing Rowdy expressed is something that everyone can take with them, no matter what their next venture is.

“I will end with a quote from Muhammad Ali, ‘Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth,’” shared Rowdy. Remember to take care of the people around you!

Connect with the Community

The l incoln Chamber of Commerce serves as Lincoln’s lead business organization championing our innovative, bustling business community. They are a convener and collaborator who bring all voices together to grow our city and move it forward. There is no better time to join the Chamber than as a brand new business. The Lincoln Chamber works hard to help you develop new contacts and make the business community aware of your arrival on the scene through raising awareness with members and potentially hosting a ribbon cutting/public relations event once you are ready. Chamber membership and sponsorship should be part of your budget to start growing brand awareness of your business in Lincoln.

It comes down to dollars and cents. The Chamber’s activities should reduce your cost of doing business, leaving more dollars in your

pocket. The Chamber connects you to new customers who will potentially buy your product and increase your business revenue. Join the Chamber and you will grow!

Find the r ight Home for Your Business

For smaller businesses looking into moving or finding an office space, an affordable, convenient option is renting a space from OneTEQ Office Suites . OneTEQ gives you the leverage you need to pursue new opportunities without committing to a long-term lease. You don’t need to purchase expensive equipment or hire a full-time staff. Their offices are available by the hour, day, month or year.

Moving comes with a lot of expenses that can be eliminated by renting through OneTEQ. If this is your business’s first space, it may be wise to cut costs in the early stages. The expenses of a new building or vacant space can add up quickly and you want to be sure you have the funds to keep advancing the business and needs of your company, rather than the needs of the building. Each office space comes with a variety of amenities such as common area copiers and color printers, reception and kitchen areas, wireless internet, cleaning service, IT assistance and free parking. The spaces also come fully furnished.

OneTEQ makes it easy to find and book offices on terms that fit your budget and schedule. The 10 offices and 15 cubicles available at their downtown location provide productive environments for small teams or individuals needing something that a traditional office lease can provide.

“We have business owners who have been utilizing our office suites for over eight years now,” said Kevin Knudson , owner. “OneTEQ is a desirable office environment for short-or-long-term small business owners.”

Their leasing options include short-term month-to-month rentals, long-term leases for 6-24 months, short-term office rental for day or week rentals, day-of move in with one hour notice and conference room rental for non-leasing businesses at an hourly rate. The flexibility these leasing options provide is unmatched in the Lincoln real estate market. Make your business’s dreams come true for a fraction of the cost with OneTEQ Office Suites!

p rint Away!

p ioneer p rinting, i nc. is a full-service printer, which means they can do just about anything. In addition to printing, they provide graphic design services, bindery and finishing, engineering copies, book and booklet binding and posters and banners.

The team at Pioneer Printing has high standards, and their goal is to sell the highest-quality printed products they possibly can. They

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Kevin Knudson OneTeq Office Solutions

define quality by evaluating the finest papers, purchasing earthfriendly inks and consumable products, hiring talented employees and building reliable workflow systems that enables them to hit demanding deadlines. Pioneer Printing goes to extraordinary lengths to satisfy and delight their customers. They earnestly try to meet or exceed your expectations on every single printed document you purchase from them. They know that by doing so, their customers will become an advocate for the business. Advocates do more than just buy printing; they talk about it with their friends and business associates.

If you aren’t the best creative, Pioneer Printing’s professionally trained graphic designers are computer artists who know how to use their creative abilities to improve the look of your printed projects. Creative use of color, typography, photos and illustration can dramatically improve the effectiveness of your project. Good design can help create a favorable impression that makes your company and its products stand out in the crowd. The designers are skilled at creating attention-getting brochures, sell sheets, booklets, manuals and newsletters. They also specialize in the creation of business forms and all types of workplace documents.

The Newest Tech to Drive Your Success

Yost Network Solutions is a locally owned and operated technology firm. We serve Lincoln, Nebraska and the surrounding communities. We believe in a proactive support model – we want to reduce your system management and support costs by helping to prevent problems before they happen. We do this by scheduled maintenance plans, active system monitoring and good diagnostics. We will help build and keep your systems running at their optimum level to ensure you are able to do the things in life that matter most to you.

If your business relies on the newest technology, make sure you have the best tools for your type of work. Yost Network Solutions provides IT consulting and implementation for commercial clients in the Lincoln and the surrounding communities. Their IT solutions are designed with you in mind. They will work with you to determine your business needs and find areas where technology can make your work even better.

The IT solutions offer a range of benefits for your business. Yost can help your business increase your internet speed, implement system automaton and create a data monitoring system. Your network is vital to your business’s success. If your network is slow, your production will be slow. Trust Yost Network Solutions to create a pathway that helps you work well. Yost’s network design services are customized to every client and their needs. They will work with you to determine your needs and ensure your new network can handle the workload. Wireless network design is a breeze with the right people on the job. When getting network design services, you need to know about your needs and plans. The crew asks the right questions so that you get the right services:

• What type of services do you provide?

• What types of clients do you support?

• What are your data needs?

• What level of bandwidth will you need?

With the right wireless network design, you can serve your customers well and avoid the pitfalls of a bad network. Contact Yost today to find out how they can help your business.

Yost offers traditional access control systems as well as systems designed specifically for businesses and other properties. With their access control service, you can utilize the convenience of a traditional RFID fob, key card system or app. Tenants can use a single app to open doors, pay their bills and communicate with their property management. Contact Yost today to find out how they can help your business.

It’s an exciting time when your entrepreneurial spirit gives you that push to go forward with your dream of opening your own business. We encourage you to reach out to these local businesses and professionals to ensure your vision can be made a reality.

Retail/Office Space For Lease at Cotner & Holdrege

TAC-tical and personal approach to your payroll solutions”

Vanessa J. Gorden, a lawyer since 2005, founded Gordenlaw in 2011 to provide service to clients seeking a high-touch, high-tech approach to the areas of law that govern their family relationships.

“It’s our goal to guide our clients through the legal system with the ‘4 C’s’, namely Compassion, Competence, Communication and Creativity,” explains Vanessa. “We recognize that each client’s family is unique and tailor legal services to the individuals involved, including offering different types of representation and recognizing client’s specific goals. We were among the first to leverage technology in family law matters to keep our clients are involved in every step of the process.”

While GordenLaw cautions that settlement is typically the healthiest approach for families facing legal issues, the Firm remains committed to litigating when settlement is not attainable given the parties’ opposing positions. Vanessa describes the firm’s litigation philosophy as: “Always seek peace but be prepared for war.”

Vanessa has been a Nebraska resident since 2006 and moved to the Lincoln area in 2008. When not in the courtroom, she enjoys spending time in nature, reading, cooking, and both taking and teaching dance fitness classes.

Visit www.gordenlaw.com, call (402) 817-1450, or email inquiry@ gordenlaw.com to learn more.

Hilary + Co. is a local women’s apparel and accessory boutique owned by Hilary Sire. Located in the historic Stone House at 4161 Main St. in Roca. The garments in the shop are verified by their personal color expert and the shop is merchandised by season.

Hilary is a graduate from the University of Nebraska with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. She has always had a love for fashion, design and the creative side of business! With over 20 years of industry experience Hilary has been able to build her brand and elevate your shopping experience by providing leading trends and exceptional customer service.

Hilary + Co. (formerly Whimsy & Ry) began 12 years ago with a $250 investment in a 1960’s Elna sewing machine purchased on EBay. Originally everything produced in her basement studio was handcrafted and custom infant & children’s apparel. In 2011 handcrafted women’s apparel was added to the product mix, boutique apparel and accessories were introduced to the business in 2013. After a rebrand in 2021 they opened up the doors in their current location in Roca.

This summer Hilary + Co. will present The Stone House Market on Main events. These events will run May 25, June 29, July 20, August 24 and September 14 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The market style events will feature Pork’s Done BBQ foodtruck, cocktails on their west patio and a Farmer’s Market on their east patio. They are currently seeking local business owners who would like to showcase their products and services. Please contact them via their Facebook (@shophilaryco) or Instagram (@ hilaryandcompany) for more information and to reserve your booth.

Oak Electric, your local premium contractor, is 100% owned and operated by Crystal Collins. Did you know that less than 10% of electrical contractors nationally are owned by women (according to NECA)? As the leader of Oak Electric, Crystal has intentional focus on her team to ensure everyone has what they need to be successful. This includes anything from a new tool in the field to skills and safety training to administrative support.

What sets Oak Electric apart from other contractors is not only the belief, but the initiative, that if you take care of your employees, the employees will take care of your business.

“Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don’t want to.” – Richard Branson.

Oak’s team of experienced electricians not only care about precision and craftsmanship, but value the real relationships that come with working with their customers. Oak Electric prides itself on delivering quality customer service on every single job and finding the best solution by tackling every problem with creativity and experience. Electricity, done right, guaranteed! Learn more online at oakelectriccompany.com or call (402) 440-5969.

Daring Minds Therapy was founded in 2018 by Sarah Worley, LIMHP and Erica Schroeder, LIMHP, along with Maureen De ryke , PLMHP, PMSW. Their team of therapists consists of many other wonderful and talented women as well.

Sarah graduated from Doane University with her Master of Arts in Counseling. As the clinical director at Daring Minds Therapy, she is well-versed in major mental health, trauma and personality disorders. Sarah believes in individualizing treatment based on each person’s needs.

Erica also graduated from Doane University with her Master of Arts in Counseling. She enjoys working with children with a history of trauma and behavioral problems. Erica is proficient in a number of evidence-based therapeutic interventions.

Maureen graduated from the University of New England with a master’s degree in clinical social work with an emphasis on trauma-related studies and her undergraduate degree in social sciences/ social work with a minor in criminal justice from Nebraska Wesleyan University. Maureen draws from a variety of methods to create a tailored approach for each individual and situation. She believes that healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires honest caring without judgment, and she cooperatively assist’s clients in clarifying their goals for treatment.

If you’re looking for effective mental health treatment, turn to Daring Minds Therapy in Lincoln. More information is available at daringmindstherapy.info.

Marci Hanshaw made her dream a reality in June of 2008 when the sign lit up for Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar in the quiet little area of Pioneers Woods Shopping Center, located on 70th and Pioneers.

“I was a very young entrepreneur back then at the age of 28,” said Marci. “In a sense, Carmela’s and I grew up together.”

Marci’s vision was to bring an elegant bistro with extraordinary food and wine to Lincoln. She was excited and nervous to join the ranks of all the other amazing restaurants in town, which were predominately led by men at the time.

“I was aware that restaurant industry was a strongly maledominated space,” said Marci. “I was prepared to roll up my sleeves and do what I needed to do in order to be successful. Carmela’s was well received by Lincolnites, and we are still going strong after 14 years!”

Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar features date nights on Monday and Tuesday evenings, which includes a three-course meal for two and a bottle of wine for only $50! There are also Wine Down Wednesdays and First Thursday Wine Tasting events. Another highlight is the Chef Created Brunch Menu every Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. To view the full menu and hours, visit www. carmelasbistroandwinebar.com or call (402) 489-0005.

Elena Settel is the proud owner of The Upside Bar & lounge, home of some incredible daily specials and an environment that welcomes all. Since it’s opening in 2020, Elena and her team have seen great success serving Lincoln. In mid-2020, the bar that was previously in Upside’s space shut down, giving Elena and two other employees that worked together at the last location a rare opportunity to make something amazing out of a bad situation. They took their combined 50+ years of bar experience and decided to “give” themselves their jobs back with a mission to provide the best customer service in a relaxed environment. In the years after their grand opening, Elena has become the sole owner. Elena has created a unique atmosphere people will pick up on as soon as they walk in. She’s fully staffed and understands how lucky she is to be in that position. She prides herself making sure her employees are happy and feel heard, and customers notice! She loves giving back to the community that supports her, making sure to be involved in different charitable drives and any fundraisers they can give time and energy to.

Swing by The Upside Bar & Lounge at 2801 Pine Lake Rd., STE H for Happy Hour or dinner with friends! If you’d like more information, visit their website at upsidebarlnk. com, or follow their Facebook, @ theupsidebarlnk.

Nicki Burnham with i ntegrity Merchant Solutions ( i MS) is your local expert for credit card processing. Nicki takes a different approach to the payments industry by focusing on local service that is secondto-none while taking the time to really understand what your business is trying to accomplish. The payments industry can be complicated and there are many solutions - knowing what is best for your specific industry and environment is key. When working with Nicki, you will partner with a proudly women-owned business owner who has been in the industry for years and is invested in you and your community.

IMS has a mission is to reduce the cost of credit card fees for our clients through education, innovative technology and ongoing support.

Local businesses trust the straightforward approach that IMS provides. No contracts, no rate increases, locally owned and the ability to work directly with a business owner who will take great care of them.

If you have never worked with a payment processing company that feels like a true partner, it’s only because you haven’t found the right one yet.

For more information on Integrity Merchant Solutions, visit www. PaymentsNebraska.com or email Nicki at nburnham@ IntegrityMerchantSolutions.com.

erica schroeder, maureen deryke, and sarah Worley

Megan leikam took over ownership and the executive director role at Associates in Counseling & Treatment in January 2020. Megan has her alcohol and drug license, certified gambling license and is certified as a domestic violence counselor. Alongside her duties as executive director, she serves the Lincoln community by conducting substance abuse evaluations, facilitating group, individual and family counseling sessions, and strives to resolve the mental health, domestic violence, gambling and substance use issues that affect our community in a caring, compassionate, and confidential manner. She believes that good mental health is essential for the well-being of individuals of all ages.

“Modern life can provide a variety of stresses that can have a negative impact on people. Problems can arise at any stage and our therapists can assist with helping you and your family with mental health, domestic violence, gambling, grief recovery and substance abuse,” said Megan.

Megan has worked hard to maintain much needed services in the Lincoln community and hopes that every individual that struggles with addiction, mental health, gambling, grief, or domestic violence issues has an opportunity to get the help they need for recovery. To learn more about Associates In Counseling & Treatment, go online to actnebraska. org or contact (402) 261-6667 / information@actnebraska.org.

Shannon SchultzHammerschmidt is the owner and founder of Nebraska lTC pharmacy. Shannon has spent her entire life in Nebraska and has worked in many different pharmacy settings before settling into her passion here at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy.

“Here at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy, everything is about YOU,” said Shannon. “We are a locally owned ‘concierge’ pharmacy that specializes in compliance and adherence as well as simplifying the medication process from start to finish. Our attention to every little detail decreases hospitalizations while prolonging our patients’ independence by keeping them at home. We offer a free in-home consultation, free blister packaging of medications and free delivery. We accept all insurance plans, so what is not to love about our program!” There is no better time to join the Nebraska LTC Pharmacy family than now. Learn more online at www.neltcpharmacy.com or call the Lincoln office at (402) 328-0231.

Marcie Young leads Marcie Young & Associates as Series 6, 63, 65 & 26, Investment Adviser Representative for Primerica, the #1 Most Trusted Life Insurance Company and #3 Most Trusted Financial Company. Services available include Financial Planning, Managed Accounts, IRAs, 529 Plans, Mutual Funds, Variable Annuities, 401k, and Cash Balance Plans.

Marcie has over 35 years of investment experience working with clients in Nebraska and throughout the Midwest. Raised in a Nebraska farming family, Marcie infuses the values of honesty, integrity, and pragmatism into her relationships with clients. She finds great fulfillment in helping clients create workable solutions to their personal financial challenges.

Marcie works with individuals, families and business owners, educating them about their financial options for building and protecting wealth. Marcie is committed to delivering financial advice and solutions to clients with the highest integrity. Creating personalized investment plans for her clients gives them confidence as they navigate retirement planning and other important life events.

You can rely on Marcie to be accessible, to support you in your investment decisions, and to help you implement changes as they become necessary. Lincoln trusts Marcie, that’s why she has been nominated and one of the Top 3 winners for the Lincoln’s Choice Awards several times, and is in the running again this year. Marcie is a dedicated financial service professional committed to excellent service. Learn more at www.primerica.com/marcieyoung or contact marcieyoung@primerica. com / (402) 476-6778. Her office is located at 3701 O St., STE B-3 in Lincoln.

Shelly Williamson is the owner of rain, Sun and Us landscapes in Lincoln. Alongside being a business owner, Shelly is a wife and mother of six children and grandmother to two grandchildren.

Shelly is originally from Wisconsin but moved to Lincoln to attend Union College. She studied commercial art, but realized she did not want to spend her days inside. She absolutely loves being outside and getting her hands in the dirt!

“In the 25 years I have been doing this, I have learned and taken notes from customer feedback,” says Shelly. “This is so important. We definitely pride ourselves in being professional, reliable, respectful and having quality workmanship, but most of all, customer satisfaction.”

Shelly is so grateful and blessed to have a great team of gals helping her out as it’s not easy work, you definitely need to have a certain level of grit. She looks at what Steve Jobs has said about working to motivate herself and her team, “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

Rain, Sun and Us Landscapes is a female-owned and run landscaping company. They have worked extremely hard for their 5-Star reviews on Google and Facebook, a true reflection of their determination to make every client’s dream landscape a reality. For more information, visit their Facebook, @Rain, Sun, and Us.

laura Bell founded Commercial realty Group, llC , a woman owned commercial real estate company, in 2000. She is a topnotch commercial real estate agent and broker with over 30 years of experience providing exceptional service and results.

Laura is passionate about customer service and professionalism. Her vast skill set and industry knowledge make her your best choice for all your commercial real estate needs. Laura ensures fairness and delivers excellence in every interaction through her creative solutions to complex problems and tailoring her services to meet the needs of her clients.

Laura’s approach can quickly identify potential issues and develop solutions that work in the best interest of everyone involved while establishing her as a trustworthy and reliable partner. Trust Commercial Realty Group, LLC to put you first in every interaction resulting in successful transactions. Laura’s industry expertise has earned her the 2022 CoStar Power Broker Award honoring the top brokers and firms in commercial real estate, further solidifying Laura’s reputation in the industry.

Contact Laura Bell today when seeking a commercial real estate expert in Nebraska for selling, buying or leasing. Call (402) 432-9914 or visit her website at www.crgnebraska.net.

Francie & Finch (F&F) Bookshop opened in 2016 and owner leslie Huerta still pinches herself. “I’m surrounded by good books, beautiful art and interesting people!” F&F sells new books of all kinds, original local art, and has an expansive events program.

F&F Bookshop is located in the heart of downtown at 130 S. 13th St. in the iconic Telephone Building. They’ve hosted rock-n-rollers, movie shoots, C-Span Book TV, a paranormal investigation, a Lincoln Symphony Orchestra performance and authors from across the country. A day doesn’t pass that an out-of-town visitor doesn’t stop in to pick up a good read, or a gift to take home. Check out one of their hashtags, #youmeetthecoolestpeopleinbookstores for a wonderful collection of store visitors and events.

New books are ordered daily and F&F is always happy to include any special requests. Books can also be purchased online at francieandfinch. indielite.org for pick up in the store or ship to your home.

F&F routinely posts #LNKBookAlerts to promote book tie-ins that are happening in Lincoln. They are available to support those events with book sales and report their sales numbers to the New York Times, which is a plus for authors.

Leslie hails from Western New York, but, with husband, Mike, has called Lincoln home for 30+ years. She can be reached at leslie@francieandfinch. com and (402) 781-0459.

The APRNs at Health at Home Consultants provide care for patients in their home, not a clinic. Founded by Jamie peters MSN, APRN in 2009, Health at Home Consultants was the first nursepractitioner owned house-call practice in the state of Nebraska. Patients all have a different definition of home: private homes, independent and assisted living, hospice, skilled and long-term care. The Health at Home team works with the patient wherever they call home! They work with the patients’ primary care physician to provide a more comprehensive plan of care for the patient. The practice has a wide scope of care, including performing and interpreting diagnostic tests such as lab work and x-rays, flu shots, pneumonia vaccines and all other injections; diagnose and treat acute and chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, and injuries; prescribe medications and other treatments; as well as mental health needs. Individuals best served by house calls are the elderly, chronically ill, people with disabilities and psychiatric conditions. Jamie and her team at Health at Home Consultants provide compassionate, coordinated, and cost-effective care. Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance are all accepted.

Jamie is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, American Academy of Home Care Physicians and the Nebraska Nurse Practitioners.

The goal of Health at Home Consultants, LLC is to provide home care medicine in one of the most rapidly expanding areas of healthcare. To learn more, visit healthathomeconsultants. com or contact Jamie at (402) 440-5268 / admin@ healthathomeconsultants.com.

Shannon Filing coaches, trains and leads business owners through ActionCOACH lincoln. A business coach is often compared to a sports coach, and every successful athlete has an outstanding coach, right? It’s the same for businesses!

There are many resources out there like books, articles, blogs, newsletters, etc. that tell you how to run a business profitably, what to change and what to do to improve your business. While many are good, they don’t account for the fact that every business is unique and that everyone has their own strengths and areas in which to grow. Generic advice isn’t near as effective as the guidance and support of a personal and dedicated business coach. A coach is able to provide the customized resources and insights needed to clear the woods from the trees, co-create a game plan, identify the pressure points within the business, understand what’s stopping you from moving forward and how to overcome obstacles and take your next steps.

ActionCOACH Lincoln supports you to accomplish greater focus and success in identifying the areas you want to work on as well as other areas discovered throughout the process. It’s all about achieving business milestones, one step at a time, to ensure your business succeeds using a variety of proven tools and techniques.

Shannon is a certified business and leadership coach who works with business owners, executives, board of directors and organizations.

Smart and resourceful business owners enlist the best professional allies for their team. What are you waiting for? Schedule a noobligation discovery meeting with Shannon at (402) 314-2181 / shannonfiling@actioncoach.com or visit www.actioncoachlincoln.com to learn more.