Strictly Business Lincoln - December 2022

ALLO Means Business

Local business, big

or small business, if you need reliable phone and internet connectivity, you need ALLO. A complete communications system that’s fully maintained, automatically updated, and backed by 24/7 local support. We think it’s the right way to do business.

“Pioneer Heart Institute has been a loyal ALLO customer for 4 years and is proud to support local. With ALLO, Pioneer Heart has been able to provide consistent, reliable, and outstanding care to the Lincoln and surrounding communities.” — Jenni Tillotson

Jenni

Spread Local Love this Holiday Season!

Here we are in December, fully submerged in the joyous holiday season. My mantra of the month (and of all time, really) is SHOP LOCAL! Our shopping habits definitely increase around this time of year as we hunt for gifts to put under the tree for our friends and family members—or employees and team members. Though online shopping at larger, out-of-market retailers is attractive for the sake of convenience and maybe even lower prices, I encourage you to prioritize the prosperity of this community we all call home. Spread "local love" this holiday season by doing your Christmas shopping at small businesses right here in Lincoln!

As Michael H. Shuman, author of the book Going Local, put it: "Going local does not mean walling off the outside world. It means nurturing locally owned businesses which use local resources sustainably, employ local workers at decent wages and serve primarily local consumers. It means becoming more self-sufficient and less dependent on imports. Control moves from the boardrooms of distant corporations and back into the community where it belongs.”

Small business owners invest more than money into their business. For many, their business is who they are—their livelihood is ingrained in their DNA. Small business owners have a lot more at stake than a CEO of a large corporation in the sense that their customers and employees are far more than just that to them. If we want to keep Lincoln an amazing place to live, work, and play, we all have to do our part by supporting them—and the holidays are a perfect time for that!

In addition, as it is the closing month of 2022, I want to take this time to thank my amazing clients, readers, staff, and family and friends for making this year another great one. Being a business owner comes with challenges, as does anything in life, but all of these people in my life make it worth it. I truly feel blessed when I look around and see all the people who have either trusted Strictly Business as an

advertising partner or have become a meaningful part of my life in one way or another.

Shayne and I are looking forward to going into 2023 with renewed energy and commitment to our clients. Every new year brings new highs and lows, new opportunities and challenges, new new clients and friends, new events and experiences—I’m excited for it all!

However, even though the calendar will soon be changing, something that will not change is Strictly Business's foundation of storytelling and building credibility for our clients, both in print and online. Advertising with Strictly Business is so much more than just running an ad. You’re working with a real team that is committed to local business. We value putting a face to the name. You can see this in the magazine through all the amazing free, valued-added editorial we offer. Whether it’s a press release, feature story, or Star City Six, our goal is to help your audience make a personal connection with your organization. If you're interested in making Strictly Business a part of your advertising strategy in 2023, please give me a call!

Lastly, I want to say a bittersweet farewell to our editor and director of operations, Hannah Hundley. Hannah has been with the magazine for almost five years, and we’ve enjoyed having her on the team. She has done a great job serving our amazing clients and has enhanced Strictly Business as a whole with her enthusiasim and commitment to our company values. Hannah will definitely be missed!

Replacing Hannah is Cemre Lively, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to have her on board. Cemre has already shown that she is going to thrive in her role here at the magazine and continue to meet the needs of our advertisers and partners. Please help me welcome Cemre to the team! You can learn more about her by reading her press release in this month’s issue!

Let Strictly Business help you lock in your status as THE EXPERT in your industry, utilizing print, the internet, and social media. Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330.

Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505 P 402.466.3330 • F 402.466.3476

If we want to keep Lincoln an amazing place to live, work, and play, we all have to do our part by supporting [small businesses owners]—and the holidays are a perfect time for that!

Providing the Most Comprehensive Collection of Highest Quality Firearms & Accessories in the Midwest

DEGUNS

— Nebraska's Biggest Gun Store — is an online and retail dealer and distribution center based in northeast Lincoln, only a short 35-minute drive down the interstate from Omaha. The store has a vast selection of quality firearms, ammo, accessories, and retail items. DEGUNS has a strong commitment to approachability and education on their sales floor so that enthusiasts and first-timers feel equally comfortable when they walk through the doors, and every customer can leave with all of their questions answered and needs met.

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.net — Shipping Guns, Ammo, Apparel & Accessories

DEGUNS's website is indisputably the perfect place for registered buyers to purchase used guns online. Professional shooters, firearm enthusiasts, amateurs, or first-time gun handlers—there’s everything for everyone in their online gun store. They take each and every commitment seriously, with constant endeavor to offer only genuine products at the best possible price. DEGUNS is devoted to delivering quality and safety-inspected used guns.

with an Emphasis on Approachability & Education

Not only does DEGUNS offer the most comprehensive range of firearms, ammunition, and related supplies, they make sure the products are ready to be shipped to the buyer as soon as they bag an order.

DEGUNS's inventory boasts of some of the most popular handguns, rifles, and firearms, even the most uncommon varieties that you may have a tough time finding elsewhere. Their supply managers ensure that the inventory is updated in real-time, reinforcing DEGUNS dedication to maintaining a consistent stock at greatly competitive prices.

The sales representatives at DEGUNS are trained to handhold you through every purchase, right from selecting and ordering the merchandise to doorstep shipping. Local customers have the advantage to purchase directly from the store.

Backed by Years of Experience and Commitment to Safety

The experienced and trained team at DEGUNS fully realizes and understands the concerns faced by first-time handlers. It is a nerve-wrecking task to zero down on the most suitable handgun to start with and to learn to operate it safely. This is why DEGUNS offers the most simple of firearms through the most complex, so you can build your basics and then climb your way up the ladder. They also offer CHP classes and a Handgun 101 firearms training, particularly targeted at firsttime enthusiasts and amateur shooters so you don’t need to compromise on safety while learning to shoot a firearm. Their aim is not only to teach you fundamentals, like loading and unloading a gun, grip, or stance, but also instill the necessary confidence in you so that first-time users never get shaky when forced to defend themselves in dangerous situations.

Derek Tessa Cemre

Coalition for Older Adult Health Promotion Hosts Annual Awards Meeting

The Coalition for Older Adult Health Promotion (COAHP) held its annual awards meeting and luncheon on October 14. The featured speaker, Dr. Stuart Stofferahn, executive director of Nebraska Transition College, started off the event with his presentation, “A College, My Seconds, and a Dog.” Following his presentation, 2022 award recipients were announced.

Those honored include:

• 2022 Scholarship Award Winners—Morgan Dusenbery, Kelsey Novak, Jozlynn Wiechman

• 2022 Volunteer of the Year—Suzy Campbell

• 2022 Professional of the Year—Becky Whitney

• Nominees for the 2022 Professional of the Year Award included— Sarah Childers, Mindy Rueschhoff, Sherry (Sharon) Snoad

The Coalition for Older Adult Health Promotion facilitates opportunities to promote communication and coordination among providers by sharing information and identifying services that impact older adults in southeast Nebraska. For more information about COAHP, please contact Becca Henry at (402) 484-6444 / bhenry@horisunhospice.com or Natalie Leon at (402) 735-0999 / nleon@visitingangels.com. You may also visit www.lincolncoahp.com.

John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning Launches Updated Website

John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning launched a complete update of their website on November 12. The update was designed to improve usability and ensure the best experience for customers.

The website includes information on all things plumbing, heating, and air conditioning in order to learn the most about the services you require. John Henry’s has also recently launched a new online store on their website with features to purchase HVAC system filters, memberships, and other related items. The website also has an online pricing tool where customers can find basic pricing information for HVAC systems and water heaters.

Established in 1996, John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is a full-service plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air quality, duct cleaning, and water treatment business. Their motto is “Our Family Serving Yours” and this goes much deeper than simple HVAC or plumbing services. They have a committee set aside to ensure they are doing all they can for the community around us. For more information or to discuss your home’s plumbing, heating, cooling, and indoor air-quality needs, visit jhlincoln.com, call (402) 435-5555, or email info@jhlincoln.com.

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First Nebraska Credit Union and Lincoln USDA Members Vote in Favor of Merge

In June, Lincoln USDA Federal Credit Union (Lincoln USDA) members voted “yes” to merge into First Nebraska Credit Union (FNCU). The merge officially took place October 1, with Lincoln USDA Branch at Centennial Mall closing on September 30. Both branches made sure there were no lay-offs or elimination of any positions when the merge was complete.

“We are excited that the members of both credit unions recognize the benefits to merging FNCU and Lincoln USDA. This merger was a great fit for both organizations, strategically and culturally. We welcome Lincoln USDA members to our family, and look forward to helping them with their financial needs,” says Ann Loftis, president and CEO of FNCU. Former Lincoln USDA FCU members can now do business at any of the five FNCU branches.

First Nebraska Credit Union’s mission is to provide professional services for the benefit of their members while reinforcing the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.” They currently serve more than 15,000 members, including about 160 select employee groups throughout the state of Nebraska and Iowa. You can find more information on their website, firstnebraska.org.

HBE LLP Recognized for Equity Leadership for Eighth Year in a Row

HBE LLP is pleased to announce that, for the eighth consecutive year, they have been named to the Accounting MOVE Project’s 2022 Best Firms for Equity Leadership and 2022 Best Firms for Women. With women leading 42% of the firm, HBE is one of the 15 firms awarded with these honors nationwide.

“We are committed to fostering an environment where all of our associates, regardless of gender, age, race, or other diversity, are able to thrive within the profession,” stated Scott Becker, managing partner of HBE. “Through our core values centered on integrity, respect, and teamwork, we will continue to support and advance flexible leadership pathways built upon unique contributions and talents.”

The MOVE methodology investigates the factors proven to be essential for career success: money, opportunity, vital supports, and entrepreneurship. HBE emphasizes employment programs proven to retain mid-career women, including phased return to work for new parents, remote-work opportunities, work-life supports for busy season, and coaching to help managers lead teams based on productivity, not face time.

Accounting MOVE Project is the only annual benchmarking project that both counts and advocates for women in the profession. Firms receive benchmarking reports based on the MOVE Project. The Equity Leadership list recognizes firms that have achieved that milestone through any combination of culture, programs, initiatives, and growth. Learn more at www.afwa.org/move-project.

HBE LLP is a leading provider of professional accounting and consulting services throughout Nebraska. Operating from multiple office locations in Lincoln, Norfolk, and Omaha, the firm offers a complete range of financial management services for businesses, not-for-profit and governmental organizations, specialty industries, and individuals. These services include specialized advisory, tax, audit, data analytics, business valuations, outsourced accounting and CFO solutions, personal financial planning, and wealth management. For more information, including current career opportunities, please visit www.hbecpa.com.

25 Businesses and Organizations Participate in TFLC’s Great American Smokeout

Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) is proud to announce that 25 businesses and organizations across the Lancaster county community registered and participated in the 2022 #GASOLNK #GASOLancasterCoNe Great American Smokeout event.

More than 100 unique individuals accessed the #GASOLNK #GASOLancasterCoNe digital resource guide, which provided access to social media graphics, handouts, and more. Those that registered for the event were able to gain access to even more free resources like yard signs, posters, and even a coffee bar that highlighted the tobacco industry’s use of flavors to entice young people to use products like e-cigarettes.

TFLC looks forward to this community-wide event every year and is already planning for 2023. If you missed this year’s Great American Smokeout event, you don’t have to wait until next November to get support from TFLC. Resources and educational materials are available all year, just visit www.TobaccoFreeLancasterCounty.org to learn more about how TFLC can help.

Funding for Tobacco Free Lancaster Country is provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement. If you are ready to quit tobacco, call 1-(800) QUIT-NOW for free confidential help getting started.

Empire Supply, LLC to Expand Fabrication Shop,

Add New Buildings

Empire Supply, LLC (ESC), sister company of Empire Netting & Fence, is excited to announce the expansion of their fabrication shop. The expansion is in result of a growth in the company, allowing for more room for fabricators and to adapt new jobs. They will also be adding on new buildings.

In honor of these additions, Empire Supply is expecting to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the end of December.

Empire Supply, LLC does a variety of custom fabrication. They take great pride in their products and the results they provide to customers. Some of the work they have done over the years include handrails, shade structures, dugouts, balconies, and so much more!

ESC is a custom metal fabricator, industrial painting, and media blasting business located in Waverly. They can design, build, and finish your project all under one roof. For more information about ESC, visit www.ESCfab.com, or contact Colleen Sorben at (531) 207-9329/info@escfabrication.com.

Empire Netting & Fence is a locally owned and operated business that does work all across the United States and beyond. They are proud members of the American Fence Association and specialize in residential fencing, commercial and industrial fencing, windscreens, netting, shade sails, as well as national and global contracting projects. For more information, visit www.empire-fence. com or call (402) 682-7658.

True North Technologies Attends Morrow Collision Center’s First Annual Trunk-or-Treat

True North Technologies, a digital marketing firm launched by Renee Sobotka, would like to congratulate Morrow Collision Center on their massively successful event.

On October 27, Morrow Collision Center hosted their first annual trunk-or-treat at their 84th St. location in Lincoln. They expected a few hundred trick-or-treaters to attend, but over 1,000 smiling faces came through their doors that evening. Dozens of local businesses supported the public event including Allo Communications, CEDARS, Harrison Roofing, FUMA Financial, and Good Life Lending.

The True North Technologies team was thrilled to participate, as well. Alex, Wil, Tasha, and Taylor shared in the fun, greeting hundreds of families and handing out countless pieces of candy to eager, costumed kids. Even Tasha’s son tagged along and brought mini hockey sticks, pucks, and a full-size net. He and Taylor gladly took turns teaching wide-eyed trick-or-treaters how to shoot just like the pros.

True North Technologies also enjoys supporting the online efforts of local companies. They provide affordable marketing services such as custom website and mobile app development, branding, SEO, and digital advertising. Visit www.go-tnt.com or call (402) 420-5101 to learn more about them today.

Leadership Harbor to Host Two Workshop Events December 13 and January 17

Leadership Harbor is excited to host two days of workshops on December 13 and January 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Harbor Learning Center. Both dates will feature two workshops in one day based on the book A New Kind of Diversity by Tim Elmore and The Working Genius Assessment by Patrick Lencioni & The Table Group.

A New Kind of Diversity Workshop - For the first time in history, up to five generations are working alongside one another. Each generation has different drivers for the way they think and behave. Instead of clashing, feelings of disrespect, and not valuing each other, let’s bridge the gaps between people and begin working together by better understanding the driving forces of the generations.

The Working Genius Assessment Workshop - The results of this assessment and workshop time will help you and your team form an interdependent and comprehensive process of how you can work best together and live a more fulfilling career/life because of it. A Working Genius Assessment is included and MUST be completed BEFORE the workshop. Please bring your copy with you (paper or pdf on a device). The assessment takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. Leadership Harbor will provide access to the assessment for participants if they have not taken it previously.

For more information about these workshops or Leadership Harbor, go to leadershipharbor.com.

Associates in Counseling & Treatment Starts New Grief Support Group

Associates in Counseling & Treatment will hold the first meeting for their new eightweek grief support program on December 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. at 600 N Cotner Blvd., STE 119. The Grief Recovery Method Outreach Program is for people moving beyond death, divorce, career loss, faith loss, and other losses.

People say you have to let go and move on in your life, but they don’t tell you what you need to do to accomplish that. The Grief Recovery Method Outreach Program not only makes that possible, but provides partnerships and guidance to ensure that it happens.

For further information about the group or to enroll, call Danette Novotny at (402) 261-6667. Enrollment space is limited.

Associates in Counseling & Treatment provides specialized counseling services for individuals and families in Lincoln and the surrounding counties. Programs include substance use, gambling addiction, mental health counseling, anger management, and domestic violence. They will help you find effective ways to resolve personal issues, develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills, and to help you be able to see the world in a new and brighter light. For more information, contact information@actnebraska.org or go to www.actnebraska.org.

BBB Institute Partners with Amazon and Capital One to Fight Scams

The BBB Institute for Marketplace Trust, the 501(c)(3) foundation of the Better Business Bureau (BBB), is partnering with Amazon and Capital One to help people learn about scams, report them, and avoid losing money and/or personal information, by enhancing the capabilities of the BBB Scam Tracker online reporting tool.

The Scam Tracker includes a guided questionnaire so it is quick and easy to report scams. Consumers can review and edit reports before submission, then share reports with anyone via social media or email. They also have options to receive updates about evolving tactics scammers use.

“By our estimates, BBB Scam Tracker saved consumers $31.4 million in 2021 alone. Partnering with Amazon and Capital One enables us to expand the impact of this platform,” said Melissa Lanning Trumpower, executive director of BBB Institute.

BBB Institute will continue making upgrades to Scam Tracker to meet needs of consumers who lose money to scams, particularly older demographic groups who are more susceptible to fraud.

Amazon and Capital One are both Better Business Bureau Accredited Businesses. Amazon has been BBB Accredited since 1996 and Capital One has been BBB Accredited since 1995. With their support of this project, both companies become members of the BBB Corporate Trust Council, a coalition of select companies that join BBB Institute to build a trustworthy marketplace. Questions about the project or how to get involved should be directed to the BBB Institute at Institute@IABBB.org. Visit www. bbbmarketplacetrust.org to learn more.

Oak Electric Moves to New Location During 7th Anniversary Year

Oak Electric is excited to announce they have moved into a new space at 601 Calvert St., STE N. This move is a great advancement for the company during their 7th anniversary year. Oak Electric has strong roots in the community and the new location accommodates the growing Oak team. Oak Electric is 100% woman-owned, and Owner Crystal Collins always says “When you water the tree, it will grow.”

The administrative staff is excited for larger offices, a new conference room, and a break room. The electricians are thrilled with the new shop area as it boasts twice as much storage as the former location. This extra storage space will allow the techs to be more organized and more efficient. The customers will be pleased because there is plenty of parking and the location is easily accessible.

Oak Electric is a premium, full service, electrical contractor with a tradition of exemplary service. Oak Electric provides both residential and commercial service and repairs. Some services include security cameras, electric car charges, hook up hot tubs and pools, interior and exterior lighting, panel upgrades, remodels, service conversion, and more. For more information, call your friendly electricity expert at (402) 440-5969 or visit www.oakelectriccompany.com.

Lincoln Chamber Partners with RISE Lincoln to Highlight Women’s Leadership

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the expansion of its programming with RISE Lincoln and support from the JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Fund.

Beginning in 2023, RISE Lincoln will be a program of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, continuing as an incredible platform for women to connect, engage, learn, and grow in Lincoln. RISE was launched eight years ago by two respected businesswomen, Katie Zulkoski and AshLea Allberry, as a motivating series to connect the community of Lincoln’s business leaders.

Since its founding, RISE has united hundreds of women through networking, education, civic engagement, and personal coaching. The events will continue to feature empowering speakers and respected female leaders in the community, giving attendees the opportunity to learn from incredible executives and visionaries.

It is with great excitement that the Chamber also announces that the Women in Business and RISE programs will receive generous support from the JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Fund. This fund is a new endowment under the stewardship of the Lincoln Community Foundation, established in honor of one of Lincoln’s greatest business leaders, to support more women in Lincoln and position them to attain business and community leadership roles.

The first RISE event will be held in January 2023.

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is Lincoln’s leading business organization, representing member businesses across the community by providing advocacy and connections to help businesses grow and thrive in Lincoln. Learn more at www.lcoc.com.

UNICO Named 2022 Best Practices Agency

UNICO Group retains its Best Practices status once again in being part of an elite group of independent insurance agencies around the United States for the thirteenth time. This status comes by participating in the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) Best Practices Study Group. The annual survey and study of leading independent insurance agencies documents the business practices of the “best” agencies and urges others to adopt similar practices.

To retain the Best Practices Agency status, UNICO Group must submit their year-end results for review each year. They are pleased to have retained their Best Practices Agency status since 2010.

Participation in the Best Practices Study has become a prestigious recognition of the superior accomplishments of the top insurance agencies in each of the six revenue size categories studied. Over 2,600 agencies from around the country were nominated while only 282 agencies scored high enough to qualify. UNICO’s inclusion with these outstanding agents and brokers clearly recognizes them as an industry leader.

UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance broker headquartered in Nebraska. They offer a consultative and relational approach to their customized solutions for clients all around the nation. For more information, call (402) 434-7200 or visitunicogroup.com.

First Day Vinyl Opens in Guiderock Commercial Realty Property December 1

First Day Vinyl is a new record store opening on December 1 at 7301 S 27th St., STE 120. It is owned and operated by Travis Mannschreck, who started collecting music at an early age and spent the 2000’s managing a Blockbuster Video in south Lincoln.

In addition to selling new and used vinyl, CDs, and cassettes, First Day Vinyl will offer new turntables, posters, books, and other music-related gifts.

“I had great experiences growing up buying music from Lincoln record stores like Homer’s and Twisters, and I especially loved attending midnight release events,” Mannschreck said. “First Day Vinyl will be a place where both new and more established collectors can come together and share their love of all types of music.”

First Day Vinyl is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Learn more about First Day Vinyl and Travis on Instagram (@firstdayvinyl / @ tmannne) and at firstdayvinyl.com.

Cathy Kottwitz of Guiderock Commercial Realty represented First Day Vinyl in leasing the new store. Guiderock Commercial Realty is a Lincoln-based commercial real estate firm providing services for business owners and investors. For more information, visit www. guiderockrealty.com or contact Cathy Kottwitz at (402) 421-7474 / cathy@guiderockrealty.com.

LHRMA Opens 2023 Membership Registration, Releases Program Lineup

Lincoln Human Resource Management Association (LHRMA) is excited to announce the program lineup for members for 2023. To become a LHRMA member or renew your membership, go to LincolnHR.org. Membership fees are $125 per calendar year, with renewals due January 1.

The programs available in 2023 will include:

• Compensation Study Overview

• Legal Updates

• Practical advice to provide feedback

• Executive coaching

• Leading diversity, equity and inclusion strategy

• Organization wide succession planning

One of the benefits of becoming a LHRMA member is the fun events and networking opportunities throughout the year, including the Annual Member December Social.

The Annual Member December Social will take place at Lincoln Children’s Zoo in conjunction with the annual ZOO Lights event on December 13 from 5 to 7 p.m. LHRMA has reserved a multipurpose room at the zoo to allow members a place to warm up, network, and enjoy a gourmet coffee drink. Entry times into the Zoo Lights will be 6:30 and 7 p.m., but be sure to join LHRMA early for coffee and networking!

Registration is required, and members are allowed a plus one for the event. If registration is closed and you are still interested in attending, please reach out to Peyton at programs@lincolnhr. org to get tickets.

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 www. lincolnhr.org or contact membership@lincolnhr.org.

Eschliman Commercial Real Estate Announces Production Creek Move to North Cotner

Ted and Robin Eschliman of Eschliman Commercial Real Estate (ECR) are proud to announce the relocation of Production Creek to their expanded Lincoln facilities on 1303 N Cotner Blvd. They represented the buyers of their new property in the acquisition of their easily accessed central Lincoln property.

Production Creek is a distributor and proud member of the Advertising Specialty Institute. Promotional products, also known as ad specialties, make up a nearly $17 billion industry and are used by virtually every business in America. In addition to local screen print and embroidery, items like mugs, pens, and t-shirts are memorable and provide a better cost per impression for advertisers than almost every major marketing effort like TV, print, and the Internet. Production Creek offers the resources to supply your company with promotional products from over 3,000 suppliers. Learn more about them at productioncreek.com.

Eschliman Commercial Real Estate was started by Robin Eschliman in the 1990s, providing site selection services for office, retail, warehouse, land, and commercial investment prospects, as well as listing and consulting services. Her husband Ted Eschliman joined the sales team three years ago after a 40 year successful career in music retail at Dietze Music. For more information about Eschliman Commercial Real Estate, visit their website www.ecrproperty.com or contact them at (402) 420-3239/ info@ecrproperty.com.

JoSi Events to Host Fundraiser December 8, A Night at the Speakeasy with ShelterMe

JoSi Events, Lincoln’s newest womenowned event planning business, will host a fundraiser—A Night at the Speakeasy with ShelterMe—on Thursday, December 8, from 5 to 8 p.m. at The 1206 in Crete. As the name implies, the event will be 1920s themed! There will be raffles with prizes donated from various businesses in Nebraska and a grand prize for the person who is deemed the “best dressed” in their finest 1920s attire. There will also be appetizers from Yes Chef donated by Off Leash Dog Bar, Chef au Chef, and Parthenon. JoSi Events’ Co-owner Sidney Parks will even give a brief lesson on how to dance the Charleston so attendees can truly party the night away in true 20s fashion! Tickets are available on Eventbrite for $10 each or a table of six can be reserved for $50.

ShelterMe Nebraska provides safe and secure housing for the victims of domestic violence and their companion animals. A companion animal can often become a tool for an abusive partner to hold power and control in the relationship. If contemplating leaving a bad relationship, the question of what will happen to a companion animal can become an important deciding factor. ShelterMe Nebraska is committed to treating every victim and companion animal with respect and dignity by providing rehabilitative services.

JoSi Events was started by Jordan Kempkes and Sidney Parks, who met while serving together. Being in the restaurant industry made them fall in love with event planning. They are excited about making someone’s big day easy and pain-free. To learn more, visit josievents.com or email letusparty@josievents.com.

Happy Holidays from Oak Electric!

CBD American Shaman Releases Holiday Gift Baskets

CBD American Shaman in Lincoln has released holiday gift baskets for everyone in your life. They have beauty baskets, pet baskets, and CBD and Delta 8/9 packages.

If you are unsure what to get your friends and family, stop by and check out CBD American Shaman’s selection of gifts. You can choose from the variety of pre-made baskets or you can build your own! It is a great way to introduce your loved ones to CBD and how it can improve their lives.

Products at CBD American Shaman include a full line of CBD products for people and pets, along with Delta 8, Delta 9, and HHC products. All products are industrial hemp derived and Farm Bill 2018 compliant. American Shaman’s proprietary nanotechnology makes their products nine times more bio-available which gives consumers a 90-100% absorption rate compared to the 10-30% absorption rate of most other CBD companies.

Taking or using a CBD enriched product can enhance your body’s ability to maintain balance and manage occasional stress. It is also known to have many beneficial properties and is particularly effective for supporting focus and maintaining health and well-being.

CBD American Shamanis is U.S. Hemp Authority certified. To learn more about what CBD American Shaman has to offer, email lincolnamshaman@ gmail.com or visit their website at www.CBDofLincoln.com.

HBAL Raises Over $6K at Annual Sporting Clay Shoot

The Home Builders Association of Lincoln’s (HBAL) 15th Annual Sporting Clay Shoot was held on October 14 at Oak Creek Sporting Club. The event raised over $6,000 for the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation. HBAL thanks all who participated and recognizes the following winners:

Top Individual Shooters: 1st Place – Eric Whitefoot; 2nd Place – Jon Stuertz; 3rd Place – Simon Wells.

Top Teams: (1st Flight) CC Contracting, Inc. – Randy Colton, Dan Meir, Alan Applegarth, Aaron Johnson, Adam Dotson; (2nd Flight) Mead Lumber – Allan McGill, Terry Manson, Kevin Parrish, Dale Schuerman; (3rd Flight) Millard Lumber – Aaron Tupa, Beth Flack, Curtis VonSeggern, Nick Hartmann, Tom Morrow.

The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation’s mission is to support the educational and charitable activities of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln. The Foundation strives to support the community by contributing to community service projects focused on housing, as well as providing scholarships for students pursuing a career related to the building industry and providing funding for other industry related educational and research programs. Since 2010, the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation has distributed over $291,000 through their community projects and scholarship program.

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 hbal.org.

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Participating

Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates Releases Holiday Treat Lineup

Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates has released their holiday treat lineup. If you are looking for a treat to show the people in your life how grateful you are for them, consider one of these mouthwatering goodies. Treat everyone on your list with chocolates from Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates. “With a full selection of hand-crafted artisanal bonbons, caramels, chocolate bars, and toffee,” shares owner and chocolatier Gaylene Steinbach, “you’re bound to find an elegant treat for your clients, prospects, employees, and partners. And, because we know you’re busy, ask us about ready-to-go gift baskets in a variety of price points. And, yes, we can take care of the shipping or delivery!”

In addition to Gaylene’s signature treats, consider these seasonal faves: Cocoa Bombs: Pour hot water over these cocoa bombs and you’ll soon be indulging in rich sipping chocolate—complete with marshmallows for extra creaminess. Choose from milk or dark chocolate.

Peppermint Bark: Bite into swirls of dark and white chocolate that are covered in crunchy bits of peppermint candy.

English Toffee: This soft, melt-in-the mouth toffee is a win for everyone on your list. With two types from which to choose—pecans with dark chocolate or almonds with milk chocolate—you’re sure to satisfy everyone on your list.

Turtles: This seasonal favorite is filled with locally sourced, freshly roasted pecans and Lulubee’s signature, vanilla-flecked caramel, and then drenched in dark chocolate.

To get some sweet treats from Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates this season, order online at lulubeechocolates.com, or visit their store at 5270 Hidcote Dr., STE 101.

L-R: Allan McGill, Terry Manson, Kevin Parrish, Dale Schuerman

SP Group, P.C. Gears Up For Year-End Tax Planning with Team Building

Recently, SP Group, P.C. went on an afternoon outing at Top Golf Omaha to sharpen their golf skills and enjoy a team builder before their year-end tax planning season took off. Capping off another successful tax season, the team took to the matted tee boxes and wide open fairway to relax and have some long-awaited fun. This team builder not only got them out of the office, but also gave them a chance to show their competitive side.

Year-end tax planning is a critically important part of their service as it lays the foundation for the work they will eventually do on a tax return. There’s still time to consider some decisions that could positively impact clients’ taxes before the end of 2022.

SP Group is ready to address your year-end tax planning needs. One of the four core values of SP Group is competitiveness. This competitive-minded culture not only makes for some fun golf matches, it also makes the firm better at achieving success for its clients. Take some time to plan for the future and ask SP Group some important year-end questions. So simply, are you ready “fore” year-end tax planning?

Follow SP Group, P.C. on Facebook (@SP Group, P.C.) or Twitter (@SPGroupPC). For more information, please call (402) 4207758 or visit www.spgrouppc.com.

Unlimited Sports Solutions Evolves its Brand

Unlimited Sports Solutions (USS), a leading supplier of athletic facility equipment and products for constructing safe athletic complexes, recently refined its verbal and visual identity.

USS initiated a partnership with the Lincoln-based branding agency, UNANIMOUS, to better represent the company’s vision and qualitymade products to help create a fresh brand. USS is growing, expanding, and still dedicated to delivering unprecedented, responsive service.

“Our team is committed to ensuring the continued safety of athletes and spectators by supplying quality products suited for any level of play across the country,” shares Ron Dubas, president. “We wanted our brand to match the quality of our equipment and the collaborative services we provide.”

The new brand utilizes vibrant colors, bold font, and a logo lock-up representing structure, intentionality, and progressive movement. The verbal and visual elements of USS’s new brand are now a better reflection of current and future products and services.

USS helps outfit sports complexes of all sizes, from consultation to installation on local, regional, and national levels. They provide safe and reliable equipment, extensive product knowledge, and guaranteed responsive service.

Based in Waverly, Unlimited Sports Solutions is a trusted and experienced supplier of athletic facility equipment and products. They design and build durable products to create inspiring athletic facilities focused on player and spectator safety. To learn more about USS’s products and services, visit UnlimitedSportsSolutions.com or call (531) 207-9331.

Lincoln Airport to Throw Santa Bash December 16

Santa Claus is flying into town and is landing at the Lincoln Airport! On Friday, December 16 from 4:30 to 6 p.m., Santa and his elves will be visiting the CommuteAir Hangar located at 3801 NW 34th St.

While waiting to see Santa, his elves will be holding free face paintings as well as balloon art. There will also be a free station for kids to make “reindeer food”, other crafts, and a hot chocolate bar. Weather pending, the event will be followed with an outdoor showing of the movie Elf around 6 p.m. The event is located on the west side of the airport, in an open green space. The movie will be projected on the side of an old Cold War hangar, attendees will be allowed to stay in their cars or bring blankets and chairs to sit in the grass. The movie event is free to the community, but please register to attend and bring a new toy to be donated to a local charity. To register, please visit www.eventbrite.com.

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.

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate Releases Fall Green Report

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is excited to release their Fall Green Report for their third quarter market report tables. Greenleaf employs a full-time market analyst who tracks the market using a variety of tools and resources on a daily basis. In addition to utilizing information available on the subscription sites Costar, CCIM’s Site to do Business, and MRCIE, Greenleaf maintains multiple inhouse databases using Realnex. The Realnex databases allow Greenleaf to track occupancy in over 10,000 properties in the Lincoln greater statistical area.

The Greenleaf Market Report is a semi-annual market report that includes trends in vacancy rates, absorption rates, asking rents, building permits, and notable transactions.

The comprehensive, real-time information they maintain in Realnex sets Greenleaf Commercial apart in terms of local market expertise. In addition to producing the Market Report, the Realnex databases allow their agents to have the most accurate and upto-date market data when working with clients.

The reports are free and open to the public to download through the featured QR code.

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.

Lila Mae’s Southern Kitchen & Lounge Now Open for Lunch

Lila Mae’s Southern Kitchen & Lounge has extended their dining room hours to now include lunch. The restaurant will be open from noon to 10 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Lila Mae’s boasts weekly specials such as $0.75 Wing Wednesday, $5 starters on Tuesdays, and interchanging main course specials every week.

“Lila Mae’s is here to satisfy your craving for authentic southern dishes, as well as the cozy and welcoming environment that it’s served in. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for more information; we can’t wait to see you,” said Owner Tramesha Cruse.

Lila Mae’s Southern Kitchen & Lounge brings authentic Nashville Hot Chicken and other southern fare to Lincoln! Enjoy soul and comfort food like shrimp and grits, smothered pork chops, greens, peach cobbler, and many other favorites. At Lila Mae’s, they believe that food, family, and friends are the sugar in their tea, and they want to bring that same down-home feeling to their guests. They are located at 2110 Winthrop Rd. To learn more about Lila Mae’s, contact Tramesha at (531) 5100890 or visit www.LilaMaesSouthernKitchen.com.

Lied Center Announces Corporate Season Ticket Partnership

Imagine being able to offer your employees the great perk of discounted tickets to worldclass performing arts events! The Lied Center for Performing Arts’ Corporate Subscriber Ticketing Program is a free opportunity the Lied Center provides to employers in exchange for promoting the discounted tickets to employees. The program provides employees access to all the benefits of being a Lied Center season subscriber, all without purchasing a single ticket!

When your business or organization joins the Corporate Subscriber Program, your employees will receive:

1. 20% off tickets to any production of the 2022-23 season.

• Note: Some shows at the Lied Center are “rentals,” and not an official part of the season. These shows will not be eligible for discounting.

• Also, there will be no additional discounts on Hamilton and The Book of Mormon tickets, but you receive early access and lower ticket prices than General Public ticket prices.

2. Reduced ticketing fees on any production in the 2022-23 season.

3. No restrictions on number of tickets purchased to receive the discount.

• Outside of this corporate program, a customer would normally have to purchase tickets to eight shows to be eligible for this discount!

The Lied Center will also provide graphic design explaining the usage and benefits of the program for distribution to eligible employees. In exchange, businesses simply agree to promote the opportunity to employees!

For more information on the Lied Center’s Corporate Subscriber Program, contact Michael Bomberger at mbomberger3@unl.edu or (402) 472-4734.

Nebraska Christmas Lights Show to Dazzle Haymarket Park November 26 - January 3

Are you looking for some holiday fun right in the heart of downtown Lincoln?

Nebraska Christmas Lights Show will brighten any night at Haymarket Park. The vibrant show will run from November 26 to January 3, from 5 p.m. to midnight daily. The show features countless high-quality lights in vivid colors, holiday props, and favorite characters of the season. All lights and effects are synchronized to music you can enjoy from the comfort of your own cozy car. The show lasts 20 minutes and is about a mile long.

Tickets start at $40 per car, but patrons can purchase a VIP Access ticket for $99 per car. The VIP Access ticket includes free hot chocolate, free cookies, a picture with Santa, a toy bag, and you don’t have to wait in line! A vehicle pass is redeemable for one carload of up to 12 passengers. Vehicles accommodating more than 12 passengers will have to purchase more than one ticket. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door, but buying tickets in advance will guarantee you will be able to view the show.

Nebraska Christmas Light Show began in 2021 by Constantine Syniy, owner of All-Pro Heating and Air Conditioning. To purchase tickets or learn more, go to nebraskachristmaslightsshow.com.

LIBA’s December Luncheon to Feature Governor-Elect Jim Pillen as Speaker

The Lincoln Independent Business Association’s (LIBA) monthly member luncheon on Tuesday, December 20 will feature Governor-elect Jim Pillen as the guest speaker. The luncheon is held in the Jasmine Room at the Grand Manse, 129 N 10th St., from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Non-member guests are welcome to attend the luncheon as well. The cost is $20 if you plan to eat. Food is catered by Venue Restaurant & Lounge. Seats are limited so attendees are asked to contact the LIBA to receive a link to reserve a spot ahead of time. This month’s luncheon is sponsored by Branched Oak Observatory, an astronomy park located just southeast of the Branched Oak Recreation Area 20 miles outside of Lincoln. The park is continually growing into a major astronomy education facility.

The Lincoln Independent Business Association is always invested in providing development and educational opportunities to their members with front-row access to leaders and decision makers in the Lincoln business community. Among their many mission-driven efforts, LIBA strives to support political candidates who understand and promote the free enterprise system. Learn more about becoming a member and other upcoming events at liba.org or call the office, now located at 3601 Calvert St., at (402) 466-3419.

Skin Experts Brings Fresh Spa and Skincare Services to Lincoln with New Location

Skin Experts opened a new location in Lincoln. You can find them at 4400 Lucile Dr., STE 101. With their other location in California, this is their first time adventuring over to the Midwest, and they couldn’t be more excited. They had their successful ribbon cutting and grand opening in November, getting to showcase their beautiful space to the community. They have specials going on all the time, so make sure you either stop by or follow their social media to never miss out. By the way, the spa is offering your very first facial FREE for all first-time customers.

Skin Experts believes that when it comes to skincare, they combine revolutionary technology from Europe & Asia with carefully curated ingredients that work synergistically to help skin look fuller, fresher and younger, creating results you can really see. If you would like to make an appointment or learn more, you can visit www.skinexperts.com, call (531) 500-5224, or follow them on Instagram, @skinexperts_spa.

Lincoln Airport Announces First NIL Deal with Husker Volleyball Player Ally Battenhorst

Lincoln Airport is excited to announce their first NIL deal with Husker Volleyball player Ally Battenhorst. NIL allows college athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness. The announcement comes after the Lincoln Airport signed a new sponsorship agreement with the Husker Athletics Department to become the official airport of the Huskers earlier this year. The agreement spans over six major sports at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln including football, volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, and softball. During this time the Lincoln Airport launched a new United Airlines flight to Houston, the first Texas route LNK has ever offered.

Ally is from the Houston area and has a great social media following which helps LNK promote the new nonstop flight. Ally’s friends and family have already taken advantage of the new route, and so have Lincolnites, with flight loads consistently being over 75% full.

“I can’t wait for my friends and family to easily join me in Lincoln for game day,” said Ally.

The Lincoln Airport, owned and operated by the Lincoln Airport Authority, is a calm, hassle-free travel spot for the people of Nebraska. LNK is the starting point for Nebraskans to get to international airports such as Chicago, Denver, and now Houston, and they pride themselves on making sure people start their travels on a good note. For more information about flights and services, visit lincolnairport.com or call (402) 458-2480.

Lincoln Young Professionals Group Commemorates 15 Years with Holiday Lunch

Lincoln Young Professionals Group (YPG) has been around for 15 exciting years, and they are hosting a lunch to celebrate! Members of the Lincoln Young Professional Group are invited to attend on December 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Villa Amore, 5353 N 27th St. This event is free to attend, guests will be responsible for paying for their own meal. You can register for this even at www. lincolnypg.com/events.

Lincoln prides itself on keeping its young professionals here by fostering a collaborative community enriched with a bolstering economy, connectivity, and endless opportunities. The Lincoln YPG believes members can make the difference they want to see, develop a career that is pleasing to them, and grow into the professional that they want to be.

Lincoln Young Professionals Group serves as a hub to engage young professionals in the community. Membership is just $35/ year for each individual and gains you access to member only events. For more information or a schedule of more upcoming events, visit lincolnypg.com or call Mia Wilken at (402) 436-2355.

Center Sphere Announces Network-Wide Ugly Sweater Social Event in December

Center Sphere is pleased to announce an upcoming networkwide Ugly Sweater Party on Thursday, December 8. This event is hosted by Murray Custom Homes and will be held from 5-7 p.m. at 11633 Pioneers Blvd. in Walton. Appetizers and beverages will be provided along with prizes for the winners of the ugly sweater contest. All Center Sphere members and their guests are invited to gather for this social hour.

Center Sphere hosts a wide array of networking events to help members expand their professional network and grow their businesses. Each month, the Lincoln area of Center Sphere hosts events such as Coffee & Connections, Social Hour, and Meet the Network.

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.

Lincoln Haymarket Brings Back Breakfast with Santa December 4

The Lincoln Haymarket Development Corporation is excited to bring back Breakfast with Santa on Sunday, December 4. The event will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. at The Courtyard Marriott, located on the corner of 8th and R Streets in the Historic Haymarket District.

A local favorite, Buzzard Billy’s, will be serving a delicious hot breakfast, with coffee by The Mill. Families will be able to enjoy Selfies with Santa as well as a coloring contest with a grand prize of a $50 Downtown Lincoln gift card. Kids, don’t forget to bring your letter to Santa to drop in his mailbox!

Tickets will be $12 for ages 5 years and up, while admission is free for children 4 years and under. You can purchase tickets for you, your family, and friends online at the Lincoln Haymarket website.

Also, don’t miss the Haymarket Unwrapped shopping event, Friday December 2 - Sunday, December 4. They will also have the Winter Market on O Street (under the bridge in the Haymarket) hosted by Wax Buffalo on Sunday, December 4 from 12 to 6 p.m. Visit www. Lincolnhaymarket.org for more details.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Provides Local Schools with Holiday Food Baskets

In 2005, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank discovered how desperately in need students and their families are to receive help putting food on their dinner tables over the holiday school break. Now, just in 2022, they are providing six local schools with 150 holiday food baskets. The employees at Lincoln Federal Savings Bank came together to form the LincolnFED Kids program to raise money to provide the most food insecure Lincoln Public Schools families with holiday food baskets. These baskets are comprised of a variety of fresh fruit, meats, vegetables, bread, cereals, and the proper fixings for a holiday meal, including dessert! The Bank and its employees promote this program throughout the year with several fundraising opportunities.

To date, the LincolnFED Kids program has provided 2,000 holiday food baskets. With this year’s donations they will have provided 2,150. The committee is chaired by Deb Roberts, commercial loan processor and Alyssa Rhoades, marketing coordinator. Additional members include Brian Bock, commercial loan officer; Samantha Grella, administrative assistant; Dianne Hoppes, VPadministration; Pam Schon, senior accounting clerk; Holli Johnson, IT engineer; and Heather Merrill, deposit services operations specialist. Holiday food baskets will be delivered to each of the following schools later this month: Clinton Elementary, McPhee Elementary, West Lincoln Elementary, Everett Elementary, Elliot Elementary, and Hartley Elementary.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank has five branch locations in Lincoln. The corporate office address is 8400 Maddox Dr. Additional branches are located in Omaha, Fremont, Blair, Holdrege, Hastings, North Platte, McCook, and Benkelman. Learn more at lincolnfed.com. Member FDIC.

Lutz Launches Outsourced HR Service

Lutz recently announced a new service offering, Outsourced HR. Services include on-demand HR support, compliance management, employee onboarding and exit assistance, benefits administration, communications strategy, employee relations assistance, and talent management. Additionally, the team can provide HR strategy coaching and consulting on a project basis.

Stephanie Hand, chief human resources officer at Lutz, said, “Businesses have a lot going on, and often, smaller teams end up feeling stuck with the overwhelming challenges of human resources. Whether you are looking to outsource some or all of your day-today HR duties, we aim to provide hands-on guidance and support to help you streamline your HR processes.”

Lutz’s Outsourced HR service offers a unique, personalized approach to employee management and compliance.

“At Lutz, we believe people are a key driver for success. The development of our Outsourced HR service offering will help clients with limited resources provide the necessary attention to their employees while freeing up time to focus on running their business. Coupled with our Lutz Talent search and staffing services, we are excited to see the positive impact this offering will have on businesses and their culture,” said Ron Nebbia, Lutz consulting shareholder.

Learn more about Lutz’s Outsourced HR offering here: www.lutz.us/ services/lutztalent/outsourced-hr.

Lutz is the business solutions firm for people seeking a partner to help energize and heighten financial and organizational success. They embrace your business as their own to spark the right solutions and help you thrive. Learn more at www.lutz.us.

The West Gate Bank Difference

For more than 50 years, West Gate Bank has been focused on providing personal service that customers expect from a family-owned community bank. What started as seven locations in Lincoln has grown to include four locations in Omaha with the recent opening of the newest branch at 177th & West Maple Road.

New Location Now Open on 177th & Maple!

West Gate Bank prides itself on providing outstanding customer service. As a full-service bank, they can offer the personal service you can only receive from a locally-owned community bank where the relationships matter.

West Gate Bank has opened their new location in Omaha at 17617 Manderson St. This is the fourth location in Omaha for West Gate Bank. The location opened in September.

The 7,000-square-foot branch began construction in April, 2021. The location includes a full-service retail branch and drive-thru with Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs), as well as commercial lending, mortgage lending, and business banking solutions.

Now with 11 locations in Lincoln and Omaha, West Gate Bank is committed to providing its customers with all the services a large bank can offer with the outstanding, personal customer service that only a community bank can provide.

With checking accounts for personal and business use, mortgage lending, business banking and commercial lending, West Gate Bank is committed to serving their customers’ needs. As a locally-owned business, West Gate Bank offers everything a national bank provides with a personal touch—a devotion to its community through direct communication and a willingness to help everyone. Whether it’s walk-in traffic or a phone call to the bank, West Gate Bank ensures every customer knows exactly with whom they’re working. Customers will always talk to a banker within their city who knows the marketplace and can better understand their needs.

West Gate Bank relies on over 50 years of experience to provide the personal and commercial banking amenities of a large company with the outstanding exclusive service of a small one. West Gate Bank is committed to building a strong foundation to serve their communities and empower customers and employees to achieve their dreams.

West Gate Bank is 100% invested in making your community better. Unlike many other banks, West Gate Bank reinvests your deposits back into the community which creates a ripple effect through the local economy.

West Gate Bank and its 220+ employees are proud to serve the Lincoln and Omaha communities in a variety of ways. Being a community bank means that giving back to the communities they serve is imbedded in their company values. West Gate Bank is represented on over 100 local non-profit boards, charities and other philanthropic activities. One of the mainstays in West Gate Bank’s commitment to community is as Presenting Sponsor of Give to Lincoln Day with the Lincoln Community Foundation. Through this sponsorship with Give to Lincoln Day, the match pool of funds that go to nonprofits has grown over time, making a greater impact on Lincoln.

West Gate Bank and its 220+ employees are proud to serve the Omaha and Lincoln communities in numerous ways that only a locally-owned bank can. WGB is represented on over 100 local non-profit boards, charities, and other philanthropic activities. Their commitment to leadership and giving back to the community has earned WGB a number of awards including the Federal Home Loan Bank Community Leader Award and the Better Business Bureau Integrity Award.

Focusing on delivering the personal service that West Gate Bank prides itself on, each location offers a full-service menu for personal and business accounts. At West Gate Bank, “Our Interest is You” is more than a slogan. They are committed to remaining family-owned and focused on serving the people of Nebraska. Their vision of servant leadership is based on a few, simple core values, including providing you with the best banking products and good, old-fashioned Nebraska customer service.

Community banking has been West Gate Bank’s focus for more than 50 years. At West Gate Bank, “Our Interest is You” is more than a tagline. They are committed to remaining family-owned and focused on serving the people of Nebraska.

Important Considerations for Open Enrollment 2023

Open Enrollment has begun! Here are some important items related to enrollment that you will want to consider as part of selecting your coverage for 2023.

Changes in the “Family Glitch” will give many people access to coverage through Healthcare.gov. The “Family Glitch” refers to a rule within the Affordable Care Act that determines when an employer plan is affordable. The old rule based the calculation on the cost of employee only coverage and did not consider what the cost was to insure a family. The result has been that many family members went without insurance coverage because they could not afford the premium. Beginning in 2023, the rule has been changed. Now we will be able to base the calculation on the cost for family coverage in an employer plan. It will likely mean that an employee will enroll in the employer plan and the rest of the family may be eligible to get a Premium Tax Credit to enroll in a plan through Healthcare.gov.

Bright Health is leaving the Nebraska market and will not be available in 2023. Those who have Bright Health in 2022 have been sent a letter from Healthcare.gov announcing that they have been assigned to a policy with a different company for 2023. We can update your application and work with you to make your own policy selection for next year. If you don’t do anything, your coverage will default to the policy and premium that has been preselected for you.

Make sure that your preferred doctors are in-network. As new companies have come to Nebraska, one of their biggest challenges is adding Nebraska doctors and hospitals to their networks of providers. The networks are not yet complete in some circumstances and some doctors choose not to participate in every network. It is extremely important to carefully research whether your preferred doctors are an in-network provider with each plan that you are considering. The agents at ComPro can assist you with this.

There will be 107 options in Lancaster County to consider for 2023. This is more than ever before. Our agents have invested time in reviewing these options so they can present to their clients the best ones available to meet their health and financial needs. They take what can be an overwhelming decision and make it simple and understandable. We place high value on educating our clients about their health insurance so they can make an informed decision.

Our ComPro Team is here to help you! Call (402) 488-5100 to make an appointment. This enrollment period continues through January 15, 2023. We look forward to helping you find the 2023 health plan that is just right for you. Located at 1040 N Cotner Blvd. in Lincoln. Visit our website at comproins.com.

The right fit, plus great benefits

MICHELLE STAR CITY SIX

Michelle

Cruise CRUISE & ASSOCIATES

Meet Michelle Cruise, the vice president of operations at Cruise & Associates.

Tell us a little about your business. - Cruise & Associates is an accounting firm in Lincoln and six other locations. We work with businesses and individuals to take care of their income tax and business and financial service needs. We work with our clients to create a personalized plan to meet their specific situations.

How did you get started in the business? - I married into it. Owning a business is not something that ever crossed my mind. I’ve always worked for someone else, and it only took me 22 years to finally give in and help my husband, Rob, with our business. Journalism and accounting are not closely related fields, especially for someone who is not very good at math. I was able to find a place in marketing and human relations within our company, and the best part is I don’t have to work with numbers.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?The biggest challenge as a business owner is making sure you can afford to pay the bills, your staff, and hopefully yourself. When I married Rob, the business was fairly new and money was often tight. At the time, I was working in public relations for a school district. There were many months where Rob didn’t take a paycheck, so he could pay all his staff. My check would often have to cover our personal expenses as well as some business expenses. By working through the tough times, we realized if you really want something to succeed you need to work hard and make sacrifices.

Tell us a little about your family. - Rob and I have two sons, Joel and Adam, and we have been married for 25 years.

Who inspires you? - My father. He showed me from an early age the importance of having a strong work ethic and to keep pursuing your dreams even if there are hurdles you must overcome. He helped me see with perseverance you can succeed.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - I would like to be able to fly like Superman, so I wouldn’t have to spend time driving to get somewhere.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am involved in a group that provides Christmas gifts for families in need. Most of the people we help are just asking for the everyday necessities such as socks, underwear, winter coats, and boots. In addition to helping coordinate the program, my family also adopts two boys around my children’s ages to help. I will never forget one year we were shopping, and the person we were helping wanted fun underwear (such as Cars, Thomas the Train). My youngest son was shocked that is all a five-year-old wanted for Christmas. I feel the idea that everyone may not be as fortunate as you and may just need a little help sometimes is a good lesson and a reminder of how fortunate we are compared to some.

What is your favorite movie? - The Breakfast Club

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Pittsburgh Steelers Linebacker T.J. Watt.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 466-1969; michellec@cruise-associates.com; www. cruise-associates.com.

Christie Anita

Sam Connor

Greta Shanahan

JOHN HENRY'S PLUMBING, HEATING, AND AIR CONDITIONING

Meet Greta Shanahan, the HR director at John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning. Tell us a little about your business. - At John Henry’s, we provide solutions to your plumbing, heating, and air problems in your home and/or business.

How did you get started in the business? - I was looking for a professional career change that better aligned with my long term goals and the balance that I needed for my family.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest challenge I had was completely changing my career and going from an area of work that I knew almost everything about, to a new field of work that I knew very little about. It was exciting, risky, and in the end has become the best professional decision of my life.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I have been asked to speak at several important events in the area with people whom I admire and respect as the audience. Nothing is more humbling and gratifying as that.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?One of the biggest turning points of my life happened when I read a book that shared the notion that you will only get as far in life as you allow others to hold you back from. It was that moment that a colleague of mine encouraged me to look outside the field of work I was so accustomed to in order to find something greater that I was capable of. I am so grateful that I was given that advice and listened.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love all things college football so if it is the fall season you can probably catch me watching College Game Day or something similar and making sure I have tailgate food in the oven or on the stove. I also enjoy reading and spending time with my family and friends.

Who inspires you? - My parents inspire me. They risked everything they had, literally, to start a small business. With hard work, dedication, and grit, they have turned an idea in a fruitful business. They are always supportive of me and make me believe that the impossible is possible.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - The best one that a mentor described me as would be "Constructively-Dissatisfied". It took me a moment, but as I thought about that, it became more and more fitting.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - I would love to read minds! Imagine what you could do with that!

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - When I initially went to college, I was going to school to become an attorney for doctors. If I had to pick something else, it would to go back to that path and see how that would have turned out.

What is your favorite movie? - I will always watch The Boondock Saints. I also love any action movie or suspense film.

What is your favorite TV show? - I love Schitt’s Creek and Friends.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - I would love to eat with Maya Angelou. I feel that being in her presence would make anyone a better person.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(402) 802-9420; gshanahan@jhlincoln.com; www.jhlincoln.com.

Meet Theresa Loughran, the senior attorney and mediator at McGill Law.

Tell us a little about your business. - I am passionate about collaborative family law. The parties should put together their own parenting plans and property settlements which allows them to control their futures and destinies without court involvement. I enjoy guiding them and facilitating the collaborative divorce process to enable them to “untie the knot” and not sever it.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve face professionally? - The biggest challenge is spreading the word in the community about collaborative law. Many attorneys are stuck in the traditional litigious mindset. I am engaged in the International Association of Collaborative Attorneys Leadership Academy and plan to do my best to educate others about this process.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I have a few: when I was chosen to participate in the IACP Leadership Academy, being in service to the public and legal profession for 30 years, and becoming a fellow of the Nebraska Bar Association. I also am the chair of the Nebraska Association of Collaborative Professionals Group, and I am an accomplished mediator in high conflict disputes.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am married to my husband Dan. We have four children—John (24), Ellie (22), Lucy (19), and TJ (14)—all born and raised in Omaha.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I like to spend time with my family and take my dog on walks. I also enjoy reading and visiting my daughters in college at KU and Creighton.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I’m pretty much an open book so people know most everything about me.

Who inspires you? - Eleanor Roosevelt and Rosa Parks because they were strong women who fought “the good fight.” Also, my deceased uncle Judge Murphy who used to tell me to “be kind to everyone, you never know the cross a person carries.”

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “In a gentle way, you can shake the world.”

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Wave my magic wand to bring peace.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - A veterinarian. I love animals and I feel a connection to them. I tell people that I was a dog in my former life. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any specific reasons why?Legal Aid of Nebraska. I believe in equal access to justice for all. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?The Great Work of Your Life by Stephen Cope.

What is your favorite movie? - Mamma Mia .

What is your favorite TV show? - Schitt's Creek .

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

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 548-5418; Theresa@McGilllawyers.com; mcgilllawyers.com.

MAUREEN

Maureen DeRyke DARING MINDS THERAPY

Meet Maureen DeRyke, PLMHP, PMSW, the owner of Daring Minds Therapy.

Tell us a little about your business. - We are a women-owned mental health private practice. We believe healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires honest caring without judgment, and we cooperatively assist clients in clarifying their goals for treatment.

How did you get started in the business? - I wanted to enhance human well-being and help meet basic and complex needs of all people, with a particular focus on those who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty which is the primary mission of the social work profession.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest challenge I’ve faced professionally is reminding myself of the power of saying no in order to not spread myself too thin in turn to maintain a healthy balance in both my professional and home life.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - My most important achievement professionally is that I have been allotted the opportunity to provide services within my community and have working relationships with local organizations to help advocate and improve mental health.

Tell us a little about your family. - In my little family it consists of my partner Mike, my son Creighton (16), and my daughter London (12). We also have two fur babies Gunther, a German Shepard, and Pearl, a French Bulldog.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?The biggest turning points in your life have been when my children were born and achieving my goal of being a social worker.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Watch football. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - My fear of frogs. Who inspires you? - My sister Andrea.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “It always seems impossible until it’s done” - Nelson Mandela

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Everyday” by Logic and Marshmello.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - To be able to time travel.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Photography.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I’m passionate about all nonprofit organizations whose goal is to help provide services to our most vulnerable populations.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I don’t really have a lot of time to read books but I love and regularly read research articles.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Bourbon Street.

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

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (531) 289-1005; Maureen.deryke@daringmindstherapy.com; daringmindstherapy.info.

STAR CITY SIX MELISSA

Melissa Haecker KRUEGER DEVELOPMENT

Meet Melissa Haecker, the controller at Krueger Development

Tell us a little about your business. - RC Krueger Development Inc is a locally family-owned development and management company. We are a source for commercial spaces, residential lots, and apartment housing in south Lincoln. At Krueger Development, we are committed to providing a great community for businesses and excellent lot options for future homes. We also manage the business associations for Yankee Hill Business Center, South Ridge Village, and The Woodland Business Center and also handle the accounting for Big Red Self Storage.

How did you get started in the business? - I have been in the business/ accounting business since I was young. My parents owned a family business, and I started working for them by doing simple office duties. While attending college and upon graduating I worked in public accounting. Additionally, I have worked as a corporate accountant for Nelnet and a mid-sized Radio group in the Midwest. In October of 2015, I joined RC Krueger Development.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - While working for the Radio group, the company went through a large sale of their complete station portfolio. This meant learning and researching several different areas of accounting. This challenged me in several ways but also helped to build my confidence in the profession.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband and I have been married for 21 years. He is employed with Haleon, formerly GSK, formerly Novartis. We have two sons and they are pursuing degrees in college. The oldest is at the University of North Dakota studying commercial aviation and the youngest is at the University of Nebraska-Omaha studying accounting and sales. We also have a 13 1/2 year old Yorkie that has become the center of attention now that the boys have moved out.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - There are several things I enjoy doing but traveling is probably my first preference. Branson, MO has become a vacation destination that our family enjoys. If we aren’t traveling, I enjoy visiting a local winery, relaxing at home, or taking a walk/hike and enjoying the great outdoors.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I enjoy fitness and I work out every day. This includes packing my running shoes even when we travel. When booking a place for us to stay, a fitness room is a must.

Who inspires you? - My parents. They owned a propane business together but they also held additional positions outside their business. My mom worked as a tax preparer for 40 years and my father drove a school bus, was the chairman of the village board, and served as a volunteer fireman. They instilled several virtues in me, especially hard work and dedication.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am passionate about the Lincoln Pregnancy Center. Having a place and a group of supporting and caring people for someone who is faced with an unexpected pregnancy is key. Knowing that they do not have to go through the pregnancy alone and fully understanding the magnitude of carrying the baby to term is heartfelt.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Tico’s. Their seasoned chips are an item I will splurge on.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 423-7377; mhaecker@kruegerdevelopment.com; www. kruegerdevelopment.com.

Tell us a little about your business. - PRG was created by my husband Ben Bleicher and myself in Lincoln in 2018. This year, we joined Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS) and expanded into the Omaha market. What sets our team apart in the real estate world is that we wholeheartedly assume the duty of a fiduciary for our clients—we're not just a salesperson. We're relentless in our efforts to get them the best possible deal, keeping in mind that a real estate purchase is usually one of the most expensive investments a person makes. Therefore, the process requires experience-backed guidance, support, and care. By partnering with BHHS, our team has access to a broader network of resources and agents from multiple brokerages and diverse backgrounds so we can better assist our clients with buying and selling residential, commercial, new construction, leasing, and investments.

Tell us a little about your family. - Ben and I have been married for five years. Our family consists of Ben’s son Vincent (19) and daughter Brynnlee (9), as well as a spoiled little dog named Lola and a cat named Henry who we all call Hunky and are completely obsessed with.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - A realtor having a full day off rarely happens, but when I do get some down time I always want to spend it with those I love. Ben and I are lucky enough to have a lot of family that lives in Omaha and Lincoln, and we really appreciate the time that we get to spend with them. In the summer (my favorite time of year), I am always excited that I get extra time with my bonus daughter, Brynnlee. We spend most of it visiting with family or at the pool at Firethorn in Lincoln with our friends.

What is your favorite hobby? - Definitely cooking. I am by no means a gourmet chef, but it is something that I really enjoy. For me, making good food is a great way to show my family how much I love them. Plus I find the process of cooking very zen.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am on the party planning committee for the Josh the Otter organization. Their mission is to educate children and adults worldwide about water safety through the utilization of drowning prevention campaigns and early childhood water safety training. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I don’t think that I can narrow it down to one book as I absolutely love to read and usually read about 20 books a year. However, my favorite author is Karin Slaughter as I love to read a good thriller. I also enjoy a good nonfiction book that can help me improve as a person or give me a new perspective. The two books that really changed my life are The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown and The Seven Decisions: Understanding the Keys to Personal Success by Andy Andrews. Both of these books really changed my perspectives on life. I reread them both every couple of years and always get something new out of them.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(402) 570-6265; Andrea.Bleicher@bhhsamb.com; www.prg-ne.com.

Meet Andrea Bleicher, REALTOR ® with Professional Realty Group (PRG) of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices.

Dr. Carolee Ritter of SCC Receives 2022 NCCA’s Outstanding Administrator Award

Southeast Community College’s (SCC) Dr. Carolee Ritter received the 2022 Nebraska Community College Association Outstanding Administrator Award on November 6 during the NCCA’s Annual Conference in Grand Island. Ritter has been at SCC since 1999 when she started as an English faculty member. She received the NCCA Outstanding Faculty Award in 2006 and has served as Dean of Arts & Sciences since 2014. Dr. Joel Michaelis, vice president of instruction, nominated Ritter for the Administrator Award.

The NCCA is comprised of five member schools: Central, MidPlains, Northeast, Southeast, and Western Nebraska. Each year the NCCA holds its annual meeting at one of the member schools and awards Faculty, Governor, Administrator, and Friend of the Year awards, along with a Distinguished Alumni Award.

Southeast Community College is committed to providing accessible, dynamic, and responsive education in more than 50 programs to a diverse variety of students. To learn more, go online to southeast.edu.

Pinnacle Trust Services Welcomes Knoell, Promotes Sheldrick and Martin

Pinnacle Trust Services of Pinnacle Bank recently welcomed Janae Knoell and promoted Jessica Sheldrick and Tony Martin.

Knoell is Pinnacle Trust Service’s new trust officer in Omaha. She provides portfolio management and monitoring services for trusts, estates, and more. Knoell graduated from the University of Nebraska Kearney. She has over 15 years of experience in trust services.

Sheldrick has been promoted to trust operations officer. She now manages the trust operations department staff and oversees administration of trust accounting functions. In addition, she leads development of trust policies and supervision of compliance. Sheldrick holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Nebraska Omaha. She has held many roles with Pinnacle Bank before moving on to Pinnacle Trust Services.

Martin was promoted to assistant trust officer for Pinnacle Trust Service’s Lincoln office. In his role, Martin is a liaison with product vendors as well as handling trades and balances on multiple platforms. Martin received his Bachelor of Science in business administration and accounting from Peru State College. He has been with Pinnacle Trust Services since 2017 and has over 33 years of experience.

Pinnacle Bank is a family-owned, Nebraska-based, $17.7 billion financial holding company. Pinnacle Trust Services provides personal trust services throughout Nebraska with personnel located in Omaha, Lincoln, Beatrice, and Columbus. For more information, visit pinnbank.com/ trust or call (402) 697-5973.

Janae Knoell

Jessica Sheldrick

Tony Martin

Caring Friends In Home Care Welcomes Loni Dahl as Site Coordinator for Lancaster County

Caring Friends In Home Care is excited to announce the addition of Loni Dahl as the site coordinator for Lancaster County. Loni brings with her almost 20 years’ experience as a caregiver, medication aide, and assisted living administrator. She then went on to become an operations manager for an in-home care company.

Loni says her passion and purpose has always been caring for others and it’s what gives her everyday life encouragement and meaning. Loni is a mom to three grown children and six amazing grandchildren. She states she feels very blessed to be returning to in-home care and is looking forward to serving you and your family with life lasting memories. You can reach out to Loni anytime at Caring Friends In Home Care at (402) 207-1050.

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.

Maven Tile & Stone Brings On New Design and Sales Assistant Amy Keys

Maven Tile & Stone would like to share their most recent addition to the team, Amy Keys. She will be the right hand of Lizett Nissenson, Maven’s president. Amy’s role as design and sales assistant will help facilitate keeping the showroom organized, merchandising, attending job site meeting, and much more.

Amy is a Lincoln native and attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and studied public relations and advertising as well as fashion merchandising with a minor in business. She also attended the University of Nebraska-Omaha for her bachelor’s in multidisciplinary studies. She has always had a strong love for architecture and textiles as well as building custom homes or renovations, making her the perfect addition to the group.

Maven Tile & Stone has the finest selection of tile and stone from respected manufacturers from all over the world. They pride themselves on giving you the tools, advice, and resources you need for your project. They are dedicated to creating the perfect vision, and offer several services to the Lincoln area. If you want more information, you can reach them by phone at (531) 249-5917, or check out their website maventileandstone.com.

Immanuel Grows Leadership Team, Welcomes Three

Immanuel, a regional leader in senior living, is pleased to announce additions to its leadership team. These new leaders will provide oversight across Immanuel’s ever-growing service area spanning a two-state area, including Omaha, Lincoln, Council Bluffs, and Des Moines.

Joseph Brown has been named vice president of sales and marketing. Brown is a Nebraska native with former executive leadership positions in banking, agriculture, nonprofit, and IT-managed services. He earned his degree at Hastings College in web communication design and has won seven international marketing awards. In his position, Brown will oversee all occupancy, branding, growth, and communications initiatives.

April Butterfield has joined the team as vice president of PACE® (Program of AllInclusive Care for the Elderly) operations.

Butterfield brings over 20 years of healthcare leadership experience within primary care operations, including oversight of the development and implementation of value-based models, RN Medicare Wellness model, Metabolic Services model, and an Ambulatory Revenue Cycle Department. She earned a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Bellevue University. Butterfield oversees all aspects of the Immanuel Pathways PACE® operations in this role.

Jamie Pearson has been selected as vice president of information technology. Pearson brings with him over 20 years of information technology leadership experience. He is a servant leader with broad technology experience, knowledge of modern industry trends, and the ability to guide how they affect organizational function in nearly every vertical. Pearson earned a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems from Bellevue University. In this role, Pearson will oversee enterprise architecture and develop applications, software, and systems administration for the Immanuel organization.

Since 1887, Immanuel has been providing Christ-centered service to seniors, each other and the community. Learn more at Immanuel.com.

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

Joseph Brown

Jamie Pearson

April Butterfield

Jura Michael Joins Waterford Wilderness Hills as Administrative Director

The Waterford Communities is excited to introduce Waterford Wilderness Hills Administrative Director Jura Michael. She has many gifts and abilities to connect and serve residents, their families, and the Wilderness Hills team.

Jura has had the privilege of working in the Nebraska healthcare community for 20 years. Throughout her career, Jura has been an advocate for elders while serving in senior living, home healthcare, and hospital systems. She has a passion for providing the absolute highest quality of care and dignity for the elderly, along with the most gratifying and fulfilling work experience for every team member. She currently holds an Assisted Living Administrators license and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner.

Jura has lived in Lincoln her whole life. When she is not working, she spends her time with family and friends. Jura has three daughters and a very active boxer named Charlie. She loves gatherings with friends, cooking, and relaxing outdoors.

Waterford Communities is excited to have a strong leader that will dedicate her time to the Wilderness Hills community. On your next visit to Wilderness Hills Memory Care stop in and say hi to Jura.

The Waterford Communities is made up of three communities that offer assisted living and memory care to seniors in Lincoln. For more information or to schedule a tour, please call (402) 423-0000, email home@thewaterford.net, or visit www.thewaterford.net.

McGill Law Welcomes Deziree Medina as Associate Attorney

McGill Law is excited to introduce Deziree Medina as their new associate attorney. Deziree joined the team in November at McGill’s Omaha office.

Deziree is an experienced family law, litigation, and juvenile law attorney and is committed to supporting, empowering, and advocating for families through her work. She is an asset to the team, and they are thrilled to have her!

Deziree has lived in Nebraska most of her life. She graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2013 with a B.A. in Psychology which provided her with an essential foundation for helping people through some of the most difficult times in their lives and sparking her interest in the legal field. Prior to graduating from the Nebraska College of Law with her Juris Doctor in 2016, Deziree was a senior-certified law student and participated in the law school’s Family Law Clinic, both of which gave her practical experience in handling real cases for real people. These opportunities solidified her desire to help families through the legal process.

McGill Law is a woman-owned and operated family law firm practicing collaborative law, collaborative mediation, mediation, and litigation. The firm’s focus is on their clients’ well-being and their family’s future successes. With McGill Law guiding you through your family law matter, you will have a compassionate, caring, experienced attorney taking you through the legal process with the goal of achieving a peaceful result for you and your family. To contact McGill Law, call (402) 548-5418 or email info@McGillLawyers.com. For more information, go to mcgilllawyers.com.

Strictly Business Adds Cemre Lively as New Executive Assistant/Director of Operations

Strictly Business would like to welcome Cemre Lively to the team as the new executive assistant/director of operations.

Cemre’s role will include a wide variety of responsibilities including client correspondence, account management, event planning, and networking. Her name is Turkish and is pronounced “Gem-ra” and yes, she’s heard every mispronunciation in the book but always takes it in stride!

Cemre grew up in a small town in Tennessee, and has since lived in Colorado for a few years before moving to Lincoln this past July with her husband and two pups in tow. So far, the Lincoln scene has become like home very quickly. She has had several years of experience in different fields, including office administration positions and human resources roles. She has found a place at Strictly Business where she can thrive in a busy environment, pursue more writing, and connect with the magazine’s amazing clients.

Please help Strictly Business welcome Cemre Lively! She can be reached at the office at (402) 466-3330 or by email at cemre@ strictlybusinessomaha.com. To view monthly articles and stories on Lincoln businesses and other local professionals, go online to strictly-business.com.

Farris Engineering Welcomes Daniel Chrisp as Electrical Engineer

Farris Engineering, Inc. welcomed Daniel Chrisp as an electrical engineer in October of this year to its Lincoln office. He brings close to 40 years of electrical experience, with 22 of those as a registered professional electrical engineer.

Dan is also an Existing Building Commissioning (EBCx) representative where he provides recommissioning and retro-commissioning services for existing facilities. This process fine-tunes and improves the facility’s operational efficiencies. Most of his focus throughout his career has been in the design and commissioning of healthcare facilities located throughout the Midwest.

“We are thrilled to have Dan on board and look forward to the perspective and outstanding service he has to offer our clients and partners,” said Farris Vice President and Lincoln Office Manager Matt Morrissey.

Outside of the office, you will find Dan in his yard, in the garage, or working on his house.

Since its beginning in 1967, Farris Engineering has been an industry leader in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering. With LEED AP+ staff, fire protection engineers, certified geothermal designers, lighting designers, and commissioning agents on staff, Farris is comfortable with the complicated and bring the experience and innovation to provide unique project-specific designs that allow their clients to not be constrained by convention and have the freedom to go beyond the standard. They look forward to tackling your projects head-on with this talented team of employee-owners as they “Bring your Buildings to Life.” For more information, go to farris-usa.com.

Sumner Place Welcomes Kaitlin Clegg as New Administrator

Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation, a member of Vetter Senior Living (VSL), is pleased to welcome Kaitlin Clegg to their team as administrator!

Kaitlin grew up in Grand Island with three older siblings and received her bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration in 2017 from Kaplan University. Growing up, Kaitlin volunteered in nursing facilities and then decided to become a CNA in high school. Before becoming an administrator, she worked as life enrichment coordinator and started her administrator training with Vetter Senior Living in May 2021. “I am extremely excited to get to know everyone at Sumner Place! Thank you for letting me serve you all,” shared Kaitlin.

Sumner Place prides themselves on providing resident-focused care, independence, and a home-like atmosphere. Their multidisciplinary team of professionals delivers superior clinical care with cutting-edge programs. All operating decisions are made locally to assure that Sumner Place remains responsive to the needs of their residents and the community.

Sumner Place is one of 32 facilities owned and/or managed by Vetter Senior Living (VSL) in Omaha. The care center’s administrator and staff develop plans to continuously improve their services and facility with the support from the VSL network. Learn more at sumnerplacecare.com or by calling (402) 475-6791.

Dave Anderson Named Managing Partner of KPMG’s Omaha and Lincoln Offices

Dave Anderson has been named office managing partner of KPMG LLP’s Omaha and Lincoln offices, effective October 1. Anderson succeeds Drew Blossom, who transitioned to a senior audit leadership role with KPMG.

Anderson will be responsible for the strategic direction and growth of KPMG’s Nebraska practice and the career development for nearly 150 partners and professionals.

“Dave brings more than 17 years of strong leadership and experience providing audit services for public and private clients in the consumer goods, energy, transportation, and business services industries,” said KPMG vice chair, growth and strategy, Lisa Daniels. “With his deep commitment to serving our clients and developing our people, I am confident he will be highly successful in his new role.”

Dave joined the firm in 2005 and was admitted to the partnership in 2018. He has served as the local partner in charge of recruiting since 2020 and as an audit quality support partner since 2018. In addition, he also completed a three-year rotation in KPMG’s Department of Professional Practice in New York City. Dave will continue to grow KPMG's presence in the market and advocate for a collaborative culture.

Outside of KPMG, Dave is actively involved in the local community. He serves as chairman of the board for Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska. He is also a past member of the Omaha Community Playhouse Board of Trustees, United Way of the Midlands Finance Committee, and Knights of Aksarben Foundation Floor Committee.

KPMG LLP is the U.S. firm of the KPMG global organization of independent professional services firms providing audit, tax, and advisory services. Learn more at www.kpmg.com/us.

Cathy Kottwitz, CPM

James McCombs

About UNICO

UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance broker headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska. Our consultative and relational approach develops customized solutions for clients all around the nation.

At UNICO, we are fueled by our core values: Professional, trust, team player and positive. By living our values and providing the best insurance products, service, and support to our clients, we strive to create lasting connections and partnerships.

Our Approach

We take pride in our expertise and know trust can’t be assumed. It has to be earned. And as we earn it, you’ll understand that what we value most are relationships. That includes you, your family, and your business; our employees; and the communities we serve. Our team strives to create connections that are personal, compassionate, and fun.

UNICO has been awarded some of the highest honors in the industry:

Core Values TRUST

PROFESSIONAL POSITIVE

TEAM PLAYER

Our Brands

Providing risk solutions specifically for the telecommunications industry.

unicogroup.com 402.434.7200

Where connections make a di erence.

CBMC Nebraska Hosts President’s Council Banquet

The Regional President’s Council dinner provided an exciting opportunity for CBMC members and spouses from the OmahaLincoln area to hear updates about the global ministry of CBMC. The theme was “One Ministry, One Mission, One Million.” CBMC is focused locally, nationally, and globally on one mission to build God’s kingdom one businessman at a time. According to the organizers, the event provided an opportunity for attendees to unite around a God-sized vision to reach one million men by 2030. The opportunity to invest financially was also presented.

Representatives from CBMC USA, CBMC International, CBMC Omaha, and CBMC Lincoln presented at the banquet. Presidents David Meyer, CBMC USA, and Jim Firnstahl with CBMC International, were featured speakers. CBMC USA and CBMC host teams from Lincoln and Omaha organized the event.

CBMC Lincoln is part of a global ministry that equips men in the marketplace to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually. CBMC offers Christian peer groups, one-on-one mentoring, Bible studies, leadership development, and events. To contribute financially or get information about CBMC Lincoln, call (402) 204-1997, connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne), or visit Lincoln.cbmc.com.

Fresh Start Shares Impact Your Donations Can Make

Now is the time when businesses reflect on the year and plan for year-end giving, so Fresh Start has broken down the impact that different financial donation amounts have on their organization and the women they serve:

• $10 provides a bus pass

• $30 provides a welcome basket for a woman

• $100 affords one night of shelter and support services

• $300 supports one week of groceries and supplies for the entire shelter

Fresh Start is also reminding members of the community to take advantage of ways to increase donation impact at no extra cost. These include utilizing employer matching gift programs or doing holiday shopping through initiatives that make charitable donations to Fresh Start, such as AmazonSmile or TAGG.

Fresh Start is a residential housing and goals program for women experiencing homelessness. Women identify strengths and actively work on goals to overcome barriers to economic stability. Fresh Start offers safe housing, skill development, and supportive services. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit freshstarthome.org or call (402) 475-7777. Questions can be directed to Monica Zinke at (402) 432-3360 or monicaz@freshstarthome.org.

YMCA of Lincoln launches YMCA360 Virtual Fitness Program for All Ages

The YMCA of Lincoln is taking a leap into virtual fitness with their new platform, YMCA360. This new ondemand and livestreaming service brings the Y experience seamlessly to mobile devices, televisions, streaming devices, and the web, and is included with every Lincoln YMCA membership.

With YMCA360, pursuing a healthier lifestyle is possible anytime, anywhere. Members will be able to view and participate in hundreds of group exercise classes, youth sports training, well-being classes, cooking classes, and much more – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!

“YMCA360 is a new investment that our Y is making to ensure our members have access to the best YMCA program offerings no matter where they are,” shared Barb Bettin, president & president and CEO of the YMCA of Lincoln. “We are connecting our people, places, and programs in a whole new way and giving our members the freedom to customize their health and fitness journey at our state-of-the-art facilities as well as their own living rooms.”

YMCA360 is available free to the community through December 31, at which point it will switch to a members-only benefit. To learn more about YMCA360, visit ymcalincoln.org/ymca360.

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 about the Lincoln YMCA, visit ymcalincoln.org.

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach Encourages Donation Drives for Necessary Winter Items

Winter weather and frigid temperatures are quickly approaching. Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach serves as a safe refuge where the working poor and individuals experiencing homelessness can receive meals, take showers, do laundry, and pick up mail.

For those experiencing unsheltered homelessness, the freezing weather brings a high risk of developing life threatening conditions such as frostbite and hypothermia. Matt Talbot is preparing for the cold days and nights ahead by asking for donations of hand and foot warmers, tents, blankets, sleeping bags, and large or extra-large men’s winter gloves and hats.

In addition to working with individuals who come to Matt Talbot, the outreach team also seeks out those experiencing homelessness by walking the downtown streets and hiking to undeveloped land in Lincoln to reach out to individuals who are camping. Sometimes the outreach is as simple as offering a caring smile and some warm winter gloves. Other times the outreach might involve helping a person receive crisis support or medical care. The goal is to meet immediate needs when possible, build trust, and increase the chances that eventually people will be receptive to receiving services that can help move them off the street and into safe shelter.

If you are interested in holding a drive at your business or school to collect needed items, please contact Lori Wellman, director of development, at (402) 817-0621 for more information. Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. or by appointment. Learn more at mtko.org.

SCIP Opens Sponsorships for “Hop, SCIP, Jump and Run” Event

School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP) is currently seeking sponsors and booth holders for its annual fundraiser, “Hop, SCIP, Jump and RUN”. The 2023 event will take place on June 2 at Antelope Park. Proceeds will benefit SCIP.

The event will include lawn games, live music, and booths offering a variety of activities for both children and adults. New this year is a social media photo booth to preserve memories of the event. Children and adults of all ages can register to participate in a one-mile fun run, with prizes for the top three finishers. All attendees will be eligible for other prize drawings by visiting a minimum number of booths. Sponsorships available for the event include Finish Line, Hydration Station, Half Mile Marker, and Booth Holder. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Duncan at (402) 327-6843.

SCIP is a program designed to bring together families, schools and the community to support student behavioral and emotional health. SCIP’s mission is to provide an effective prevention and early intervention process for youth with behavioral health concerns, so they may achieve healthy, productive lives.

School Community Intervention & Prevention is supported in part by a grant under the SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Treatment and the Nebraska Division of Behavioral Health, and monies passed through by Regions 4, 5, and 6 to prevention providers. For more information, go to www.scipnebraska.com or call (402) 327-6843.

1 Mile Fun Run

Community Action to Match Gathering Place Soup Kitchen Donations Through Year-End

Every year, Community Action’s Gathering Place Soup Kitchen serves over 30,000 hot evening meals to anyone in need. This year, thanks to the support of several generous organizations, all monetary donations received for the Gathering Place will be matched $1 for $1 through December 31.

This match is made possible thanks to the generosity of several campaign sponsors, including legacy sponsor, Acklie Charitable Foundation, as well as Union Bank and Trust, Bukaty Companies, Inspro Insurance, Rohn and Beth Loyd, Connie Maguire, and James Stuart III Family Foundation. This year’s goal is to raise $200,000 to support the work of the Gathering Place throughout the next year.

“The need for meals right now is greater than ever. We are currently on track to serve nearly 40% more meals this year compared to last,” said Lisa Janssen, Community Action’s Gathering Place administrator. “We’re so grateful to our match sponsors for providing the opportunity for community members to give and double their impact through December 31. The only way we can continue to offer meals to our neighbors is with community support.”

Anyone is welcome to get a free, nutritious meal at Community Action's Gathering Place from 5 to 6 p.m. daily. Community support generated through this campaign makes that work possible. To give, visit www. communityactionatwork.org or mail contributions to Community Action’s Gathering Place at 210 O St. in Lincoln.

RISE Academy to Host Women’s Wellness Coffee Hour on December 17

RISE Academy is delighted to announce that they will be holding their Women’s Wellness Coffee Hour on Saturday, December 17 from 11 a.m. to noon. The coffee hour will be held at The Mill on 330 S 21st St. in Lincoln. The Women’s Wellness Coffee Hour is a support-based coffee hour for women impacted by incarceration. This coffee hour is open to all women including RISE Graduates and community members, with their own personal lived experience or have a spouse or loved one incarcerated. RISE hosts this coffee hour every third Saturday at the same location. If you have any questions regarding this event please contact Alana Alexander at (402) 619-7680 or email her at aalexander@seeusrise.org.

RISE Academy is the largest nonprofit in Nebraska focused on rehabilitative programming in prisons and reentry support. At RISE, transformation starts pre-release, continuing post-release. With an inside/out model bridging incarceration to the community, RISE has served 590 incarcerated individuals, returning citizens, and families impacted by the criminal justice system. RISE’s mission is to break generational cycles of incarceration with tough love, witness, entrepreneurial mindset, grit, and rebuilding. For more information, visit seeurise.org.

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People’s City Mission to Host Holiday Toy Giveaway in December

People’s City Mission is getting a head start on holiday cheer with their annual Toy Drive. On December 12 and 13, families will be able to shop for free for presents and toys. The Santa’s Workshop event will take place on December 15, giving families another opportunity to search for presents free of cost. All of the toys are donated by individuals, businesses, and organizations from around the Lincoln area, and gift wrapping will also be provided.

Anyone who would like to donate a new toy for the annual Toy Drive can drop them off at the Mission at 110 Q St. or at the Help Center at 6800 P St. All donations need to be received by December 9 to be included in the giveaways.

People’s City Mission was started in 1907 by local churches, offering food and shelter for transient and impoverished men, women, and children. Today, the People’s City Mission is Lincoln’s primary homeless shelter housing 350 people on an average day. They greatly appreciate your continued support of Lincoln’s most vulnerable. For more information, please call (402) 475-1303 or visit pcmlincoln.org.

Dancing Within the Star City Benefit Raises Over $100K for JCMF

The 2022 Dancing Within the Star City Benefit for the Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation (JCMF), inaugurally held on November 12, was definitely an event to remember. The idea that started out as a dinner with friends turned into one of the largest fundraisers for the JCMF to date, raising over $100,000.

DANCING FOR A CAUSE

JCMF would like to thank the following benefit judges for their participation: Rod Fowler (KLKN-TV Anchor), Paige Zutavern ( Strictly Business ), Natalie Pieper (Miss NE USA), Erika Etzelmiller (Miss NE USA 2021), and Jack Riggins (KLIN Radio Host).

WHEN November 12, 2022

VIP Reception 5:30PM Cocktail Hour 6:15PM Program Starts 7:15PM

In addition, JCMF thanks the evening’s eight celebrity couples. The winning dance couples were Mark and Senator Suzanne Geist (Judge’s Champion), Tim and Amy Clare (Fan Favorite Champion), and Jason and Jamie Peters (Fundraising Champion). Greg Dorff and Heather Callam, Scott and Ali Ritter, Dr. Matt and Amberly Byington, and Fred and Carol Hoiberg gave wonderful performances as well. A special thank you also goes to following dance studios: Chase of the Spirit of Dance, Elements Dance Concept, Hart Dance Academy, White Wave Studios, Al & Roberta Doeden, and Nebraska Ballroom Dance. The couples and volunteer dance instructors contributed hours to make this event a success.

After Kathy and Blake Collingsworth lost their son Joshua 14 years ago, they founded Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation to ensure everyone receives the education and awareness to be safe in and around water. Education is provided through Josh The Otter books, Float 4 Life infant and toddler water training, and Lifejacket Loaner Stations. In 2022, JCMF partnered with the Autism Family Network to provide Float 4 Life lessons for autistic children. Through collaborations like this and community support, JCMF will continue to save lives and prevent childhood drownings in Nebraska and around the world. For more information, visit www.joshtheotter.org.

NAM Presents Girls Inc. with the Catalyst Award at Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands

The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) presented Girls Inc. with its Catalyst Award on November 10, at the organization’s 16th annual Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands. The Catalyst Award recognizes an organization that has made an impact in the nonprofit community.

Girls Inc. was selected for effectively, intentionally, and authentically creating an inclusive culture across its programs, clients, staff, and operations. Girls Inc.’s standard of how nonprofits should operate sets an example for the entire Omaha community and aligns perfectly with the Summit’s theme of “Moments to Movements.” The past two years have proven that nonprofits know how to respond quickly to the issues of the moment and do what needs to be done to help the people and communities they serve to survive and thrive.

This year’s Summit connected 350 nonprofit executives, employees, board members, and volunteers from Nebraska and Iowa.

Girls Inc. provides programs and experiences that inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold to create a vision for a bright, healthy future. It operates two centers in north Omaha and south Omaha and serves hundreds of girls every day through education programs and services including transportation, counseling, and healthy meals and snacks.

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofits to enrich the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. For more information, visit nonprofitam.org or call (402) 557-5800.

Christian Record Services Releases Mobile App for Member Resources

Emerging technology has been a part of Christian Record Services since its start in 1899, from a braille press to producing recordings on vinyl records, to cassette tapes, digital cartridges, and mp3 files. With smartphones being so prevalent, and an essential tool for many people who are blind, it’s only natural the organization would develop an app as a new way to share uplifting content. The Liberty Link app by Softlink International can be found on Google Play and Apple. Christian Record Services members can listen to audio books, download DAISY and BRF files (proprietary formats for audio and braille), request books from the library to be sent in the mail, read large print books online, and have audio programs pushed to their email accounts.

Currently, more than 650 audio books are available through the app, with more than 75 members accessing the library features, including the ability to request more than 1,500 titles available through the library. Christian Record Services has worked with Softlink, the parent company of Liberty Link, to develop key features which improve accessibility, and anticipates the usage of the app will continue to increase.

Each year, Christian Record Services impacts thousands of lives through services provided to them without cost. All people who are legally blind or have physical impairment that prevents them from holding reading material or focusing on ink print are eligible for free services. For more information, please visit christianrecord.org/member-services.

Carole Fest to Benefit Catholic Social Services’ St.

Gianna Women’s Homes on December 18

Carole Fest, a concert for the benefit of Catholic Social Services' St. Gianna Women’s Homes, will take place on Sunday, December 18 at 3 p.m. at St. John the Apostle Church. Come and enjoy performances by area choirs or enjoy the concert live online at csshope.org. There is no cost to attend, but you may support the important work of St. Gianna Women’s Homes with your donation at the concert or online.

St. Gianna Women’s Homes, a program of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, assists victims of domestic violence and those escaping abortion. Though it serves women of all faiths, St. Gianna Women’s Homes will not make any recommendations or referrals contrary to the Catholic faith and is staffed by the Marian Sisters. In addition to housing, Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska provides education, employment, and counseling services for families left homeless because of domestic violence.

Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all people regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their mission is to perform the Works of Mercy in response to the call of God. The goal of serving people is to serve them with dignity, to love people as best they can, and to meet their needs to the fullest. Connect, donate, or volunteer at csshope.org.

Vision Maker Media to Add Holiday Short Films to Film Selection

Vision Maker Media (VMM) is excited to carry a selection of film titles for purchase or rent that are available for home entertainment and educators in the classroom. Purchasing or renting one of these films sends a good portion of the purchase price to Native filmmakers who made the films. New titles are added regularly. Sign-up for the newsletter to get any offered monthly discounts or suggested titles for viewing. To check and view more than 70 titles, go to visionmakermedia.org/shop.

Check out VMM’s YouTube Channel for two special short film animations: A Native American Night Before Christmas and The Twelve Days of Native Christmas. These two stories playfully adapt and transpose the traditional Christmas tale and song into a fun and entertaining Native version. Go to visionmakermedia.org/ christmas2022 through December 31 to stream these two enduring holiday favorites for free.

Vision Maker Media is the premier source of public media by and about Native Americans since 1976. Their mission is empowering and engaging Native people to share stories. They envision a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. They work with VMM funded producers to develop, produce, and distribute programs for all public media. VMM supports training to increase the number of Native Americans and Alaska Natives producing public broadcasting programs. A key strategy for this work is in partnerships with Tribal nations and Native organizations and communities. Learn more at visionmakermedia.org.

Leadership Harbor

Join us for Santa Saturdays at West Gate Bank

Visit Santa at West Gate Bank Center (6003 Old Cheney) from 9am-11:30am on these Saturdays in December: Saturday, December 10 Saturday, December 17

This event is free. We are accepting gift donations for the People’s City Mission. Please feel free to bring your camera to get pictures. westgate.bank | 402.434.3456

E H O P E Y O U ' R E F I L L E D W I T H

A R M T H , H A P P I N E S S , A N D N E W G O A L S T H I S H O L I D A Y S E A S O N

H A P P Y H O L I D A Y S A N D

C H E E R S T O T H E N E W Y E A R !

W W W L E A D E R S H I P H A R B O R C O M

NHDA to Offer FirstDown Payment Assistance Program

Nebraska Housing Development Association (NHDA) now offers FirstDown, a down payment assistance program to low income families who are prevented from buying homes due to a lack of savings for a down payment and closing costs. For those earning below 80% of Area Median Income, saving for a down payment is often an insurmountable challenge. The down payment assistance program helps those families who can afford the monthly cost of a mortgage payment, but need help to close on their home purchase. The program can provide up to $5,000 in assistance, after associated fees, and is focused on applicants with special needs, military veterans, large unit (3+ bedrooms) and those located within areas of central Lincoln identified as Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Areas.

NHDA offers a wide range of services, including coordinating statewide renter and homebuyer education programs, providing homebuyer and homeowner assistance programs, and advocating for policies that support the development and maintenance of affordable housing. Their members include nonprofit and forprofit developers, nonprofits that provide housing services, housing authorities, government agencies, economic development organizations, and many others.

Established in 1996, the Nebraska Housing Developers Association has a membership base of more than 70 organizations working to strengthen the state’s economic vitality by making safe, affordable housing available to all Nebraskans. For more information on FirstDown Down Payment Assistance Program or NHDA, please visit housingdevelopers.org or contact Amber Marker, amber@ housingdevelopers.org / 402-435-0315 ext. 2.

Tabitha Supporters Raise Over $225,000 at Annual “Signature Event” Fundraiser

Tabitha invited supporters to gather at the Country Club of Lincoln for the nonprofit’s annual major fundraiser, “The Signature Event.”

The theme of the evening was “Leave Your Signature for Seniors” and guests did just that. Tabitha stories were shared with event goers, featuring Tabitha clients and difference-makers who have deeply impacted Tabitha’s ability to fund and fill community needs. Donors raised their bid cards to generously give over $225,000 and leave their signature on the initiatives that support the well-being of older adults.

The evening’s featured guest was Nebraska native and retired NASA Astronaut Clayton Anderson, who spent more than 40 cumulative hours on space walks at the International Space Station. Anderson emphasized the benefit that home health care and hospice services have provided for loved ones in his life, and how these experiences have influenced him to make a difference.

Another special guest, Former Nebraska Attorney General Allen Beermann, was also on hand to recognize Anderson and Tabitha’s President and CEO Christie Hinrichs with a special thank you for their contributions to the community.

As the state’s quality award-winning senior care expert, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Supporting families since 1886 across Nebraska, Tabitha offers a range of services, from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible athome home health care, innovative living communities, resourceful serious illness support, and compassionate hospice services. Tabitha is Your Answer for Senior Care; learn more at Tabitha.org.

Goodwill and Gateway Mall to Host Holiday Events in December

The holidays are here, and Goodwill is celebrating with free community events at Gateway Mall!

On Sunday, December 4 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and Saturday, December 17 from 3 to 5 p.m., Goodwill is hosting Letters to Santa workshops. Attendees just need to bring themselves and their wishes – Goodwill will supply cards, paper, markers, ribbons, and more. This workshop is made possible by Goodwill’s Bits and Pieces section in their stores that meet all crafting needs.

On Monday, December 12 from 5 to 7 p.m., Goodwill is joining Gateway Mall’s Clause & Paws event. Dogs are invited to take a photo with Santa, and owners are invited to create an environmentally friendly toy using secondhand textiles from Goodwill. All events are located in the common area behind Scooter’s at Gateway Mall.

For 90 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been strengthening the Lincoln community by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents an outlet for recycling unused household items and clothing. The sale of donated items in Goodwill’s retail stores remains the largest source of funding for its programs and services. It is with this understanding that Goodwill provides funding to colleague agencies to help with their own programs that align with Goodwill’s mission of willing workers employed and community resources maximized. To learn more about Goodwill and these events, follow them on Facebook (@LincolnGoodwill) or visit www.lincolngoodwill.org.

Voices of Hope to Collect Winter Coats and Holiday Gifts for Families in Need

Voices of Hope is preparing for winter by providing many resources for those in need, but they need your help. This winter, consider donating coats of all sizes or gift cards to families needing warm clothing. Voices of Hope will also be holding an “Adopt a Family” program starting December 9, where you can purchase and donate Christmas gifts for a family in need. Forms are available at the Voices of Hope office in Lincoln for those interested in adopting a family this holiday season.

In addition, those needing support can access the Voices of Hope Crisis Line throughout the holidays. There will always be access to help, no matter the time of year.

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. Anyone wanting additional information or ways to support Voices of Hope can contact Resource Development Coordinator Yaquelin Lizarraga at yaquelin@voicesofhopelincoln.org. Learn more at voicesofhopelincoln.org.

Matt Talbot to Provide Special Meals and Assistance for the Holidays

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach will keep its regular meal schedule through the holidays with volunteers serving special fully prepared meals for lunch from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. and dinner from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Guests can choose to “dine in” or take their meal “to-go”. All are welcome.

Plans are underway for the annual Holiday Fiesta Celebration which will be held during lunch in December with a traditional Mexican feast donated by La Paz Mexican Restaurant and served by members ofthe board of directors. Additionally, the Department of Natural Resources will be sponsoring cookie decorating!

Community members have worked with staff to provide assistance during the holidays for individuals and families in Matt Talbot’s housing programs which use evidence based and compassionate service delivery models that include case management and assistance with finding quality affordable housing. Clients have received assistance with basic needs, transportation, furniture, clothing, and Christmas presents for their children.

Donations of gift cards in any amount to local grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, Walmart, or Target are needed for housing clients. Cards can be mailed to Matt Talbot or dropped off between 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please contact Director of Development Lori Wellman at (402) 817-0621 with questions or for more information.

Learn more about Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach at mtko.org.

The Bridge Behavioral Health Announces

Updated Vision, Mission, and Core Values

Nearly 40 years after its inception, The Bridge Behavioral Health has updated its vision, mission statement, and core values developed by staff and the Board of Directors.

The Bridge envisions a future where recovery is possible, free from judgement, stigma, and fear. Their new mission states that The Bridge will provide hope and a strong foundation for recovery through substance use treatment and behavioral health intervention. The agency’s core values are:

Dignity — Treat all with heartfelt compassion, grace, and respect, especially in the face of adversity.

Excellence — Provide the highest standard of care through evidencebased practices, individualized approaches, integrity, and honesty.

Collaboration — Build purposeful relationships grounded in cooperation and a shared vision.

Inclusion — Inspire all to feel valued and important in their journey, regardless of circumstances.

The Bridge serves people struggling with substance use and mental health disorders. Their programs include detoxification and medically monitored withdrawal, substance use and mental health respite, residential treatment, and outpatient services. Learn more at thebridgenebraska.org or contact Taylor Brethouwer at tbrethouwer@thebridgenebraska.org.

CenterPointe Seeks Donations to Further Mission in 50th Year

As 2022 comes to an end, CenterPointe is seeking donations to further their mission of helping people get better, sooner, for longer. 2023 will mark CenterPointe’s 50th year providing services in Nebraska.

This year, CenterPointe has served 4,418 people, housed 472, and received 2,779 calls on their crisis hotline. The call for more mental health, substance use, and primary care services has never been greater and CenterPointe has answered that call.

Your financial contribution helps fund over 40 programs in the key areas of: rehabilitation, housing, crisis response, and treatment. Most of those served experience severe and persistent mental illness, addiction, and health issues, and nearly all are low or no income. Please join Centerpointe in helping create new beginnings for their individuals in service.

CenterPointe is grounded by the solid belief that every person has the ability to recover. CenterPointe makes pivotal treatment available for people suffering from mental health and substance use disorders. Meeting people where they are and supporting them to gain control of their lives is what they aim to do. By treating the whole person, mental health and addiction can be addressed together in real time. To learn more about CenterPointe or make a financial contribution, visit centerpointe.org.

NESC to Host Booth at Gateway Mall Every First Friday of the Month in 2023

The Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) has been invited to participate as a vendor at Gateway Mall, located at 6100 O St. in Lincoln on the first Friday of each month during 2023. The NESC team plans to offer complimentary blood pressure checks at the booth. Each month, they will highlight a specific area of focus and have educational resources available. Examples of resources include impairment goggles to simulate the effects of alcohol consumption, a First Aid Kit, CPR display mannequin with an AED device, Stop the Bleed Kit, Respiratory Protection Fit Testing, and more. They will be available to help answer any questions about upcoming training, events, membership benefits, and more.

The NESC team will be available between 9 a.m. to noon on January 6 (Feature of the month: Driver Education), February 3 (Feature of the month: Wellness Services), and March 3 (Feature of the month: Workplace Safety).

The Mission of the Nebraska Safety Council is to provide education and leadership to empower Nebraskans to live safe and healthy. They offer comprehensive programs, training courses, events, and services that are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel, and on the job. To learn more or to sign up for a membership today, visit nesafetycouncil. org, call (402) 483-2511, or email nesc@nesafetycouncil.org.

Smart Chicken Announced as New Partner at the Lincoln Children’s Museum

The Lincoln Children’s Museum has enhanced an on-going partnership with Smart Chicken by offering their product at Kazoo’s U-Stop Café.

Smart Chicken has been a Lincoln Children’s Museum sponsor for the past five years. The museum’s Director of Development Ken Dobbs said, “We strive to be a good partner to those who support the museum’s mission. Unique opportunities like this provide value for our sponsor and guests alike, so it’s a win-win.”

Lincoln Children’s Museum visitors are used to “shopping” for Smart Chicken while playing in the HyVee grocery store. Offering Smart Chicken’s all-natural nuggets as a menu item to enjoy at the Café is a neat way for children to see a real-life application of something they noticed and learned about through play while at the museum.

Kazoo’s U-Stop Café offers a variety of food options including Valentino’s pizza, Smart Chicken nuggets, vegetarian options, and an assortment of chips, crackers, and drinks as well. The café is open Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Lincoln Children’s Museum invites children to create, discover, and learn through the power of play. The museum’s hands-on exhibits, day and summer camps, and learning programs provide countless opportunities for children to gain knowledge in arts, sciences, and humanities. Every visit, membership, donation, or in-museum purchase helps to support their mission. To learn more, visit www.lincolnchildrensmuseum.org.

Jayson proudly respresents these fine Lincoln neighborhoords. Contact Jayson today to find out more!

“I used Jayson to sell my home and the experience was excel lent. Even when the buyer’s agent messed up, Jayson got us back on track and closed on the property. His attention to detail and professional manner is appreciated. We are using his skill on our current new build.” - Robert

American Heart Association Finalizes Lincoln Heart Ball for February 4

The American Heart Association (AHA) has finalized the date for their 2023 Lincoln Heart Ball. The event will take place on Saturday, February 4 at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center. The event has appointed Dr. Keith Miller as chair and Monte Froehlich as co-chair.

Supporting the Lincoln Heart Ball can help make a lasting health impact not only in the Lincoln community, but also around the world. It aims to educate families in our community on the importance of living a healthy lifestyle, fight to ensure our communities have the highest quality of care, and find cures for heart disease and stroke. AHA does all of this so that more families can experience life’s best moments together.

AHA’s local donors, volunteers, and sponsors are united by a determination to ease the burden of cardiovascular diseases and stroke in Lincoln. Their goal is to provide meaningful experiences to recognize and engage such distinguished and generous support.

You can register to sponsor a table for this event or make a personal donation online at heart.org/lincolnheartball or by mail to 9900 Nicholas St, STE 200, Omaha, NE 68114. Checks can be made payable to the American Heart Association, Attn: Lincoln Heart Ball. Contact your local AHA staff by phone to make your donation by credit card or gifts of stock.

The American Heart Association is recognized as a worldwide leader in cardiovascular science. For more information visit www.heart.org or contact Ella Salem at (402) 875-7377 / ella.salem@heart.org.

HopeSpoke Seeks Donations to Serve Children and Families During the Holidays

The holidays are a busy time at HopeSpoke, and they could use your help to provide resources to the children and families that they serve.

Teenage boys living at HopeSpoke’s residential home often arrive with little clothing or possessions. Your donation would allow boys to pick out coats, boots, hats, and gloves for this winter.

“The kids who come to us don’t have coats, and some have never had a new coat,” said HopeSpoke’s Director of Crisis and Residential Services Pat Sailors.

Elementary school children in HopeSpoke’s Extended Day Treatment program select small holiday gifts for someone they love, in an outing that also allows them to practice social skills, emotional regulation, and caring for others. Your gift would allow the 20 children in EDT to select and make holiday gifts for family and friends.

Therapists often see young clients who aren’t getting enough to eat or have outgrown their clothing, from families who have trouble meeting basic needs. Your donation can help provide specific needs for families who are facing a bleak holiday season.

To make a gift online, please visit hopespoke.org/donate. You may also mail your gift to HopeSpoke at 2444 O St., Lincoln, NE 68510, or contact Becki Roberts, development director, at broberts@ hopespoke.org or (402) 475-7666.

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

Friendship Home Thanks Lincoln Residents for Sponsoring Families During the Holidays

Friendship Home appreciates all that the Lincoln community has done to support domestic violence survivors this holiday season, such as providing Thanksgiving meals and gifts. Because of your support, the holiday season can be a wonderful time of year for people at Friendship Home. To understand the impact Friendship Home makes in survivors’ lives, read this story about Miranda, a Friendship Home patron.

Miranda checked into Friendship Home with her four kids on December 23, 2021. She fled from her abusive relationship in the middle of the night, leaving most of her belongings. Christmas was only two days away and while she knew she made the right decision, she was feeling guilty about ‘ruining’ Christmas for her kids. Miranda’s advocate told her about Friendship Home’s Sponsored Families program. The staff gave her presents to wrap for her children, reigniting that Christmas spirit. The joy Miranda and her children felt from being able to celebrate together, in a safe environment, and have a true Christmas as a family was the greatest gift.

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

EpilepsyFoundationRelaunchesPartnership withSKLifeScienceforRideShareCampaign

Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska is excited to announce the relaunch of their partnership with SK Life Science, Inc. for a first-of-its-kind Uber ride share campaign. Through this initiative, people with epilepsy and their caregivers are eligible to receive a $50 Uber ride share voucher. Requesting a voucher is easy—simply contact the Epilepsy Foundation’s epilepsy and seizures helpline at 1-(800) 332-1000 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.

SK Life Science is a central nervous system (CNS)-focused pharmaceutical company that believes there is more to life when you connect health with happiness. As a U.S. subsidiary of SK Biopharmaceuticals, SK Life Science is committed to accelerating the development of innovative treatments for CNS disorders. Learn more at www.sklifescienceinc.com.

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.

Join Down Syndrome Association for Families for Their Holiday Brunch on December 10

Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF)

Member Holiday Party is BACK! They are hosting a Holiday Brunch event on December 10, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Firespring (1202 Infinity Ct).

DSAF is so excited about this family-fun event. Brunch will be provided, gluten-free options will be available, and even Santa will be there, ready for pictures. There will be fun for ALL ages, so bring your friends and family with you for a great time. Please note volunteers are needed for set-up, assisting with young children during the event, and clean-up. Please reach out to director@dsafnebraska.org if you are interested in and available for helping out.

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.

AngelsAmongUstoHold2023JeepCherokee RafflewithGreggYoungAutomotive

Thanks to the generous donation of Gregg Young Automotive, Angels Among Us has announceda raffle for a brand new 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee, giving them an incredible fundraising opportunity to support more pediatric cancer families in the community! The drawing will be held on May 1 at Gregg Young’s dealership on 180th and Dodge in Omaha. You do not need to be present to win.

“Gregg and Ashley Young are passionate about helping us raise needed funds for pediatric cancer families who need our financial and emotional support,” said Assistant Director Aly Theilen. “With a growing need, this is a great way for us to raise additional funds!”

This 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4X4 in Bright White is a legendary SUV you’ll love to own! Motivated by a 3.6 Liter Pentastar V6 generating 290hp paired to an 8 Speed Automatic transmission. You can put that power to good use on the trail or off, and this Four Wheel Drive SUV also returns nearly 25mpg on the highway. Strong and stylish, the Grand Cherokee grabs your attention with LED lighting, bold alloy wheels, an iconic grille, roof rails, and heated power mirrors with built-in turn signals.

So don’t miss out on your chance to win! Raffle tickets for the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee can be purchased online at myangelsamongus. org/jeepraffle. One ticket is $100 or you can purchase six tickets for $500. There is no limit on the number of tickets you can purchase (debit card preferred).

Angels Among Us is a Nebraska nonprofit that provides financial and emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. To learn how you and your business can make an impact for children being treated for pediatric cancer in Nebraska, contact Aly at alyssa@myangelsamongus.org or visit www.myangelsamongus.org.

Kinetic Business: championing Diverse communities through the BlacK Business FunD

Kinetic Business has expanded the Black Business Support Fund, allowing Black-owned businesses anywhere in the company’s footprint to take advantage of this grant, which offers a cash award, free internet and a free business consultation. The fund seeks to increase the number and stability of Black-owned businesses located within the communities Kinetic Business serves.

Since its launch in late 2020, businesses selected for the Black Business Support Fund have received a total of $300,000 in cash awards.

“When we started the fund, the pandemic was having a disproportionate effect on Black-owned businesses across the country, so the grants were just keeping the doors open for our neighbors’ businesses,” said Lorenzo Clark, vice president of digital sales for Kinetic and president of the Windstream Black Professional Network Committee. “Now that things have stabilized, these grants are helping busi nesses that often don’t have good access to capital to grow.”

According to a 2010 Department of Commerce report, “[Minority owned businesses] experience higher loan denial probabilities and pay higher interest rates than whiteowned businesses even after controlling for differences in credit-worthiness, and other factors.”

Additionally, a 2020 McKinsey & Company report found improving the viability of Black-owned businesses improves the overall economy: “Healthy Black-owned businesses could be a critical component for closing the United States’ Black–white wealth gap, which we project will cost the economy $1 trillion to $1.5 trillion (in 2018 dollars) per year by 2028.”

Clark added, “It’s extremely gratifying to not only support other businesses in our service area, but also be the kind of partner that lifts up the entire community so everyone can thrive and pursue their dreams.”

Small-business grant recipients will receive $2,500 in cash and a year of free internet for their business. The selected businesses will also get a free consultation from Kinetic Business on processes and products that could improve efficiencies and make their business more profitable.

To be eligible for a Black Business Support Fund grant, a business must:

• Be a new or current small business in a market that Kinetic serves, receiving broadband Internet from Kinetic;

• Be Black-owned and have 25 or fewer employees;

• Not be currently engaged in bankruptcy proceedings;

• Not be a nonprofit organization, liquor store, check-cash ing agency, gun shop, pawn shop or adult entertainment business, and

• Not apply for multiple businesses.

Kinetic Business will now accept applications for the award ing of grants to eligible businesses in the 18 states where its fiber-backed network provides premium broadband and managed solutions that make companies more efficient and profitable such as OfficeSuite UC® and SD-WAN.

Funds are awarded on a first come, first served basis. Ap plicants should check Black Business Support Fund website for full terms and conditions and application process.

Kinetic Business’ mission is to deliver a network that works as fast as business does through high-speed connection, collaboration, continuity and cybersecurity solutions. To learn more, visit: KineticBusiness.com.

The company has awarded $300,000 in grants since 2020 to benefit Black-owned businesses.

Last month, we decided to go to Carmela's Bistro & Wine Bar for our Friends4Lunch networking event. Our group really enjoyed the amazing menu options, such as a mouth-watering bruschetta, mini chicken pot pie, and the star of the show - warm lobster bisque! We will definitely be back. Another local favorite of ours is The Copper Kettle downtown. We loved hosting Friends4Drinks there and diving into their huge selection of Moscow mules and other specialty drinks. A crowd favorite was the S'mores Hot Chocolate with house-made chocolate vodka. We sincerely appreciate our friends, clients, and guests who attended both these events!

Friends4Drinks & Holiday Shopping at Paisley Lynn Boutique on December 6, 4 - 6 p.m.

This month, Strictly Business is getting into the holiday spirit, so we are combining Friends4Drinks with a holiday shopping experience at one of Lincoln’s adorable local stores!

Paisley Lynn Boutique, located inside Studio NineSix11 by Gateway Mall, has trending and unique pieces to create harmony and ambiance in your home. You can find gifts for everyone you love this holiday season while sipping wine and enjoying charcuterie with us. We hope to see you there on Tuesday, December 6! Please let us know if you plan to attend by responding on Facebook or contacting our office.

Friends4Lunch at Vic's Pizza on December 13, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

We started the year with Friends4Lunch at Vic's Pizza, and we loved it so much that we have to end the year with it too! We hope to see you at Vic's Pizza on Tuesday, December 13, starting at 11:30 a.m., located at 8340 Glynoaks Dr., STE 100. Vic's pizza menu has quite the variety, and the names will make you chuckle. There are some unique selections for the adventurous eater on their Signature Pizza menu, while the classic menu offers you...well...the classics! You won't want to miss this fun networking opportunity—not to mention it's an amazing chance to support a local restaurant. We hope to see you at our last Friends4Lunch event of 2022! These Strictly Business events are free and open to the public. You only pay for what you order.

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

HigH-quality products & HigH-quality service

A1Cabinet & Granite offers high-quality products at an affordable price. They have their own manufacturing facility to assure that the demand for top-notch products from current and future customers can be satisfied affordably. A1’s facilities are strictly managed and materials are evaluated thoroughly to ensure that our customers receive premium cabinets at a competitive value.

A1 Cabinet & Granite pairs a professional manufacturing team with high-tech machinery to produce ready-to-assemble cabinets of exceptional quality in a timely manner. The cabinets are crafted from carefully selected maple wood. A1 has incorporated many upscale features such as solid wood fronts and face frames, soft-closing six-way adjustable door hinges that are all beautifully concealed behind full overlay fronts, hidden heavy duty softclosing drawer tracks, dovetail construction in the front and back drawer joints, thick plywood boxing and adjustable shelving. They have created a wide arrangement of sizes and types of cabinets to fit many different types of remodeling projects.

Along with cabinets, they also offer a contemporary selection of sinks and faucets to help you with your projects’ material needs. Whether you are working on a kitchen, bathroom vanity, laundry room and/or bar, they have options available for you. The sinks and faucets are UPC certified and tested for quality. A1 provides under mount stainless steel sinks that come in different styles to match your personal taste and individual needs.

A1 prides themselves on providing all of their clients with a high level of service. The dedicated support team in Nebraska is committed to helping our current and potential customers with any questions or concerns. It is their belief that great service builds a foundation for working partnerships that last. So whether you need assistance with creating a kitchen design or just need to check on a delivery date, the staff at A1 Cabinet & Granite is happy to help you.

Granite offers a great modern style that will make any kitchen look great. With over 60 colors and 600 slabs, there are plenty of options to choose from. A1 can help you find the perfect slab for your kitchen.

Once you have a slab that you like, they can make a number of modifications to the edges. They offer straight, double radius, waterfall, and chiseled edges to name just a few. Stop in today to see why A1 Cabinet and Granite is the countertop contractor Lincoln prefers.

Your decision to buy granite is not just a choice but an investment, here is how you can protect your investment to make it last for years to come.

Granite countertops require special care so that they continue looking beautiful for many years. Although granite is quite resistant to scratches, to properly maintain this type of countertop material it’s advisable to follow a few simple procedures:

• Spills have a tendency to soak into the surface, so to avoid deep staining wipe up spills immediately.

• If you do happen to stain the surface, removal depends on the type of stain. First try removing it with this paste: mix together a cup of flour, 1-2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid and water. Place the paste over the stain, cover in plastic wrap and leave overnight. In the morning use a wooden utensil to scrape away the paste and give it a rinse. This should work except for stains make from grease, oil or milk. In these cases instead of dishwashing liquid use hydrogen peroxide or ammonia in the paste.

• Another method to remove wine, ink or any other non-oil stain is to mix molding plaster and pure bleach into a paste. Apply for 30 minutes, remove and rinse.

• New disinfectant cleaners on the market now come in formulas designed for granite countertops - purchase this type of product if you prefer disinfectant cleaners to other cleaning options.

• Use coasters, especially for alcoholic and citrus beverages as the acid in these drinks can dull the stones surface.

• Keep hot items off the surface.

• Always test these cleaning methods on small discreet area for color fastness or granite damage.

Earn the Burn at Lincoln’s New Haymarket Gym: HOTWORX

HOTWORX is not your typical fitness studio, their fitness program is unlike any other.

This state-of-the-art studio specializes in 15 to 30-minute workout sessions inside an infrared sauna space. Yes, you read that right, working out in a sauna environment.

Emily Beans is the manager at the new location located in the Haymarket. There are four locations in Lincoln, but the first to enter Downtown Lincoln. Beans is thrilled to have the new location in the Railyard.

“We are so excited to finally make it downtown,” Beans said. “We are like a boutique gym experience making it a bit more personal, we create relationships with our members.”

With HOTWORX’s infrared sauna space, they guarantee the maximum calorie burn in the shortest time possible. All of their hit workouts are 15-minute long High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) sessions.

HOTWORX offers eight zones that can fit a couple of people inside these sauna spaces. Inside you can decide if you want to do a 30-minute isometric workout or a 15-minute HIIT session.

“An isometric workout means holding different positions,” Beans said. “So the infrared is a type of radiation and it actually helps detox the body quicker.”

This allows the skin to sweat out more than just water, but also toxins. It also helps lower your blood pressure, soothes achy joints, and arthritis helps improve flexibility, and helps boost collagen production.

This gym is open 24/7, to reserve a spot, you can go in person or through their app. Each class is virtually streamed to HOTWORX. This combats the excuse that there is no time to work out, everyone can spare 15 to 30 minutes in their day!

“All your workouts are in our app and have classes available whenever because we are open to our members 24/7,” Beans said. “So say goodbye to not having enough time!”

All Isometric workouts are: Hot Iso, Hot Buns, Hot Yoga, Hot Pilates, Hot Barre None, Hot Bands, Hot Warrior, and Hot Core. The HIIT sessions offered are: Hot Cycles, Hot Blast (elliptical bike) and Hot Thunder (water rower). The two favorites are the Hot Buns Isometric Workout and the Hot Pilates. They offer yoga, and cycling, and have a minor functioning workout area with kettlebells that are not in the heated rooms.

“For those just starting, I would say all of our HIIT workouts are only 15 minutes long,” Beans said. “That’s a really good introduction to working out in the heat.”

For more information on the classes, visit their website at hotworx.net or download their app.

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

HelP is AvAilAble for Problem GAmblers iN NebrAskA

Choices Treatment Center is an outpatient treatment and recovery facility committed to helping individuals overcome problems related to gambling, substance abuse, and mental health through a holistic approach so all co-occurring issues may be addressed. Their mission is to provide quality services in a caring environment by offering a full range of treatment options to individuals and families.

Problem Gambling Treatment

Choices specializes in gambling addiction. Their counselors are certified with the Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program. This program allows them to provide, at no charge to the client, assessments for problem/pathological gamblers, consultations/ interventions for problem gamblers and their families, financial counseling, and individual treatment. All counselors at Choices are dually credentialed, thus able to offer services in the other areas listed as well. Choices

s ervices

• Free Assessments for Problem/Pathological Gamblers

• Free consultations/interventions for problem gamblers and their families

• Mental Health Assessments

• Individual, Family & Marriage Counseling

• Substance Abuse Evaluations and Treatment

• DUI/DWI Education Programs

• Budgeting Classes and Counseling

• Anger Management Counseling

Choices staff is also available for presentations to schools, community groups, churches and businesses on the problems of gambling/gaming.

Are you experiencing any of the following?

• Are you in a depressed mood?

• Do you have diminished interest in activities you used to find pleasurable?

• Have you experienced significant weight loss when not dieting?

• Are you afraid to answer your phone because bill collectors are calling?

• Are you angry for no particular reason?

• Do you have low/no self-esteem?

• Are you dealing with relationship issues?

• Are you feeling shame or guilt?

• Are you spending more time away from the family to try and win back your losses?

• Are you lying to your family and/or friends to hide or cover up your gambling?

CHOICES

Choices can help – take the first step towards recovery and call today.

by Jason Ball President

(402) 436-2350 www.lcoc.com

A Time to RISE: Supporting the Women of Lincoln’s Business Community

November 10 was an exciting day! Through a long-standing partnership with the University of Nebraska - Lincoln College of Business, we annually convene the incredible women of Lincoln’s business community at our annual Women in Business Event. This year, we made two exciting announcements about the future of these programs.

Beginning in 2023, RISE Lincoln will be a program of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. We are honored to continue this incredible platform for women to connect, engage, learn and grow. RISE was launched eight years ago by two respected businesswomen, Katie Zulkoski and AshLea Allberry, as a motivating series of events to connect the community of Lincoln’s business leaders. Since its founding, RISE has united hundreds of women through networking, education, civic engagement and personal coaching. As the founders planned for the next phase of RISE, they asked the Lincoln Chamber to take on the operational responsibility to build new pathways for women in our community. The Chamber enthusiastically agreed.

We are looking forward to kicking off 2023 with our first RISE event in January, followed by a year full of networking and professional coaching opportunities for all women – from college students and young professionals to seasoned executives. Continuing the mission on which the program was built, RISE will be a valuable professional platform, free of barriers, for women to connect, grown and thrive in Lincoln.

We are also humbled to share that the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business and RISE programs are now positioned for expanded reach and greater impact through the generous support of the JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Fund. The JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Fund is a new endowment under the stewardship of the Lincoln Community Foundation. It was established in honor of one of Lincoln’s greatest business leaders to encourage and support more women in Lincoln to attain business and community leadership roles. We were so honored to make this exciting announcement with members of JoAnn’s family as we celebrated JoAnn’s unparalleled leadership. We are so proud to serve the business community of Lincoln, a community with such a long-standing history of outstanding women in leadership roles. Taking on RISE and receiving the support of the JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Fund helps our team to expand our investment in the future of women in both our organization and in our community. Big things are on the horizon for Women in Business and RISE, and our team is honored to play a role in ensuring that Lincoln remains the very best place to build a rewarding career.

With sincere gratitude, I thank the family of JoAnn Martin and the founders of RISE; and with immense enthusiasm, our team is looking forward to further celebrating and elevating the powerful impact of women in Lincoln.

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.

CLIENT

Manufacturing Fine Clay Brick Since 1881

Yankee Hill Brick is a local brick manufacturer that has been producing quality pieces of brick for over 140 years. The products that come from Yankee Hill are specified on many award-winning projects. The combination of quality, color and pristine finish makes Yankee Hill an attractive choice for architects and designbuild firms throughout the United States and internationally. Yankee Hill's unique blends of clay and state-of-the-art, high temperature firing kiln allow manufacturing of the highest quality clay brick products in the industry.

As Americans moved west in the 1850’s and 60’s, some passed southwest of present day Lincoln. A small community of New Englanders settled in the hilly area, built a store and blacksmith shop, and named the community Yankee Hill. In 1881 Joseph E. Stockwell began to make brick from the wonderful clay deposits located just west of the village. The manufacture of brick at this same location has continued to this day. While the brick-making process has changed since Yankee Hill’s conception, the company still begins with clay dug from the earth at a mine located just a few miles away from the storefront.

I have used Yankee Hill’s products in the past. They are made with quality materials and go through a rigorous testing and quality control procedure to ensure you will receive exactly what you want for your project, no matter how big or small. The staff, from sales to production, are top notch and go above and beyond expectations on every product. See what you have been missing in your own backyard here in Lincoln, Nebraska!

Sustainable Business

The bricks are made to be naturally sustainable with natural raw ingredients from Yankee Hill Brick’s on-site mine.

Responsible Manufacturing

The manufacturing process produces very little waste as rejected bricks are recycled.

Sustainable Products

Yankee Hill Brick’s products classify as Certified LEED green products by the U.S. Green Building Council.

3705 S Coddington Ave. yankeehillbrick.com | (402) 477-6663

– Dwayne D.

InformingBusinessand ShoppingLocal

Earlier this year, I was approached about doing a podcast to talk about business issues in Lincoln to provide business owners a vehicle to reach them with issues that was quick and to the point and in a medium to make it easier for them to engage. Thus, Lincoln Business Beat was born. Over the past several months we have discussed several issues impacting business – workforce, inflation, taxes, elections, local budgets, streets, and other pertinent topics for business. Additionally, we have hosted guests to share things their business is doing to recruit and retain workforce. Most recently we have been discussing the importance of shopping local and supporting local businesses. Local businesses are the lifeblood of a community. Our local businesses are the ones employing our friends and neighbors. When our local organizations are looking for support, the local businesses are who step up to be supportive. My favorite shopping day of the year is Small Business Saturday! I spend my time going to our local stores and buying gifts for family and friends. It would be easy for me to simply go online and do all my shopping for the holidays and be done in minutes. Yet each year, on that Saturday following Thanksgiving I like to be out supporting local businesses. I love walking into these stores and boutiques to support their businesses, which give so much back to our community.

Over the years of my shopping local, I have developed relationships with business owners and staff who always know what I am looking for and they are able to make great recommendations. Shopping for my wife and daughters is fun (I am not one who would classify shopping as fun normally) when the store staff and owners are able to show me right to the newest items and which family member should be getting which gift. They also know all the right sizes, which makes returning items rare (and reduces stress on both me and the gift recipient because I know not too many people enjoy the hassle of returning a gift). I find great joy spending money in our local community at locally owned businesses over the holidays.

By shopping local and supporting our local businesses, we are essentially giving back to those businesses who give so much in our community. When you are at an activity of your children, look around and see how many on-line retailers are sponsors? My guess is that none of the sponsors of those activities are anything other than our local businesses. Shopping this holiday season can be very gratifying by supporting our local businesses. If you need help finding something this holiday season, go to our website, www.liba.org and click the members tab to search for all your local shopping needs. I am confident you will be pleased by the service and products you can buy right here in Lincoln.

As we embark on the last stretch until Christmas, I urge you to get out and support our local businesses. Buying gifts from these local businesses or giving gift cards to your favorite local business keeps our local economy running here in Lincoln and Lancaster County. These businesses are the ones who keep our community moving forward. These businesses constantly step up to make sure our community prospers. These are the businesses who are supporting local. During the pandemic these businesses have “paid it forward” in our community and our duty is to pay it back to them. Enjoy shopping local this holiday season. My best wishes to you and your family for a blessed holiday season.

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

The stigma around mental health has improved with the commonality of experiencing mental health issues, but it hasn’t gone away completely. With the help of mental health professionals across Lincoln, we can make the stigma around mental health disappear.

Making a Change

People’s City Mission was started in 1907 by local churches, offering food and shelter for transient and impoverished men, women, and children. Many of these people struggle with mental health. We spoke to Pastor Tom Barber to learn more about how our community can assist this population.

“Homelessness has been a pervasive problem for communities across the country, including right here in Lincoln,” Pastor Tom shared. “While there are a number of factors contributing to this dilemma, people struggling with mental health has become a key reason. Unfortunately, many Nebraskans are not aware of the size and scope of this crisis, nor fully comprehend the devastating impact it has on those who suffer from such issues.”

People’s City Mission offers immediate assistance to homeless people struggling with mental health by providing them with food, shelter, clothing, and other basic necessities, as well as one-on-one counseling. They also help them find needed community resources such as case work, medications, and more permanent housing.

Continue the Conversation

One of the most effective methods to treat mental health is through counseling and therapy. Clearwater Counseling, PC is one of the many resources available in Lincoln. They work with their clients to treat a wide variety of mental health diagnoses. They understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. We spoke to Kayla Leddy from Clearwater for more information on

improving the stigma and experience for those struggling.

While getting the help you need is important, people struggling with mental health also need support and understanding from their loved ones and community.

“Those who seek therapy are looking for clarity in certain areas of their life. They are also wanting to work through complex emotions or even a traumatic experience. Sometimes, those who seek help are challenging their negative thinking patterns and striving to learn new techniques to cope with difficult scenarios,” explained Kayla. “The more we talk about mental health, the higher chance we have of saving more lives. It’s important to take steps to educate yourself and others. Consider talking with a health care professional or mental health provider about your own mental health.”

If you are looking for a place to start your journey, look no further than the wonderful team at Clearwater Counseling, PC.

Awareness is Key

Daring Minds Therapy is a women-owned small business founded in 2018 by Sarah Worley and Erica Schroeder with co-founder Maureen DeRyke. They have therapists who are trained/licensed in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, drug and alcohol abuse, social work, and traumarelated disorders.

We asked Erica how we can reduce or eliminate the stigma around mental health. She explained that the simplest way to tackle this is by talking about it. Given the increased awareness of mental-health in recent years, Erica says today’s youth just might be the ones to guide a change in the attitudes associated with mental-health. “I believe a majority of middle-school-aged teens and high-school students have better awareness of what mental health is and, in some cases, it can even be identified as a form of status,” Erica said. “I often hear teens identify with peers by making statements such as, ‘Who’s your therapist?’ followed by sharing of therapeutic tools they have learned. On the other side of that, older generations are not as aware of, or believe in, mental-health services because their core family values are primarily associated with strength and/or being guarded, which do not correlate well with therapy.”

With winter settling in and the holidays in full swing, this season is beyond busy and it can be easy to push getting the help

Pastor Tom Barber People's City Mission

Kayla Leddy Clearwater Counseling, PC

Erica Schroeder Daring Minds Therapy

ENERGY EFFICIENCY G

There are numerous ways to become more energy efficient. Even small changes in our day to day lives can make a huge impact, both environmentally and economically. According to the EPA, energy efficiency can lower greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, as well as decrease water use. It can also lower utility bills, create jobs, and help stabilize electricity prices.

If you are interested in how to become more energy efficient in your home or office, keep reading to hear what local experts suggest!

Energy Efficiency: It’s in the Name

The attic may not be the first area of the home you think of when it comes to being

more energy efficient, but it plays an important role. We spoke to Rex Schroder, owner of Attic Energy Efficiency, to learn more about what homeowners can do with their attic to become more energy efficient.

“The attic is the most wasteful part of a home when trying to be energy efficient,” explained Rex. “The biggest problems in an attic are conditioned air leaking into it, not enough insulation, and poor ventilation. All three of these issues can lead to mold problems, high utility bills, and an uncomfortable home.”

After taking advantage of Attic Energy Efficiency’s services, his clients save up to 65% on their utility bills. Rex has over 10 years of experience in the industry and knows his way around making sure every one of your needs, and your attics needs, are met.

“Homeowners in Nebraska and western Iowa have chosen Attic Energy Efficiency over 500 times this year already to increase

Attic Energy Efficiency

Experts in Building Control Technology

POWERED BY

As a leading Building Control contractor, Engineered Controls’ goal is to provide customers with products and services to create efficient, safe and comfortable building environments.

Engineered Controls offers complete turn key control solutions including construction, retrofit, service and maintenance for facilities of all types and sizes.

Offices in Omaha and Lincoln, NE.

Rex Schroder

the efficiency of their homes. The biggest energy loss in a home is the attic,” shared Rex. “Our attention to detail sets us apart from and above the rest of the industry. No other insulation company incorporates attic ventilation into their total package. Attic Energy Efficiency is leaps and bounds above the competition. Our prices are very competitive in the market as we offer more and better services to homeowners. Knowledge of total attic efficiency sets us above the competition.”

Attic Energy Efficiency offers attic ventilation analysis and upgrades, as well as other energy efficient techniques to help transform uncomfortable, inefficient homes into comfortable and efficient ones. Rex adheres to a high standard of integrity and honesty and says he will never sell anything to a customer that he does not absolutely believe they need. Attic Energy Efficiency is a small business contractor with big business results!

Don’t Compromise Comfort

Pat Killeen, owner of Engineered Controls believes both comfort and energy efficiency are achievable with the right tools.

“Today more than ever, building owners want their facilities to be environmentally responsible and healthy places to live and work,” emphasized Pat. “They also want to optimize the energy usage without compromising comfort. Together a tall order to accomplish, but at Engineered Controls that technology is available today.”

Engineered Controls can play a very big part in assisting new and existing building owners with controlling their buildings’ energy costs. Considering the fact that a building’s lighting and HVAC loads account for nearly 80% of a building’s energy usage, there are plenty of energy strategies that a Building Automation System can provide, maximizing the energy strategy options available to building owners. Essentially, Engineered Controls can assist in total building control and help provide a healthier and more energy-efficient environment for occupants.

“To help our customers in identifying efficiency areas in their buildings, Engineered Controls has developed Energy Optimization programs,” Pat explained. “They are designed to leverage a broad portfolio of energy efficiency products and solutions, as well as offer a high level of energy expertise to commercial buildings in the hands of our skilled and knowledgeable professionals. Our team can help building owners and managers obtain real-world data to help them make fact-based decisions about how to optimize their buildings for occupants’ comfort while saving energy at the same time.”

Engineered Controls’ mission is to provide their customers with high quality products and services that create efficient, safe, and comfortable building environments. Their team of qualified and experienced employees must strive to be the most cost-effective producers in the marketplace by consistently focusing on improving processes, innovation, and teamwork. When you work with them, you know you are getting the best possible results and helping save energy at the same time.

Do Your Part

Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and equipment in our homes can go a long way to helping lower total energy use. John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning sells, installs, and services high-efficient residential and commercial heating and air equipment for folks in the region. Lincoln homeowners are increasingly installing furnaces that are run 90% or more on gas and are taking full advantage of local utility-company rebates, which make higher-efficient outdoor units more affordable.

Sustainable Energy Program

Sustainable Energy Program funds are still available! Get money to purchase energy-efficient equipment for your home or business. Save energy. Save money. Save more! Visit LES.com/SEP or call 402.475.4211 for more details.

“The bulk of our customers when given higher efficient options tend to choose those systems,” said John Henry’s Comfort Consultant Jon Becker. “People can really see the value of saving on their utilities and have a much quieter and comfortable home.”

One of the biggest culprits of energy loss in homes and commercial buildings is equipment that isn’t well maintained. It is important to clean the outdoor condenser annually and change the filter frequently in order to avoid degrading the efficiency and life expectancy of the unit.

“We all have a responsibility to do our best to leave this great state and country in better shape than what we found it. It’s important to explore all of these high efficient options when you’re replacing your HVAC equipment,” explained Jon. “Many times there are larger rebates and incentives from energy companies, manufacturers, and federal tax credits for these high efficient systems.”

While many people have never thought to get their home in a more energy efficient state, it is important to just take a leap and get started. Oftentimes just having the routine maintenance done can get you ahead of costly repairs or unexpected replacements.

Incentives You Can’t Refuse

If you’re on the fence about upgrading your home to be more energy efficient, Lincoln Electric System (LES) has an incentive you may not be able to pass up. LES’s Sustainable Energy Program, or SEP would actually pay YOU to make the upgrade.

“For residential customers, these incentives apply on qualified high-efficiency air conditioners, high-efficiency heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and insulation upgrades for qualifying homes,” explained LES Energy Services Specialist Jay Stoa. “Commercial customers may qualify on

Pat Killeen

Engineered Controls

Jon Becker

John Henry's Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning

Jay Stoa Lincoln Electric System

homeWeatherizeyour winterandsavethis !

SCHEDULE

402.512.4221

savewithstreamline.com

similar installations, plus indoor lighting upgrades, variable frequency drives, compressed air systems upgrade, energy management systems installation, optimization or upgrade, and refrigeration systems.”

To find out if your project qualifies, visit LES.com/SEP and review the qualifications or review our list of participating contractors.

One of the biggest opportunities to improve energy-efficiency is through heating and cooling of a home. First, conduct a review of the structure to identify any air leaks or areas of low insulation levels. Next, take a look at your furnace and A/C units. You want to have these systems inspected annually to ensure they are safe and running efficient. During the inspection, they’ll likely review the age of the equipment, check for any plugged coils, and more. Then, on a monthly basis, you should check your air filters by shining a flashlight on them. Clean or replace them to ensure your unit continues to operate at peak levels.

“Another opportunity for energy savings comes from water heating. Consider installing low-flow devices and if you have an electric water heater, when it’s time to replace it consider installing a heat pump water heater” said Jay. “Buying a more energy efficient system can have a quicker payback especially when the equipment qualifies for LES incentives and Federal Tax Credits.”

The process of upgrading your home may seem like a lot to take on if you’ve never done any updates. Jay has the experience and knowledge to know that slow and steady wins the race, and researching every option can help you make the best decision possible.

“Before deciding on a particular appliance or energy-efficiency upgrade, look for available incentives and federal tax credits that could bring down the cost of a more energy-efficient model,” Jay advised. “Not only will this save you money on the up-front cost of the unit, but will continue to save energy use, which may lower your energy bills into the future.”

No matter where you decide to start, know that your actions are contributing to a bigger picture. When you make energy-efficient upgrades, you can save money, help reduce the need for energy during expensive peak periods and help delay the necessity to build additional high-cost power plants to serve our community.. LES has a goal to eliminate their carbon dioxide production from their generation portfolio by 2040. They have increased renewable energy production from the equivalent of 9% of retail sales in 2010 to 43% in 2021, simultaneously reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 41% over the same period. Learn more at LES.com.

Keep Up With Maintenance

Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. recommends that consumers maintain their existing equipment with regular maintenance by an HVAC technician. Dirty filters, clogged evaporator and condenser coils, and improperly charged systems are all culprits in driving up utility bills. Residential heating and cooling systems use approximately two thirds of the total energy consumption of the home. Custom Cooling encourages their customers to evaluate their current energy usage versus potential savings of all new systems

available. Currently, inverter driven compressor systems are leading the industry in performance and efficiency. Ductless mini-split units also offer superior efficiency for problem temperature areas of the home, such as sunrooms, master bedrooms, basements, and additions. Custom Cooling is here to help by recommending insulation, windows, or other solutions to assist their customers’ energy and efficiency issues before installing a new HVAC system.

Seal in the Savings!

The Streamline Energy Solutions team of energy-efficiency specialists operates with the goal of saving energy—and saving you money. Streamline’s energy auditing services coupled with a variety of weatherization upgrades maximize your savings while minimizing your home’s energy usage. Whether it be new construction or retrofitting existing structures, contractors, builders, and homeowners can rely on the team to go above and beyond.

Established by cofounders Nathan Capps and Jen Keller, they provide a holistic approach to energy efficiency to keep money in your wallet and take it easy on the environment. Streamline prides themselves on being a one-stop-shop for all of your home energyefficiency needs, providing various insulation and weatherization services, coupled with a crucial blower door test, to create immediate improvements in how your home uses energy. “One of the biggest upgrades we recommend to create the maximum impact when someone wants to insulate their home is air sealing,” said Jen. “We’ll locate all the accessible crevices in your attic, including around your fixtures and top plates and seal them to prevent conditioned air from leaking into the attic space. That preps the attic for us to insulate with blown-in fiberglass. We prefer this product over cellulose because it doesn’t settle over time, does not absorb moisture, and is a lot cleaner product. Of course, the baffles we install in an attic are a crucial step in the process, too, because they keep the insulation from blocking air flow through your soffit vents and provide necessary ventilation. Proper attic ventilation reduces the risk of ice dams in the winter and the build up of condensation in the attic space, which could lead to mildew or mold.”

Streamline uses CertainTeed Insulsafe SP blown-in insulation not only because it doesn’t settle but also because it provides better coverage, excellent sound control, lasts for the life of your home to reduce long term energy demand and costs; is environmentally sustainable and formaldehyde-free; and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. This isn’t your typical itchy fiberglass. It is actually soft to the touch! Another fabulous offering from Streamline Energy Solutions that is not universal to all insulation companies is a blower door test because not everyone is BPI (Building Performance Institute)-certified to administer them. As a BPI-certified auditor, Jen starts by connecting the blower door device to one of the exterior doors of your home to audit energy loss.

Jen also owns Halo Custom Lighting. This sister business has become tremendously popular with versatile and fully customizable lighting options for your home.

Halo Custom Lighting is a permanent lighting solution for all your holiday needs. The team at Halo will help install your lights, and then they’re built to last around 20 years. The lights have so many different options to cater to any holiday or special day, and are conveniently controlled by an app where you can create your own colors and patterns. These lights can be used for more than just the holidays with a full spectrum of LED colors that can highlight your home during any time of the year.

Attaining responsible energy efficiency in our homes and buildings is something to which each of us can contribute. Fortunately, Lincoln has professionals who can help you do your part, attaining a balance between sustainability and your personal health and comfort.

Jen Keller Streamline Energy Solutions

Winter Driving

Even if you believe yourself to be a pretty experienced driver, winter driving can still have its challenges. It’s easy to forget that winter conditions like ice and snow demand more attention from the driver after months of dry and clear roads. The winter weather can also be brutal to your vehicle, so to learn more about how you can drive safely and maintain your vehicle during this s.eason, we spoke to some local experts in the Lincoln area.

Adverse winter weather can be dangerous and frightening for travelers, especially early in the winter season, when they’re out of practice—and late in the winter, when they get overconfident! In fact, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, bad weather and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths every winter. With this in mind, it’s crucial that anyone who drives in winter understands the safety rules for driving in severe weather, the rules for dealing with winter road emergencies, the crucial winterizing your vehicle requires, and general winter-driving safety.

When you drive in Nebraska winters, AAA recommends basic safety measures like keeping a bundle of cold-weather gear in your car, including extra food and water, warm clothing, a flashlight, a glass scraper, blankets, medications, and more. Further, make certain that your tires are properly inflated and have plenty of tread, keep at least half a tank of fuel in your vehicle at all times, never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area like a garage, and do NOT use cruise control when you’re driving on any slippery surface, including ice and snow. If you have to go out, drive slowly, accelerate and decelerate slowly, increase your following distance, know your brakes, and don’t stop if you can avoid it.

Of course, you’re required to have insurance on your vehicle, and carrying an adequate amount of coverage is crucial. Then, from a mechanical standpoint, wet, cold, and icy weather serve up the biggest challenges to your vehicle’s efficient operation. There are a host of mechanical things that are crucial to preparing your vehicle for winter, including your battery, ignition system, lights, brakes, tires, windshield wipers, winter driving kit, and exhaust and heating-and-cooling systems. Read on to learn more about preparing for winter driving in Nebraska.

Get Winter Ready

When it comes to getting your car ready for winter, Jason Thies , the lead estimator at Morrow Collision Center , has some tips. The first things you should do when getting ready for the snowy, icy season are:

• Check tire pressure and/or switch to winter tires

• Switch your windshield washer fluid to a winter temp rated fluid

• Service vehicle for winter (oil and filter change, flush and fill all fluids and all coolant levels)

• Check wiper blades, batteries, heaters, brakes, lights, and heater/defroster

• Always maintain at least ¼ tank of gas in your vehicle

• Keep a scraper, shovel, extra blanket, jumper cable, flare, and flashlight in your car in case of emergency

Getting your car safe and sound for winter may only be half of the problem. Driving on icy roads or in bleak conditions can be dangerous, and many people feel less confident driving in these conditions, which can lead to more accidents.

“In the event of a crash, Morrow Collision Center can work with all insurance companies to write the estimate, schedule your auto body repairs and get your vehicle back to brand new and on

Jason Thies

Morrow Collision Center

the road. We can even assist with a tow from the accident scene and arrange a rental vehicle,” said Jason. “People don’t seem to drive for the conditions, and miss things like slowing up around corners and allowing a bigger space between the car in front of them, and then end up catching some snow and ice. That all adds up to the #1 culprit in the winter, in my opinion, which tends to be curb shots causing suspension damage and the good old rear end accidents.”

As much as we recommend the work they do over at Morrow Collision Center, Jason and his team have some advice on how to avoid getting into an unfortunate situation on the roads this winter.

“Don’t ever slam on your brakes. Accelerate slowly and always remain calm if you start to slip. Don’t put yourself in a position where you’re close enough to slide into another object. Maintain a safe distance of at least 3 car lengths during bad weather. I recommend making yourself familiar with what the anti-lock braking system (ABS) in most vehicles today feels like when it’s engaged to prevent panicking if it should engage in snow and ice,” Jason advised.

Morrow Collision Center has been repairing cars for more than 20 years and are always investing in the newest equipment and training to make sure today’s advanced vehicles are repaired properly. You can have peace of mind knowing your family is safe in the vehicles they repair no matter how severe the damage. They offer a lifetime warranty on their work and are the experts at navigating through the insurance claims process. To top it all off, they’re also locally owned!

Slow It Down

Tracy’s Collision Center uses a customer-focused approach to collision repair. The family-owned business has deep roots in Lincoln, with services including painting, frame repair, wheel alignments, and paintless dent repair. For 50 years, they’ve

been putting drivers back on the road safely. To learn more about how they can prepare us for winter driving, we spoke to Laurie Sain , manager.

“When driving on icy roads, start by slowing it down,” Laurie recommended. “We’re not just talking about how far you push the gas pedal. We’re also talking about how fast you move your hands and feet. A lower-friction road surface means it takes more time for your tires to find grip and change your speed or direction.”

While steering, if you feel the wheel ‘slip’ in your hands, that means the tires don’t have enough available traction to turn that hard, so unwind the wheel until the resistance feels normal. If you try to turn and nothing happens, straighten the wheel back out and slow down with a gentle, brief press of the brake, then try again.

“When driving in the winter, everything takes longer, particularly stopping and turning. So look farther down the road than you usually do and start braking sooner,” said Laurie. “However, no matter how cautious you are, you may still find yourself spinning out of control. If you do, don’t panic; you can regain the upper hand. Turn the wheel in the direction of your slide with a deliberate motion. Don’t give it more than about half a crank. This isn’t instinctual—your brain feels the car slipping in one direction and logically wants to turn in the other direction to fix it—so it can be worthwhile to practice in a snow-covered empty parking lot somewhere.”

75 Years of Trust

T.O. Haas Tire & Auto has been a tradition of trust since 1947. They sell more than two dozen brands of tires and perform many automotive services important to safe winter driving,

Say Goodbye to Winter Sludge.

Laurie Sain

Tracy's Collision Center

including oil changes, alignments, brakes, exhaust, shocks, struts, cooling systems, transmission-fluid flushes, and more. We spoke to Marketing Manager Fred Knight about the ways that T.O. Haas can help you gear up for winter driving.

“We offer free inspections to make sure your vehicle is ready for the harsh winter weather,” Fred said. “We’ll check your battery, belts, hoses, fluids, lighting, and much more.”

For things you can do yourself, Fred recommended topping off washer fluid, as well as conducting a visual inspection of your belts, hoses, windshield wipers, interior and exterior lighting, and tire condition and pressure. Most repair shops will inspect, for free, the strength and proper charging of your battery, antifreeze condition and proper ratio, and exhaust leaks in the event that you find yourself stranded.

“The main reason people get stranded in winter is because many don’t realize how bad the roads are until they are stuck,” explained Fred. “Once you’re stuck, it can be extremely difficult to get out. 4-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles provide an advantage but if you find yourself in this situation, you can try placing your floor mats under the drive axle tires to keep them from spinning on snow or ice. Another reason people find themselves stranded is because of a dead battery. As the temperature drops your vehicle oils and fluids become much stiffer. A weak battery will not have the power needed to turn the engine over, so it is important to get your battery checked before you find yourself in this situation.”

Driving on ice is difficult and dangerous, even for the best drivers. New tires will always provide an advantage – especially the newer “ice tires” which use a combination of sticky rubber compounds and a significant number of sipes in the tread design. These sipes act like tiny suction cups to help grip the ice better than traditional tread designs. T.O. Haas can help you find the best tires to help you drive safely this winter.

Fred offered one last piece of advice to keep you safe this winter that is easy to follow:

“Keep your gas tank at least half full,” said Fred. “A full tank reduces condensation, which can lead to gas lines freezing. If you do get stranded, you may need a full tank to keep the engine on for 10 minutes each hour in order to stay warm!”

Ensure Your Insurance

Before you take your ride out onto the winter roads, it is crucial to be sure that you have appropriate insurance to protect you and others on the road from worst-case scenarios. It’s definitely better to know how well you’re covered before you find yourself in a bind. To learn more about this topic, we spoke to Matthew Moorhead , owner of Shelter Insurance Agency

“Winter driving in Lincoln is unpredictable, to say the least,” said Matthew. “The university brings in young men and women from all over the country, and some have never had any experience driving on snow or ice. A good rule of thumb, in general, is to dress and plan for the worst. Always keep warm shoes or boots, coats, hats, and gloves in your vehicle.

On the insurance side, roadside assistance is a good option to have and is included on every Shelter Insurance auto policy up to $100 per occurrence. If you are someone who travels or commutes substantial distances, you can purchase higher amounts.”

If you don’t have adequate liability, uninsured motorist, and underinsured motorist coverage, you can put yourself in a rough place in the event of an accident. Matt is able to walk you through your options if you’re unsure of which insurance route to go, and he can give you some recommendations that fit your situation. The minimum amount of insurance you have to carry to drive in Nebraska is $25,000 per person in liability and $50,000 per accident of bodily injury coverage—but that doesn’t mean it’s a great level of coverage.

“If you have minimum liability limits and your vehicle is struck by someone who carries only minimum liability, and you were injured—say, break a leg—but need surgery to correct it, it’s not life-threatening, but it can do some damage to your wallet,” Matt said. “In this case, you will have $25K coming from the person who struck you and $25K coming from your underinsured motorist coverage on your policy. I don’t know if you have had surgery lately, but I think it’s a pretty good bet that an ambulance ride, plus hospital stay, surgery, casting, follow-up, physical therapy, and lost wages from work are going to be north of $50K.”

With that scenario in mind, Matt said he recommends that drivers have at least $250K of liability per person and $500K of underinsured motorist coverage per accident—an upgrade that provides 10 times more coverage at a cost of about $5–$10 per month. Whatever amount of coverage, everyone should always practice defensive driving, no matter the season. In the winter, don’t be tempted to drive until the windows defrost, and always be prepared for slippery conditions. Also, be prepared for slippery conditions, as you simply can’t avoid them. Ice doesn’t have insurance, though, so if you slide into somebody, it’s your fault when it comes to insurance! Maybe it’s time to call Matt.

“I can take the time to explain your coverages and the options that are best suited to you,” he said. “If you have ever watched a television commercial where an insurance company tells you to

Fred Knight

T.O. Haas Tire & Auto

Matthew Moorhead Shelter Insurance Agency

the Right Fix

In the unfortunate event of a winter collision, the first concern is the condition and safety of all people involved. The next thing that often comes to mind is the condition of your vehicle. Consider contacting Midtown Body & Paint . With more than 70 years of providing Lincoln with excellent auto-body repair, quality framework, full painting services, paintless dent repair, and glass replacement for all makes and models of vehicles, Midtown’s technicians always stay current with quick and meaningful technological advancements in the industry. They take pride in their work and have a stellar reputation for providing high-quality repairs and service that develop lasting relationships.

Winter weather can change in an instant, so it is important to stay prepared in advance so your car can make it through the winter. Tires are always a good thing to check. If you’re seeing the wear indicators on your tires, you should have them replaced to prevent traction loss and hydroplaning. If your battery is old and weak, cold temperatures can leave you stranded. Also make sure to keep the underside of your car clean through an undercarriage car wash to prevent the corrosion caused by salt and other ice melting agents on the road.

“Giving yourself adequate stopping time and ensuring your tires have enough tread to provide ample traction will greatly help in avoiding the fender benders that commonly occur when the roads are icy

and slick,” said Dan Pape , owner and operator. “It also helps in avoiding sliding into curbs or even off the road into mailboxes, poles, or other stationary objects. This causes damage to not only to the body of the vehicle, generally on the fender, but can also damage the tire, impacting the alignment and suspension and causing even more damage when driven afterward. Every situation is different when there’s a collision, and there can potentially be damage that isn’t visible or apparent until later on down the line, so it’s beneficial to have your vehicle checked out as a result just to be on the safe side.

Dan adds, “When preparing for winter road conditions and also when you’re out driving in it, all of the small things make a big difference. Pay attention, take your time, and avoid tailgating. Saving just a few minutes on the trip is hardly worth getting into an accident that will turn into hours of time and a considerable amount of money to fix, and perhaps a legal citation and everything that comes along with it on top of all that. Give yourself a little extra time, keep a little extra space from the car in front of you, and show respect for others on the road; we all want to get where we are going safely."

If you aren’t sure whether or not your vehicle is in good condition, Dan invites you to give Midtown Body a call. Above all, he encourages drivers to keep their vehicles in top shape and use safe driving practices on the road.

Make Your Car Shine

Winter weather in Lincoln may not make you want to run out in the wind and frigid temperatures to wash your vehicle, but it should if you want to extend the life and resale value of your car. That’s because wintertime road salt, including treatments with liquid calcium chloride and sand, plus the moisture from Nebraska storms can cause your car to rust, which can spread across your entire vehicle over time.

Dan Pape

Midtown Body & Paint

One of the easiest ways to keep your car in its best condition is by keeping it clean with regular washes, especially through the winter months. A great place to maintain a spotless ride is the locally owned and operated JetSplash Car Wash . JetSplash is the only wash in Lincoln that both hand preps and hand dries your vehicle, making them a great choice to guarantee a clean finish.

Their JetGloss product adds a two-step ceramic coating on your vehicle. It will protect your vehicle from the salt and brine on the roads, as well as create a shiny, glossy finish on your vehicle with more water repellency.

JetSplash offers five different levels of washes ranging from $9 to $25, and they take no more than five minutes so that you can quickly get back on the road. All washes come with a free mat cleaner, vacuums, and air, so you can keep your ride looking great on the inside, too.

They also have an unlimited program, which is a great winter investment with all the salt that gets put on the roads this time of year. You don’t want to leave salt or brine on your vehicle for too long because it will cause rust over time. The unlimited program allows you to wash your vehicle anytime you want. You don’t need to predict the weather, either; if it snows, just come back in and get another wash!

Avoid a Break Down

Winter driving can be more dangerous than other seasons for several reasons. To start with the obvious, weather like snow, ice, and sleet can cause poor visibility and slick road conditions. In addition to this, if something were to go wrong, such as an accident or a vehicle breakdown, having to handle it in the cold isn’t just inconvenient, but also dangerous. This is why Sherri Stock , owner of inMOTION Auto Care , told us it is best to be prepared.

“Winterizing a vehicle these days really means getting the oil changed and completing a good, thorough inspection to get a clear idea of any potential problems,” explained Sherri. “Bad batteries, hoses, belts, water pumps, spark plug wires, etc. can cause a car to break down. Getting repairs and maintenance done now will greatly reduce the chance of breakdowns and being left on the roadside later.”

Sherri Stock inMOTION Auto Care

Another important task Sherri suggested for cold weather is to check tire pressure regularly. Tire pressure monitors are standard on all 2008 and newer models, but if you have a car older than 2008, you should be checking your tire pressure about once a week.

“Tire pressure drops by one PSI, or pounds per square inch, for every 10 degrees the temperature drops,” said Sherri. “Air inside the tire condenses and takes up less space when it’s cold.”

When you visit inMOTION Auto Care, their goal is to deliver the best auto repair and maintenance customer-service experience possible. With a team that includes highly skilled auto mechanics, they are doing precisely that. You can count on them to maintain the highest level of integrity and professionalism throughout your service process, no matter how big or small the job. They are dedicated to your safety and to extending the life of your vehicle, in winter and year-round.

Tips for the Road

A1 Automotive is committed to providing honest answers to the community that they love to serve with a “customers are always first” attitude. A1 Automotive is acquiring the latest software and specific tooling to maintain your vehicle’s every need.

Winter driving is dangerous and can be terrifying, even for well-seasoned motorists. The American Automobile Association’s

Foundation for Traffic Safety says that snow-covered roads, as well as roads coated with ice, slush, or water, account for nearly 500,000 vehicle crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths each winter.

“When we hit the winter months, we start to see an increase of people becoming more erratic in their driving behavior because they are in a rush and don’t know how to drive in these conditions. With snow and ice on the roads, it becomes a potential disaster when there is a lot of traffic. This is why people should keep the following winter driving tips in mind,” said Kendall Warnock, owner of A1 Automotive.

Stay home: If the weather is bad, stay home, only go out if necessary.

Remove snow, ice: Carry a brush to remove snow on the vehicle’s roof, hood, trunk lid, and all windows before driving. Use a scraper or a credit card if necessary, to remove ice on the windows. Before you clear off the windows, start the car, set the air flow to defrost, the fan speed to maximum and the temperature to high. The goal is for the driver to have an unobstructed view in all directions.

Decrease speed: Winter driving is all about slowing down, giving yourself plenty of distance between vehicles in front and to the side of your vehicle. Lower your speed to account for poorer traction. A vehicle’s tires will slide on snow and ice so gently press down on the brake pedal to stop. Your tires will spin when accelerating so gently press down on the accelerator to go. Remember, bridges, and overpasses freeze first.

So many distractions: There are always distractions that come into play as part of everyday driving—the temptation to speak

on the cellphone, a heated argument with a child, a humorous conversation with members of your carpool. But you really need to focus your attention more so on what is going on out that windshield when the weather is bad. The risk for an accident greatly increases when snow and ice cover the street. You have to be more cautious and vigilant. You also have to be aware of everybody else out there on the road in front of you and peripherally, people who may not be practicing the same (safe) driving principles you are using.

Four-wheel, all-wheel drive myth: People get a false sense of security thinking that because they have a 4-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle that they are safer. They tell themselves, I have extra traction and extra traction means extra safety. Hence, I am going to speed, or I am not going to pay as close attention as I would in a sedan that doesn’t have those features. What those drivers fail to realize is their SUV’s steering, braking, cornering, and general maneuverability on snow, slush, and ice is no better than a front- or rear-drive sedan. Simply, slow down when the weather is bad no matter what type of vehicle you are driving.

Fill ‘er up: You don’t want to run out of gasoline if you end up stuck for hours in bumper-to-bumper traffic during a snowstorm. Follow this rule during the winter: When the tank is half empty, fill it up.

Winter driving can be intimidating and scary, but Lincoln has many professionals that can help you get through it. Whether your car needs some updates before the snowy season hits, or you need help after an unfortunate accident, trust that these experts will be there to guide you. Take the advice from these local businesses to prepare for winter weather and protect both yourself and your vehicle through these next few months. We want all of our readers and clients staying safe and healthy this season!

HOURS

MON-THU

7:30am – 5:30pm FRI 7:30am – 11:30am

Small Town Values. Fast & Honest Service.

Kendall Warnock

A1 Automotive

We have reached the final installment of the holiday series! If you are doing some last-minute planning or shopping this season, we know some great local businesses that can help you cross off everything on your to-do list.

The holidays are a marathon, not a sprint, and it feels surreal to be reaching the end of this time of year. While the end is in sight, there’s always more room for holiday celebrations and gifts. We spoke to a handful of local small businesses for their help on how to tackle the end of the season!

Glowing Skin All Season Long

As we get closer to Christmas, preparing for parties and events can eat up all of our time, but don’t forget to prepare yourself! Skin Experts is a new spa in Lincoln ready to get you prepped and ready for any holiday event coming your way.

“The best way to show up to holiday gatherings is with glowing skin! Our revolutionary facials will have you looking your best this holiday season. All of our facials are customizable for individuals based on their skin concerns and needs,” explained Regina Read , spa director. “If you’re looking for a last minute way to look refreshed this season, our Express Facial is the perfect refresher to keep your skin glowing.”

Skin Experts is always diversifying their products and services, and offer new seasonal services for ultimate renewal and relaxation that complements anyone’s skincare routine. For the ultimate glowing skin, try the luxury Glö Serum, described as “The Holy Grail of Facial Serums” by Bella Magazine. This light, repairing, luxury facial oil synergistically blends Full Spectrum

Read Skin Experts

Regina

CBD, balancing probiotics, hydrating omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants in its technologically advanced patent-pending formula of over 15 botanicals to provide you with a radiance that continues to amaze.

Shopping local is one of the best ways to invest in your community. It’s a beautiful way to support your local businesses and help them thrive. When shopping local, you’re more likely to find quality products and services because local businesses are more likely to focus on quality over quantity knowing that the community around them are receiving something special that may be shared to other friends & family.

“At Skin Experts, we feel everyone deserves a luxurious experience to treat themselves, which is why we offer luxury skincare and facials at an affordable price! This year, for the holidays, give the gift of glowing skin. If you purchase a gift card for $200, get a gift card for $50. As well, our affordable luxury skincare line, QÚL Beauty, is a revolutionary skincare collection with various options to gift to any of your friends or family members,” Regina shared. “Our Hydrating Rose Water is an uplifting facial mist with potent skincare benefits perfect for those who are skincare obsessed, or our Muscle & Joint Body Cream is perfect for the adventurer in your life.”

We all know the holidays can get hectic and seem to fly by whether you’re ready or not. Balance some of the craziness by delaying your workplace get together until after New Year’s Day. This can help your team get refreshed and ready to jump into the New Year.

“This is absolutely a wonderful way to get through the end of the year with proper work life balance. It also allows for you to celebrate with your professional teammates after all the holiday stress and celebrate the new goals and last year’s successes without distraction,” said Regina. “We can offer private parties,

small events in our space, and even corporate gifts of a facial for the whole team. Reach out to book any private events!”

Settle In at Kenl Inn

Traveling for the holidays can be difficult if you have a pet at home. Avoid the extra obstacle and give your pet a vacation of their own at Kenl Inn !

Set on 44 acres of land just outside of Lincoln, Kenl Inn is devoted to providing the best possible care for your pet. Their trained staff and state-of-the-art facilities ensure your pet receives the best possible care, whether they are staying for the day or for a week. Owners can also choose from a variety of activities for their pets such as group play, individual play, nature hikes, and training.

“Our dog lodging area is an all-indoor facility,” explained Manager Dian Quist “Your dog is given individual attention each day at morning, noon, and night when they are taken out for their potty breaks, and those extra rubs on the head and kind words that help your dog feel more at home.”

Kenl Inn also has Kitty Condos that are complete with cat nappers, pillows, blankets, and shelves to climb and snooze on, all designed with the comfort and safety of your cat in mind. The solarium room is well ventilated with central heat and air conditioning, as well as large windows overlooking the countryside.

Don’t worry about your pet missing out on the holidays while they’re at Kenl Inn. They provide a delicious Holiday meal for only $3, plus a great selection of brand-new toys including chews, balls, and stuffed toys in all shapes and designs. These also make great stocking stuffers.

“At Kenl Inn the Holiday season is a facility full of guests and the staff caring for them every day of the week. Our staff works 365 days a year from 5 a.m. - 10 p.m.,” explained Dian. “It's a fun time of year when we see dogs and other pets that we haven't seen since last year.”

Dian’s last bit of holiday advice has to do with the pets that are at home. If you’re hosting an event or party at your home, make sure to keep an eye on your pets and make sure they seem comfortable and happy. If they aren’t, try separating them from your guests so they don’t get anxious or scared.

The Best Ham in Lincoln

One of the best aspects of the holidays is the food we get to indulge in every year. While turkey seems to get the spotlight, ham has proven to be just as important to the holiday menu. Many people associate it with Christmas dinner, but a good ham will never be turned away from any dinner table! You can find the best quality ham at Country Sliced Ham .

“We serve the best ham in Lincoln! We are the only place in town that spirals and glazes our hams on site fresh for each guest. When you want the best for your family and friends you purchase the best ham in town for your holiday table,” said Laurie Fraser , one of three local owners. “We serve fresh hams year round and cater for offices, manufacturing plants, and more. In addition we serve at weddings and we always tell brides... we are more than ham!”

As a local business, Country Sliced Ham knows the importance of shopping locally

Dian Quist Kenl Inn

Laurie Fraser

Country Sliced Ham

this holiday season, and throughout the year. Locally owned businesses are the cornerstone in Lincoln. They are your friends, family, and neighbors and are grateful for your support. For last minute gifts, Country Sliced Ham offers gift cards. Anyone that mentions this article in Strictly Business and purchases a gift card will get an extra $10 per card for free!

Once December passes, the last holiday obstacle is New Year's Eve. With this being one of the biggest nights for going out and attending parties, it can be hectic to try and throw something together in the few short days between Christmas and January 1. “Book early! We book our NYE parties six months in advance. It's a huge night and we want to make sure we can take care of you so booking early guarantees you have your first choice in caterer,” advised Laurie. “In our industry it's common for us to host our party in January and we've seen more and more businesses waiting to host their parties. December is a crazy month and it's hard to get people together so January is perfect!”

At both Country Sliced Ham & Cafe and Doorstep Diner Catering, they walk you through the entire process of planning your event. While they are not planners they are there to be a resource, answering questions, giving advice, and just being there to help you create the perfect event.

Make the Season Sweet

What’s dinner without a little dessert? Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates could make the perfect addition to your holiday dessert spread. They also make fabulous stocking stuffers, wonderfully accent or act as a centerpiece for a gift basket, and everyone loves sinking their teeth into chocolate confections. Shop for the sweet-tooth in your life at Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates!

“To make gift-giving even easier,” shared Owner and Chocolatier Gaylene Steinbach, “we’ll take care of the details. From packaging and shipping or delivering, our team will make sure everything’s perfect for everyone on your list.”

Each season, Gaylene develops a collection of seasonal flavors for Lulubee’s signature bonbons. This year’s Holiday Collection of small-batch bonbons consists of: Fig & Port, Hot Chocolate, Peppermint Crunch, Cranberry Orange, and Cherry Pistachio.

Other seasonal treats you can find at Lulubee include Cocoa Bombs, which create rich sipping chocolate when hot water or milk is poured over; Peppermint Bark, swirls of dark and white chocolate covered in crunchy bits of peppermint candy; English Toffee, soft, melt-in-mouth toffee in two different types, pecans with dark chocolate or almonds with milk chocolate; Turtles, filled with locally-sourced freshly-roasted pecans and Lulubee’s signature, vanilla-flecked caramel and drenched in dark chocolate. Lulubee's also carries an Advent Calendar that is only available for in-store pick-up, and gift boxes of many sizes to satiate any chocolate lover's craving. Stop by Lulubee Artisanal Chocolate for all of your holiday sweet treat needs!

New Year, Same Great Wine

The holiday events at James Arthur Vineyards have been keeping the vineyards full of holiday cheer. The party doesn’t stop just because the holidays do! If you’re looking for something to keep the party going into the New Year, try a bottle of wine from JAV. Grown and produced right here in Nebraska, they offer the finest table wines, from barrel-aged dry reds to sweet, crisp whites to delicious dessert wines and everything in between. One of the best parts about the gift of JAV wine is not only are you shopping local, but your family member or friend can easily purchase more after they taste the delight that JAV pours into each bottle.

JAV also offers Curveball, their line of hard ciders. Curveball is made from only the finest apples, and they’ve hit this one outof-the-park with their line-up of great flavors. Curveball Ciders pay homage to the timeless game of hardball, with names such as Grand slam, Double Play, Walk-Off, and Knuckleball. Baseball season may be over for the players, but it can keep going for the fans by cracking open a can of JAV’s refreshing hard cider. Gifts are not the only thing JAV has to offer this season. The vineyard is a perfect venue for small get-togethers to celebrate the New Year or any other festivities. The richly appointed private party room with comfortable furnishings, rich decor, and spectacular views affords an extraordinary venue available nowhere else in the region. They are well known for excellent service, ambiance, and food for corporate dinners, anniversaries, or any social gathering.

JAV also has a tasting room in their From Nebraska Gift Shop in the Haymarket. While sipping wine, browse through the store where they showcase the best products made in Nebraska. Just like JAV’s Nebraska-made wines, they are proud of the wonderful products they carry that represent Nebraska’s finest producers of food, wine, and gifts. The gift shop even has an entire room dedicated to all-things Christmas all year round!

Shine Bright Like A Diamond

If you are searching for the perfect gift to round out your holiday shopping, try something that sparkles from Sartor Hamann Jewelers .

“The holidays are quickly approaching and Sartor Hamann has fine jewelry for all occasions and every budget,” said Anna Alcalde , sales and marketing

Gaylene Steinbach

Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates

Anna Alcalde

Sartor Hamann Jewelers

Specializing in all events that bring people together

comfort of your own cozy car. The show lasts 20 minutes and is about a mile long.

Tickets start at $40 per car, but patrons can purchase a VIP Access ticket for $99 per car. The VIP Access ticket includes free hot chocolate, free cookies, a picture with Santa, a toy bag, and you don’t have to wait in line! A vehicle pass is redeemable for one carload of up to 12 passengers. Vehicles accommodating more than 12 passengers will have to purchase more than one ticket. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door, but buying tickets in advance will guarantee you will be able to view the show.

Ring In the New Year on Wheels

According to WalletHub, 60% of Americans plan to celebrate New Year’s Eve with family or friends. Get out of the house, but avoid the crowds in a fun atmosphere like a party bus. Tailored Dreams Party Buses have several buses in their fleet to fit your guest list, with their largest party bus having a capacity of 45 people.

“We can take your group around town or from one spot to the next in one of our six decked-out limousine-style party buses,” shared DeeDee Loomis , owner. “Turn up the holiday tunes on our Bluetooth sound system and rock out under the LED lights!”

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!

director. “Our knowledgeable staff will help you select the perfect gift, and we’ll even gift wrap it for no extra charge. Whether it’s the holidays or you are getting engaged, celebrating an anniversary, need custom work or jewelry repair, we want to be your local jeweler.”

Jewelry can be a big purchase, so it is important to find somewhere local to purchase from. Buying local does not only support the community, but you can also look at the piece in person, which is huge when making a decision like this.

“Buy local, if possible,” Anna advised. “Purchasing jewelry online can be frustrating because you can’t tell the quality or size from a computer screen. You may then find yourself returning it and starting all over. Jewelry is a personal item, so you need to see and touch to determine the quality. Due to our wide selection of name brand lines, we may already have your ideal gift in one of our stores. If not, we can typically order it or make it for you, and you can choose all the details. Our trained staff will guide you through the process, even probing with special questions to get the perfect gift for that special person.”

Start a new chapter of your love story or make a loved one’s holiday bright with a piece of jewelry from Sartor Hamann Jewelers. The lights on the tree won’t be the only thing shining this holiday season!

Drive-Thru Light Show

Are you looking for some holiday fun right in the heart of downtown Lincoln? The Nebraska Christmas Lights Show will brighten any night at Haymarket Park. The vibrant show will run from November 26 to January 3, from 5 p.m. to midnight daily.

The show features countless high-quality lights in vivid colors, holiday props, and favorite characters of the season. All lights and effects are synchronized to music you can enjoy from the

Don’t Miss a Moment

Another place to hold a New Year’s party is right in the heart of Lincoln. Reach out to Matthew Rogge, owner and director of Talon Room, to get your event in the middle of the action. Talon Room has a variety of price ranges to fit any budget and event, and they offer several services to help make sure your holiday party is a success.

“I always tell people, we set it up, you make it a party!” Matthew said. “We do in-house and off-site catering with a range of menu options to meet any level of party. From event setup to fullservice bar, we can meet all your event needs while exceeding expectations. As an owner myself, I get the need to go above and beyond to show your employees how much they mean to you and the company, and a holiday celebration is a great opportunity to do just that.”

The Talon Room can accommodate as many as 250 people for stand-up or sit-down events. Services that Talon Room can provide for your event include decorations, tables, and chairs; catering, whether the party is held at Talon Room or at another location of your choosing; bar service; event space from as early as 8 a.m. to as late as midnight; setup and teardown; and cleaning. Pricing for events varies depending on what services are included, the time of week it is being held, and the amount of people attending.

Support your community this holiday season and get those last-minute plans made and gifts bought at these local businesses. We promise you won’t regret making these connections during the season of giving! From all of us here at Strictly Business, we hope you enjoy a relaxing and fulfilling holiday season surrounded by those you love!

DeeDee Loomis Tailored Dreams Party Buses

While there is not a specific age to qualify an individual as a “senior citizen,” Western cultures typically begin to use this term at ages 60-65. Many who reach this age are still in good health and continue to live independently at home. Others may find themselves in need of some assistance with certain activities, or their health deteriorating due to diseases such as dementia. Regardless of your age and health, or that of a family member’s, it’s never too early to begin planning for senior care.

If the thought of planning for your future or that of your aging loved one’s causes you to feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone – that’s why we spoke to experts from senior living businesses and services right here in our community to help you get a better understanding of what is available in the Lincoln area and how they can help you or your loved one continue to thrive in their later stages of life.

Holidays with Heart

Making the right choice when moving into a senior living facility is important. Many facilities have different divisions that cater to your needs in every stage of life. Immanuel in Lincoln serves seniors at three different locations, Landing, Grand Lodge, and Yankee Hill Village. Immanuel provides senior living options in independent and assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing, and long-term care communities. Each of the Immanuel communities offers a whole host of amenities, robust wellness, and life enrichment programming, exceptional dining, and spiritual programs and support.

The holidays at Immanuel are an extraordinary time for both residents and staff. Connie Chisholm , the director of communications at Immanuel, gave us a glimpse into the magical time that is the holiday season at Immanuel!

Connie Chisholm

Immanuel

“Our executive chefs create menus and services to build holiday cheer, our Life Enrichment leaders produce robust and active programming that quickly becomes holiday tradition inside the community, and our Mission and Spiritual teams provide a full range of worship opportunities and support throughout this time of year,” said Connie. “Recently, Immanuel kicked off the holiday season by hosting Mr. Gerald Charles Dickens, the great-greatgrandson of the author Charles Dickens, for an exceptional performance of his one-man show of A Christmas Carol .”

While the holidays are an exciting time at Immanuel, they aren’t complete without the people you love. To show extra appreciation for your loved ones living in a senior living facility, Connie recommends giving the gift of connection.

“More and more aging adults are comfortable with using technology. They are looking for devices to stay connected to friends and family, up on current local and national events, and hobbies and interests,” Connie shared. “Immanuel community residents are going digital through our resident portal, where they can get their wellness and life enrichment invitations and program information, dining venue menus, and send messages to fellow residents and staff from any laptop or mobile device.”

After experiencing a global pandemic, it has become clearer that time is precious and we may not always have access to our older relatives, whether it is because of safety or lack of travel options. While they may be physically isolated in an event like this, having the option to video call or see photos of loved ones can make a world of difference in their daily mood.

Making Spirits Bright

The holidays are alive at The Waterford Communities in Lincoln. At the three campuses, residents and caregivers alike can experience a plethora of activities to bask in the holiday spirit. The Waterford Communities are able to offer a diverse

and unique setting within each campus so that you can find one to call your home. The Waterford Communities offer short-term stays at any time throughout the year to ensure safety, especially through the winter months.

It may be harder to take your loved one out during the winter months because of the increased risk of falls. To combat this, The Waterford Communities recommends bringing the holiday traditions to your loved one. With the help of the caring staff, your loved one’s holidays can be made a little bit sweeter.

“Our residents enjoy a variety of activities, this year we plan on decorating our facilities with the resident’s assistance, and partaking in family traditions such as baking cookies and making holiday cards. We invite our residents to participate in secret Santa. We would love to have families send or deliver their loved ones holiday cards, or anything that their loved ones would enjoy,” said College View Administrative Director Melissa Vandeloo . “We will have Christmas carolers come in to visit, and will watch Christmas classic movies and shows while enjoying some tasty holiday treats. This is my favorite season! I am so excited to be a part of celebrating the holidays with the residents as well as the caregivers.”

While the holidays are a time of cheer, it is also important to keep your loved one healthy in the colder weather. Cold and flu season coupled with COVID can be a dangerous time for older loved ones. Make sure your loved ones are up-to-date on vaccinations and stocked up on things like tea, vitamin C, medicines, and disinfecting wipes to keep their homes clean and safe. Melissa foresees the upcoming season to be a challenge, so helping the

Love what’s

next.

At Immanuel Communities, we believe retirement is a celebration of your success. Whether making new friends, starting a new hobby, joining a team/club, traveling, experiencing elegant dining, or just relaxing in your new home, we want you to enjoy life the way you imagined it. That’s why we focus on ensuring you can Love What’s Next in your life. Maintenance-free retirement living, new friends, and the best amenities make each day incredible.

Schedule a visit today at Immanuel.com

Serving Lincoln at The Landing, Yankee Hill Village & Grand Lodge, now part of the family! Affiliated with the Nebraska Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Melissa Vandeloo The Waterford Communities

caregivers at Waterford combat these types of outbreaks can completely change the season for the community.

Getting Nostalgic

Many of us have had to miss out on an important family event or tradition in the last few years because of the pandemic, but hopefully this year, we all get to spend the long awaited holiday season with our loved ones again.

It may still be difficult to get your older relatives out of the house safely, and that can take a toll on their wellbeing and happiness. When elderly loved ones miss out on family holiday traditions, or are unable to participate like they used to, it can lead to feelings of separation and even depression. We spoke to Natalie Leon , owner and executive director at Visiting Angels, about some of the ways families can keep their loved ones included.

“We can help keep our senior loved ones from being part of the statistics by helping them fight off depression over the holidays,” Natalie began. “While the family is together, bring out old family movies and photo albums. Tell stories about the good times and talk about the loved ones who are gone. These conversations can bring back happy memories. Honor the family and the memories instead of letting those thoughts of loss creep into the forefront. Play favorite music and classic movies during the holiday season when the family is together and when your senior may be alone to bring smiles instead of frowns.”

Natalie suggested watching old comedy shows that bring a chuckle, like I Love Lucy , The Honeymooners , or Laurel and Hardy Many of these shows can be found on TV, bought or rented on DVD, or watched on an online streaming service.

“Keep your senior busy! Find fun things to do to occupy them throughout the season and shortly afterward so that they don’t have time to let their mind dwell on sad times or losses they have experienced,” said Natalie. “These things include making cookies, taking a nature walk, writing holiday cards and notes, playing a game, visiting a museum, going to a local event like a parade or church choir, taking in a holiday movie, driving around the neighborhood looking at holiday lights and decorations, doing a craft project, planning a family meal, and shopping together.”

Natalie reminded us that the holidays are emotional for many people, and that having the extra support from a trusted caregiver – especially when family cannot be there in person – is so important. They do not take days off and can be there on any holiday as well. Their caregivers are happy to help their clients get on a family Zoom call so that they can see the faces of their loved ones, or take part in classic holiday traditions with them such as decorating, addressing cards, wrapping gifts, or just reminiscing.

Extra Help at Home

About 90% of seniors intend to remain in their current homes for the next five to ten years, according to AgingInPlace.com. While they may feel more comfortable staying in their own home, seniors may need extra help to keep living independently.

Home Care Partners takes care of families by providing quality care to your loved ones within their own home. They offer companion care, personal care, recovery care, memory care, and hospice support.

“In addition to these services we also take pride in our care management. Care management solutions manage high-risk conditions and complex cases to help prevent hospital readmissions, improve patient outcomes, improve family communication, and

and levels of care.

It was a hard decision to put my mother into assisted living. We had gone around to many places in Lincoln and looked at several but most were just too many people and not a good fit for my mom. We went to Waterford and loved the

Natalie Leon Visiting Angels

customer satisfaction,” said Karla Frese , co-owner. “Our on-going collaborative approach of care management is essential to manage other conditions that pose a re-hospitalization risk. Oversight by a Care Manager reduces hospital readmissions with increased supervision and provides additional support with medication management, nutrition, and follow-up appointments.”

Since you or your loved one will be at home for the holidays, getting prepared for the busy period of the season can help you cope with a lot of the extra stress that comes along with it.

“Set aside time to plan menus and gift ideas—you can even cook some dishes together in advance and freeze them. This helps prevent the scramble to do it all at the last minute. Don't do it alone. Cooking, cleaning, shopping, children’s school events, office parties, family gatherings, and travel can combine to make the holidays stressful,” advised Karla.

With the holidays comes gift giving, and finding a gift can be a challenge. Karla knows you can never go wrong with something sentimental, so she suggests a framed family photo could be the perfect present for a family member who may spend a lot of time alone. If your loved one has a lot of hobbies, give a gift that nourishes their leisure activity. If they’re a gardener, treat them to a new pair of gardening gloves or some new seeds. A baker may enjoy a new type of pan or utensil that could help them try a new recipe or technique. Seniors also need to keep their brain active, so something like a sudoku book or puzzle can not only be a fun activity for your loved one, but also a necessary tool to combat the risks that come with age.

Staying Prepared

If you or your loved one are expecting to spend the holidays alone, it may be beneficial to have a caregiver provide a little extra support. Caregivers can give more than just medical help, but can also provide companionship and help with daily tasks and holiday activities.

Caring Friends In Home Care is honored to serve 47 counties in Nebraska. They hire local caregivers within each county to provide services to their neighbors. This allows the clients to have a consistent caregiver and keeps the costs low for the client as there is no mileage fee and no minimum visit time. Caring Friends will provide services for as little as an hour. This allows their clients to stay within their budget for their needs. They ensure that the Site Coordinator for each county develops a personalized plan of services based on client needs and matches those needs to local caregivers who have been trained to provide that assistance.

Family can begin baking early with their loved one to prepare traditional recipes for their family gathering and then freeze them to be warmed later. This avoids the rush and stress of doing all of the work at the last minute. Having a family member, friend, or company like Caring Friends come in ahead of time and do the cleaning before the holiday event can reduce a lot of last-minute stress. It is important to be watching your elderly loved one for signs of fatigue and suggest breaks or a midday nap during the holiday gathering.

“This can be a very lonely time for seniors who do not have their family around during the holidays. It is important to find ways to foster events that generate those happy memories of the past. Friends, church acquaintances or Caring Friends caregivers can all be an important part of this process,” shared Virginia Cole , COO. “Ensuring a trip to church services, a ride to see lights and decorations, assisting with baking cookies or a favorite holiday recipe, transportation and assistance to finish their holiday shopping, companionship during a favorite holiday movie, or helping the senior to decorate in their own home will all help to lessen feelings of isolation and loneliness.”

Virginia also spoke to the topic of gift giving. Comfort and nostalgia can be two of the best qualities a gift can bring, and Virginia had some wonderful suggestions for making this time of year special for your loved ones.

“A smart speaker will allow the senior to verbally ask for their favorite music to be played using simple voice commands. A streaming channel that plays reruns of their favorite TV shows and musicals, or a streaming movie channel that is running all Christmas movies can bring back meaningful memories. A warm, cozy blanket with some favorite snacks to munch while watching their Christmas specials will create a feeling of comfort.”

No matter where your family is celebrating, remember to keep your elders in mind while planning. The holidays are a special time that all deserve to enjoy! Make these special memories while you can, and they will last a lifetime!

Prioritize Safety

In addition to staying connected and engaged with your senior loved ones, it’s important to make sure they are safe and comfortable before the coldest season of the year really settles in. Beth Friesen , owner of Oasis Senior Advisors , gave us some insight as to what to expect during this time of year for seniors.

“This is often the most difficult time of year for our seniors with more falls, accidents, and illness reported,” said Beth. “If you think a senior living community may be in the future, consider a short-term stay over the winter months. They can ‘test drive’ the community and see what it would be like to live there as a full-time resident. This way they have transportation, nutritious meals, exercise, and companionship built right into their lifestyle. You will likely see a decrease in the amount you worry for your loved one’s safety and well-being during the winter months.”

When it comes to the holidays, they are often at the forefront of a senior’s mind, especially if they are not working or raising a family and are left with more time to prep and plan for the season. Often, senior loved ones are concerned about getting to

Virginia Cole Caring Friends in Home Care

Beth Friesen Oasis Senior Advisors

Karla Frese Home Care Partners

spend enough time with their family, so keep them included in the planning and decision making whenever possible.

“Don’t assume they don’t want to help with preparations just because they are older, but also avoid overwhelming them with too much responsibility if they are no longer able to do as much as they once did,” said Beth.

If you are unable to be with your senior loved one this holiday season, consider an in-home care companion, or asking other relatives to include your loved one in the holiday gatherings. If a senior has a place of worship they frequent, Beth suggested calling to see what they may have to offer for the holidays. There are many resources available to help you keep a close eye on your loved one when you cannot be there.

Keeping Healthy and Happy

Deciding to leave the home you’ve known for so long to move into a senior living facility comes with a lot of trust. Trusting your family to stick by you, the staff to take care of you, and the facility to meet your needs requires a lot of research, understanding, and confidence. This decision is never taken lightly, so choosing a facility that understands how important this transition is will make it feel a lot smoother.

Tabitha features a myriad of options for senior living and services that are completely personalized to meet an individual’s evolving needs. Across the state, Tabitha offers award-winning home health and hospice care wherever you call home.

In Lincoln, GracePointe by Tabitha offers assisted living and memory care suites; Tabitha Nursing & Rehabilitation Center offers shortstay skilled nursing and rehabilitation suites; and residential-style skilled nursing offers added round-the-clock nursing care at the main Lincoln campus and at Tabitha at Williamsburg in south Lincoln. Journey House is Tabitha Hospice’s end-of-life residence that offers a peaceful setting and compassionate care in a client’s final stages of life. And in Grand Island, Tabitha at Prairie Commons is slated to open in December and will offer all of the services listed above, plus independent living apartments for those 55+.

Gathering with family and friends is a large part of the holidays, but going about it in a safe manner is essential. Health officials have been warning the public about a possible “tridemic” of RSV, flu, and COVID this winter, so getting ourselves and our loved ones up-to-date on vaccines like the flu shot or COVID booster will help ensure seniors are protected from viral illnesses this holiday season. If a family member is feeling ill, encourage them to FaceTime or call into the festivities to prioritize the health of the immunocompromised during the colder months. This also makes for a time of reflection and future planning with your loved ones.

“The holidays bring opportunities for older adults to gather and have conversations about the future with their families,” said Tabitha Senior Living Manager Aubrey Paulsen . “Having these conversations before a health crisis is important so families can fulfill their loved one’s wants and needs as their aging journey progresses. A lot of people say they don’t want to end up in a nursing home. Tabitha is more than that, at the intersection of compassionate care, genuine connections, and loving support that make a senior’s stay truly feel like they’re home.”

Loneliness, depression, and feelings of isolation in seniors is something Tabitha takes very seriously, as evident by the development of Tabitha’s Connector program to ensure residents remain engaged in lonely times, like the COVID-19 pandemic. This is especially helpful when friends and families do not live nearby or are unable to visit during the holidays or for a prolonged

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.

living

Aubrey Paulsen

Tabitha

period. Making the effort to send a card, speak with a loved one on the phone or have a video chat can make the distance between you feel a little smaller. Tabitha will make sure your loved one has a positive holiday experience no matter what.

“Tabitha’s Life Enrichment TEAMembers and Volunteers are one of a kind; they are fully dedicated to and immersed in the communities they serve. From holiday games and crafts to customized, festive menus and parties, holidays are widely celebrated at Tabitha,” explained Aubrey. “Additionally, Tabitha Meals on Wheels recipients receive special holiday greetings as we deliver 365 days a year.”

Next Steps

Conversations about death and what happens at the end of life can be uncomfortable and upsetting for many. They are also necessary. When we get to an older age, it is only natural to start making arrangements that we see fit. Funeral/cremation and cemetery arrangements are a selfless act. With this act, you’re giving a gift to your family and loved ones. Handling your arrangements beforehand can take the financial worry and burden away from your loved ones after your time of passing.

Wyuka Funeral Home & Cemetery , located on 3600 O St., was established in 1869 on the outskirts of Lincoln. Over the years, Lincoln outgrew what was once the ‘outskirts’ and in doing so, nestled Wyuka into the heart of itself. The rural design of Wyuka takes you on a winding stroll, or drive, through generations of Lincoln residents which can tend to offer peace and solace. In 2000, the Wyuka Funeral Home was established to further be there for families. The Rudge Chapel and The Stables are other markers of the cemetery’s history. These buildings are still holding events for those who wish to take a step back in time.

Wyuka participates in Wreaths across America to honor those who have served, which coincides with the beginning of the holiday season. Wyuka encourages families to visit those who have passed and decorate their loved one’s final place of rest for the holiday season.

Stephanie Springer , Wyuka’s family service representative, has some gift ideas for the seniors in your life.

“At time of passing, we see how important photos of loved ones are. They remind us of our special moments, occasions, and celebrations. I think it’s so special when photos are shared and thoughtful and warming,” shared Stephanie. “Everyone loves to see them, and I think they should be shared anytime during someone’s life. So, gathering photos together to make a calendar or to be put on a coffee mug or thermos, or even a drink coaster is a wonderful gift they can enjoy year round.”

Stephanie also mentioned virtual communication is a wonderful way to keep in touch, especially when family lives far away and are not able to get together for the holidays. Being able to Skype and video chat can help bridge the distance gap.

Know the Signs

Kyle Johnson with CCA Home Care had much to say on the importance of addressing all aspects of physical health for seniors as early as possible, especially leading into the winter months.

“Declining eyesight or hearing, mobility problems, and memory issues can lead to losing the ability to drive, an increased

risk of falling, and everyday tasks becoming more difficult to perform,” he said. “These health concerns are even more important to take into consideration during the winter. Making sure seniors have mental stimulation, companionship, transportation for outings, and assistance with personal care or household chores can help keep these issues under control.”

CCA refers caregivers who are CNAs and can assist seniors with companionship, personal care, light housekeeping, and much more. They have caregivers available to help starting at one hour or up to 24 hours a day, along with access to short-term assistance in the case of an emergency. This flexibility gives families the peace of mind knowing their loved one is being cared for by a qualified and caring individual.

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. 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

What We Do:

Stephanie Springer

Wyuka Funeral Home & Cemetery

Kyle Johnson

CCA Home Care

with individuals who need additional supportive services such as case management, personal care, house-keeping assistance, and transportation. The CHSP also serves hot meals six days a week in the dining rooms at Burke Plaza and Mahoney Manor.

Making New Traditions

Legacy Retirement Communities understands the stress that comes with trying to create the ideal holiday season for your loved one.

We spoke to Renee Pickerel, Legacy Arbors executive director, about the steps one should take when making holiday plans.

“In order to enjoy the holiday season, we need to keep our expectations reasonable,” said Renee. “Our loved one may be tired and not want to participate, it may be too stressful for them, or maybe they are unable to participate in a big party and need to have a smaller gettogether. Know what your loved one can manage and will enjoy, because the holidays need to be planned according to their needs and abilities. This may even bring a new holiday tradition!”

At Legacy Retirement Communities, they strive to continue holiday traditions. Activities include decorating, singing, baking, wrapping presents, having snowball fights, drinking hot cocoa, throwing holiday parties, putting up the Christmas tree, watching Christmas movies, and reminiscing.

“The best suggestion is to just enjoy the holiday season, whatever that may look like,” said Renee. “Don’t get caught up in trying to have the perfect holiday. Ask your loved one if they need help shopping, a ride to an event, baking, or wrapping gifts, for

example. Make a point to check in with them often. Sometimes we get caught up in our own things and we forget about others.”

If you are able to gather with your family this holiday season, Renee also suggests having any important conversations that may be needed with your loved one. Take the time to visit with your loved one on what their wishes are in case of a major health event. Knowing now helps everyone to make decisions in a crisis situation. If you have a loved one with dementia, planning ahead is difficult because you never know what the day will bring, so having a back-up plan is essential. While these conversations may be difficult, they are important to have when family is available to weigh the options, so that your loved one’s voice is heard by all.

Programs for Everyone

If your loved one is experiencing signs of memory loss or dementia, it may be time to find a home with dedicated memory care. Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation has specialized health care services and an emphasis on life enrichment for every single resident. We talked to Admissions and Public Relations Coordinator Megan Herter to learn more.

“We work hard to create a living environment that continuously enriches each resident’s life,” Megan told us. “Whether it’s taking a resident to a movie they want to see, organizing in-house activities or social engagements with the community, or offering daily spiritual services, at Sumner Place, we focus on personalized care. Our annual events, such as Senior Prom, Dog Pageant, or the Sumner Place Picnic, offer the ‘Family Serving Family’ feel that we are committed to. Social events

Renee Pickerel Legacy Retirement Communities

Megan Herter

Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

During past holidays, residents of Sumner Place have celebrated the most wonderful time of the year by enjoying carols, fresh specialty coffee, and pictures with Santa and live reindeer. The staff at Sumner Place work continually to provide opportunities for special moments to their residents. Furthermore, the staff works to connect with residents on a daily basis, even through the smallest of interactions.

“Sumner Place also uses Buddies Forever, which is a comprehensive dementia program,” Megan explained. “These techniques and skills, such as getting down below eye level, using simple statements, and endorphin boosts, create a foundation for personcentered care. A program that we are also proud to be certified in is Music & Memory, which taps into long-term memory, an area of the brain unharmed by dementia. Selecting the appropriate music for each resident triggers pleasurable emotions from their past.”

Specialized Care

ProMedica Hospice is a not-for-profit, 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, and right cost. 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.”

ProMedica Hospice agencies are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC). While the Lincoln area agency is not yet accredited by ACHC, their team is working toward and preparing for accreditation and certification. This will allow them to demonstrate their ability to meet regulatory requirements and standards established by ACHC. ProMedica is dedicated and committed to meeting those standards that exhibit a higher level of performance and patient care.

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.”

Everyone wants to continue to be healthy and live comfortably as they age. These local businesses and experts have the tools and resources to help you and your loved one do just that.

From assisted living communities to home care to health and wellness, they each have so much more for senior living than what we can fit on paper, so be sure to reach out to them to learn more about what they can offer to you and your family.

Kass Mounce

ProMedica Hospice

In the January 2023 issue of Strictly Business, we will run our bi-annual “Supporting Nonprofits” feature to highlight the nonprofit organizations in Lincoln that help our community.