Strictly Business Lincoln - February 2023

NICOle jaNTZ radiology tech

Mary THOMaS receptionist

Brittne morriS nurse practitioner

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make Your story heard – the importance of Local marketing in the digital Age

The internet and mobile phones have quickly taken over our day-to-day lives, often making it easier in ways such as GPS directions, quick Google searches, and sending emails from wherever you are. The downside of using these tools is that many people have started to abandon physical resources and print media thinking that they are no longer valuable tools. Many are surprised to hear that print is becoming increasingly popular with millennials and younger generations, but the proof is in the data. Millennials are chastised for being glued to their phones, yet print media still holds an important place in their daily lives. Even people from the older generation, while they increasingly shop online, are much more likely to trust information in print media than information published in digital formats.

Based on a Marketing Charts survey of 1,000 US adults (18+) ending in early October 2022, the research indicates that almost 68% read physical/printed media, the highest figure for the yearto-date. Let’s compare this to the email advertising we are exposed to every day. Companies are able to mass produce marketing emails at a faster rate than print marketing, but it is often tossed into the junk folder or directly into the trash. Making meaningful, intentional print media stands out against the flood of advertisements and messages that can flood our inboxes.

Research has found a significant difference between communicating through tangible, printed materials and communicating through digital materials. Though the working world has shifted to computers and cloud services, many of its industries still rely on print media for marketing, communication, and other important functions. It’s also easier to comprehend information when it’s delivered through printed material, not because the information

on a screen is more difficult to read but because your mind is less likely to wander and become distracted when you’re looking at printed media than when you’re browsing digital content.

If your goals for this year include increasing profitability, credibility, likability, and your presence in the community, it’s time to call us! What makes Strictly Business a strong marketing tool is our ability to tell your story in a variety of unique, engaging, and informative ways. This is done through our news sections, Star City Sixes, Client Spotlights, and feature stories. Plus, our reach is undeniable—in print, online, and on social media. Pair all this with our longevity in the marketplace and reputation of being a champion of local business, and Strictly Business becomes a great asset to your marketing strategy!

Our team at Strictly Business has built a reputation for providing Lincoln with reliable and relevant news because of our work ethic. If you are new to advertising and marketing your business, our team can create press releases, advertisements, and story features with just a little guidance from you. Making our clients and their work shine is one of our greatest strengths and joys!

Every industry has its own marketing goal, and print media can play a crucial role in that area. Research has proven that print is still an important and sought-after media in today’s world, regardless of what it’s used for. Millennials are reading more than previous generations at the same age, as well as appreciating the experience of physically owning a book. To get in touch and get started on making 2023 the best year for your business yet, reach out to our office at (402) 466-3330! We would be happy to chat about the ways Strictly Business can enhance your marketing strategy.

our team at strictly Business has built a reputation for providing omaha with reliable and relevant news because of our work ethic.

A BreAkthrough in Knee Relief

At Arthritis Relief Specialists of Lincoln, they help people suffering with osteoarthritis of the knee eliminate their knee pain without surgery. In addition, they incorporate preventative measures into their treatment approach so their patients can avoid future episodes of knee pain.

Arthritis Relief Specialists provides specialized medical services exclusively for people looking for ways to quickly and easily end their chronic pain caused by osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis and the most common joint condition worldwide. In the U.S. alone, OA accounts for more than 25% of all visits to primary care providers and half of all anti-inflammatory during prescriptions. Yet with all this focus on osteoarthritis, there are still only limited options for care, none of which have shown much promise...until now.

helping You Avoid Surgery

Joint replacement surgery, once considered a last resort, is expected to reach 3.4 million cases by the year 2030, an increase of 673% since 2006. Replacing your natural joint with an artificial joint can lead to complications such as blood clots, infection, pain in other joints, and long recovery times due to limited range of motion. In light of these complications, there is some good news. Relief from your knee pain and lost function can be achieved using a promising nonsurgical technique.

The Advanced Arthritis Relief Protocol is an FDA approved medical breakthrough for pain associated with osteoarthritis. The procedure actually prevents cartilage breakdown, promotes tissue growth, and restores function to the affected joint. Studies published in several prestigious medical journals cite decreases in joint pain, cartilage destruction, and bone damage along with improvements in function.

To reserve your fRee personal consultation, call Arthritis Relief Specialists today at (402) 817-5499

ArthritisreliefSpecialists.com

PrODuCTION TeaM:

Director of Operations Cemre Lively – Cemre@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Art Director Derek Nosbisch – Derek@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Writer Tessa Yeo – Tessa@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Creative Intern Abby Gonzales – Abby@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

SaLeS TeaM:

president/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

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

Are You ready for Life Without Arthritis Pain?

If you’ve tried everything to get rid of your knee pain and have been told your only other option is joint replacement surgery, here’s news: Arthritis Relief Specialists of Lincoln has developed a knee arthritis treatment program specifically designed for people looking for a way to stay active, eliminate their pain and stiffness, and avoid joint replacement surgery.

The program involves a combination of restorative and interventional non-surgical medical procedures that have literally changed the lives of hundreds of osteoarthritis knee pain sufferers… even those told they need joint replacement surgery.

To help you get a clear picture of what your life could be without chronic and severe arthritis pain, they invite you to schedule a FREE consultation.

In less than an hour, you’ll receive an assessment of your problem and provided with the best recommendations you’ll need to recover quickly and begin enjoying the life you know you deserve.

6041 Village Dr. Suite 110 Lincoln, ne 68516

Lotus house presents the Launch of ondemand fitness

After 15 years in business, Lotus House, LLC is keeping up with the times and launching their newly developed fitness yoga app. The pandemic hit the fitness industry hard, specifically yoga studios because of the close proximity to others inside the studio.

Anne Sweet and Mary Clare Sweet, owners of Lotus House, were already ahead of the rush to create an online presence and offer yoga classes to those who practiced at home.

“We were six months into the creation of our on-demand platform when COVID hit, so we poured all of our energy, talent, and time into fast tracking this unique business opportunity,” said Anne.

They launched their first version with Lotus On The Go, and then went to work on the full build out that includes online streaming and apps for Android and Apple. Lotus House created a recording studio and experimented with many different technologies to create just what they wanted. They offer yoga classes for all levels, yoga teacher training schools, meditation, restorative classes, and their own reality-based Lotus Spirit Sessions.

You can login today for a free week of Lotus House at www. lotushouseondemand.com. Download the app from the app store to stream on your phone so you can practice anytime and anywhere you like. For further information, contact Anne at (480) 415-2900 or at sweetalent@mac.com.

Ar solutions founder and Ceo Aaron newell Attends Armtech Convention

AR Solutions Founder and CEO Aaron Newell has recently attended the ARMTech convention in Nashville, TN. At this event, Aaron learned from industry leaders on how to harness the power of technology to improve productivity and mitigate risk. He also heard from those who are at the leading edge of incorporating machine learning, artificial intelligence, and other advanced tools in their collection operation.

ARMTech is a first-of-its-kind event helping collection operations understand the technology that is revolutionizing how debts are collected. Attendees learned the best process for creating actionable ideas and insights to build advanced collection platforms capable of communicating and collecting from today’s tech-savvy consumers.

Aaron is excited to bring the skills and knowledge he learned at ARMTech to AR Solutions. He is committed to creating the best possible experience for his clients. Even in their 17th year of business, AR Solutions is continuing to innovate!

With AR Solutions, you can trust that your accounts will be handled with the highest quality service so that you can focus your time and energy on what you do best—running your business. AR Solutions is licensed, bonded, and insured, and has more than 30 combined years in medical collections. For more information, visit arsolutionsinc. com or call (402) 817-3929.

JetsplashCar wash Celebrates 20th Anniversary

JetSplash Car Wash is entering its 20th year this February. This milestone comes with over 2,000 people employed, and 8.6 million cars washed over the years. JetSplash would like to take a moment to thank all current and former employees for their unyielding dedication and oustanding quality of work.

JetSplash was born in February 2003 at the intersection of Highway 2 and Pioneers. They had a small staff, modern equipment, and one big dream: help Lincoln shine.

Through the passion of their owners, hard work of their employees, and unimaginable support of their customers and members, JetSplash has been living that dream day in and day out for 20 years and counting. JetSplash has grown to seven locations, which has drummed up convenience for customers and allowed them to serve the entire Lincoln area. All of the locations were built by local contractors, and JetSplash purchased local parts whenever possible, pumping profits back into the community and supporting other Lincoln-area businesses.

JetSplash has been helping Lincoln shine since 2003 with speedy, spotless car washes. They utilize the latest, energy-efficient equipment and only use products that are eco-friendly and 100% biodegradable. JetSplash takes pride in their community and strives to give back through donations and fundraising opportunities. For more information, visit jetsplash.com.

sCore Lincoln hosts small Business workshop february 11

SCORE Lincoln is continuing to bring business owners in Lincoln the opportunity to grow and learn with the “What’s Involved in Starting a Small Business” workshop on February 11.

This workshop will help startups and small business owners gain answers to essential questions needed when starting or running a business. It will run from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Turbine Flats - Resonator, 2124 Y St.

Attendees will learn from experts in the related field and can ask questions specific to their business interests.

Topics include:

• Business Plan

• Practical Accounting and Tax Considerations

• Financing Your Business

• Legal Structures for Small Business

• “Traditional” Marketing and Online Marketing

• Insurance Needs

Attendees may sign up with SCORE for free one-on-one mentoring. The full day costs $49 and includes lunch. Registration fees will be reimbursed by Community Development Resources upon attendance at the workshop. To register, go to score.tfaforms.net/17?EventID=a105a000005rd1H.

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

Greenleaf Commercial real estate releases second half of 2022 market report

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is excited to release their Second Half of 2022 market report.

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 in-house 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 up-to-date market data when working with clients.

The reports are free and open for the public to download through Greenleaf’s website.

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.

Club pilates to openinLincoln spring2023

Club Pilates, the nation’s largest premium boutique Pilates brand, will open its doors in Lincoln in the Spring of 2023. An international brand, Club Pilates is a low-impact, effective fitness routine loved by people of all backgrounds all over the world. These full-body workouts strengthen muscles, improve posture, and correct muscle imbalances, helping members feel their best and live life to its fullest, all while offering a low impact workout that can accommodate everybody. In anticipation of the new studio, to be located at 8222 Holdrege St. STE 7, Club Pilates Lincoln is offering 20% off the eight-pack memberships and unlimited memberships for the first three months.

The bright studio welcomes members into a supportive atmosphere where they can choose a class type fit perfectly for them, from high intensity and strength training to mobility and recovery.

Club Pilates not only has nearly 800 studios open in North America, but is also one of the largest providers of a comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Program in the world; the 500-hour program is designed to thoroughly and safely teach group Reformer Pilates classes along with TRX and Triggerpoint.

For more information about how to become a Club Pilates member in Lincoln, please visit www.clubpilates/lincoln or call (531) 500-1456.

Founded in 2007, Club Pilates is the largest Pilates brand by number of studios, designed with the vision of making Pilates more accessible, approachable, and welcoming to everyone. To learn more about Club Pilates, visit www.clubpilates.com.

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Arclight Solutions is your expert, go-to partner for identifying, evaluating, and solving technology challenges.

Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates releases new Valentine’s treats with an old-school twist

Remember those pastel-colored conversation hearts from your childhood? Well, they’re back with Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates’ new Valentine’s Collection, only this time those quippy phrases adorn hand-crafted, artisanal bonbons made right here in Lincoln.

“Our Valentine’s lineup,” shares Gaylene Steinbach, owner and chocolatier of Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates, “adds a bit of nostalgia to our decadent bonbons.”

Lulubee’s seasonal flavors include:

• Mouthwateringly juicy Raspberry Caramel

• The perfect floral and fruity combo of Passion Fruit and Mango

• Tiramisu with its deep rich coffee paired with a creamy mascarpone layer

• Hazelnut Praline that’s filled with caramelized hazelnuts and sweet milk chocolate

• Lulubee’s signature single-origin Madagascar bonbon that’s robust, smooth, and finishes with cherry notes

If you’re looking for something extra special, the Lulubee team can help you with gift baskets that are filled with other Valentine’s goodies like their large chocolate hearts filled with creamy mint ganache, cookies, or handcrafted peanut butter, caramel, and crunchy pretzels.

“These chocolate-filled baskets,” shares Gaylene, “are ideal for a ‘Taste of Lincoln’ thank-you to loyal customers, business partners, and teams. Plus, since we’re local, you can showcase our community while ensuring you’re sending gifts that can’t be found elsewhere.”

At Lulubee Artisanal Chocolate, dabble on the decadent side with their small-batch, handcrafted bonbons, sea salt caramels, toffee, chocolate bars, and more! For more information, go to lulubeechocolates.com or contact them at hello@lulubeechocolates.com or (402) 413-2081.

fniC Announces expansionintoColorado

FNIC excels at providing service on a local level and is excited to bring their innovation, execution, attention to detail, and passion to Colorado. The new office is located on the second floor of the FNBO Loveland Branch at 750 N Lincoln Ave.

“The decision to expand our office footprint into Colorado was a logical next step in our growth strategy,” said FNIC President and CEO Scott Hill. “We have assembled a group of experienced insurance professionals who will hit the ground running.”

The new team in Loveland, CO consists of dedicated professionals with experience and know-how. Mike Ball is FNIC’s Colorado state director who will lead an initial team providing employee benefits, commercial insurance, and personal insurance to fit your unique needs. Jeramie Holt, Dylan Vallino, Melissa Whalen, Nyisha Moore, and Natasha Ford round out the FNIC Colorado team.

To learn more about FNIC, please visit www.fnicgroup.com/colorado where you will find more information about the FNIC team and the products and service they provide.

FNIC is a regional market leader for insurance and financial benefits. Their clients and company partners recognize their innovation and the lengths FNIC goes to understand their operations and risk initiatives. FNIC is headquartered in Omaha with branch locations across Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, Illinois, and Colorado. Their team of over 300 employees, supporting multiple insurance and risk management areas, truly operates as an extension of your business. Learn more at fnicgroup.com.

professional realtyGroup named #1 real estate teamfor2022,Breaking$70m in sales

In 2022 Ben Bleicher, Realtor ® and his real estate team at Professional Realty Group (PRG) BHHS Ambassador Real Estate were named the number one real estate team at BHHS in Lincoln, and broke through $70 million in sales. This comes as no surprise to team leader Ben who had set goals high for the year and then armed his team with the tools they needed to succeed.

The beginning of 2022 was filled with lots of strategizing and meticulous planning for what would be likely the largest team merger in Lincoln history. Ben Bleicher, founder of PRG, and longtime real estate agent and friend, Derek Kats from Kats & Associates KW put their teams together to create the best team in Lincoln! They finished very strong with over $70 million in sales, which consisted of 259 sold units. Most teams are very buyer heavy, as they account for most of their business via buyer leads. PRG was almost even, which is an enormous accomplishment, representing 126 sellers, and 133 buyers!

If you’re considering buying or selling real estate this year, PRG would love the opportunity to meet and talk about how they can assist you in achieving those goals. Professional Realty Group is a one stop shop and they handle residential, commercial, leasing, investing, and developing. For the full article go to bit.ly/3iyRcDK, and to find more information about Professional Realty Group BHHS Ambassador Real Estate, go to prg-ne.com.

rise stronger to host Victorious women Conference

It's almost time for the Rise Stronger group women’s event! Even after putting on several conferences in the past, they have the same level of excitement and joy preparing for the next one. The Victorious Women’s conference will be held on Saturday, February 11 at Elevate Church, 8251 Pioneer’s Blvd. The event will last from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a live worship band from 12:20 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. Registration for this event will close on February 11 at 9 a.m.

You'll get the chance to hear Stephanie Johnson, women's ministry leader, leadership coach, speaker, and trainer; Sarah Krause, speaker, educator, and worship leader; and Tamera Toof, real estate consultant, cabi stylist, and speaker. This is an incredible lineup of insightful speakers are faith-driven leaders and can help lead you into immersing yourself in the Word and presence of God. Come and be refreshed, revived, and empowered to live victoriously and bring a fresh touch from Heaven in your home, job, city, state, and nation!

Rise Stronger Events are a place where people can be empowered in body, mind, and spirit to win the mental, physical, and spiritual battles that we face on earth, in order to boldly seek God with grace. The community values the strength it takes to persevere with personal growth and faith in order to stand tall with purpose. To register by donation for the event and to learn more about Rise Stronger, please visit www.risestrongergroup.com or contact Stephanie Johnson at info@risestrongergroup.com.

skin experts to offer Valentine’s week special for Local ems department workers

For Valentine’s Week, February 14 through February 18, Skin Experts is offering complimentary express facials and a free QÚL wellness product of their choice for local Fire Department, PD, and EMS Department workers.

“We love supporting our local EMS workers and want to show our gratitude for their amazing work in our community. We believe both men and women can benefit from our facials, using advanced technologies and carefully curated ingredients to help their skin look fuller and younger, creating results you can see. Our QÚL Wellness line is focused on healing,” shared Owner Regina Read. “Our Valentine’s special includes a free QÚL Wellness product of your choice with a selection from one of our five flavors of Tinctures synergistically combined with our proprietary Terpene Blend to give you all the benefits the plant has to offer. You can also try our indulgent, lightweight Muscle and Joint Body Cream, scientifically formulated with menthol and capsicum to provide a QÚLing and warming effect to massage tired, stressed, and fatigued muscles and joints. EMS workers help our community, and we want to help them get glowing skin this year!”

Skin Experts offers luxury, hi-tech facials for all skin types at an unbelievable price. When it comes to skincare, they combine revolutionary technology from Europe and Asia with carefully curated ingredients that work synergistically to help skin look fuller, fresher, and younger. For more information, visit www.skinexperts. com, or contact hellolincoln@skinexperts.com / (531) 500-5224.

home Care partners Celebrates five Year Anniversary, relocation

Karla Frese and Andrew Carlson founded Home Care Partners in January of 2018 to provide Home Care services to the Lincoln community. They are excited to enter their fifth year of business in 2023.

Home Care Partners is also excited to announce they will be relocating from their current location in the SCC Entrepreneurship Center Suites to a new office they have purchased in south Lincoln that is currently under renovation.

Over the years, Home Care Partners has been recognized locally in the Lincoln's Choice Awards as a top home healthcare provider for two consecutive years, received recognition for being an industry leader nationally in Caregiver training, and were recognized by Forbes Magazine in the Next 1000 awards of newer entrepreneurs who are redefining what it means to build and run a business today.

“As much as we accomplished in the last five years, we are committed to reaching further in 2023 to help even more people,” shared Managing Partner Karla Frese. “Thank you for allowing us to care for so many of the seniors in our community. We will continue to provide service that aligns with our values of thoughtful, quality, and dedicated care.”

Home Care Partners serves seniors in and around Lincoln. They are an affordable and comparable alternative or complement to independent and assisted living. Call (402) 780-1211 to learn more and request caregiver services.

Carmela’s Bistro sparks Love with sweetheart wine dinner

Carmela’s Bistro knows what it means to wine and dine, and their Sweetheart Wine Dinner is the perfect time to do just that with your sweetheart. On Thursday, February 2 at 6:30 p.m., you and your loved one can have a romantic evening full of amazing food and impeccable wine.

The wine dinner event will be presented by Chef Alec DeGrenier and The Italian Vine. With wine pairings along the way of each course, you’re sure to be swept away by the delicate and expansive flavors of each bite. You and your sweetheart can expect a Prosecco toast aperitif, a strawberry quinoa salad first course, pan seared scallops coming in for the second course, and roasted airline chicken with parmesan risotto for the third course. To top it all off, the dessert course is a Banana’s Foster fried cheesecake - is your mouth watering yet?

Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar has been in Lincoln’s quaint Pioneer Woods Shopping Center since 2008. It is truly the love child of its owner, Marci Hanshaw. Her vision of a sophisticated-yet-cozy eatery and bar is alive at Carmela’s, and it shines through with a European-inspired elegance combined with the charm of an American bistro. The walls are full of playful wine-loving sayings and photos of Hollywood’s most iconic faces from the 50s and 60s, such as Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Johnny Cash. Carmela’s Bistro is located at 4141 Pioneer Woods Dr., you can make reservations now on their website or by calling (402) 489-0005.

tobacco freeLancasterCounty sponsors opportunityforYouth organizations

Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) is preparing for World No Tobacco Day 2023 and is seeking youth groups, clubs, and community organizations to register to participate in this free event. Sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO), World No Tobacco Day is celebrated on May 31 each year to inform the public about the dangers of using tobacco and make them aware of the business practices of tobacco companies.

Participating groups will learn about the environmental impact of the entire tobacco cycle, from its cultivation, production, and distribution to the toxic waste it generates. This education, combined with the activity of picking up litter in community parks, trails, and more, aims to bring awareness to the environmental dangers of tobacco and vaping. By registering, groups will receive educational materials, talking points and suggested questions, FREE t-shirts, easy instructions to apply for and to receive eligible grant funds (funds for your organization), and supplies for litter pick-up – all while making a difference in our community. Find out more at www.tobaccofreelancastercounty.org/WNTD.

Funding for Tobacco Free Lancaster County is provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement.

Community development resources names new executive director

Community Development Resources (CDR) board of directors recently announced Farshad Maltes as its new executive director. Maltes started with CDR in December following a national search for an executive director, which CDR has not had in place since the passing of their founder Rick Wallace in 2016.

“Maltes brings a unique set of skills and abilities that will truly advantage Lincoln’s aggressive affordable housing development goals,” said Mark Hesser, CDR board chair. “He is recognized as a national expert on many of the complex financial instruments CDR seeks to incorporate into our local affordable housing development efforts, and we are lucky to bring his skills to our community."

Maltes has more than 30 years of experience in community development financing. He served as the president/CEO of Community Capital New York, and worked for Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority. Maltes has overseen small business, commercial real estate, and affordable housing lending programs benefit low-income communities, managing portfolios as large as $575 million.

“Both Lincoln and Nebraska in general have a refreshing unified focus on solving the affordable housing challenges in our communities,” said Maltes. “There is agreement on the need for more affordable housing to support economic growth and the well-being of our neighborhoods.”

Community Development Resources is a nonprofit community development financial institution whose purpose is to provide financing for affordable housing development activities that primarily benefit low-income populations and neighborhoods. CDR was founded to provide loans and technical assistance to low income and minority individuals looking to start or grow their small business. To find out more, visit cdr-nebraska.org.

southeastCommunityCollegeto move, expand Athletic offeringsBeginning fall 2023

Prospective student-athletes attending Southeast Community College (SCC) will soon have more choices in which to participate in intercollegiate athletics when an expansion plan takes effect in fall 2023.

Sports teams will be based at Beatrice, Lincoln, and Milford campuses instead of Beatrice only, which has been the case for decades.

Plans are being made to more than double the current number of sports teams offered at SCC. Brett Bright, SCC athletic director and Beatrice campus executive director, said the additional sports will dramatically increase student participation in intercollegiate athletics. Currently, SCC offers ten sports that compete at the National Junior College Athletic Association level, five for women and five for men. New sports are E-sports (coed), women’s golf, rodeo (coed), trap (coed), men’s and women’s tennis, men’s and women’s track and field, men’s volleyball, and men’s and women’s wrestling. Most of the sports are scheduled to start competition in fall 2023 with the exception of men’s volleyball and possibly men’s and women’s tennis. Those starts may be delayed until fall 2024. Find more information about Southeast Community College at www.southeast.edu.

northwestern mutual – Lincoln improvesClient ExperiencewithAdvancedOfficeSpace

Northwestern Mutual - Lincoln, a financial services company focused on comprehensive financial planning through both insurance and investments, is relocating offices to enhance the experience of its clients. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Thursday, January 12, at the new location in GlynOaks Plaza (8333 Glynoaks Dr., STE 100). Speakers, including Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird, shared remarks about the opening at the event.

“We are thrilled to move into our new office space and expand the reach of our efforts,” says Nate Kruse, Northwestern Mutual-Lincoln managing partner. “Northwestern Mutual – Lincoln is committed to its community, and we are excited to have access to more resources that can help us deliver top results to our clients.”

The office is moving from ParkOne. The new location offers over 11,000-square-feet of new space, with advanced technology and additional resources that will allow advisors to help their clients enhance their financial wellness.

Northwestern Mutual – Lincoln has been serving its community since 1864. It has generated $40 million in dividends to date with $3.6 billion in assets under management, and it has delivered financial security to over 57,000 clients. Northwestern Mutual has been helping people and businesses achieve financial security for more than 165 years. Through a holistic planning approach, Northwestern Mutual combines the expertise of its financial professionals with a personalized digital experience and industryleading products to help its clients plan for what's most important. For more information, please visit northwesternmutual.com.

Visit Lincoln Launches new tourism website

A new and improved website for Lincoln’s attractions and tourism ventures is now live with several new and upgraded features. The new lincoln.org features a hub of information that is easier to find for visitors when they are looking at what’s happening in Lincoln. New photos and a modern design that highlights Lincoln’s restaurants, hotels, and attractions, planning options for group tours, sporting events, and more are featured brightly with additional information on an easy-to-find and dynamic website.

“The new lincoln.org serves as a window into all of the great things going on in our community and the website vividly shows what amazing opportunities await visitors and Lincolnites alike,” says Jeff Maul, executive director- vice president of Visit Lincoln. The Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau is also modernizing in symphony with the new website, as the organization will now be known as Visit Lincoln, complete with a new logo and branding. Visit Lincoln is a division of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and proudly serves as the lead tourism agency representing and promoting Lincoln and Lancaster County. Funded by a partnership of the Lincoln Chamber and Lancaster County, Visit Lincoln promotes Lincoln to millions of visitors showcasing Lincoln’s live music scene, culinary treasures, and attractions. Together, Visit Lincoln, Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, and Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development promote continued economic vitality, positioning Lincoln to be the best place to live, work, and play. To learn more, visit the new site at lincoln.org!

eCr Announces rolling hills tradingCompany move to new distribution Center

Ted and Robin Eschliman of Eschliman Commercial Real Estate (ECR) are proud to announce the relocation of Rolling Hills Trading and U-neek Events to their new expanded Lincoln facilities on 515 W South St. They worked with their clients for over a year to find the right property and were elated to represent the tenants in the leasing of the new 12,000-square-foot space.

Rolling Hills Trading is a locally-owned business selling trademarked products SUPERtrax ® Kids Ride-on Cars and Shade Tree Tents (supertraxcars.com/shadetreetents.com). They are primarily one company and national e-commerce marketplace. They sell and ship quality event tents, carports, SUV awnings, and various models of luxury children’s electric ride-on cars. U-neek Events is a local event rental company that offers event tents, tables, chairs, linens, and more. The Lincoln-based company’s owners Scott and Kristi Unick stated, “The pandemic caused us to be creative on how to make our businesses survive. After doing some adjusting of our business models it created big opportunities for growth and the need for a larger facility.”

Husband and wife team, Robin and Ted Eschliman of Eschliman Commercial Real Estate provide site selection services for office, retail, warehouse, land, and commercial investment prospects, as well as listing and consulting services. For more information about Eschliman Commercial Real Estate, visit their website www.ecrproperty.com or contact them at (402) 420-3239 / info@ecrproperty.com.

Lincoln stars Calls on Community to find Billet families

For those who have never heard the term “billet,” it has been around for decades and describes the family that houses a junior hockey player locally and basically steps in as his parental influence. The billet family provides a home for the player, meals, a place to do laundry, study and relax, etc. It is a place to build deep connections with a player who in many cases is living away from home for the first time. Players aged 16-20 need homes from September to mid-April with the potential to extend into late May due to the Clark Cup Playoffs. Families who host Stars players will be provided a monthly stipend. Safe, loving, and supportive homes are essential in enabling players to achieve their goals in hockey, but also as members of the Lincoln community. Families who host players will house an individual who will help serve as a role model to the family’s children and be an active member in their home. These families form a bond that lasts long after their players have moved on from Lincoln.

For 25 years, Lincoln has opened its doors to the Lincoln Stars players and their organization, showcasing the community’s generosity and kindness. They are incredibly thankful for all billets, past, present, and future, without whom the Stars would not be able to exist. For more information, please visit lincolnstars.com/ sports/2022/8/18/billeting.aspx. Applications can be filled out there and sent to housing@lincolnstars.com.

YmCA opens preschool, Before and After school program registration

Priority registration for the 2023-2024 school year is currently open to Lincoln YMCA Members, with open registration beginning on February 14. For youth aged three to five, Preschool is offered at all four Lincoln YMCA locations and includes swim lessons and gym class as part of its licensed program.

“At the Y, kids have an opportunity to be creative, explore their environment, and develop problem solving skills. Our staff serves as positive role models and provides care that is supportive and nurturing,” shared Austin Klingenberg, youth, teen, and family director of the Northeast YMCA.

Before and After School Programs at the YMCA support children in reaching their full potential by providing academic support and handson enrichment experiences in a safe, structured environment. Through activities like homework assistance, arts and crafts, literacy, board games, and outdoor play, the Y supports experiential learning while developing valuable life skills. Partnering elementary schools include Ada Robinson, Elliott, Kahoa, Kooser, Pershing, Pyrtle, Wysong, and Zeman. Partnering middle schools include Lefler, Lux, Mickle, Moore, Pound, Schoo, and Scott. Registration is also open for YMCA Summer Day Camp, with the first session beginning May 30.

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 enrollment information and to register for all YMCA child care programing, please visit YMCALincoln.org or contact your local YMCA branch.

Center sphere Announces february event schedule

Center Sphere is pleased to announce an upcoming networkwide New Year Social on Tuesday, February 7. This event is hosted by Joel Weyand, financial advisor with Edward Jones. The event will be held from 5-7 p.m. at the Double Eagle Golf, an indoor golfing facility at the Kinetic building at 150 SW 14th Pl. Appetizers provided with a cash bar. All Center Sphere members and their guests are invited to gather for this social hour.

In addition, join fellow Center Sphere members and guests for Meet The Network on Wednesday, February 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at HOME Real Estate, 5322 O St., to hear all about The Network and the best ways to maximize your membership.

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.

mcGill Law to present at Lunch and Learn on domestic Violence february24

McGill Law is pleased to announce that they will be presenting at MOMentum’s upcoming Lunch and Learn on Friday, February 24 from noon to 1 p.m. at the UNO Community Engagement Center in room 127. The seminar will be about navigating domestic violence and harassment in the family court. Navigating the family court system is incredibly challenging as it is, but when domestic violence and harassment are a factor, it can feel impossible. The conversation will include topics such as mediation, protection orders, custody agreements, and much more.

You can attend the lunch and learn in-person or virtually on Zoom. Register for your spot by reaching out to meredith@ momswithmomentum.org or directly message McGill Law on their Facebook page. In the message, make sure to clarify whether you would like to attend in-person or virtually. The registration deadline is February 10.

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.

www.customcooling.net

info@customcooling.net

BBB opens2023 torch Awards for ethics Applications

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has opened the applications for the 2023 Torch Awards for Ethics.

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics honors organizations whose leaders demonstrate a high level of personal character; ensure that the organization’s practices meet the highest standards of ethics; and consequently generate trust with its customers and the community. The Torch Award embodies BBB’s mission of advancing business trust. BBB has four separate Torch Awards competitions – Metro Omaha/Southwest Iowa, Lincoln/Greater Nebraska, South Dakota, and the Kansas Plains. Entries are evaluated by one of four independent, voluntary panels of judges from either Omaha, Lincoln, Sioux Falls, or Wichita. Each panel is comprised of members from the business, nonprofit, and academic sectors of their communities. Your written submission, including examples, stories, and documents, should provide a robust and accurate depiction of your organization’s focus on character, culture, customers, and community. Supporting documents and attachments can range from handbooks, internal documentation, or photos from events.

Applications are due by April 28. Any questions can be directed to Josh Planos at jplanos@bbbinc.org.

For more than 100 years, the Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands, and charities they can trust. Learn more at BBB.org.

hBAL’s 51st Annual nebraska Builders home & Garden show set for february10-12

The 51st annual Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show, produced by the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL), will feature almost 200 exhibitors at the Lancaster Event Center. The event is set to take place February 10-12. Admission is $8 or $7 with a non-perishable food item for the Lincoln Food Bank. There is no admission fee for children 12 and under.

Exhibitors in Pavilions 1 and 4 will have great ideas for landscaping, decorating, remodeling, or building a new home. The show features the latest products on the market, both for the do-it-yourselfer and for people who want to hire a professional. Many exhibitors are focusing on building green and increased energy efficiencies. A list of exhibitors is available on HBAL’s website at www.hbal.org.

SPECIAL FEATURES

• Food Bank House – Remodelers Council of Lincoln built a frame house and will fill the walls with donated non-perishable food. Each year more than 2,500lbs of food are donated to the Food Bank of Lincoln.

• Kids Square – Kids Square will feature presentations by Wildlife Encounters as well as fun activities for kids including balloon creations, face painting, fun projects, and games.

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

You Have a Business to Run.

We provide the solutions you need to succeed.

Brock Shelton 402.323.8902 bshelton@westgate.bank

Mitch Glause 402.853.7321 mglause@westgate.bank

Lindsey Kirkendall 402.434.7810 lkirkendall@westgate.bank

AmanaCare to host open house, welcoming rhonda saunders

The public is invited to an open house on Thursday, February 9 from 4 – 6 p.m. to welcome Rhonda Saunders to the AmanaCare team as their Lincoln marketer. Rhonda brings many years of experience to the company along with her enthusiasm and genuine compassion in caring for others.

The open house will be held at the AmanaCare office located at 5001 NW 1st St., STE 7. Refreshments and live entertainment featuring Eldonna Rayburn performing World and Native Flute music will be provided along with a chance to win a $50 Carmela’s Bistro gift certificate!

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

st. monica’stoBreakGroundonCampus expansion february22

St. Monica’s - Life Changing Recovery for Women is delighted to invite you to the ground breaking ceremony of their campus expansion. Growing to serve the need for genderresponsive care for women battling addiction in Nebraska, they are rejuvenating spaces at Victory Park Campus (formerly known as the Veteran’s Campus 70th and O St.) Please join them on site Wednesday, February 22 at 12:30 p.m. for a brief ceremony.

St. Monica’s is an organization of passionate, caring professionals who assist women in overcoming some of life’s most challenging struggles and helping them live better, healthier lives. Since 1964, their purpose has been providing recovery in a home-like environment. They empower women to deal with various issues they face intersecting with substance abuse. The trauma–informed and evidence-based practices they use address the root cause of addiction. The St. Monica’s team are highly skilled health professionals who offer a compassionate, loving approach. They know women in recovery provide infinite value to themselves, their family, their friends, their vocation, and our entire community. For more information, visit their website at stmonicas.com, or email Nancey Bernhardson at nancey.bernhardson@stmonicas.com.

Choices treatment Center to expect record Bettingfor superBowl, resources Available

On Sunday, February 12, people all over the world will tune in to watch Super Bowl LVII, and many of those individuals plan to place a sports wager. The American Gaming Association (AGA) estimated that over 31 million people in the United States wagered over $7 billion on last year’s professional football championship game. These numbers have significantly increased annually, with this trend expected to continue in 2023 and beyond.

The second National Survey on Gambling Attitudes and Gambling Experiences (NGAGE 2.0), a survey created by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) in 2018, identified a significant increase in problematic gambling activity. Problematic play was found to be especially prevalent among two at-risk groups: sports bettors including those who play daily fantasy sports, and younger gamblers (ages 18 to 44). The study also indicated that almost two-thirds of Americans, or 220 million people, do not know where to get help for a gambling problem.

Nebraskans struggling with problem gambling, as well as their loved ones, are encouraged to call or text the Nebraska Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-833-BET-OVER (1-833-238-6837). This number is answered 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week by a trained counselor, and calls remain completely confidential. Callers may receive crisis intervention as well as referrals for local treatment resources.

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. Visit www. choicestreatmentcenter.com for more information.

nebraska Knockerball sponsors“deuces Cancer” inauguralBowling event

Nebraska Knockerball is thrilled to be sponsoring the “Deuces Cancer” Inaugural Bowling Event on Saturday, February 18 from 2 to 5 p.m. The event will be held at Sun Valley Lanes, located at 321 Victory Ln.

This event has been created to allow families and friends to come together for a fun time of bowling, drinks, snacks, and prizes. You can help support the Tyson’s Treasure Chest Foundation by bringing a brand new toy to fill the chests, or donating to help make more chests to put into children’s hospitals.

All ages are welcome! There will be 32 lanes available at $100 per lane. Each lane has a maximum of six bowlers. If you can’t make the event, you can sponsor a lane to show your support.

For Premium Sponsors, the price is $300 and will include online advertisement, radio advertisement, and a premium event banner with your name or logo. Lane Sponsors are priced at $250, and includes your logo or name on the lane banner. If you would like to do a raffle sponsorship, the price is $200 and you will get your name or logo on the Raffle Table.

For more information about registration and sponsorship, you can visit Tyson Treasure Chest Foundation’s website at tysonstreasurechest.org/ fight-it-bowling.

To have Nebraska Knockerball at your next event or host a party at the indoor facility, connect with Manuel at (402) 460-8724 / manuel@ nebraskaknockerball.com. For pictures from past events that Nebraska Knockerball has done, visit their Facebook page (@NebraskaKnockerball) or learn more online at Nebraskaknockerball.com.

BUsiness news

reGA engineeringCelebrates20Years

REGA Engineering Group, Inc. is celebrating 20 years of business! REGA is a midwest based full-service engineering firm, and they are honored to be celebrating their 20th anniversary and continue serving its communities for years to come. In that time, they have become licensed in 12 different states across the Midwest and developed an outstanding portfolio. The 20th anniversary comes with a bit of a facelift with a new crisp logo for the company, as well as an updated website with a new look.

The company is incredibly proud of the last 20 years that REGA has provided and the footprint they have made on the community. Their continued success has allowed clients to see and trust their locally done work, showing the many different solutions REGA has completed in the Lincoln area.

REGA Engineering Group, Inc. has been providing civil engineering, surveying, land development, forensic engineering, landscape architecture, and obstruction observation to its clients since 2003. REGA is licensed in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Minnesota. To learn more, contact (402) 484-7342 or visit regaengineering.com.

Krueger developmentClient mod wattage electric Celebrates twoYearAnniversary

Krueger Development client Mod Wattage Electric celebrated two years of business in December at their new location in Trade Center West. Mod Wattage Electric specializes in providing modern solutions for traditional concepts through service upgrades, electric vehicle chargers, hot tub and spa wiring, lamp and light fixture repair, and recently became the first authorized dealer of Oelo permanent exterior lighting in Lincoln. Employees have nearly 100 years of combined experience in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical service work, troubleshooting, remodels, and new construction.

Mod Wattage Electric, a family-run business, is woman-owned and operated by Megan McKay, daughter of Master Electrician Steve McKay. Prior to beginning a career as an electrician, Megan worked in public safety communications for 15 years, earned a Master of Arts in Management from Doane University in 2018, and serves on the board of directors for The Bridge Behavioral Health.

Visit Mod Wattage Electric in booth 4607 and 4608 at the Nebraska Builders Home and Garden Show February 10-12 to request a complimentary estimate and preview Lincoln’s newest options for permanent exterior lighting and other modern electrical solutions. Appointments for service calls and free estimates can be booked online at www.modwattage.com, through email to modwattage@gmail.com, or by calling (402) 904-9459.

For more than 30 years, the family-owned and operated Krueger Development has contributed to Lincoln’s commercial and residential marketplace by developing communities, retail centers, and multifamily residences. For more information about available commercial spaces, contact Krueger at (402) 423-7377 or visit kruegerdevelopment.com.

LeachCamper salesof LincolnGearsUpfor Upcoming rV shows

Leach Camper Sales of Lincoln will be participating in two RV shows in February. It’s a new year and they are excited to have new RV Models to show you. Join them to tour the best-selling RV brands and speak to their salesmen.

The first show is the 54th Annual Nebraska Boat, Sport, & Travel Show February 3 - 5, at the Lancaster Event Center (4100 N 84th St., Lincoln). You can find more information on the show, times, and ticket details on their website: nebraskasportsshow.com.

The second show is the 75th Omaha International Boat, Sports, & Travel Show from February 23 – 26 at the CHI Health Center (455 N 10th St., Omaha). Ticket details, exhibitors, and times can be found at omahaboatsportsandtravelshow.com. If you would like to purchase a discounted ticket for this event, bring $5 (cash ONLY) to the Leach Camper Sales dealership. This only applies to the Omaha show.

Leach Camper Sales of Lincoln is a locally-owned RV dealership that has been serving Lincoln since 1963. That’s 60 years! They take a great deal of pride in offering honest, hometown service for all of their departments. For more information, go to their website at leachrv.com. Camp better!

fiservBringsZelletoCommunityBanksand Credit Unions

Fiserv is bringing Zelle to community banks and credit unions. Digital, person-to-person (P2P) payments have emerged as the latest payment type to rapidly rise in popularity. In only a short time, consumer adoption has moved them from a nice-to-have solution to a competitive imperative for financial institutions of all sizes. Zelle ® is at the forefront of the P2P movement.

Zelle ® is a P2P payment solution created by and for financial institutions, and can be found in nearly 2,000 banking apps, with more institutions signing up every day. It’s a great way for consumers to send, request, or receive money from friends, family, and others, simply by using a recipient’s email address or U.S. mobile phone number. In most cases, the funds transferred are available in minutes.

The widespread acceptance of Zelle ® is one more indication that we have arrived at a new kind of financial services experience –a kind that serves real people with immediacy in an increasingly digital and connected world.

For financial institutions, P2P payments are about relationshipbuilding and staying relevant in consumers’ day-to-day finances. Your customers want what they want when they want it – especially when it involves paying friends, family, and others.

Fiserv has a significant presence in Nebraska, with locations in Omaha and Lincoln. In addition to Nebraska, Fiserv has sponsored the Back2Business program in New York, Milwaukee, Miami, Atlanta, Chicago, Oakland, Detroit, Oklahoma, Texas, and Washington D.C. Learn more at fiserv.com.

A construction partner dedicated to making our client’s vision a reality for nearly a century. Building legacy projects by telling your story and exemplifying

We go “Beyond the Building” with long standing relationships with owners, architects and subs.

paisley Lynn Boutique Celebrates one Year of Business

Paisley Lynn Boutique is so excited to be celebrating one year of business! They have changed out their showroom from the impressive holiday collection to their new spring and everyday collections and are inviting the community to help them kick off year two. On Wednesday, February 15 from 4 to 7 p.m., they will be hosting a small event with free snacks, drinks, and specials while they showcase their new releases. The event will be in their shop located at 630 N. Cotner Blvd. Door C, breezeway entrance.

This special boutique is a woman-owned local business that has a love for decor, staging, and ambiance to create a unique shopping experience. You’ll find trending and inspirational pieces to create harmony in any room of your house at affordable prices. Their variety of trending styles and fairly priced pieces also make a unique gift for that someone special.

Paisley Lynn Boutique wants you to love your home and help you find decor and accessories that align with your style. They will work with you on staging your home for selling or filling it with eyecatching pieces that create a space you want to call home forever. Stop by the studio to check out Paisley Lynn’s unique collection of home decor, or go online to www.paisleyLynnboutique.com for photos and more details. Follow them on Facebook for their latest videos, tutorials, pop-up hours, and special events @ PaisleyLynnBoutique.Lincoln.

overhead door everserve model 521s wins product of the Year

Overhead Door is excited to announce their springless aluminum full-view garage door, the EverServe Model 521S, has won Product of the Year by Architectural Record.

The Model 521S is a premier solution for commercial and industrial applications, thanks to an industry-leading 300,000 cycle life innovative design. The springless design eliminates the need for a counterbalance, offering minimal downtime and enhanced productivity. Additionally, it features a built-in braking mechanism and wireless sensing edge for peaceof-mind against uncontrolled curtain travel.

The aluminum-framed door is offered with glazing options from tempered or wire glass to acrylic and polycarbonate, providing a full-view design that maximizes light penetration. It is available in sizes up to 18’ 1” x 20’ 2” and comes in a choice of anodizedaluminum finish or more than 200 powdercoat colors.

Overhead is proud of this accomplishment and looks forward to continuing to serve the community with the best products.

Overhead Door Corporation’s founder, C. G. Johnson, invented the upward-lifting garage door in 1921 and the electric garage door opener in 1926. For nearly 90 years, the Overhead Door brand has stood for product quality and expertise, as well as professional service. Today, Overhead Door is one of the most-recognized and respected brands in the garage door industry. Overhead Door Company of Lincoln belongs to the nationwide network of more than 450 authorized Ribbon Distributors. For more information about Overhead Door Company of Lincoln, please call (402) 466-3667 or visit www.overheaddooroflincoln.com.

shannon formal wear Kicks off Year three in downtown Location with suit sale

Shannon Formal Wear has been at their downtown location since February of 2020, and they have been loving the new spot. They’re celebrating their third year by offering a suit sale to their amazing customers. The sale includes a suit jacket, suit pants, and dress shirt for a discounted price of $250, normally a $500 value. The sale is valid until April 1, so patrons have plenty of time to prepare for all the upcoming summer weddings!

When you visit Shannon Formal Wear, you can find parking in front of the shop on O St. for easy access to the finest formal wear. Shannon Formal Wear is a locally-owned business that has been part of the community for eighteen years, and they offer great prices for quality garments. They specialize in weddings with tons of options to look sharp on your special day! You can find suits, sport jackets, ties, shirts, Florsheim shoes, topcoats, Mission belts, and more. For more information, visit their website at shannonformalwear.com, or reach out to owner Andrew Shannon at (402) 434-7428 / andrew0shannon@gmail.com.

Legacy retirement Communities Celebrates successful Community events

Legacy Retirement Communities is proud of the community outreach events they were able to hold over the last year. In 2022, The Employee Enrichment Council (EEC) at Legacy led their employees in several community outreach events, including a hygiene drive to support the Gathering Place, “Give to Lincoln Day” to support the Lincoln Food Bank, a bottled water and textile drive to support the People’s City Mission, Huskers Helping the Homeless to support Matt Talbot Kitchen, and “Be a Santa to a Senior” to support Home Instead.

The Employee Enrichment Council is an advisory council committed to creating an atmosphere for all employees that promotes friendship, teamwork, leadership, and a driven purpose to enhance and live out the Mission and Values of Legacy Retirement Communities. Legacy’s goals are to engage employees in community work, support local nonprofits, and offer fun events for employees and guests, as well as train and develop council members’ leadership, planning, organization, and teamwork skills that may assist them in future endeavors.

Legacy Retirement Communities is a trio of state-of-the-art communities that incorporate elegance, superior quality of care, affordability, and thriving social activity all under one roof. They are a family-owned and operated business and have been voted Best of Lincoln 25 years in a row. Legacy continues to provide Lincoln with award-winning elegance, superior care, and countless reasons to live an enriched life. For more information, visit www. LegacyRetirement.com. To contact Legacy, call (402) 417-7292 or email legacyjobs@retirement.com.

AsK the eXpert: Compro

(402) 488-5100

www.comproins.com

by Kayla Northup Location Manager, MGA, Agent

health insurance 101

Oftentimes there are insurance terms that people vaguely understand. And they feel a little embarrassed to ask for help with this. So, let’s take it back to the basics. Consider this a simple course in Health Insurance 101 with the end goal being to bring clarity and understanding to these terms.

Your Deductible is the amount you pay for covered health care services before your insurance plan starts to pay. For example, if you have a $2,000 annual deductible, you’ll need to pay the first $2000 in medical costs before your plan helps to pay. Costs that typically count toward your deductible include hospitalization, surgery, lab tests, MRI & CT scans, anesthesia, and doctor/therapist visits not covered by a copay.

A copay is a flat fee that you pay at the time of visit each time you go to the doctor or fill a prescription. Copays cover your cost of a doctor’s appointment or medication. Not all plans have copays.

Coinsurance is the percentage of costs you pay (for example 20%) after you’ve met your deductible. One of the most common coinsurance breakdowns is 80/20 where the insurance company pays 80% and you pay 20%.

Maximum Out-Of-Pocket is the most you pay for medical services in a covered year. Your deductible, copays, and coinsurance all count towards meeting the Maximum Out-of-Pocket. Once this is met, the insurance company pays all claims for the rest of the year.

A High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) is also frequently referred to as an HSA. These plans have higher deductibles and plan features that conform to federal guidelines. HDHPs cover certain preventive care before the deductible is met, but under the guidelines no other services can be paid for by the health plan until the deductible has been met. This means that HDHPs can not have copays for office visits or prescriptions prior to the deductible being met. Instead, the insured will pay the full cost of these services and that cost will be applied to the deductible. Beyond the basics, there is much more to learn about how health insurance works. Our ComPro Team is here to provide help with this and to answer your questions. Just give us a call at (402) 488-5100. ComPro offers health insurance plans for Employee Benefits, Individual & Family and Medicare. For more info, visit our website at www.comproins.com.

The Lincoln Airport has NEW getaway flights.

tED StAR CItY SIX

Ted Eschliman E SCHLIMAN C OMMERCIAL R EAL E STATE

Meet Ted Eschliman, the vice president of sales and leasing at Eschliman Commercial Real Estate.

Tell us a little about your business. - Eschliman Commercial Real Estate lists properties for sale or lease and provides site selection services for office, retail, warehouse, land, and commercial investment prospects. How did you get started in the business? - I went to college to become a music teacher, and ended up with a 40-year, temporary “side-trip” into music retail instead at Dietze Music. I sold my ownership of the four-store retail chain in 2019 and got my Real Estate license to assist my busy wife, Robin in her established commercial real estate business. It seems like only yesterday, but I’ve worked for her for three years now.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

- Beginning a new career in my 60s (but I had a good mentor). What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- I am proud I was able to hit the ground running in a completely new vocation, but I did benefit from existing community and local business relationships. 2020 was a record year for ECR, my first one out of the gate.

Tell us a little about your family. - Robin and I have been married for 36 years. We have an amazing 24-year-old daughter, Erica, who is a highly competent legal assistant.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Meeting my wife, Robin. She roughed many of the “edges” of me, and I knew when we were dating, she was the most interesting person to talk to I’d ever met in my life. Still is…

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - We home rescue Shetland sheepdogs, a HUGE part of our routine. Nurturing them has been amazing for the last 30 years, and we are currently on our twelfth dog. Each comes with unique, sad stories, but we give them the life they deserve.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I authored a best-selling Mel Bay music instruction book in 2008, Getting into Jazz Mandolin. I still get quarterly royalties from it today.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - You can’t judge attitude; you can only judge behavior, only specific actions. We think we know what goes on inside a person’s head and intuitively thin-slice opinions on what they are thinking, but we never completely know their story.

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Love is Here to Stay” by George Gershwin.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - When I was young, I mistakenly thought it would be mind-reading, but today with social media, we have the insane capability of virtually knowing what everyone thinks.

Which talent would you most like to have? - Ha! Remembering names!

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?Blink: The Power of Thinking without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Catalyst and 9 Char Grill. We like to support the local-based.

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

-

R AC h E l

Rachel Leidy NORTH RISK PARTNERS

Meet Rachel Leidy, the account manager at North Risk Partners.

Tell us a little about your business. - North Risk Partners is a midwest-based insurance company that prioritizes service to their clients. The main thing that drew me towards working in insurance and specifically with North Risk Partners is that I get to help people. It was important for me to find an employer that genuinely cares about their clients and North Risk Partners always puts the client first. We strive to find the best insurance opportunities for local businesses of all sizes. The connections I make with the community around me are what excite me for work every day.

How did you get started in the business? - I got started in the business through my mom. She has worked in the same office for about 15 years, so I basically grew up around the people in the office. It felt really natural joining their office culture and it just made sense to me. I knew who I was going to get to work with and I couldn’t imagine better mentors for a young adult just starting college.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

- The biggest challenge I have faced professionally is being so young. When I communicate with clients for the first time and they can tell I am young, they sometimes question or doubt me. Once I show them that I am capable and know the business, they do a complete 180 and come to me for anything after that.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- The most important achievement I’ve had professionally so far is establishing a name for myself in my company so early on in my career. North Risk is a very large company across numerous states, so I didn’t expect people I had never talked to, to know me. When I get the chance to meet new people, I’m proud to hear I have a reputation of hard work and positivity. That’s my ideal combination of adjectives for my work ethic.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - A wonderful friend of mine got me a desk calendar of daily positivity. I remember this quote from July 8. “You’ll never do a whole lot unless you’re brave enough to try” - Dolly Parton.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - If I were to choose any other profession to be successful in, I would want it to be teaching kindergarten. Before I started in insurance, I worked at a daycare for most of my high school experience. I loved bonding with the kids and watching them learn new things each and every day. My desire to work in an industry that truly makes a difference started here.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The last good book I read was Believe It: How to Go from Underestimated to Unstoppable by Jamie Kern Lima.

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

What is your favorite TV show? - Definitely Friends .

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 905-9069; rachel.leidy@northriskpartners.com; www. northriskpartners.com.

CottIE AR CItY SIX

Scottie Broxterman LECTRIC

Meet Scottie Broxterman, the service manager at Oak Electric.

Tell us a little about your business. - Oak Electric, Inc. is a 100% women-owned, premium contractor with a record of exemplary service. We have a fabulous team of hard-working electricians who provide quality customer service and find the best solutions to every project with creativity and experience.

How did you get started in the business? - A roommate I was living with wanted to start a handyman business. As he was looking into that, he asked me if I ever wanted to get into the trades. I had taken an electrical wiring class in high school and thoroughly enjoyed it. I was accepted into a five year apprentice program where I did electrical work during the day, and had classes at night two times a week.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - The most important achievement professionally for me was becoming service manager.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have a wonderful wife who teaches for LPS and five children.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy spending time with my family, playing board games, and playing paintball.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I owned and operated a paintball store and field in my hometown when I was 17.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - I would choose time travel. It would be amazing to go back in time and see the dinosaurs, watch the Empire State Building being built, or see my ancestors from long ago.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - That would be humor. Humor is a great way to lighten the mood, re-enforce an idea, increase job satisfaction, and bring workers together. Which talent would you most like to have? - I would like to have the ability to better multi focus and multi task, to keep in sight many different projects or tasks at the same time and to fluidly move from one to another (and back again) as if I’d not been away from them.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I very much like older homes and would love to see them shine in their original glory, so I would choose historic home rehab. I would restore them as one would restore a ’57 Chevy.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Atlas: Lincoln is a small organization here in Lincoln that exists to serve the people of Lincoln through local, intentional, and relational Christ-based peer support. No Footprint Too Small is a 501c3 nonprofit organization located here in Lincoln. Their mission is to provide comprehensive perinatal support to mothers, fathers, and families who are affected by pregnancy or infant loss. They are a wonderful organization that has helped many people, my wife and I included, when their baby has died.

What is your favorite movie? - My favorite movie is My Man Godfrey. It is a fantastic movie from 1936 starring William Powell and is a must see!

What is your favorite local restaurant? - The Dish.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 440-5969; oakelectriccompany@gmail.com; www. oakelectric.com.

StAR CItY SIX NAtAlYA

Natalya Young

S T. M ONICA ' S H OUSE

Meet Natalya Young, executive director at St. Monica’s House.

How did you get started in the business? - In 1998 I started working in human services in my home state of North Dakota with individuals in a community-based group home. I enjoyed working with others and assisting them in reaching their daily living goals. I found a passion for working with people in a residential setting. My work advanced to managing community-based group homes in South Dakota, then Nebraska. In 2006 I started working at St. Monica’s as a residential coordinator. In 2008 I moved to a role in the admissions department, working with authorization and admissions. I gained my professional Alcohol and Drug Counseling license in 2015 and managed the admissions department. In 2019 I was promoted to a leadership role in administration. In July 2022, I became the executive director of St. Monica’s.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I empower staff members to reach their professional goals and support them in their journey.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am the youngest of six children from Bismarck, and have lived in Lincoln since 2002. I am married to Jason Young, and we have one son, Jack, a freshman in high school. We enjoy movies, sports, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - In September 2006, I switched from working with developmental disabilities to substance use recovery specific to women at St. Monica’s. I am an adult child of an alcoholic; I experienced treatment work with my mother and family education. Before I started working at St. Monica’s, I did not realize the amount of courage and vulnerability it takes when someone seeks help to create a new life journey. Seeing the women at St. Monica’s choose a better life daily is immensely powerful.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Run outdoors. I have run ten half marathons and would like to complete another in 2023.

Who inspires you? - My professional inspiration is my first supervisor in human services, Janelle Thomas. She empowered me to learn, be patient with others and myself, and seek guidance to grow as a young professional. I hope to have a similar impact on others as she had early in my career. My personal inspiration is my dad, Irvin Russell. My dad was a restaurant entrepreneur. In 1985 he became ill with a significant mental health diagnosis that affected his ability to continue to run a restaurant. His life's path changed, but his joy for life did not. What sticks out the most about my dad is that he wasn’t bitter or angry. His motto was to talk it out, accept it, and come up with a solution if applicable. There were challenging days, but he accepted where he was at in his life. He taught me to be kind, loyal, honest, and to keep going. I miss him dearly, knowing he and my mom cheer me on daily to do good for others I meet.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Enjoy the little things in life because one day you will look back and realize they were the big things,” – Kurt Vonnegut.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Schilling Bridge in the Fallbrook neighborhood. The owner and staff are all very friendly.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 441-3768; natalya.young@stmonicas.com; stmonicas.com.

StAR CItY SIX mAggIE

Maggie Pickrel-Smith DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

Meet Maggie Pickrel-Smith, the director of events and outreach at Downtown Lincoln Association.

Tell us a little about your business. - Downtown Lincoln Association is a city-contracted nonprofit that works to better our downtown district. We work with property owners, business owners, residents, and downtown enthusiasts to make downtown a thriving community.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband, Jacob, and I live here in Lincoln with our three cats, and we just welcomed our first baby at the end of September.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - After graduating college, I moved to NYC to pursue stage management and directing. Despite being successful in my venture and working off-Broadway after a few months, I decided working in the theatre world wasn't for me. Finding a job at DLA was one of the best things that ever happened to me, as I could use my event management skills but in a totally different way than in theatre. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - On a day off, I love to play video games either alone or with my husband. On nice days, we love going on walks together through the Sunken Gardens or the Holmes Lake Dog Park.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have moved states twelve times in my life. My dad was in the army for 27 years which accounts for most of the moving, and then I did some of my own adventuring. Who inspires you? - My boss of course, Todd Ogden.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Easily telekinesis. I would get so much more cleaning done in my house.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would love to become a published author. I also love learning about art and could see myself working in that field. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am very passionate about women's rights and try to be as active as I can in different ways with our local Planned Parenthood. I believe all people should have access to safe and affordable healthcare.

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

- One of the most recent books I read was If You Tell by Gregg Olsen, which is an incredible and devastating read.

What is your favorite movie? - My favorite comfort film is The Princess Bride , but I have to say my new favorite movie is Everything Everywhere All at Once . I'm also a big fan of slasher movies like Friday the 13th and Halloween . My husband and I actually did a podcast for a while where we talked about all these movies, but things got a little busy for us and we are on an extended hiatus.

What is your favorite TV show? - I have so many favorite TV shows. 30 Rock is probably my all-time favorite, but the past few years there has been so much good TV coming out. To name a few, I've really enjoyed The White Lotus , Barry , Abbott Elementary , and a whole lot of others.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - The Oven downtown is my favorite local Lincoln restaurant, and I truly miss Dammi Dammi.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? -Maggie@downtownlincoln.org; downtownlincoln.org.

Erich Nickman AMANACARE

Meet Erich Nickman, the CFO at AmanaCare.

Tell us a little about your business. - AmanaCare is a non-medical home care agency that serves seniors, adults, and children with disabilities. Our job is to assist our clients in their homes so that they can continue growing in a familiar place and keep the daily structure that they want. To that end, we perform tasks that range from homemaking to personal care, such as assistance with bathing.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Cynthia and I married in 2019 and we have been blessed with three children. Our oldest is two-years-old and our youngest two are fraternal twins, born in August of 2022. Cynthia worked as an elementary school teacher, but is now a stay-at-home mom. Her first language is Spanish and our goal is to raise our children bilingually. I am amazed every day at the home environment she creates for our family.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - In high school I converted to Christianity from atheism. This has impacted the way that I think and act in every facet of life. St. Augustine of Hippo summarized these two paths well in his work City of God. The City of Man being one in which the person pursues love of self to the point of forgetting God and neighbor, and The City of God being one in which the person pursues love of God and neighbor to the forgetting of self.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - The best advice I have received is, “In how one orders one’s life, there are two types of pain, the pain of discipline, or the pain of regret.” I have several duties that I am called to excel in; fatherhood, business leadership, friendship, personal growth, etc. I recall this advice when I am at the crossroads of choosing to perform my duty or choosing something easier or more convenient in the moment. I don’t always succeed but I know that this pattern of thinking has made me more disciplined, and has helped me enjoy performing my duties.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - A Guide for the Perplexed by E. F. Schumacher. It gives a mental roadmap for thinking about the great ideas and contrasting worldviews. In a special way he dismantles the notion, which I held growing up, that the world is nothing more than material and chemical reactions.

What is your favorite movie? - It is a toss-up between Braveheart, The Count of Monte Cristo , and A Man for All Seasons . What these movies have in common is a main character who strives to uphold an ideal.

What is your favorite TV show? - Growing up I enjoyed the show Scrubs . It has quirky humor yet grapples with the realities of suffering and death.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - I have always appreciated both the food and atmosphere of Toast.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - I greatly admire St. Thomas More, the Chancellor of England in the 1500s. A learned and principled man, he accepted death over betraying his conscience. I would appreciate learning what a day in his life consisted of and hearing his thoughts on our present-day matters.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - amana-care.com; erich@amana-care.com.

DROP-N-GO CATERING

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

horisun hospice welcomes Codi thieman, rn

HoriSun Hospice is pleased to announce the addition of Codi Thieman, RN as a nurse case manager to its team.

Codi spent 23 years working for Bryan Medical Center. Her career began as a registered respiratory therapist, working primarily in the Medical Intensive Care Unit at Bryan East. She flew for StarCare, Air Ambulance, for six years as a respiratory therapist. During this time, her scope of practice was broadened and she could do several things in her flight career that she could not do as a hospital-based therapist. Not wanting to lose the knowledge and skills she gained, Codi decided to go back to nursing school. She graduated as an RN in 2006 and spent 13 years in the Bryan West Neuro/Trauma ICU. Most recently, she worked for two years between Pulmonary Diagnostics and Outpatient Surgery at Bryan West. Codi has loved her transition to HoriSun Hospice as it has allowed her to see the strength and fortitude that patients and families have, and she is honored to be a part of their journey towards end of life. HoriSun Hospice believes that hospice care affirms life. Their mission and promise to the community is simple – to provide the best care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all whose lives are affected by a life limiting illness or condition. Comfort, compassion, and caring are their guiding principles. For more information about HoriSun Hospice, visit www.horisunhospice. com, or call (402) 484-6444.

Jackie svobodaof LuxuryLandscape receives Landscape design degree

Jackie Svoboda, owner of Luxury Landscape, is excited to announce that she has just recently achieved her Landscape Design degree from Ashworth College in Georgia. With her background in physical therapy as a rehab director, Jackie was able to bring a lot of her skills with her when she and her husband Ken launched Luxury Landscape, but she didn’t have the detailed landscape design skill like Ken has. Together, they consistently discuss how Luxury Landscape can improve as a business and the decision for Jackie to go back to school was a no-brainer.

“A lot of my designs come naturally, but I am able to recommend a whole new array of options since completing school,” said Jackie. “Options like suggesting different plants that I wouldn’t have even thought of prior to going to school, or timeless material choices when designing a hardscape project. I’ve even taught Ken a thing or two!”

Jackie is happy to report that she completed the program with a 4.0 GPA. She has hopes to continue her education further. She’s a firm believer in never stopping learning, especially if it’s going to benefit you personally and professionally.

Luxury Landscape offers an array of services for outdoor spaces, with their most popular being installation, design and consultation, landscape maintenance, and residential snow removal. For more information about Luxury Landscape and the services they provide, visit luxurylandscape-llc.com.

farris engineering mechanical engineer dustin hill passes pe examination

Farris Engineering is pleased to announce that Dustin Hill has passed the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) examination and is now a licensed professional mechanical engineer in the State of Nebraska. Dustin has been a part of the Farris Engineering team since 2014, designing mechanical systems for educational, commercial, and health care markets.

Dustin received his associate degree in mechanical design technologies from Metropolitan Community College. He continued his schooling at the University of Nebraska where he obtained a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in architectural engineering.

Dustin has over 14 years of design experience and has been an essential member of Farris Engineering’s mechanical engineering department for the past eight years. When not at work, he can be found spending time with his significant other and his two dogs Mac and Cheese, traveling, and working on improvement projects around the 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. 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.

health At home Consultants welcomesApril pearson as new Business strategist

Health At Home Consultants wants the community to extend a warm welcome to April Pearson, their new business strategist.

Pearson grew up in a small town in Northeast Nebraska but has called Omaha home for the past several years. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in healthcare management with a minor in psychology from Bellevue University. Having a long background in the senior living industry, settling into her new position at Health At Home has been like second nature.

Pearson has worked as an advisor for many years, most recently the community relations director for an assisted living community. She has a strong passion for working with seniors to assist them in finding the right solution to meet their needs, either at home or in a community-based setting.

Aside from work, Pearson has a passion for travel, gardening, flowers, interior design, and loves to watch a good Nebraska sunset. She is so grateful for the opportunity to join Health at Home consultants and be a solid resource for seniors, families, and the Lincoln community. You can reach her at april@healthathomeconsultants.com or (402) 981-5511.

The Health at Home Consultants team has found a perfect business niche in homecare. They can perform and interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and x-rays, flu shots, pneumonia vaccines, and all other injections; prescribe medications and other treatments; and manage a patient’s care while maintaining continual communication with the primary care physician. To learn more, visit www. healthathomeconsultants.com, or call (402) 440-5268.

friendship home Adds six new Board members in 2023

Friendship Home of Lincoln is pleased to welcome six new members to their 2023 Board of Directors.

The new board members are Matt Ferris of Ferris Financial, Peggy Friesen, Dr. Elizabeth Lau of Associated Anesthesiologists

P.C., Greg Mendoza of Mendoza Family Insurance, Crystal Meyer of Ameritas, and Miranda Soulliere of Union Bank & Trust. Friendship Home thanks these new members for their generous service and commitment to survivors at Friendship Home.

The 2023 board officers are; Denny Van Horn of Van Horn Custom Homes, president; Joel Bacon of Keating O’Gara Law, president-elect; Tera Beermann of University of Nebraska-Lincoln, treasurer; and Marcy Haas of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, secretary.

Friendship Home provides safe shelter, support, and advocacy for survivors of domestic violence and their children. Services include emergency shelter, transitional shelter, crisis intervention, and referral to community services. To access safe shelter and services, call (402) 437-9302. To learn more about Friendship Home, visit www.friendshiphome.org.

epilepsy foundation nebraska Announces heather Bernard as executive director

Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska, the leading advocate for the nearly 20,000 people living with epilepsy in Nebraska, is pleased to announce that Heather Bernard has joined the team as the new executive director.

Heather attended Ball State University in Indiana where she earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She then moved to Georgia where she taught in the Georgia Public School system. While teaching, she attended Valdosta State University and earned her master’s degree in social work. Heather practiced as a social worker at a nonprofit agency working with adults with developmental disabilities. Heather changed things up and shifted to working in the neuroscience department at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta where she built and ran a Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Event Clinic. She also opened and operated a private practice where she provided psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and young adults.

Heather moved to Omaha in 2021 after accepting a position with Children’s Hospital and Medical Center. Heather decided to move into a different role still supporting epilepsy as the Executive Director of the Epilepsy Foundation - Nebraska. She is excited to help champion epilepsy awareness, education, and research in Nebraska. Heather resides in Omaha with her husband of almost 18 years and two children.

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.

dave swan of spGroup, p.C. elected treasurer of nebraska societyof CpAs

Dave Swan, managing partner of SP Group, P.C., was recently elected to serve as the treasurer for The Nebraska Society of CPAs. He is currently serving his sixth year.

David E. “Dave” Swan of Lincoln is a founder of SP Group, P.C. He has extensive experience with corporate, partnership, and individual taxation and overall wealth planning. Dave grew up in Grant before attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he was a member of both Farmhouse Fraternity and the Innocents Society. He graduated with a degree in business administration and accounting from UNL in 1994.

He joined Grant Thornton LLP in 1993, working there for six and a half years before starting SP Group, P.C. in Lincoln. A member of the Nebraska Society of CPAs since 1997, Dave has served on the Society Board as treasurer since 2018 and on the Society’s Taxation Committee from 2000-2019. He is married to Tracey and hopes to be a role model for his two daughters, Kate and Lauren. SP Group, P.C. serves growth-oriented companies and talented individuals in the Midwest, with the goal of making sure that their clients have the support they need to feel confident about their financial future. For complete bios on the SP Group team, visit spgrouppc.com/ meettheteam, or follow SP Group on Facebook (@SPGroup,P.C.) and Twitter (@SPGroupPC). Call (402) 420-7758 to learn more.

Lutz Adds dorathy, dorsey,and transitions sheridan

Lutz, a Nebraska-based business solutions firm, recently added Holly Dorathy and Steve Dorsey to its team and transitioned Brenden Sheridan to a new role with Lutz Tech.

Dorathy joins the accounting division as a healthcare manager. She is responsible for providing accounting and consulting services to healthcare organizations with a focus on financial reporting and reimbursement consulting.

Dorsey joins Lutz Tech as a senior project engineer. He is responsible for implementing new technology and hardware solutions for Lutz Tech clients. In addition, he assists the service desk with network troubleshooting. Dorsey has over 16 years of IT experience and works in Lutz’s Omaha office.

Sheridan transitioned within Lutz Tech from a Service Desk Engineer to a Project Engineer. He now specializes in project coordination and implementation, network assessments, and technical support for all Lutz Tech clients.

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.

Union Bank & trust promotes schnieders, Ludwig, hood, and sarmiento

Union Bank & Trust (UBT) has recently promoted four of their employees. The promoted employess are... Jennifer Schnieders to vice president – information technology business solutions management, Nick Ludwig to assistant vice president –union equipment finance, Jade Hood to assistant vice president – manager of deposit services, and Raul Sarmiento to multicultural business banking officer.

Jennifer joined UBT in 2002, later graduating from Nebraska Wesleyan University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She also holds an IT Project Management certification from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Her position involves strategizing with the wealth management division and information technology areas to champion long-term technology implementations that meet customer expectations and business objectives.

Nick graduated from University of Nebraska – Lincoln with a bachelor’s degree in finance and joined UBT. He completed his master’s degree and is a member of the Equipment Leasing and Financing Association (ELFA). In his role, he oversees equipment leasing business development, relationship management, and portfolio management. He serves the community as a Cub Scout leader and Junior Achievement volunteer.

Jade joined UBT as a teller and served in the customer service department for 11 years, moving to deposit services as an assistant manager. In her new role, she will lead the department responsible for ensuring legal, compliance, and internal process requirements are followed regarding deposit account documentation and transaction processes. A graduate of Southeast Community College, Hood has an associate degree in culinary arts and food service management and has completed the Nebraska Banker’s Association Operations School.

Raul joined UBT as a teller, eventually serving as Branch Manager for the bank’s depot location. In his new role, Sarmiento will be focused on helping immigrants and multicultural businesses in the Lincoln community to learn the banking system and help connect them with the tools they need to be successful.

Union Bank & Trust is a privately owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services. The bank has 38 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $7 billion and trust assets of $43.4 billion as of June 30, 2022. For more information, visit www.ubt.com.

Build Your Vision, Build With Quality

Jennifer schnieders raul sarmiento

Jade hood

nick Ludwig

Caring friends in home Care welcomes Kristin Buhr as site Coordinator

Caring Friends In Home Care is proud to announce the addition of Kristin Buhr in the role as site coordinator for Gage, Thayer, Jefferson, Nemaha, Pawnee, Richardson, and Johnson Counties. Kristin comes to Caring Friends with several years’ experience in caring for both the elderly and the mentally disabled. She worked for Assurity in Lincoln for over ten years as a contracting and license specialist. After that, she was at The Kensington Assisted Living in Beatrice as the resident service coordinator. Kristin is married to Coby and together they have a 16-year-old son, Cohen. In their free time they enjoy being outdoors, camping, boating, and socializing with friends. Kristin’s passion is helping others live a quality of life and comes to us meeting our C.R.O.W.N Values of Care, Respect, Ownership, Wellness, and Nurturing. If you reside in Kristin’s territory and you would like to join her for cares or employment you can reach her at (402) 207-1050 or kristin.buhr@caringfriendsinhomecare.com. 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.

wyatt scott, ptA Joins husker rehab in Beatrice

Husker Rehab is pleased to announce the addition of Wyatt Scott, PTA to their staff in their Beatrice location. Husker Rehab finds this hiring extra special, as Wyatt is a former student of theirs. They are excited to welcome him back as a professional member of their staff.

Wyatt is from Lincoln and graduated from Southeast Community College in December with an Associate’s Degree of Applied Science in Physical Therapy. After graduating from Southwest High School, Wyatt spent time deciding his life path and that led him to Husker Rehab where he worked as a PT technician. During that time at Husker Rehab, he found his passion for helping people. Wyatt enjoys spending his spare time with family and friends and stays active playing sand volleyball, wakeboarding, skilling, and participating in Mixed Martial Arts.

Husker Rehab proudly offers therapy services in five clinics in four different Nebraska cities, where they serve physicians and their patients with unique, highly-intensive, highly-customized rehabilitation, wellness, and preventative care therapies that make a difference in people’s lives. They listen to every patient’s needs and desires, analyze the problem, and figure out ways to get people moving again. For more information about Husker Rehab and their services, visit huskerrehab.com.

Voices of hope Announces new executive director natalie roberts-day

Voices of Hope would like to introduce their new executive director, Natalie Roberts-Day. Natalie started with the team on January 3 of this year.

Natalie joins the team with a strong background in helping the community. She worked as a site coordinator for an after-school program for resilient youth in St. Paul before returning to Lincoln to serve as a children's advocate at Friendship Home, then became the associate executive director at YMCA Camp Kitaki. She graduated from Hamline University with degrees in English and gender studies, and minors in Spanish and sociology. Joining Voices of Hope came naturally for Natalie because she has been volunteering with their crisis line for the past five years. She feels strongly about advocating to end violence, so the nonprofit welcomes her with open arms.

Voices of Hope provides services to all genders who are victims to domestic violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking, incest, or other forms of abuse. They also assist victims’ families and supporters. All of their services are free and confidential. If you have questions about the organization, reach out to Resource Development Coordinator, Yaquelin Lizarraga, at (402) 476-2110 / yaquelin@ voicesofhopelincoln.org.

daring minds therapy welcomesBethany “Bee”

mahan

Daring Minds Therapy would like to welcome Bethany “Bee” Mahan to their practice!

Bee graduated with their Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. They went on to get their Master of Arts in Counseling from Doane University. Bee is a Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Provider (PLMHP) in Nebraska.

Bee believes that counseling is led by the client and uses both feminist and narrative theories. They believe everyone has a story that is affected by the world around them, and she wants to help clients edit the story to fit what they want and believe in life. Bee works with clients to meet them where they are and move them toward where they want to be. She is currently accepting private pay clients while they work on getting her credentialed with insurance companies.

At Daring Minds Therapy, LLC, their experience enables them to offer effective treatment to a variety of populations. They treat mental health disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, and life problems. Daring Minds’ practitioners are trained to work with children, adolescents, and adults. They use a variety of evidencebased practiced including: cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, trauma-focused CBT, child-parent psychotherapy, and more.

Daring Minds Therapy was founded in 2018 by Sarah Worley, Erica Schroeder, and Maureen DeRyke. If you or someone you know could use the support of Daring Minds Therapy, get more information or book an appointment at daringmindstherapy.com, call (531) 2891005, or email info@daringmindstherapy.com.

Yohanna santana of Christian record services receives promotion

Christian Record Services, Inc. is pleased to announce the promotion of Yohanna Santana to assistant director of member services and studio.

Santana has enjoyed helping people her whole life and now that includes supporting Hispanic members with library services. She helps maintain the member database and digital cartridges in the lending library, field member phone calls, and prepare books and resources for distribution. Santana also translates documents and media from English to Spanish and is responsible for coordinating the production of the quarterly El Centinela audio magazine and other Spanish language resources.

In the past year, Christian Record Services has expanded its Spanish materials thanks to Santana’s efforts. She has been instrumental in the process of adding new Spanish audio books to the lending library and creating a special Christmas audio program to mail to all Spanish-speaking members.

“Yohanna has contributed immensely to enhancing services to our more than 300 Spanish-speaking members who are blind in the United States and those we serve abroad, and she has intentionally engaged them to better understand how best to respond to their needs. I’m so grateful Yohanna joined our team in June 2021; she is an exceptionally creative, positive addition,” stated Diane Thurber, president.

Christian Record Services continues to move forward with its mission to “empower people who are blind to engage their communities and embrace the Blessed Hope.” For more information, please visit www.christianrecord.org.

To plan your trip to Keystone, visit keystoneresort.com/plan-yourtrip/lift-access/tickets

people’s City mission receives four-star Charity navigator rating

People’s City Mission (PCM) has once again received a four star rating with Charity Navigator. PCM has earned a 91% for the Accountability and Finance beacon with Charity Navigator. This beacon provides an assessment of a charity’s financial health (financial efficiency, sustainability, and trustworthiness) and its commitment to governance practices and policies.

PCM gives 91.7% of every dollar to the need, which is one of the highest of any charity in the city. When looking up a charity on Charity Navigator, scroll down to Program Expense Ratio under the Financial Metrics category to learn about a charity’s financial efficiency.

People’s City Mission was started in 1907 by local churches, offering food and shelter for transient and impoverished men, women, and children. In 1987, PCM moved to their current location and now houses 350 men, women, and children nightly in their emergency shelters and the Curtis Center transitional housing program. As Lincoln’s homeless shelter, People’s City Mission’s work is more than 97% funded by community donations. For more information or to donate, visit Only251.org or call (402) 475-1303.

Branched oak observatory Breaks Ground on multipurpose Center

Branched Oak Observatory is excited to announce they have broken ground for their new multipurpose center facility. The public was invited to celebrate the start of the construction process during a groundbreaking ceremony that was held on January 17.

The addition of the multipurpose building will significantly increase the classroom capabilities, astronomy library, and new restrooms to serve the visitors of the Observatory. This building will allow the Observatory to serve Lincoln Public Schools as a hands-on outreach featuring STEM education, along with serving those who are underserved in our community through organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, Cedars Home, and others, by providing an educational experience to help these children to set their course for amazing careers.

They have compiled a powerhouse team of professionals from ACRE Design+, BluCor Construction Group, and Stonebrook Exterior to oversee the design and construction of the new facility. The multipurpose center was designed by the incredible team of architects and design professionals at ACRE Design+. BluCor Construction Group will serve as the general contractor for the project, and Stonebrook Exterior will serve as the building envelope construction team, bringing extensive construction experience to the table from both public and private projects throughout the United States.

Established in 2015, the Branched Oak Observatory is an astronomy park located just southeast of the Branched Oak Recreation Area, 20 miles outside of Lincoln. They offer a wide variety of experiences, including classroom activities, solar viewing, nighttime viewing, space communications with satellites and the ISS, and newly installed Earth Moon Earth. For more information, you can visit www. branchedoakobservatory.com.

schoolCommunity intervention and prevention holds internet safety presentation

Sponsored by School Community Intervention and Prevention (SCIP), Lincoln Public Schools, and Region V Systems,“Digital Citizenship: Cyberbullying, Sexting and Internet Safety” will be the topic of the upcoming Promoting Healthy Behaviors Community Awareness series presentation. The presentation will be held in the cafeteria at Lincoln East High School, 1000 S. 70th St., beginning at 6:30 p.m. It will feature Karen Haase, an attorney with KSB School Law. Ms. Haase is an expert in Nebraska law on social media/online issues and will discuss cyberbullying, sexting, and internet safety.

Summaries of real-life cases and criminal consequences attached to the inappropriate use of social media will also be addressed. SCIP is a program designed to bring together families, school, and the community to support student behavioral and emotional health. SCIP’s mission is to provide an effective prevention and early intervention process for youth with behavioral health concerns so they may achieve healthy, productive lives. SCIP works with schools throughout Nebraska by providing tools and resources to address behavioral health issues that impact children, adolescents, and their families.

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 contact Abbe Edgecombe at (402) 327-6843.

DefianceHarleyDavidsontoHostChiliCookoff FundraiserBenefitingRejuvenatingWomen

Rejuvenating Women is elated to announce the Defiance Harley Davidson chili cook-off on Saturday, February 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m at Defiance Harley Davidson. All proceeds from this event will go towards Rejuvenating Women.

While chili may be the main event, Defiance Harley Davidson has planned raffles, prizes, and entertainment to keep the party going.There will also be a silent auction, and Defiance Harley Davidson is accepting donations of silent auction items.

If you are proud of your homemade chili and want a chance at the $300 1st place prize, entry is $100. Spectators will be the judges at this event, with chili tasting tickets set at $10.

For more information, to donate, or to register, please contact Sarah Bernhagen at (402) 331-0022 or Sarahb@defiancehd.com.

Rejuvenating Women is a nonprofit organization providing hope and restoration to victims and survivors of human trafficking by empowering survivors to lead healthy, independent lives. They are committed to developing long-lasting relationships with the women who have experienced significant trauma. They raise awareness of human trafficking in Omaha and surrounding communities. Their team of dedicated staff and volunteers invest in the lives of each individual living in the residential home as well as those participating in other programs and services that they offer. For more information, go to www.rejuvenatingwomen.org, or contact info@rejuvenatingwomen.org.

mosaic Announces in-person “discover the possibilities” events for 2023

Mosaic is expanding their “Discover the Possibilities” event series by adding a new, in-person option. The in-person events will be the first Tuesday of each month from 5 to 6 p.m. at Mosaic’s new location, 5631 S 48th St., STE 280.

The “Discover the Possibilities” virtual events will still continue as usual. These events are held on the third Tuesday of each month from 10 to 10:30 a.m. where the public can learn about Mosaic’s mission to “relentlessly pursue opportunities that empower people.” To reserve a spot or for more information on the Discover the Possibilities events, please contact Community Relations Manager Amber Nore at amber.nore@mosaicinfo.org or (402) 617-5932.

Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is part of Mosaic, a wholeperson healthcare organization reaching across 13 states in 750 communities and providing supports to more than 5,200 people. Services empower people with disabilities, mental and behavioral health needs and autism, as well as aging adults to live their best life. Mosaic is an affiliated social ministry organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, a member of Lutheran Services in America and a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. To learn more, visit mosaicinfo.org.

AngelsAmongUsCelebrates successful first Year of emotional support programming

Angels Among Us launched 11 new emotional support programs in 2022 for pediatric cancer families living in or being treated in Nebraska. These exciting new programs provided opportunities for families to meet other families fighting pediatric cancer as well as provide some much needed emotional support during a very difficult journey.

These events were available to each member of the family and provided support not only to pediatric cancer fighters and survivors, but also to families who have lost a child to cancer. In all, these emotional support programs touched a total of 520 individuals through 32 different events throughout 2022. The new programming was also supported by over 430 volunteer hours throughout the year.

Those interested in these emotional support programs in 2023 can go to myangelsamongua.org/events to see all upcoming events.

Angels Among Us is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to any family whose child is battling pediatric cancer living in or being treated in the state of Nebraska. Since 2006 over 620 families have been supported with over $3.6 million in support. For more information about ways to get involved with Angels Among Us’ programming please reach out to Brittany Friesen at brittany@myangelsamongus.org or call (402) 934-0999.

servenebraska opens the AmeriCorps notice of funding opportunity

ServeNebraska is happy to announce that the 20232024 AmeriCorps Grant funding opportunity is now open. AmeriCorps grants are awarded to organizations in order to operate programs addressing a specific community need categorized under one of six AmeriCorps focus areas. Two of their current Nebraska programs include Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln, which teaches children and families about making healthy and nutritious choices to help them live healthier lives, and R.I.S.E, which supports students on probation in acquiring skills to achieve academic success.

The six AmeriCorps focus areas are education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, veterans, and military families, and disaster services.

If your organization is interested in learning more about AmeriCorps’ impact in Nebraska or discussing whether an AmeriCorps grant can help you reach your goals, visit serve. nebraska.gov/funding.

ServeNebraska is the Nebraska Volunteer Service Commission working toward growing our state’s culture of community service and volunteering. The Commission facilitates AmeriCorps programming across the state, linking local nonprofits, governmental agencies, and other organizations with Nebraskans motivated to make a difference in their communities. For more information, go to serve.nebraska.gov.

dreamCatchers: strength through horses seeksYoungAdult male Volunteer

DreamCatchers: Strength

Through Horses is seeking a young adult male volunteer to work with teen boys ages 16-19. Horse experience is appreciated, but not required. The DreamCatchers team is happy to teach you about horses and their role in supporting people. The only qualification for those without horse experience is that you must be comfortable with significantly large animals. This is a mentoring role. The teens who join DreamCatchers are typically struggling in some areas of their lives and often do not have a strong male role model. Qualities they are looking for in male mentoring volunteers are compassion, kindness, sincerity, positivity, stability, and insight into the challenges teen boys face on a daily basis. Men with Peer Support Certification or coaching experience in mental health and/or substance abuse recovery, but are not licensed therapists, are preferred. For a volunteer application, please contact jodi@ dreamcatchersstrong.org.

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

tabitha’s statewide Growth Continues in 2023

Nonprofit, Nebraska-based Tabitha reinforces their commitment to the communities they have been invited to serve by being a leading provider and resource for older adults. New endeavors are in full swing throughout the state for 2023.

Tabitha teamed up with Immanuel in late 2021 to form Tabitha Home Health & Hospice | A Collaboration with Immanuel. This expansion allows Tabitha to ensure its services are accessible to clients in the greater Omaha area including Douglas, Sarpy, Washington, Saunders, and Cass counties, whether they live at home or in a living community. Hospice services are now available and Home Health Care is to come. These services will continue to evolve to meet the needs in the area.

S 2age Living by Tabitha is making great strides with construction in progress—it now has a roof! The first-of-its-kind in-the-nation intergenerational living community, in the heart of Lincoln, at Tabitha’s Main Campus will be home to older adults (55+) and Bryan College of Health Science Students. This unique community will offer a variety of amenities such as a bistro, designated study/learning spaces, pet spa, fenced dog park and a rooftop lounge—all meant to facilitate lasting, memorable connections between generations. The $26-million project began construction in 2021 and is located at the corner of S. 47th and ‘J’ Streets. S 2age is slated to open in Fall 2023. Inquire about reserving your space at Tabitha.org/SageLiving.

Learn more about Tabitha and their growing commitment to the community at tabitha.org.

matt talbot Kitchen & outreach welcomes three new Board members

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is pleased to welcome three new board members in 2023. The new members are Teresa Ewins, chief, Lincoln Police Department; Karen Flaxman, SHRM-CP, retired human resource specialist and community volunteer; Amanda Ostergard, CPA and community volunteer.

The Executive Committee is unchanged and includes Alynn Sampson, vice president of operations and impact at the Food Bank of Lincoln, as board president; Natasha Plooster, chief operating officer at Bridgepoint Investment Banking, as immediate past president; Greg Frayser, attorney with Cline Williams Wright Johnson & Oldfather, as president elect; and Kiley Wiechman, accountant with HBE Becker Meyer Love, continues her service on the committee as treasurer.

“Our Board of Directors is a critical component of our organization,” said Susanne Blue, executive director. “We are grateful for the commitment demonstrated by these individuals. Their compassion and leadership is important as we continue to work towards our vision of defeating hunger and homelessness and restoring hope every day.”

To view the full board list visit mtko.org/about.

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

Lincoln Children’s museum to host monthly sensory sunday events

The Lincoln Children’s Museum will begin hosting Sensory Sundays, a morning of play the third Sunday of every month, offered to families with children who would benefit from a sensory-friendly experience and quieter setting at the museum.

Families can look forward to this time to connect and make memories in exhibit spaces with lower lights, softer music, and sensory-friendly activities. Sensory kits will also be available for check-out that include noise-reducing headphones, fidgets, and more.

Executive Director Tara Knuth is happy to offer this opportunity for families.

“It’s important to us that the museum is a space for all children and their families. The environmental adjustments made to the building and exhibits for Sensory Sundays help to ensure children and their families can learn and explore in a comfortable and enjoyable space suited to their needs,” said Tara.

Sensory Sundays at the Lincoln Children’s Museum will occur the third Sunday of every month from 9 – 11 a.m. Admission will be half-price during this time, made possible by Bluestem Health and Enable Savings Plan. The museum will be open to the public from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on these Sundays as well.

The Lincoln Children’s Museum invites children to create, discover, and learn through their hands-on exhibits, day and summer camps, and learning programs. To learn more, visit www.lincolnchildrensmuseum.org.

At ease UsA to offer weekly dialectical Behavior therapyClasses

At Ease USA (AEU) is now offering Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) classes to service members and veterans. The group runs from 6 – 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday evenings February 21 through May 9, 2023 at the At Ease USA office, 10605 Burt Circle in Omaha.

DBT lends itself very well to treating traumatic stress-related disorders including PTSD. Participants will learn how to improve relationships, reduce emotional suffering, manage anxiety, and rediscover hope for the future. For 12 weeks, participants will join a close-knit group of individuals who will provide encouragement and accountability. The class is limited to twelve participants and each person receives a free workbook.

In addition to DBT classes, the Vets4Vets program offers peer support groups on Monday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m. These groups are open to all active duty and veterans and are on a drop-in basis. There is no charge to participate.

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

AhA promotes American heart month and national wear red day on february3

This February during American Heart Month, the American Heart Association (AHA) sheds light on the importance of knowing HandsOnly CPR. If you are called on to give CPR in an emergency, you will most likely be trying to save the life of someone you love whether it is a spouse, a parent, or a friend. This year’s heart month urges people to be the beat it takes to keep someone alive by learning the two simple steps it takes to save a life. Did you know?

• More than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States each year, with about 70% happening in homes.

• CPR, especially if performed immediately, can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival.

• Hands-Only CPR involves two simple steps and anyone can learn it from a 60-second video available at heart.org/ handsonlycpr.

• Step 1: If a teen or adult in your home suddenly collapses, call 911 immediately.

• Step 2: Place one hand on top of the other as shown in the video and push hard and fast on the victim’s chest.

Through the Go Red for Women movement, the American Heart Association encourages people to take action in February by wearing red on National Wear Red Day, Friday, February 3, to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease. Join the conversation online by using #WearRedDay, #HeartMonth, #GoRedforWomen, and #GoRedNE on social media.

Learn more about the American Heart Association and their mission at www.heart.org and www.goredforwomen.org.

Goodwill Collects 1,023 pounds of electronics at Annual recycling drive

On January 7, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. held its sixth annual Electronics Recycling Drive to celebrate National Technology Week. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Goodwill collected a total of 1,023 pounds of electronics from donors in the community.

Thanks to Goodwill’s partnership with Dell Reconnect, all electronic donations were resold, refurbished, or responsibly recycled. Working electronics were sold in Goodwill’s thrift stores in Lincoln and York, where the revenue helps fund employment services and programs in Southeast Nebraska. Nonworking electronics were shipped to Dell’s recycling centers and broken down in an environmentally responsible manner. By recycling used technology, Dell keeps reusable materials out of the landfill and decreases the amount of e-waste in the environment.

For 91 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 a year-round outlet for recycling electronics, household items, and clothing. To learn more about Goodwill and these events, follow them on Facebook (@LincolnGoodwill) or visit www. lincolngoodwill.org.

heartland Cancer foundation thrilled to host 8th Annual mardi Gras Gala

The Heartland Cancer Foundation

(HCF) is asking the community to support their mission by joining them on Saturday, March 4 for the 8th Annual Mardi Gras Gala at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. This is HCF’s largest annual fundraiser and raises critical funds to support cancer patients in Nebraska. This incredible evening will feature interactive audience entertainment, a silent auction, live auction, bourbon pull, delicious food, and lively Mardi Gras flair! Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity for you and your team to attend a spectacular event and make a difference for local cancer patients. Tickets and tables can be secured at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

More than 11,000 Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. HCF believes that no cancer patient should fall behind on treatment because they struggle to afford their everyday expenses.

Heartland Cancer Foundation’s mission is to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in the community so they can focus on what matters most: healing. HCF aspires to provide compassion and hope and remove barriers to care by covering home, auto, and utility costs for local cancer patients in need of additional support during their treatment journey. This practical aid makes a big difference for people who are struggling with both a cancer diagnosis and financial hardship. Thank you to the Heartland Cancer Foundation’s wonderful circle of donors and supporters that come together to care for those in our community. For more information on how you can support, please visit www.heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

Jdrf sets 2023 tri-Cities one walk for April 2 in Kearney

JDRF is getting ready for this year’s Tri-Cities One Walk. This year, the event will be held at Yanney Park in Kearney on Sunday, April 2. Activities will begin at 11 a.m. with the Walk to begin at 1 p.m.

The JDRF One Walk is your chance to show the world that together, we can conquer type 1 diabetes (T1D). If you’re living with T1D or you love someone living with T1D, you’ll likely do just about anything to make life easier.

When you participate in JDRF One Walk, the money you raise will power more research, enable more advocacy, and fund more support for the 1.45 million Americans living with T1D. Plus, you’ll have a great time doing it! That’s because you’ll walk with a committed community that is passionate about doing whatever it takes to live in a world without T1D.

By joining the JDRF One Walk, you’ll be part of the lasting footprint JDRF is making for the T1D community now, and for generations to come.

The JDRF One Walk, organized by JDRF Nebraska-Iowa Chapter and area volunteers, brings together supporters from Kearney, Hastings, Grand Island, and surrounding areas, including teams representing local businesses and families who share JDRF’s vision to create a world without T1D. For more information and to register for the 2023 JDRF One Walk, visit walk.jdrf.org.

nebraska statewide Arboretum to offer two free “plant talk” webinars in february

The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum (NSA) will offer the following two free Plant Talk webinars in February, both on Zoom at noon CT.

Plant Talk: ask Justin and bob | Thursday, February 9

This Q&A will feature NSA Green Infrastructure Coordinator Justin Evertson and NSA Horticulture Program Coordinator Bob Henrickson who will be available to answer participants’ questions about trees, plants, gardening, and everything in between.

Plant Talk: The Winter Garden | Thursday, February 23

NSA Sustainable Landscape Coordinator Sarah Buckley will help participants learn how to appreciate the beauty of the winter landscape. She’ll also offer ways to keep their hands busy during the long winter months and suggestions for how to keep wildlife front and center.

The Plant Talks are free and open to the public. Registration is required for each talk. Each session will also be recorded, and the recordings will be emailed to registrants following the real time Zoom event. More information and registration details are available at plantnebraska.org/plant-talks.

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

hopespoke promotes have a heart for mental health donation drive

This Valentine’s Day, HopeSpoke invites the community to Have a Heart for Mental Health by supporting programs for Lincoln’s most vulnerable children and families. Your donation provides outpatient therapy sessions; an Extended Day Treatment after-school program for children ages 5-12; therapists based within Lincoln Public Schools; a Therapeutic Group Home for boys ages 13-18; crisis programming at the Youth Services Center; and more.

Mental health struggles and trauma are difficult for anyone to overcome, but especially so for children. When things feel hopeless, HopeSpoke is here to help youth and families find healing.

Last year, HopeSpoke served more than 1,000 individuals, and their families, with a variety of mental health programs. More than 85% of those were children ages 18 and under, and the majority come from households with incomes near or below the federal poverty line. Yet, thanks to community support, no one is turned away due to inability to pay for care.

HopeSpoke’s mission is to inspire healthy futures for children and their families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. To learn more about HopeSpoke’s services, or to show you Have a Heart for Mental Health with a donation, please visit hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666. Thank you for helping young people find hope and healing at HopeSpoke!

CBmC Lincoln to offer “the American heritage” dVd series

Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC) in Lincoln is offering a weekly, one hour DVD series from WallBuilders featuring historian David Barton.

“For centuries Americans were taught a truthful view of history that recognized the Godly heroes and moral foundation on which our nation was founded. But in recent years a new version of history has assaulted the moral and spiritual fiber of our nation, leaving the truth of our past eliminated and forgotten,” WallBuilders’ description explains.

The “American Heritage Series” will enable participants to discover the forgotten and astonishing story of America’s foundation. Some of the topics covered include “Why History Matters”, “The Faith of our Founding Fathers, “The Ideas the Birthed a Nation, “Our Biblical Constitution”, and “The Civil Rights Movement.” This series provides a detailed, documented, and fascinating presentation of American history as it was originally taught for decades.

To learn more about this series including time and location, contact CBMC Lincoln at (402) 204-1997 or email Larry at Lmiddendorf@cbmc.com.

CBMC Lincoln is part of a global ministry that encourages men toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others positively. Learn more about CBMC at visit lincoln.cbmc.com or connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne). WallBuilders is dedicated to presenting America’s forgotten history and heroes, with an emphasis on the moral, religious, and constitutional foundation on which America was built. Information can be found at wallbuilders.com.

nebraska safety Council to hold first Connections podcast february 2

The Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) will hold their first Connections podcast on Thursday, February 2. This new series will give the community a chance to hear from local, regional, and national professionals that will speak on a variety of topics such as workplace safety, driver safety, employee wellbeing in the workplace, and more.

The podcast series will be recorded live at Hail Varsity Club in La Vista, starting at noon. Members of NESC are invited to join a networking event following the live podcast. More details can be found on their website at www.nesafetycouncil.org.

The 2023 podcast schedule features events on April 6, June 1, August 3, October 5, and December 7.

NESC is looking for a panel of guest speakers that would be available and willing to participate in one of these live podcasts. If you or someone you know is an excellent communicator and has interest in assisting in a Q&A forum with other panelists, contact Samantha Gentry at sgentry@nesafetycouncil.org.

Hurrdat is a media, marketing, and entertainment company that has agreed to partner with NESC to sponsor their podcast series.

The mission of the Nebraska Safety Council is to provide education and leadership to empower Nebraskans to live safe and healthy. To learn more or to sign up for membership today, visit nesafetycouncil. org, call (402) 483-2511, or email nesc@nesafetycouncil.org.

humanities nebraska Announces new round of “dear stranger” Letter exchange

Humanities Nebraska (HN) has announced a special round of its letter-exchange program, “Dear Stranger.” Originally conceived by Oregon Humanities, “Dear Stranger” connects people from all over the state by inviting Nebraskans to write a letter to someone they’ve never met.

The premise is simple: write a letter, get a letter, and make a new connection. Humanities Nebraska will match each letter received with a counterpart from a different part of the state.

For letter writers who are interested, HN has offered the following prompt for this round of letters, which must be postmarked by February 15, 2023. Participants are encouraged to address the theme in any way they choose:

Write about a local or national public event from the last 50 years – a celebration, anniversary, or gathering that occurred between 1972 and 2022 – that was personally meaningful to you.

Share how that experience felt, why you hold onto it, and how it affected you. Letters can be as short or long as a writer likes (even a postcard) and can take any form and include any enclosures that will fit in a first-class envelope. Participants should send their letters to Humanities Nebraska along with a signed participation form, available online at humanitiesnebraska.org. Letters should be addressed to Dear Stranger, c/o Humanities Nebraska, 215 Centennial Mall South STE 330, Lincoln, NE, 68508. Questions about the program should be sent to dearstranger@humanitiesnebraska.org. Learn more about Humanities Nebraska at humanitiesnebraska.org.

nebraska Community foundation highlights importance of will planning in 2023

The Chronicle of Philanthropy reports an estimated 70% of American adults have either an outdated will or no will at all. Planning for the future is easier than most people think and 2023 is the perfect time to get started.

Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) offers a free wills guide that will guide you through the process. The easy-to-use, fill-in-the-blank downloadable booklet will help you organize your assets and your intent, all in one place. It is full of useful information and templates to record your family’s information, accounts, assets, liabilities, and charitable intentions.

Visit Nebcommfound.GiftLegacy.com to download or request the free wills guide and start making a plan to provide for your family and support the communities and causes you care about.

Nebraska Community Foundation works with professional advisors and their clients every day to help put their assets to work with tax-efficient charitable strategies that make positive impact on the Nebraska communities they care about most. NCF unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors, and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education, and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 276 communities. Since 1994, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested over $463 million in Nebraska’s people and places. Learn more at nebcommfound.org.

Community Action’s Gathering place raises over $187K from Community

Community Action’s Gathering Place has announced that its yearend match campaign has received a preliminary total of over $187,000.

Thanks to generous sponsors who matched $1 for $1, a match pool was created for donations to the Gathering Place made between October 17 and December 31. Dollars raised will support provision of free hot, nutritious meals to community members in Lincoln.

“The community’s support during this campaign has been incredible to witness,” said Heather Loughman, CEO of Community Action. “Right now, many in our community are struggling to make ends meet due to factors such as increased inflation rates, rising costs of living, and more far beyond their control. We appreciate our community’s commitment to caring for our neighbors through support of the Gathering Place.”

The 2022 giving campaign also recognized the 40th anniversary of the Gathering Place’s presence in Lincoln. This giving opportunity was possible thanks to generous match sponsors, including legacy sponsor Acklie Charitable Foundation, and additional sponsors Union Bank and Trust; Bukaty Companies; INSPRO; Rohn and Beth Loyd; Connie Maguire; and James Stuart III Family Foundation.

Located just two blocks south of the Nebraska State Capitol Building in a neighborhood with one of the highest poverty rates in Lincoln, Community Action’s Gathering Place provides free meal service seven days a week to anyone who needs it. Annually, the Gathering Place serves over 30,000 meals.

Community Action empowers people living in poverty to reach economic stability. For more information, visit www.communityactionatwork.org.

Lincoln Littles Giving day expanded to month of february

Lincoln Community Foundation recently announced that the annual Lincoln Littles Giving Day has been expanded to a month-long campaign raising funds and awareness for Lincoln Littles work in early childhood. Launched in 2019 and inspired by the Prosper Lincoln community agenda, the giving day has raised $3.1 million for tuition assistance, providing affordable and quality early childcare to nearly 600 children.

The community can make online donations now through February 28 at LincolnLittles.org. Donations may also be mailed to the Lincoln Community Foundation, 215 Centennial Mall S., STE 100. Checks must be written to “Lincoln Community Foundation” with “Lincoln Littles” in the memo line. According to Lincoln Vital Signs, the average annual cost of childcare increased 87% between 2019 and 2021. Currently, the cost of care for an infant in a childcare center is nearly twice as expensive as resident tuition and fees at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In response, Lincoln Littles work focuses on solutions to four key challenges related to early childhood: increasing quality in early care and education, increasing affordable childcare options, engaging businesses and the larger community, and influencing policy change to meet the needs of children and families.

The Lincoln Community Foundation, established in 1955, strives to continually enrich the Lincoln community by promoting and achieving perpetual philanthropic support. The Foundation has distributed more than $214 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. For more information, visit lcf.org.

i’ve Got A name sets August date for Connect to protect Conference, seeks sponsorships

I’ve Got A Name is a nonprofit organization that fights local sex trafficking through community awareness and street outreach, where they connect one-on-one with women and girls who are entangled in its injustice. I’ve Got A Name has encountered children as young as 12 years old in its work, and stresses that the impact of sex trafficking on youth is real.

On August 5, the organization will host its Connect to Protect Conference. This will be the first conference to specifically address sex trafficking in Lincoln and protect youth from falling victim!

This one-day conference is designed to increase awareness of sex trafficking among the general public, parents, and youth. Topics will include parent alertness, the impact of social media, traffickers’ grooming processes, and ending the demand.

I’ve Got A Name is looking for Lincoln businesses to take a stand against sex trafficking and sponsor the Connect to Protect Conference to make it as successful as it can be! All sponsors will be promoted for their active role in fighting this injustice and receive complimentary tickets to the event. If your company is interested in becoming a sponsor, visit www. ivegotaname.org/sponsor. All sponsorship donations are tax-deductible. For questions, please email Executive Director Paul Yates at paul@ ivegotaname.org.

I’ve Got a Name aims to put an end to sex trafficking in Nebraska by generating awareness, providing street outreach, and inspiring others to take action. They won’t stop their mission until no person is subjected to sex trafficking in our community. To learn more, visit www.ivegotaname.org.

teammates mentoring hour draws more men to step Up

In honor of January’s National Mentoring Month, TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln resumed the TeamMates Mentoring Hour on 93.7 FM The Ticket, a radio program hosted every Wednesday from 6 – 7 p.m. Host and station owner, Derrick “D.P.” Pearson, interviews guests about their TeamMates experiences and the impact it has had on their lives. He has applied to be a TeamMates mentor himself.

Last fall, the broadcast inspired men to apply who’d never considered mentoring.

“You have the ability to impact communities you work in and live in,” Pearson told listeners. “This is a direct impact and you can do this, as matter of fact, you should do this.”

To listen live online or to hear past TeamMates Mentoring shows, visit theticketfm.com. Live and past episodes can also be streamed on Facebook, Twitter, and Twitch.

For more information about becoming a mentor or supporting the “Because” fundraising campaign, visit lincolnteammates.org.

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

Bright Lights summer Camp registration to open march 4

Bright Lights is gearing up for another action-packed summer. Registration for summer 2023 camps opens on Saturday, March 4 at 8 a.m. at brightlights. org. For summer 2023, camps take place June 5-9; June 1216; June 19-23; June 26-30; and July 10-14. Camp topics include science, technology, math, art, literature, and music with most having a STEAM connection. Bright Lights provides before care and lunch care at some camp locations. Need-based scholarships are available. There is also an international experience for middle school students and a Camp Assistant program for high schoolers.

Roper Elementary is the main site for Bright Lights camps this summer (others occur at various community sites around Lincoln) with Before Care and Lunch Care services available at select locations. More details on these services, their scholarship program, and also how older students can volunteer as Camp Assistants can be found at BrightLights.org.

To sponsor a summer 2023 camp, visit brightlights.org/support, or contact Megan Ockander, development specialist, at mockander@brightlights.org and she can create a custom sponsor package to fit your budget.

Serving K-8th grade students, Bright Lights provides energized, engaging, and fun summer learning opportunities. Their weeklong half-day and full-day camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills, and build new relationships. Find out more about these opportunities at BrightLights.org.

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.

nebraska CAsA to host Connect with CAsA Virtual session february 21

Nebraska CASA will be holding a virtual information session over Zoom on February 21 from 6 to 7 p.m. Are you looking for a meaningful opportunity to change the life of a child? Join Nebraska CASA for this virtual information session and learn how you can make an impact in your community!

During this webinar, you will learn about:

• The CASA role

• The application process

• Pre-service training and ongoing support

• Other opportunities to get involved

There will also be time for a Q&A at the end of the session.

CASA for Lancaster County recruits, trains, and supports community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused, neglected, truant, and ungovernable children in Juvenile Court. This past year, with the pandemic, has been especially challenging for children in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. CASA volunteers get to know the children, their situation, and then write reports that go directly to the juvenile court judge sharing their observations and recommendations for next steps. To learn more about how you or your business can support these efforts, visit www. casa4lancaster.org or call (402) 474-5161 / (402) 474-5188.

BiA-ne receives $100k program sponsorship from healthy Blue nebraska

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska (BIA-NE) is excited to announce its receipt of a $100,000 program sponsorship from Healthy Blue Nebraska (HBN) to implement brain injury screening, education, and management processes as part of a collaborative project with the Douglas County Youth Center (DCYC). To celebrate the funding of this program, HBN will be holding a check presentation ceremony at Healthy Blue’s Welcome Room at 2910 K St. STE E on January 11 at 3:30 p.m.

Brain injury is often an undiagnosed or misdiagnosed condition in behavioral health. Those who report a history of brain injury will also have longer and more severe histories of substance use and more behavioral health issues. Because brain injury is often an invisible disability, it is easy to miss and misunderstand.

One facet of this project is to bring brain injury training and awareness to the DCYC Behavioral Health Initiative, which is intended to increase access to behavioral health services and improve outcomes of justice-involved youth. The BIA-NE will accomplish this by providing brain injury training and mentoring for DCYC staff, multidisciplinary treatment team members, and community-based providers working with justice-involved youth.

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska was founded in 2009 to create better futures for all Nebraskans through brain injury prevention, education, advocacy, and support. To learn more about the BIA-NE resource facilitation program and its staff members, visit https:// biane.org/events/resource-facilitation.html. For more information on the Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska and its efforts to serve justice-involved youth affected by brain injury in Nebraska, contact Peggy Reisher, MSW, executive director, at peggy@biane.org or (402) 890-0606.

HOME SWEET L

American red Cross teams Up with peyton manning to encourage Blood donations

The American Red Cross is teaming up with Pro Football Hall of Famer and blood donor Peyton Manning to encourage the public to come together this January to help patients in need of lifesaving blood products. The start of the New Year is one of the most challenging times to collect blood products with icy winter weather and severe seasonal illness often causing donors to postpone giving.

Record-setting winter weather has canceled hundreds of blood drives in the last few weeks, forcing more than 10,000 lifesaving units of blood and platelets to go uncollected.

Just as Peyton Manning did for nearly 20 years on the football field, he is leading by example by rolling up his sleeve to help patients and asking others to do the same.

Unlike other treatments, blood cannot be stockpiled or manufactured—it can only come from volunteer blood donors. Blood products are not only vital in saving patients’ lives but instrumental in supporting other treatments like chemotherapy.

In fact, every minute about six blood products are needed to help someone going through cancer treatment. This is in part because chemotherapy and radiation, used to treat cancer, can damage the body’s ability to generate healthy blood cells and cause potentially life-threatening conditions. Blood and platelet transfusions from generous donors help to provide patients with critical clotting factors, proteins and antibodies needed to help their bodies fight back.

Learn more about American Red Cross at redcross.org.

City impact faith Bible Club to resume february 9

City Impact (CI) Bible Club will resume on February 9 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The CI Bible Club helps kids get to know themselves in God’s story in an environment where they are seen and safe, and can grow a bigger view of God. The program uses a fun, interactive, game-based curriculum that teaches K-5th graders about the love of God while fostering long-term relationships with caring adults. CI Bible Club features playful activities, prayer, and a balanced meal.

Online registration closes on February 6 at 6:30 p.m. at cityimpact.org. In-person registration is available at City Impact, 1035 North 33rd St., Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on Saturday February 4 from 9-11 a.m.

City Impact is seeking sponsors, volunteers, and donations to support the faith program. Those interested in supporting these programs can call (402) 477-8080.

City Impact in Lincoln is a faith-centered nonprofit that empowers under-resourced communities through holistic youth, family, and neighborhood development. They aspire to be the best in the world at recognizing and encouraging the unique strengths of those they serve so that their leadership makes a lasting positive impact within the Lincoln community. For more information on how to invest in the mission of City Impact or volunteer opportunities, visit www.cityimpact.org.

Benson theatre to present Godspell february 10-26

Benson Theatre is excited to present Godspell, a musical by Stephen Schwartz, on their stage from February 10 to February 26. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the show starting at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows are at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $35 with reserved seating.

At the behest of John the Baptist, Godspell follows young men and women forsaking their jobs and taking up the mantle of Jesus Christ, becoming his disciples, in a musical retelling of the Gospel of Matthew set in modern-day New York City. Using song and dance, the apostles traverse the city, spreading Christ’s message of love and tolerance as the time moves ever closer to his betrayal at the hands of Judas and, ultimately, his crucifixion. Go to bensontheatre.org for more information and to purchase tickets. The Benson Theatre serves the missions of organizations who wish to positively impact the community, along with all who wish to be a part of the educational and creative experiences that happen within the theatre’s walls. They recognize the need for programming for kids, for older adults, and for those with specific needs. Contact them at (402) 991-4333 for rental fees and details about technology features, collaborations, and assembly. For more information, go to bensontheatre.org.

the Bridge Behavioral health teams Up with Lincoln Arts Council for weekly Art Class

The Bridge Behavioral Health has teamed up with Lincoln Arts Council to provide a weekly art class for their clients in residential treatment.

Danny Reneau is a local artist who came to The Bridge through the education and outreach portion of the Lincoln Arts Council. He is a self-taught artist with a focus on watercolor and ink.

“Danny taught me a lot about painting and it has been really exciting and therapeutic. This class is awesome because it gives me time to explore new things and my abilities. I created a set of hummingbird paintings that I gave to my daughter for her 17th birthday and she loved them,” current Bridge client James shares.

Not only is this a fun activity for clients at The Bridge to participate in, it also makes a positive impact on the recovery process.

“In the recovery process, creating art is beneficial because it provides an outlet for self-expression and processing emotions,” Katie Kimmerling, director of clinical services, explains. ”Art can be used as a therapeutic tool for individuals and their peers because it allows them to express themselves in ways other than with words, especially since communicating thoughts or emotions can be challenging.”

Since 1984, The Bridge has served 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.

If you know of a local, woman-owned business, tell Strictly Business about them!

APR 2023 ISSUE

“The world needs strong women. Women who will lift and build others, who will love and be loved. Women who live bravely, both tender and fierce. Women of indomitable will.” –

Strictly Business is direct mailed to over 10,000 businesses in Lincoln every month! With a 2–4 month shelf life and a pass-along readership, it’s estimated that 1 copy of the magazine reaches at least 5 people. Editorial features are published on our website, as well. We are proud to have a strong online presence.

FEATURE INCLUDES: Photo of owner(s), business logo & 150-word write-up/quote

Amy Tenney

Overcoming Challenges with Strong Dedication

Even as we have all endured hardship and the economic toll of the last few years, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Lincoln has excelled with their strong dedication and ability to peservere through COVID.

The 2023 Franchise 500 Ranking from Entrepreneur Media Magazine placed 1-800 WATER DAMAGE within the top 30th percentile for their dedicated workforce and leadership team that continued to advance while they faced unique challenges within their industry.

At 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, they are committed to restoring what matters most to you. Their local restoration experts use advanced equipment and techniques to perform property damage restoration in Lincoln, and all the communities in between. Their IICRC-certified restoration professionals deal with damage stemming from water, smoke, fire, sewage, and mold. They understand that when water finds its way into places it shouldn’t be, every moment counts to prevent further damage from occurring. Their highly trained and licensed restoration experts will be on the scene promptly to assess the type and scope of the damage in your home or commercial property before creating a customized plan of action to clean up, dry out, and repair your structure and other assets. Their goal is to return you to your normal routine as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Water, Flood, Fire, and Smoke Damage Restoration

Their Lincoln crew has the experience and state-ofthe-art tools to read moisture levels, assess the type of water responsible for the damage, dehumidify, extract excess water, and thoroughly dry out your home. Their specialists work quickly and efficiently to restore what’s most important to you. They are familiar with Lincoln’s building codes, so you can rest assured that they will get the job done with those regulations in mind.

Mold Damage Remediation

You may not always be able to see mold, but if it’s left untreated, it can damage your home and negatively impact your health. Their mold damage restoration specialists have the training and experience to remove mold and restore your property. They will work quickly and efficiently to minimize mold exposure in your home or business.

Sewage Cleanup

When it comes to dealing with the waste and harmful contaminants involved in sewage cleanup, you’ll want to call in the professionals. The Lincoln crew of professionals has extensive experience and knowledge handling everything from initial sewage clean-up to water damage restoration. They pay attention to the details to ensure their repairs and services last.

Biohazard Cleaning

1-800 WATER DAMAGE is there to work closely with property owners to reduce the stress involved after a traumatic event. Their services include cleaning, removing, and disinfecting any biohazard materials or waste to restore your property back to its pre-incident condition. Their team of professionals are fully trained and equipped to support your needs.

Commercial Services

This hardworking team offers more than residential restoration services! They also provide fast, reliable solutions for a wide range of commercial properties across Lincoln, Beatrice, Plattsmouth, York, and surrounding areas, including condos, office buildings, apartment complexes, and more. In addition to all of their restoration services, they also offer their commercial clients a comprehensive range of cleaning and sanitizing solutions.

“I’m very happy we were referred to Charles Stafford at 1-800 WATER DAMAGE. We had a dishwasher leak and mold in our kitchen island. He responded to us that day, got it contained and safe for our family. He was professional and explained the process to me as this was my first home owners claim. Highly recommend.” -

Grady

striCtLY BUsiness UpCominG eVents

Last month recap

We had an amazing time at our Friends4Lunch networking event at one of our favorite local restaurants - Piedmont Bistro. Piedmont Bistro by Venue prides themselves on providing a warm, comfortable experience based around each and every guest. Our group event took place in one of their private dining rooms, and the space allowed us to mingle freely while accommodating seating for approximately 25 attendees. We are so grateful for all the people that joined us. We were also lucky enough to host Friends4Drinks at Cactus by Venue this month on January 27. This was an extra special event, as we were also celebrating our president Paige's birthday!

We are planning an exciting Friends4Lunch event at Rock 'n' Joe Coffee on Friday, February 10, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and would love to see you there. Rock ‘n’ Joe is most known for being a thriving coffeehouse featuring classic rock and roll music and great food! With locations in three states, our local Rock ‘n’ Joe is especially unique as it is home to a wine tasting room featuring wines from Whispering Winds Vineyards as well as 13 other Nebraska wines. Furthermore, the coffeehouse features Nebraska craft beers, a huge variety of artisan drinks, and a delicious line of breakfast and lunch foods.

On behalf of the whole Strictly Business team, we would love to have you join us at our next Friends4Drinks event that will be held at Carmela's Bistro on Thursday, February 16, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., note the time change so we can hang out a little later this month! We'll be back to regular times in March. Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar has been in Lincoln’s quaint Pioneer Woods Shopping Center since 2008. It is truly the love child of its owner, Marci Hanshaw. Her vision of a sophisticated-yet-cozy eatery and bar is alive at Carmela’s, and it shines through with a European-inspired elegance combined with the charm of an American bistro. There is also an impressive wine wall in the main dining area that showcases Carmela’s vast selection of vino.

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

Making a Difference by Supporting Others

REGA Engineering Group, Inc. strives to provide quality civil engineering and surveying solutions by following accepted design standards and regulations to their clients and community. Their expertise spans across four main areas including civil engineering, surveying, planning, and construction observation.

Civil Engineering

Diverse experience is evident in the publicly-and privately-funded civil engineering projects REGA has tackled, including multifamily housing, residential subdivisions, site development and grading, recreational facilities, pedestrian/recreational trail design, roadway plans, profiles and design, parking lot design, parking arrangements for on-grade and structural configurations, storm and sanitary sewer analysis/design, storm sewer drainage studies, detention facilities, potable water system design, soil erosion controls for temporary and permanent installations and utility relocations.

Surveying

With more than 40 years of experience, REGA’s surveyors have broad experience in all facets of large and small surveying, including private, commercial and governmental; subdivisions, facility construction layout, roads and utilities. The company has worked on many topographic surveying projects for the cities of Auburn, Columbus, Falls City, Fremont, Lincoln, Omaha and Nebraska City in Nebraska, Kansas City, Missouri, and other small communities throughout the Midwest.

Planning

While land development needs vary from project to project, REGA is there to expertly guide you through the process be it planning, subdividing land, engineering or constructing roads and utilities. Whatever your needs, they will design sites to your specifications—residential, commercial, or institutional—helping you navigate and solve physical and legal constraints in the process. They can also troubleshoot your concerns about your site to gauge if sufficient utilities are in place, including sewer mains, water, public road access, and storm drainage. What’s more, their efficient cost analyses will help you get all necessary building and flood plain permits and executive orders in one streamlined process.

Construction Observation

Construction observation is vital to accomplishing a project effectively. REGA will provide full-time construction observation to ensure everything is carried out safely, in accordance with the contract, and the work aligns with the expectations of your project design.

Helping People the REGA Way

REGA is a strong valued, employee owned, Midwest based consulting firm built by utilizing current technology, client interaction, and professional development. Each and every day they work to make a difference by helping people and offering their clients premiere care and support. This is shown through their ability to deliver responsive, reliable, well thought out solutions to their clients through accessibility, flexibility, diversification, and attention to personal detail.

“Over the past 20 years, we have appreciated working together with REGA. REGA has provided Terracon great service and been a great team member on countless projects. We have always found REGA to be responsive and dedicated to helping deliver a successful project. We look forward to working together for many years to come!”

– Bradley A.

P.E., Senior Principal, Terracon

601

Premiere Projects

• Husker Courtyard

• Husker Village

• Lincoln Grand Cinema

• Madonna Proactive

• Memorial Stadium Turf Replacement

• Nebraska Heart Institute

• Tractor Supply Company

• FedEx

• HyVee

• Veteran Affairs Regional Office

Levich,

downtown LinCoLn AssoCiAtion

by Todd Ogden, president

(402) 434-6900

• downtownlincoln.org

fleetwood Brings the Juxtaposition of fine dining in a Casual Atmosphere

Under the O street viaduct, Leadbelly’s sister restaurant, Fleetwood, has opened its doors.

Fleetwood is Red Herring Concepts' second downtown spot and third overall restaurant in Lincoln. Red Herring Concepts is the mind behind Toast in Fallbrook and Leadbelly two blocks away.

Fleetwood is located on 8th and O St. right by Escape Lincoln and Craft Axe Throwing.

This restaurant is named after the Cadillac Fleetwood, a car that symbolized affordable luxury, which describes this restaurant to a T. Fleetwood strives to serve elevated modern American food that not only features locally sourced ingredients but is also affordable.

Jessica Powell is the general manager and director of operations for Red Herring Concepts. Powell has been a part of Fleetwood since the start.

“When you build a new restaurant, you don’t want to do what everyone else is doing,” Jessica Powell said.

“You have got to find your niche. There’s a lot of bar and grills in town and that’s really great, but Lincoln is missing fine dining.”

Fleetwood had its soft open in midNovember and has only gained popularity in the Haymarket. The establishment’s elegance mixed with its juxtaposition causal atmosphere has quickly become a Downtown Lincoln staple.

“We wanted to try and find something that was in the middle [of fine dining and pub food],” Powell said. “This is filling a gap that Lincoln needs. So we wanted to do things that are elevated, but still approachable and affordable.”

Top-selling dishes include The Fleetwood, which is their signature steak sandwich, and Ponzu Pot Stickers for a shareable plate.

“The Fleetwood is probably the most popular,” Powell said. “And that comes with marinated skirt steak, a charred shishito gremolata, and just a ton of grilled onions that comes on a locally made hoagie.”

Powell said Fleetwood represents new American rustic food.

“It sounds really cheeky, but it’s true,” Powell said. “We definitely try to make sure that the food we’re putting out is hopefully as true to the ingredients as we can.”

Fleetwood also caters to the brunch crowd. From house-made biscuits and gravy to a pork belly benedict with a sweet potato hollandaise sauce, Fleetwood’s brunch options have been a big hit.

On the weekend, Fleetwood offers their brunch menu from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Fleetwood is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to midnight, and Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to midnight. Weekend hours are Saturday from 8 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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

(402) 466-8749

I have nothing but positive regard for Usher. While outstanding workmanship is their top priority, their service is also top-notch. Neal and his team took the time to get a full appreciation for our needs/ vision and provided expertise and creative thinking to ultimately deliver cabinetry that vastly exceeded our expectations. Last year, we worked with a well-known cabinet company in Omaha on a smaller project which resulted in a product that I consider far inferior to what we received from Usher. These guys know how to deliver top quality craftsmanship and quality service, and they deliver on schedule. Overall, we had an outstanding experience with Usher Custom Cabinets!” – Natalie P.

Neal does high quality work and is great at customization. He did all the cabinetry in our house including the entrance bench, open shelves, etc. Everything shown is his work. They turned out exactly like the concept photos we gave him.” – Kylie F.

Excellent craftsmanship! They do awesome work!” – Ryan E.

Usher Custom Cabinets

Providing Premier Custom Cabinetry

Usher Custom Cabinets has been Lincoln’s best choice in custom cabinetry for over 45 years by providing beautiful, elegant, and sophisticated custom-built solutions for very space in your home. They specialize in custom-built cabinets for new buildings and remodeling projects. Owned by Neal Chloupek, Usher’s services are mainly focused on residential properties— kitchens, bathrooms, libraries, home theatres, bars, pantries, fireplaces and mantels, entertainment centers, display cases, curios, gun cabinets, and more. Customers are welcome to view hardware samples in-shop at the showroom located at 3521 N 40th St. The kitchen is often called the “heart of the home,” the kitchen is the hub of our daily hustle and bustle, as well as a place we come together with loved ones. Make your kitchen work for you, streamlining your storage with custom cabinetry and an organized pantry. The bathroom is a space of respite and revitalization.

First thing in the morning as you ready for the day through your nightly bedtime routine, this customized space will allow you to feel more present and less stressed in these transitional times of day. Having an organized home leads to an organized life. Usher Custom Cabinets provides you with a place for everything, in every kind of space. You will feel your stress depleting as you can enjoy your neat and well placed home. Whether you are dreaming of shoes and coats neatly put away or a custom library to hold hundreds of books, they are here for you with custom solutions for every space!

Usher Custom Cabinets, loves to switch it up and continually explore new projects. They are always excited to design your custom cabinets to match the rest of your home and your preferred style. From colonial, contemporary, craftsman, farmhouse, modern minimalist, and many others, Usher is ready to meet your preferences and lifestyle with their cabinets.

by Jason Ball president

previewing the 2023 Legislative session

The 2023 Nebraska Legislative Session is underway, and our Lincoln Chamber of Commerce policy team is hard at work protecting and advocating for local business at the Capitol. This year’s 90-day session began on January 4 with newly elected officials in office, including a new governor and four recently elected or appointed senators for the Lincoln area.

Carried forward from recent legislative debates are challenges related to prison capacity, perennial state, and local tax and spending issues, tax competitiveness, and statewide economic development will remain high priorities throughout this session of the 108th Legislature. We also expect tax relief, regulatory relief, and extensions of popular tax credits to be high on our Economic Vitality agenda for 2023, in addition to support for policy proposals that enhance innovation and populate our talent pipeline.

These issues are key focus priorities for the Lincoln Chamber as we continue to engage in active discussions regarding the acceleration of workforce efforts, including a heightened focus on early childhood education, housing and community engagement. We will continue to work with many other chambers, economic development, and community groups from across the state on a broad range of issues as we collaborate and elevate our consensus-building efforts with state and our local elected officials.

The Chamber convened with a collaboration roundtable prior to the Legislative Session that brought together business leaders with city and state leaders. We were proud to initiate this effort with the mayor and several members of our legislative delegation. The community consensus in the initial meeting developed around making a strong push for funding to accelerate our Lincoln Convention Center and assist other local and regional venues, again working for state funding participation for the vital efforts to secure a secondary water source for Lincoln and continuing to push for policies to improve affordable and workforce housing prospects. Follow-up meetings have identified funding for the future East Beltway and county bridge funding as additional community consensus issues.

Overall, we expect the legislative body will remain committed to keeping state spending in check and pushing for continued tax competitiveness. ARPA funding, mega-site development, workforce development, innovation, transportation and many other additional topics that will continue to be the focus of efforts undertaken by our policy team, consisting of Bruce Bohrer and Todd Wiltgen.

Our chief objective at the Lincoln Chamber remains to advance Lincoln business interests and address matters that are essential to helping grow those businesses and our community. An incredible opportunity lies ahead, and we are confident it will be used to help further our mission at the Chamber. We value our collaborative relationship with our elected officials and look forward to working with them throughout the legislative session to ensure the ongoing economic vitality of our community.

Visit lcoc.com/advocacy to learn more about our work to advance pro-growth policies and view our key local, state and federal agendas for 2023. With important, long-term issues ahead, we are excited to work on issues that will continue to have a profound impact on our community and maintain the momentum of business 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.

Spaces and Culture that Inspire

Nebraska Innovation Campus (NIC) is a campus designed to facilitate new and in-depth partnerships between the University of Nebraska and private sector businesses. NIC is adjacent to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and strategically provides organizations with access to needed research faculty, facilities, and students.

NIC is home to and welcomes companies of all sizes. Called NIC Partners, organizations leasing space at NIC are a mix of startups, mediums sized companies and larger companies. The diverse mix of companies creates and builds a culture of innovation and creativity. For additional information about campus facilities, leasing opportunities, events and a virtual campus tour, please visit INNOVATE.UNL.EDU.

There are many reasons to choose NIC, among them the opportunities for connection the campus provides. You can immerse your team in a collaborative and innovative culture with an environment designed for the sharing of ideas and their synergistic development. Locating on NIC allows you to connect with research partners, qualified employees, and motivated students. NIC has a variety of partners and is adjacent to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, allowing ample opportunities for collaboration. Finally, by becoming an affiliate employee of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, you will be able to have complimentary access to UNL libraries, the ability to connect with faculty and students, access to facilities, and more.

Places for Connecting, Collaborating, and Making

NIC facilities include a conference center, a makerspace, a local coffee shop, a hotel, office space, lab space, pilot plant space, and greenhouse space.

The NIC Conference Center is housed in a historic building that has been reconstructed to provide a unique full-service conference center. Operated and managed by the Nebraska Alumni Association, the NIC Conference Center provides multi-functional meeting and collaboration space that includes a 400seat auditorium, 350-seat banquet hall, and eight breakout rooms. Each space features state-of-the-art audio and visual capabilities. For more information and to book your conference, meeting or event, please visit INNOVATE.UNL.EDU/NIC-CONFERENCE-CENTER.

The Scarlet Hotel is a brand-new six-story, 154-room boutique hotel located in the heart of NIC. Designed with unique local touches and staying true to Nebraska’s motto, each room gives guests a taste of “the good life” while paying homage to local towns and homegrown heroes. The hotel includes a full-service restaurant, coffee shop, fitness facility, rooftop bar, and additional high-end features to ensure an outstanding guest experience. For more information and to book rooms, please visit SCARLETHOTELNEBRASKA.COM.

Nebraska Innovation Studio (NIS) is one of the nation’s top makerspaces. Located at NIC, the studio is a 16,000-square-foot facility that houses a full metal shop, wood shop, rapid prototyping room, art studio, ceramics, and textiles equipment - and much more. NIS is open to university faculty, students, staff, and community members for a monthly membership fee. Makerspace members receive free training on all equipment. For more information about NIS, please visit INNOVATIONSTUDIO.UNL.EDU.

REACH OUT TODAY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT NEBRASKA INNOVATION CAMPUS

by Bud Synhorst, president

LegislativeAction

The 108th Legislature, 1st Regular Session is underway. Senators introduced 812 legislative bills, and 31 legislative resolutions, 19 of which are constitutional amendments. This being the 90-day session, the Legislature will also be passing a biennial budget for the next two years for the state of Nebraska. The Legislature will be in session until late May or early June. Each bill and resolution have a hearing welcomes the “second house” – the public – to provide input. Being a Unicameral Legislature, it is very important for Nebraskans to have our voices heard on issues. As the “second house,” we can provide input through testimony at hearings, in person or on-line. Another valuable way to provide input is to call or email your State Senator.

The Legislature’s web site provides a great deal of information. I suggest going to www.NebraskaLegislature.gov to review the list of introduced legislation, review the calendar of hearings for legislation, submit on-line comment, and ways to contact your State Senator.

I have found that reaching out to State Senators is an effective way to have a dialogue about policies. Many people are unsure how to speak to their representatives at any level of government. I completely understand because for years I felt the same way. Below are ideas of how to approach talking to your representative at any level of government.

1. Approach any conversation with your representative in a respectful manner. Trust me, sometimes it is hard when they may be pushing a policy or law which will negatively affect us personally or our business. Maybe it is contrary to our personal values. Yet it is important to have a respectful approach to the dialogue. Trust me, sometimes it is difficult, yet very important.

2. Be open to a two-way conversation – make sure to understand where your representative is coming from on an issue. For instance, why they have introduced the legislation and be willing to ask questions about the legislation and most important, make sure to listen and understand their point of view.

3. Tell your story – many times different groups will put out a list of “talking points” for people to call their representatives or even send a “form letter” to forward on to their representatives. I have observed that when a representative receives copies of the exact same letter, they may get lost in the shuffle. I always encourage people contacting their representatives to tell their personal stories. Stories of how legislation will impact you personally, your family, or your business will gain the attention of your representative. Hearing direct impact from a constituent is valuable input for our representatives.

4. Regardless of the outcome, it is important to show appreciation for the opportunity to communicate with your representative. Over the course of the next several months the Legislature will address several issues impacting Nebraskans. I encourage all Nebraskans as the “second house” to engage with what is happening at all levels of government. I realize our lives are busy running our businesses and taking care of family obligations. At LIBA we do our best to communicate on issues impacting local business. We have an excellent policy research coordinator, Katie Bohlmeyer, who puts out a weekly policy update to members with what is happening at every level of government. The other way to stay connected to what is happening to impact the business community is to check out the Lincoln Business Beat podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify with updates on local issues. We will be talking a great deal about legislative matters.

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

Dr. Todd Johnson

The season of love is upon us, and we are happy to help guide the lovebirds of Lincoln on how to make this special day one to remember. Whether you are spending the day with a special someone, or spreading love to your friends, family, and community, Valentine’s Day reminds us to lead with love. It may be the day dedicated to love, but February 14 should not be the only day that ranks love at the top spot of importance. Love should be an integral part of everything we do, every conversation we have, and every decision we make. Without love, we wouldn’t be where we are today. Expressing undying love for your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day doesn’t cost any money, but nearly everything else does. While there’s nothing wrong with showering someone you love with gifts, it’s still possible to celebrate this wonderful holiday on a budget. First, it’s important to plan ahead. The best strategy, especially for a popular, romantic restaurant, is booking early. Shopping early can also guarantee that you get exactly what you’re looking for, and you avoid overspending at the last minute.

Speaking of shopping, gifts don’t always have to be expensive jewelry or flowers. To get more creative with your gift ideas, it may help to think of flowers other than roses. Not only are roses pricey, but they don’t last long. Some alternatives to consider include tulips, daisies, lilies, and many other types of flowers, many of which may be cheaper than roses. If you’re looking to cut back on Valentine’s Day costs, consider creating your own gift rather

than buying one. There are some inexpensive DIY ideas and kits available like candle-making kits, cookie kits, and embroidery portraits that are thoughtful and won’t break your wallet. While Valentine’s Day can be an expensive holiday, there is nothing romantic about going into debt for over-shopping. Be realistic about what you can and can’t afford, and remember that the day will be special no matter what you do. Show the people you love the most how much you care about them with these helpful tips from these local businesses!

a Classic Dinner

Carmela’s b istro & Wine b ar has been in Lincoln’s quaint Pioneers Woods Shopping Center since 2008. It is truly the love child of its owner, Marci Hanshaw. Her vision of a sophisticated-yet-cozy eatery and bar is alive at Carmela’s, and it shines through with a European-inspired elegance combined with the charm of an American bistro. The walls are full of playful wine-loving sayings and photos of Hollywood’s most iconic faces from the 50s and 60s, such as Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Johnny Cash. There is also an impressive wine wall in the main dining area that showcases Carmela’s vast selection of vino. Carmela’s will be offering a four-course Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Sweetheart menu for $80 per couple. The first course is a shared appetizer with choices of asiago crab dip, bruschetta, and a deviled egg course named “Wicked Eggs.”

Each person will then select their own second course. The options are crab chowder, salad, or brussels and kale. The third course is the entrée, where each person can choose between different main proteins or a butternut risotto. Dessert is the final shared course with the options being cheesecake and “Better than Sex” cake. Those interested in this special dinner can make reservations at carmelasbistroandwinebar.com.

If your plans for Valentine’s Day are already in the works, Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar keeps things exciting by doing a Date Night special on Monday and Tuesday evenings, a Million Dollar Burger special on Wednesdays, and more. With two dining areas, an outdoor patio, a variety of seating options, and a private event room, Carmela’s is a welcoming restaurant for all.

The Perfect Stay-cation

Valentine’s Day is on a Tuesday this year, which means you and your sweetheart may not get the chance to get away. Lincoln is full of great options for stay-cations surrounded by wonderful local restaurants and fun, eclectic activities.

Ideally located in the heart of Lincoln, The Kindler Hotel offers the area’s first and only boutique lodging experience. Their firstin-class service, distinctive dining, unique bar menus, and a wide array of amenities create an unrivaled guest experience. It fuses gracious hospitality with a contemporary art collection for a truly memorable stay in Husker Nation.

The Kindler Hotel is surrounded by revered attractions and toprated restaurants, all of which are within walking distance or a brief drive. The unique history and vibrant culture of Nebraska are within reach.

Sink into plush bedding, admire fine finishes, and appreciate thoughtful and modern conveniences. Your downtown haven will be waiting for you at the end of your busy day in Lincoln. The Kindler offers a variety of room options that include in-room amenities such as complimentary WiFi, personal coffee makers, and a refrigerator.

For Valentine’s Day this year, The Kindler Hotel will feature live jazz music with Bobby Gadoury in the Boitano’s Lounge from 6-9 p.m. They are also offering a special add-on package to a room reserved from February 10 to February 14. This is the perfect place to spend Valentine’s Day, or any romantic evening with someone you love. Make someone you love feel special and treat them to The Kindler Hotel.

Locals and guests alike come together in the lavishly appointed lounge to enjoy uniquely crafted cocktails and a seasonal dining menu developed by Brian Boitano — world-renowned Olympic skater and Food Network star. Savor satisfying dishes and locally sourced ingredients in a hip and welcoming atmosphere. Boitano’s Lounge is the perfect place for dinner or nightcap.

This is the perfect place to spend Valentine’s Day, or any romantic evening with someone you love. Make someone you love feel special and treat them to The Kindler Hotel.

Wine from the Heart

What’s more romantic than wine? Treating your special someone to locally produced wine can be the cherry on top of a romantic evening.

What started out as a hobby has turned into a popular Nebraska destination celebrating over 20 years of business. James a rthur Vineyards (JAV) in Raymond opened its doors in 1997. Since then, the winery has hosted thousands of guests, including visitors from every state and numerous countries from around the world. JAV is Nebraska’s largest winery and is located just north of Lincoln. Surrounded by nearly 20 acres of grapes, wine production is also supplemented by a number of Nebraska grape growers.

To celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, JAV has planned several sold out events. While you may not be able to snag a ticket this year, these are great ideas to stick in your back pocket for next year. It also never hurts to call the winery closer to the event date to see if they’ve had any cancellations.

On February 4, James Arthur Vineyards is hosting a wine and chocolate pairing event with The Chocolate Season. They will pair five JAV wines, including two of the 25th anniversary selections, with chocolates crafter by The Chocolate Season.

On February 10, JAV is celebrating love with a chocolate-inspired buffet. The special event includes a variety of chocolate-themed appetizers, salads, soups, entrees, and desserts. Tickets include a bottle of select JAV wines.

Finally, on February 11, the Meet-Your-Winemaker Valentine’s dinner will take place. This is a five-course meal with wine pairings in JAV’s party room.

Of course for those looking to go all out, the Vineyard is available for private rentals in their party rooms. JAV offers an exceptional location for your dream Valentine’s Day. Their richly appointed private party room with comfortable furnishings, rich décor, and spectacular views affords an extraordinary venue available nowhere else in the region. They’re well known for their excellent service, ambiance, and food, and they prioritize personalizing the menu for your group as a way to offer better service and presentation.

If you can’t make it to Raymond, JAV 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. Here you can also find the perfect Valentine’s gifts for the Nebraska lover in your heart!

No matter if you are practicing a little self-love or treating your true love to something special, take this Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to enjoy an exciting new adventure. There are so many professionals in the area that want to help you make this day a day to remember. xOxO!

Becoming a parent is one of the biggest decisions one can make in their lifetime. Making sure the parents and baby are healthy throughout the pregnancy and at time of birth is extremely important, but the years of doctors and dentists are just beginning. Getting your child started with healthy habits from the start can set them up for success.

Physical health is one thing, but making sure your kids are developing emotionally and mentally is extremely important. There are many beneficial options in the Lincoln area to help your child grow into a healthy, well-rounded adult.

Start with the Mind

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 and teaching children how to positively express their feelings. 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 therapeutic tools they

erica schroeder daring minds therapy

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.”

More than 20/20 Vision

At Premier Vision, Dr. Dan Novak and staff evaluate more than if a child can see "20/20." During a comprehensive eye health evaluation, a wide range of visual functions are evaluated including proper eye alignment, focusing ability, depth perception, color vision, and visual acuity. By utilizing the latest techniques and stateof-the-art equipment, the goal of Premier Vision is to provide an exceptional eye care experience by treating their patients like a member of their own family. Dr. Novak has been practicing in Lincoln since 2012 and opened Premier Vision in September 2021. He specializes in comprehensive eye examinations with special interest in ocular disease treatment, dry eye therapy, myopia management, and contact lenses. Dr. Novak works alongside vision specialists Rita Caha and Amber Vodraska.

“With the increasing amount of time a child spends on digital devices the demand on their eyes has never been greater. Over 80% of how a child learns is visually,” said Dr. Novak. “A comprehensive eye evaluation is necessary to not only determine if a child can see clearly but also to evaluate how efficiently they can use their eyes while in school and studying at home. “

If eyewear is necessary Premier Vision offers stylish and durable frames and eyeglass lenses that not only correct the vision but aid in focusing and blue light protection. All of the products are backed by warranties should frames break or lenses get damaged or scratched.

“We offer the most advanced diagnostic equipment and optical products that help our patients achieve their best vision possible,” shared Dr. Novak. “My goal is to make all patients feel welcome and comfortable while providing a best-in-class patient experience.”

Making an Impact

Leadership Harbor’s Youth Impact Division was created to focus on kids/youth leadership development. By serving both the youth and those who impact them such as parents, guardians, and educators, they begin to create an environment where each can live into their own potential.

“At Leadership Harbor, we've intentionally focused on developing our ability to uniquely serve your youth and family. I joined the team in 2018 with two decades of experience in youth/young adult ministry.

In 2019, I became a Certified Parent and Family Coach in order to increase our ability to serve parents,” said Chris Hansen , Youth Impact Division director.

“In early 2021, Dax joined our team as a John Maxwell Youth Facilitator. In 2022, we welcomed Stephanie Nelson to the team. A majority of her career has been spent working in children and family ministry and she is looking forward to continued service in that area working with Parents and Families. Our team is here to serve you and your family however we can best add value.”

Leadership Harbor provides coaching for individuals, couples, families, and youth. They also offer complimentary Discovery Sessions to help parents and youth determine the next best step in their growth journey.

“When it comes to healthy kids, often it begins with the adults in their lives. Are we modeling good behaviors, open communication, and strong leadership? When we learn to lead ourselves as adults, it will have an impact on our kids. After all, they are watching what we do and say.”

Another great offering for youth from Leadership Harbor is CALM Suicide/Bullying Prevention Trainings. These trainings are beneficial for youth and adults to be aware of a simple protocol to use when they or someone they know may be considering suicide or being bullied.

The best way to prepare for a difficult conversation is before it happens. Talking about suicide is a tough topic. When someone is considering suicide, that’s not the time to learn what to do. The same is true of bullying. What do you do when it is happening to a friend, family member, coworker, or someone in your community?

CALM Workshop Training is appropriate for youth and/or adults in a variety of settings. Through CALM, participants will learn a simple protocol to implement for when they or someone they know is experiencing bullying or thoughts of suicide. Leadership Harbor’s goal is to connect you with the tools and resources to get help in times of need.

Make sure you and those you know and love know the CALM protocol so everyone is prepared when it may happen to someone in their life. Raising awareness, having the conversations, and knowing what to do are important steps in preventing bullying and suicide in our communities.

There is so much information out there about what is right and what is wrong, and as most parents know it can be challenging to decide what is best for each unique child. The most important part of keeping kids healthy and happy is a total wellness approach that ensures all of the bases are covered and there is a good balance in the mental, physical, and emotional areas.

dr. dan novak premier Vision

Chris hansen Leadership harbor

Owning a building for your business or residential property involves substantial investment and comes with monumental responsibilities. One of the most important things you can do to protect your investment is to be diligent about timely preventive building maintenance. It can save you money in the long run and keep your clients, employees, and family safe and comfortable, while maintaining maximum efficiency, reducing energy use, protecting and preserving your assets, maintaining staff efficiency at work, and protecting your reputation and credibility as a property owner in the event of an accident.

Preventive maintenance includes everything from your computers and office equipment to plumbing, heating, and cooling systems, electrical systems, fire-protection and life-safety systems, plus building maintenance like doors, gutters, trim, skylights, reskins, additions, and insulation packages. Since the COVID pandemic, building owners and operators face heightened maintenance requirements toward providing safe, clean buildings that have better air quality than ever, thus providing freedom from harmful contaminants and contagions which, in turn, leads to improved staff morale and efficiency.

The consequences of relying solely on reactive building maintenance can be serious, including unplanned downtime, idle employees, halted production, missed deadlines, and even long-term damages to your brand. Being diligent about maintenance, on the other hand, leads to decreased equipment downtime, conservation of assets, improved reliability, improved safety, increased equipment efficiency, and more. If it all seems overwhelming, you’ll be happy to hear that Lincoln is home to multitudinous businesses that can help you keep your business and company safe and efficient and your employees and clients happy and thriving.

Freshen up

Fresh coats of paint and up-to-date aesthetics can help bring a building back to life. Remy Refinishing offers interior painting services specializing in cabinet painting.

An interior paint job can last a long time but eventually it looks dirty, scuffed up, and not fresh. In your home this could drag down your mood. In a commercial setting it could give customers and clients the impression that you don't care about your business and therefore you don't care about them.

The world of paint continues to evolve faster than people realize. In the past few years many companies have come out with amazing

products that prevent scuffs, are antibacterial, are zero VOC, and have many other beneficial properties.

“One of our favorite products is called Ben Moore Scuff X. If you Google some videos on it, you can see how it’s literally impossible to scuff it and make black marks,” said Owner Jeremy Day. “Everyone has those unsightly black marks in their hallways and high traffic areas. This is a problem in homes and commercial spaces. Ben Moore Scuff X does an amazing job solving this problem.”

It’s beneficial to ask a knowledgeable painter what kinds of products are out there that can improve the look, feel, and functionality of your home or business. Many painters use the same old products they are used to and never explore new paint technologies that can help you improve your home or business.

“In regards to our specialty of cabinet painting it just comes down to being a huge money saver,” Jeremy said. “Replacing your whole set of cabinets is usually not cost effective. We can paint your existing cabinets at a fraction of the cost of replacing.”

Remy Refinishing can also modify kitchens by adding extra cabinets, crown moldings, or replacement doors that help save money as well.

Keep it Clean

ServiceMaster Professional b uilding Maintenance is a fullservice janitorial company that cleans manufacturing, medical, government, financial, and commercial facilities, including restaurants. They will not only leave your business looking spotless, but also will enhance its overall appearance for employees, customers, and clients to enjoy. Owner Jon Paolini elaborated

Jeremy day Remy Refinishing

on how ServiceMaster’s flooring services can benefit your business.

“We offer carpet and hard floor cleaning services that can extend the useful life of all types of flooring. If you don’t keep up with maintenance on flooring, however, it can shorten the life of the flooring and can void your warranty on it,” Jon advised.

Commercial carpet generally carries a warranty, and that warranty typically includes requirements for routine and periodic carpet cleaning. If that schedule isn’t followed, the warranty may not be honored. Carpet will last much longer and look better if it is on a regular schedule for cleaning. Hard floors will last longer if they have a finish maintained on them and are burnished regularly. Similarly, tile and grout will look better longer with periodic cleaning that keeps the dirt and grease from becoming to set in especially in the grout.

Another service offered by ServiceMaster is sanitizing, which has become very commonplace over the past three years due to COVID. They perform sanitizing services as a reactive measure when there is a positive case in the office, but also as routine preventative maintenance.

“We offer free estimates, so if someone has questions about bringing our services to their office, we can stop by your business and make a plan for what is needed,” said Jon. “When looking for a company to provide services, it is important to find one you can trust and has been in the business for a long time.”

Cleaning your building regularly can help prevent major damage and possibly structure issues. As you or your janitorial service will be continually inspecting floors, plumbing fixtures, and windows while cleaning, any issues with the building can hopefully be identified early on before they cause major problems.

DIy Maintenance

While routine maintenance on your home or building may seem like a chore, Oak electric wants you to keep in mind that it is a matter of safety. There’s some maintenance that you can do yourself, making it easier to take preventative measures. One example is by checking your smoke detectors. These should be tested every six months and replaced every ten years.

“Did you know that your GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) receptacles have a shelf life of around 10-15 years?” asked Master Electrician Matt Collins. “Most GFCIs can be found in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, garages, and on the exterior of a home or building. Most manufacturers suggest testing your GFCI receptacle monthly; if you press the ‘test’ button and the circuit does not trip, it needs to be replaced. If the receptacle trips but does not reset when you press the ‘reset’ button, this is also an indication that it needs to be replaced.”

In addition to smoke detectors and GFCIs, your electrical panel should be examined periodically. If you choose to examine it yourself, use extreme caution, and keep in mind that the panel cover can be rather heavy. Issues of concern to look for include moisture, corrosion, burn marks, or melting. If you see any of these problems, contact your electrician to further investigate and take care of the matter.

“We highly encourage you to have a licensed electrician inspect your panel to ensure it is up to code,” Matt explained. “Do you have any switches or receptacles that aren’t working? If so, get them fixed before planning any further upkeep or maintenance.”

Privacy, Please!

Your fence is one of the most important features of your property. It offers safety and privacy, and even accents your landscape. Plus, fences come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing you to truly customize it to fit your landscape vision. The possibilities are virtually endless!

Height, style, and material are important choices that can impact the final look of your fencing and, ultimately, your landscape. If you don’t know what type of fencing would best fit your vision both functionally and aesthetically, the experts at empire Netting and Fence can offer their advice.

“A good fence will provide privacy for your property while also fitting into your ideal design,” explained Owner Matt Warner. “In addition, a fence should offer security for employees and the building itself. To ensure your fence will be installed properly to satisfy both of these needs, call a professional.”

Empire offers vinyl, wood, chain link, or aluminum fences, in addition to FenceTrac, a system that has virtually endless possibilities with a beautiful aesthetic look that is designed to simplify picket installation.

“The best way to get started is to visit our website and click on our ‘Instant Online Quote’ button,” Matt suggested. “Using our online estimating tool, you will be able to draw the layout for the fence and choose what style you would like. When you finish, you will get an email with a printable layout including total linear footage and budget for that specific fence. This will help you get a ballpark estimate on the cost of your fencing project. We will contact you with more questions regarding your project and set up a time to meet onsite to verify measurements and get a good feel about what you want to achieve with your fencing.”

Keeping you Safe

For more than 20 years, engineered Controls has been designing, installing, managing, and servicing building management and

Jon paolini servicemaster pBm

matt Collins oak electric

matt warner empire netting and fence

security solutions for buildings and facilities of all sizes and types. They are dedicated to designing easy-to-use building automation and security systems that provide the highest possible energy efficiency, while ensuring occupant comfort and maintaining a safe and secure workplace.

“Building systems that are properly maintained will run at top efficiency and for the longest possible amount of time, minimizing your operating costs and unnecessary capital expenditures,” said President and CEO Pat Killeen. “Properly controlled and maintained building systems equal maximum employee satisfaction, maximum productivity, and cost savings.”

Engineered Controls offers custom maintenance plans that can be tailored to fit the needs of each customer. A well maintained system can be cost neutral when considering both the energy savings and extended life of the equipment. In addition, a good maintenance program will help to ensure buildings will experience smooth, uninterrupted operation for as long as possible. “We offer an advisory service program called Adviser,” Pat explained. “Adviser is a complete suite of building management services and cloud-based resources that are designed to monitor energy and operational efficiency, and put your facility on a path to optimization. Our Adviser customers have the support of our network of energy and automation experts, backed by sophisticated analytics technology, all working to deliver the right level of service and information you need to maximize your efficiency and achieve your business goals.”

As a technology contractor, Engineered Controls’ vision is to participate in projects that transform the way buildings are designed, built, and operated. They strive to create environmentally responsible, profitable, and healthy places to live and work. From the integration of new control technologies into their design, to the contracting work they engage in, Engineered Controls is participating in the service and construction of buildings now and well into the future.

Learn about your building

Greenleaf Commercial real estate in Lincoln provides comprehensive property-management services that include facility- and assetmanagement components. Facility management covers the physical aspects of the property, while asset management focuses on increasing the value of the owner’s investment.

“A few keys components of our facilitymanagement services include full takeover and start-up inspection; annual property inspection reports; identification and implementation of routine maintenance, coordination of vendor repairs and services, quick response to maintenance requests, and 24/7 emergency response,” said Greenleaf Property Manager Talisha Parsley.

Asset-management services include: analyzing current leases to ensure information is correct; forming an annual operating budget; completing an annual budget reconciliation for the prior year; invoicing tenants and collecting rents; making vendor payments; providing monthly owner reports and quarterly and year-end financial statements; accessing financial matters regarding operation of the property, annual cash flow, and Pro Forma statements; listing and marketing property to aim for 100% occupancy; and a yearly meeting with the owner to review the property as a whole. Think about the confidence and peace-of-mind you could gain by handing all of that over to a highly reputable company like Greenleaf.

“It is always better to be proactive rather than reactive,” Talisha said. “Doing routine and ongoing maintenance can save significant time

pat Killeen engineered Controls

talisha parsley

Greenleaf Commercial real estate

and expense in the long run. For example, heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) routine maintenance like changing filters and replacing belts is an upfront cost each year but can prolong the life of the heating and cooling units by several years. If not maintained, the unit likely won’t function efficiently and runs the risk of breaking down, leaving you in an emergency situation.”

Talisha adds that quality property management maximizes the value of a commercial real-estate asset by increasing tenant satisfaction and controlling costs. Higher tenant satisfaction correlates directly with lower turnover and vacancy rates, while overall tenant satisfaction—combined with close attention to reducing operating and capital expenses keeps the asset competitive in the marketplace and increases the value of the asset for owners.

What you Can’t See

The things that go unseen are quite often more important than the ones that can be seen. Keeping things like plumbing, air ducts, and air quality in good shape and up-to-date can help your building stay in good condition for longer. John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and air Conditioning is a full-service plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air quality, duct cleaning, and water treatment business.

“We offer two options for commercial maintenance. First being the bi-annual maintenance, this consists of two services, normally one being in the spring (A/C service) and the other in the fall (furnace/ heat service),” said Field Operations Supervisor Zach K. “Our second option is a quarterly service. This includes everything in the bi-annual service as well as two additional filter changes.”

There are many repercussions of not performing maintenance on both commercial and residential HVAC equipment. These services prevent breakdowns, ensure that equipment is performing at peak efficiency, and increase the life expectancy of the equipment.

“I have noticed an increase in the interest of indoor air quality (IAQ). With the recent concerns of viruses, this has kept people indoors more often which creates a high demand for healthy indoor air quality,” shared Zach. “Indoor air quality is something that has been overlooked for many years and I have noticed the general public is becoming more aware of the importance of IAQ. There are many ways to improve the quality of air we breathe. ERV's, UV products, dehumidifiers, and humidifiers are the most common ways to improve indoor air quality. I believe we will continue to see an increase in the demand for healthy indoor air in 2023 and the years to come.”

John Henry’s team is ready to help you and your business improve the plumbing, heating, and air in your buildings.

“I would encourage all homeowners and business owners to talk to a professional about the quality of air inside their real estate as well as maintenance plans to ensure that all equipment is safe and operating at peak efficiency,” Zach said.

Building maintenance is essential in the commercial world. Whether you own, lease, or rent you should make sure that all plumbing, electrical, and HVAC equipment is operating properly and have it maintained on a regular basis.

More than Cosmetics

An easy way to freshen up the look of your home or building is with a new coat of paint. It boosts curb appeal and invites guests to enter your home or building, and makes the property as a whole appear well-kept. Many homeowners are tempted to simply do the work themselves – but do you really want to waste your valuable free time on painting your home? Give yourself a break and reach out to Walter’s Painting Inc. by scheduling an estimate on their website. They provide residential and commercial painting services to the Lincoln area all year long.

Zach K. John henry's plumbing, heating, and Air Conditioning

“We know that today’s fast-paced lifestyle means that many people are just too busy for home improvements like painting, plastering, and all that prep work,” shared Jeff Walters, owner. “We strive to make the entire process stress and worryfree, in addition to providing premium quality products and services that produce outstanding results.”

Did you know paint is much more than a cosmetic service? A new coat of paint on your walls can help to seal out moisture and repel dust, dirt, and allergens, keeping your home or office much cleaner. Paint on the exterior of a home or building can even prevent the wood from rotting, saving on repair costs.

“When doing exterior painting, we sometimes identify issues that have not yet been noticed,” explained Jeff. “Problems such as mold, mildew, and rotting wood are found when performing work like this, and thankfully, it gets brought to your attention before it turns into a much larger issue.”

Walter’s Painting makes the process simple by providing free estimates and quality prep work, in addition to a consultation after the first coat of paint has dried and a final inspection to ensure the paint job is satisfactory.

The mission at Walter’s Painting is to remain a leading contractor by providing the best quality work. Client’s satisfaction is their priority, so you can be sure that they will always take the extra time to make sure you love the finished product of every project.

Get it Inspected

randy King with King’s Home Inspections, LLC, has seen plenty of signs of deferred maintenance in homes and light commercial buildings throughout his time as an inspector. From furnace filters that need changing, to water pads on humidifiers, to gutters full of debris and missing down spout extensions, to garden hoses left on hose bibs in freezing weather, he knows a thing or two about preventative measures.

“When you don’t take preventative measures, you will run into problems such as early equipment failure, poor performance of appliances, and even further deterioration of the home or office,” said Randy. “Preventative maintenance includes things that you can do on your own, such as cleaning out the gutters and ensuring they have long extensions on down spouts. Failure to do so can cause water to overshoot a gutter or drain against a foundation, which invites water into your basement and oftentimes causes foundation damage.”

Other home equipment to keep an eye on includes water heaters and furnace blowers, as they have a shortened service life when they’re not maintained.

“Many modern appliances and systems are designed to require minimal maintenance, and that’s great, but the consumer often equates that to no maintenance at all,” explained Randy. “You cannot fail to change a furnace filter and expect your HVAC system to perform properly, for example. You must make maintenance a part of your routine, whether in a home or business. If you cannot do it yourself, or are unsure, it is wise to hire home maintenance services from a company that specializes in this. This ensures longevity and a minimum of breakdowns in your building, appliances, and various systems, as well as a healthier environment.”

Stay Covered

Neemann & Sons has been replacing and repairing damaged roofs, windows, gutters, and siding for over 39 years. Locally known as being honest, hard-working, and reliable, this team of dedicated

workers ensures that each customer gets a personalized solution to their roofing needs. As a family-owned and -operated business, Neemann & Sons takes enormous pride in their work and guarantees their customers’ satisfaction every time.

That personal touch comes from the passion the owners have for helping others. It’s been almost four decades since Terry and Chris Neemann began repairing roofs on the side of their full-time jobs, helping people in their area keep a roof over their heads when the inevitable thunder or snowstorm caused damage or leaks. Despite starting as a side operation to cover some extra expenses, the Neemanns’ tireless work ethic and golden personalities won the hearts of their customers and their reputation spread like wildfire. It wasn’t long before their small operation grew into one of Nebraska’s most trusted roofing companies.

If you’re envisioning remodeling your roof, Neemann & Sons will help you with the design of your roofing and siding. They’ll suggest which tiles, siding, gutters, and windows to give it a fresh look while remaining sturdy enough to withstand violent weather. Plus, they also install Halo lights, powerful bright lights that line your building and make your space safer, while looking sleek too. Whatever your needs are, the job is never too big or small.

Neemann & Sons provides people with the knowledge that their home or business is being taken care of by local experts that are known and trusted by others around them.

As you can see, ongoing building maintenance is a lot to handle on your own. We highly recommend contacting the local businesses featured here to remove the burden from your shoulders, help preserve your property assets long-term, and keep your employees, clients, and families safe and healthy.

Jeff walters walter's painting

randy King King's home inspections, LLC

Planning your wedding may be one of the most exciting events you prepare for in your lifetime. The Lincoln area has so many options to suit the varying tastes of each couple that will meet at the altar that it’s often overwhelming to decide where and how to start. From picking a venue to finding the perfect dress or suit to choosing what’s for dinner, it’s a daunting task to plan a wedding. Don’t fret – we spoke to several local businesses and experts that are happy to offer their services to you and help you create your dream day!

Get a Special Glow

Skin experts is there for the bride every step of her beautiful wedding journey. From engagement parties to bridal showers, and all the way up to the big day, their revolutionary facials will be sure to make you and your wedding party glow!

Whether the bride is seeking a quick hydrating facial the day before an engagement party, a private event for all of her bridesmaids to celebrate, or a long-term routine to get her skin ready for her big day, Skin Experts can be of assistance. All of their facials can be customizable for any skin type, from combination to sensitive skin. Their space can accommodate a large group, or you can even book the entire space for a special, self-care focused bridal party or pre-wedding event!

“Here at Skin Experts, we know how important it is to feel beautiful and confident on your wedding day, which is why it’s so important to have a pre-wedding skin care plan,” said regina read, owner. “Setting goals for yourself, whether that’s reducing the appearance of acne; increasing collagen production; or simply desiring glowing, hydrated skin, will allow you to select the correct regimen that makes the most sense for you and on track for radiant skin for your wedding day.”

Skin Experts can work with the bride-to-be three months, six months, or even a year prior to their wedding to implement a strategy for glowing skin. Depending on your skin goals, Skin Experts can work with you to create the best suited facial schedule. They recommend the bride start her skin-care plan early to avoid any potential irritations or flare-ups, so to assure the final month before your wedding is focused on maintaining the results already achieved by a monthly or bi-weekly facial plan. One week before your wedding is an ideal time to receive your final facial. For the final facial, Skin Experts recommends a gentle maintenance facial focused on keeping the skin hydrated and healthy and avoiding any peels. The Oxygen Therapy Facial and LED Light therapy from Skin Experts are perfect modalities to ensure your skin looks beautiful and glowing a week from the big day.

“Self-care is such an essential part of wedding planning, and we are here for the bride and the entire bridal party to achieve renewal, relaxation, and routine prior to the wedding day,” Regina said. “We offer luxury experiences at an affordable price to make that big day even more special!”

regina read skin experts

best Dressed

Finding the perfect wedding dress is something most young girls dream about. We’ve watched countless friends, family members, and random movie couples get married for decades, and when it’s finally your turn, the choices may feel overwhelming.

With the help of the friendly, knowledgeable staff at blush bridal boutique, finding the dress of your dreams becomes an easy, joyful process. Now, more brides can get the Blush Bridal experience at Refined Bridal Co., in Hickman.

“We expanded to a sister store in 2022 to better serve more brides in the Midwest. Blush Bridal Boutique is perfect for those brides looking for a traditional wedding shopping experience with friends and family. We work with brides to custom create their perfect wedding day looks,” , owner. “We host a variety of trending designs in our Lincoln showroom. In our ten years, we have served nearly 6,000 Midwest brides. Refined Bridal Co. is our store that hosts nearly 200 wedding dresses in sizes 4-30 that are ready to take home with you the same day, no waiting or ordering! You've waited for true love; don't wait for your dress.”

Can’t make a decision? No problem! More and more often these days, brides are choosing a traditional look for the ceremony, and then changing into a more fun party dress with fun accessories for the reception or after party. You won’t have to worry about a less than ideal try-on experience, either. Blush Bridal makes sure that you leave their boutique with the fondest memories and biggest smile.

“Our Blush Brides love our upgraded appointment experience, the Beloved appointment! They can celebrate their shopping with up to eight guests, some champagne, and an adorable swag bag full of gifts just for the bride,” Emmy explained. “This month we also launched Bespoke by Blush. This service includes custom embroidery on your dress or veil to commemorate your wedding date, your initials, or new last name!”

Although she has a keen interest in all things wedding fashion, Emmy also gave us some advice for those currently planning a wedding.

“Stay true to you and your partner's wishes. Wedding planning comes with many expectations, emotions, and pressure from friends and family. Be sure to allow your wishes as a couple to help you make decisions down to every last detail,” advised Emmy. “Yes, you are preparing for your wedding day, but the most important part is the foundation you are paving for your life ahead as life partners. Enjoy the day and all that it brings; celebrate the new life you are embarking on together.”

your Day Made Just for you

Whether you’re dreaming about a Grace Kelly-inspired bridal look, planning an intimate destination wedding, or organizing a speakeasyinspired after party, this year’s hottest wedding trend is making the day special for you.

Helping you curate your dream day is just what Lulubee artisanal Chocolates can do. Simply pick out your favorite bonbon flavors, chocolate bars, or other chocolate treats, and then consider some of these creative options to make your guests blissfully happy.

Save the Date: A custom-made chocolate bar wrapped in a belly band with your wedding date is sure to make a memorable (and tasty) announcement to your guests.

Will You Be My Bridesmaid? They’re your BFFs, so make them feel extra special with a customized gift box filled with chocolate that’s bound to keep them energized until the big day!

Dessert Bar: Whether pairing chocolate bonbons with your favorite dessert wines or simply serving a decadent pick-your-own spread, a chocolate dessert bar will make your wedding dreams come true.

Wedding Favors: Let us add a monogram, wedding date, or other message of gratitude on customized boxes of handcrafted bonbons.

MAKE ROOM FOR A LITTLE FUN

“To ensure that your big day reflects you and your partner, we’ll need ample time to get customized items ready, so chat with us early on in the planning process,” explains Gaylene Steinbach, owner and chocolatier of Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates. “Once we’ve worked out the details, we’ll manage the project so you can take care of those other countless details!”

From customized save-the-dates or thank-yous, Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates can make those moments extra special.

a Place to Stay

Weddings are a great reason for friends and family from around the world to gather together and celebrate love. Making sure everyone has an affordable, comfortable place to stay is something to make a priority. In Lincoln, there’s no better place than Courtyard by Marriott Lincoln Downtown / Haymarket

“We take away the added stress of making arrangements for your guests! With one phone call, we can have your wedding block set up, a link for you to send out to your guests, as well as wedding suite reserved in your name. If you have goodie bags, we’ll happily hand those out to your guests as they check in,” said Melanie Maynard, director of sales. “On top of that, we’ll check in with you every few months, giving you updates. Then we’ll send you reminders and updates a week before your cutoff date as well as on the cutoff date.”

Getting a place to stay isn’t just a priority for you, Courtyard by Marriott has made sure that you and your guests are a priority for them, as well.

“We pride ourselves on timeliness. If you reach out to us, you don’t have to wait a week or a few days to get a response. Our standard is same business day, never more than 24 hours. We understand you can’t move

emmy Gorman Blush Bridal Boutique

melanie maynard Courtyard by marriott Lincoln downtown / haymarket

forward with your plans until you hear from us,” Melanie shared. “We also prioritize constant communication. We don’t want you to worry about you and your guests not having a place to stay, and we also want to answer your questions before you even realize you have them!”

While your guests may be thankful for a convenient stay for your wedding weekend, the newlyweds may want an added wow factor for their first night as a married couple.

“A trend I have seen recently is couples wanting to have a wedding suite on their wedding night. Couples want to make their wedding night special, and we love making their stay extra special with our wedding special. Being a part of someone’s biggest day of their life is huge! If we can help make that process easier and special…THAT is what our job is,” said Melanie. “If a couple were to book their room block with us, we offer different incentives such as upgraded bridal suites, chocolate-covered strawberries, and champagne in their room on their wedding night.”

The Haymarket is an especially booming part of town on the weekends, and planning ahead can only guarantee that no big event will fill up the hotels and venues before you can book them. With Pinnacle Arena just around the corner, you never know what concert will be announced, and popular weekends book up fast. Marriott is already getting room block requests for 2024 as well.

Where’s Dessert?

The classic wedding cake is a staple for anyone thinking about weddings, but taking a nonconventional approach to the dessert table may give your wedding an extra pop to stand out against the crowd.

“ Nothing b undt Cakes has four sizes of delicious cakes to choose from. Our smallest cake, the Bundtini works perfect for engagement parties, bridal showers, and receptions. They are easy to serve and can be purchased by the dozen in a combination of any of our ten flavors,” said Sharon Hansen, co-owner. “Our Bundtlet size is perfect for gifting to out-of-town guests as a nice welcome surprise as well as a delicious gift option at a bridal shower. Our larger 8” and 10” cakes can be decorated and placed on a table that can serve as a centerpiece as well as dessert.”

Nothing Bundt Cakes come in a variety of flavors, ranging from chocolate to fruit to everything in between. With these size and flavor options, you can cater to all of your guests with small portions of multiple cakes. Sharon has noticed a lot more creativity and uniqueness going into the look of the cakes, and her team is happy to assist in creating a special look. Tastings and the selection process is an enjoyable process with Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Sharon looks forward to helping you decide what will be perfect for your celebration.

“If you are interested in getting pricing for a few options or would like to discuss your event in more detail, give us a call. We offer delivery and set-up, and we can coordinate timing and location with the venue or planner,” Sharon explained.

Décor and More

If you are attending an upcoming wedding and want to bring a unique, special gift, take a trip to Paisley Lynn boutique. At Paisley Lynn, Heather Chloupek and Cherie anderson took their love for decor, staging, and ambiance to create a unique shopping experience. They offer eye-catching home décor and gifts that will help the newlyweds design a life together.

Cherie has 15 years of experience coordinating events and working with clients all over Nebraska. She brings her expertise and experience to the table and is able to process the pros and cons of particular purchases for a wedding or bridal shower with her clients.

Cherie Anderson paisley Lynn Boutique

sharon hansen nothing Bundt Cakes

“In addition to finding unique, rare, and affordable pieces, our favorite activity is hosting private parties,” Cherie said. “You get to invite five or more guests for a private party, and we provide lite appetizers and drinks. The host receives anywhere from 10-30% off their entire purchase and guests of the host receive 10% off, along with other perks. It’s a fun, unique outing to eat, drink and shop with your friends. This would be a great option for any bridal parties looking for a fun night out. ” Cherie and Heather love working with clients one-on-one, figuring out their vision, and creating a variety of affordable options centered on their client’s needs. They have access to vendors across the country, so if Paisley Lynn does not have what you need for that special occasion on site, they can easily order and make it available. You can either visit one of their pop up hours during the month or better yet, schedule a complimentary private appointment for a tour and discussion of how they can assist your wedding or shower needs.

If rustic-urban charm is in your wedding vision, we highly recommend reaching out to Talon room. The former Spaghetti Works was transformed into what is now Talon Room, a beautiful event venue that can help you host the entire weekend – that’s right, the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, and reception, all in one location!

“There’s already enough on your plate when planning your wedding, so we help out where we can,” said Owner Matthew rogge. “We make decorating easy and provide select decorations for a small fee – we are also always adding new items to our arsenal. In addition, Talon Room offers in-house catering and bar service, as well as private tastings beforehand.”

Whether you want an intimate gathering or are looking for space for up to 250 people, Talon Room can accommodate. Their outstanding catering service will serve your guests gourmet appetizers and entrees with options that can meet any budget and time of day – even if your reception is at a separate location. Bar services can also be brought to your party, and Talon Room has a full-service in-house bar that can mix together delicious drinks for your guests. Furthermore, Talon Room has partnerships with a variety of local vendors, so they can plan and execute any event you can imagine.

“I recommend finding venues now because they book fast and it will make the decision process much easier,” said Matthew. “It’s a good idea to take tours of any options you come across, because you’ll never know what you’ll like best!”

This Takes the Cake!

Let’s face it, cake can make or break a wedding. Choosing the perfect dessert that encapsulates the sweetness of the love you and your betrothed share is a huge task to take on. If you’re looking for a local, unique confection for your special day, look no further than Sweet Things by Marcy!

Sweet Things by Marcy is a local bakery in Lincoln owned by Marcy Haas that has a vibrant menu of sweet treats that can highlight any holiday event.

Marcy can help you find the exact combination of flavors that’ll make your guests’ mouths water. She puts in all of her love for baking, joy for helping others, and masterful technique into anything she bakes.

“Baking is one of my passions, so I decided to turn it into a full-time business,” said Marcy. “I hope that you have a chance to enjoy a cake or two (or many) as much as I enjoy baking them.”

Wedding planning certainly brings on some stress, but the experience and passion provided by these experts makes the planning process a breeze! We recommend contacting these local businesses to help you create your perfect wedding day.

marcy haas

sweet things by marcy

matthew rogge talon room

AND DIGNITY

Aging with grace is what you deserve. Our staff will always treat you with compassion and dignity.

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.

One of the biggest pieces of advice that we receive from senior living services and facilities is to start planning right away. You never know when care is going to be needed. Unanticipated events, such as a negative diagnosis or an injury, can cause one’s health and independence to diminish quickly.

If the thought of planning for your future or that of your aging loved ones 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.

Caring Companionship

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

“It is always a good idea to meet with us and get information before you actually

need the care. Our clients who start early with just a few hours per week are often happier and more confident when their needs grow and they already have a trusted relationship with a reliable company,” explained Julie Day , client care coordinator.

Visiting Angels helps families provide the highest quality of care for their loved ones to help them stay in their homes. They offer companionship, assistance with showering, bathing, dressing, medication reminders, transportation, and cooking. They also offer light housekeeping to their clients. Visiting Angels’ goal is to set clients up for success and help them stay happy and safe wherever they call home.

“We have all heard the saying that two things in life are certain: death and taxes. I would add aging to that equation,” advised Julie. “With medical advances, people are living much longer and should certainly plan for a successful aging experience. Visiting Angels is there to assist families and put a plan in place that will ensure their safety and security while allowing them to stay in the home they love.”

Julie explained that it’s common for clients to add extra time to their shifts for socialization. This is a great opportunity for a senior to bond with their caregiver. Even if a client has a spouse who lives with and cares for them, it is beneficial to have another individual they look forward to seeing and interacting with. Plus, this allows the spouse or loved one to step away and do some things they may need to do.

“Visiting Angels caregivers can be there to help when family can't. Many people who care for an older adult still work full time, travel, or have other time consuming commitments that prevent them from being with their loved one at key times,” said Julie. “Whether you are just stopping in to see your loved one several times per week or if you live together full-time, you have a lot on your plate. Having a Visiting Angel helps caretakers equally as much as their loved one who is receiving the care. Any time we spend with a client is extra time their family gets to once again be a spouse, a daughter or son, or a friend. Some of our clients need their "Angel" to assist with a shower, meal and medication reminder to get them going for the day. Others need transportation for errands or doctor appointments. Some families have us fill in when they go out of town or on a more regular basis so they can plan their own personal errands.”

Endless Benefits

The Waterford Communities is comprised of three different senior living homes: Williamsburg Campus and College View Campus, both of which are assisted living communities, and Wilderness Hills Memory Care. Each home provides a high staff-to-resident ratio, daily homecooked meals, regular housekeeping, and security, among other features to give you peace of mind. We spoke to Dan Klein at The Waterford, who touched on a topic that nearly all of us will have to discuss at some point in our lives: Deciding the right time to consider assisted living for aging parents.

“While it’s crucial that you talk with them about assisted living, get their opinion, and try to make decisions with their wishes in mind, there may come a time when an aging parent is no longer safe living at home alone,” began Dan. “In those situations, it’s tough to make the decision to move them into a place with adequate care – especially if they’re against the idea.”

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

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

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

• Wandering or forgetting to take a medication

• Poor personal hygiene

• Cluttered or dirty living spaces

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

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

“Social connection is another benefit of assisted living communities, and they make a tremendous effort to stave off social isolation in seniors,” said Dan. “They encourage residents to socialize by providing many opportunities to take part in various group activities, such as movie nights, card and board games, book clubs, art and music groups, and crafting sessions. If your family member is feeling isolated or in need of support with everyday activities, then we hope you’ll reach out to learn more about our assisted living options. We’re certain they’ll feel right at home in one of our communities.”

a n e xciting and u nique Option

Tabitha is unique from other older adult living providers, as a resident’s stay at Tabitha is completely curated specifically to each individual’s needs. From independent or assisted living, skilled nursing, memory care, inpatient rehabilitation, and residentialstyle skilled nursing and long-term care, Tabitha’s dedicated Continuum Navigation team assists each client and their family in finding the best fit. With communities in the heart of Lincoln, south Lincoln, Crete, and now Grand Island with the newly opened Tabitha at Prairie Commons, there are many options for those seeking Tabitha’s resources.

If a permanent move to Tabitha isn’t necessary, Tabitha Home Health Care or Hospice provides care to clients in their own home or place of residence. In 2021, Tabitha established a collaboration with Immanuel to begin offering hospice services to the Omaha region as well.

S 2 age Living by Tabitha is another exciting endeavor that is currently under construction and slated to open in fall 2023. The first-of-its-kind in-the-nation intergenerational living community will soon be home for older adults and Bryan Health Science Students, located in the heart of Lincoln on Tabitha’s Main Campus.

“It can be a daunting task to understand all the options available in terms of resources for older adults,” said aubrey Paulsen , Tabitha Living Advisor Manager.

“We know everyone’s aging journey is different, and that’s why Tabitha’s committed experts are here to walk each client and their families through uncharted territory – moving into a living community, starting home health care services or whatever their unique situation requires.”

The Life Enrichment teams at Tabitha go above and beyond to keep residents engaged, energized and entertained. Recently, Tabitha in Crete residents and family members were able to attend The Christmas Story: A Musical by Beatrice Community Players all thanks to the planning of a dedicated team. Another notable event is Dream Flights, where veteran residents enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime plane ride over Lincoln skies, including over Memorial Stadium and the State Capitol. Other warmer weather activities include picnics to fishing trips to wilderness safari tours. Daily exercise activities and mentally stimulating games and challenges are offered daily to Tabitha residents.

“No one wants to be faced with the fact that they’re aging, much less that it’s time to look into more supportive living options,” Aubrey explained. “However, it is crucial to have plans, even if not fully developed, in place for the future. Do the research well

before it’s time to make a permanent move into a community; comparing everything from location, services offered and food quality to enrichment activities and living quarters can help families find the perfect fit.”

Tabitha is locally based and community centered – as it has always been since its founding in 1886. It offers the most complete continuum of care for older adults in Nebraska and is headed by experts who are fully dedicated to providing quality care to their clients. In turn, Tabitha’s continuum of care is in place to anticipate future needs and seamlessly provide care as needs evolve while ensuring older adults accomplish their lifestyle goals.

Personalized Care

Nestled in the cozy, Near South neighborhood in Lincoln, Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & rehabilitation is a skilled nursing facility that offers short-term rehabilitation, memory support, and longterm care. What sets Sumner Place apart is their culture and home-like environment. Whether it is sleeping in until 10 o’clock in the morning or going on social outings in the community to the zoo, the Sunken Gardens, or bowling, Sumner Place focuses on personalized care.

“We offer many different services to benefit our residents including our restorative program, therapy programs, full-time dietician, spiritual services, rounds by our medical director, and Dreamweavers partnership, just to name a few,” said Megan Herter , admissions and public relations coordinator. “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. Sumner Place also uses Buddies Forever, which is a comprehensive dementia program. Using techniques and skills such as getting down below eye level, using simple statements, and endorphin boosts can create a foundation for person-centered care. A program that we are also certified in is Music & Memory, which taps into the long-term memory, an area of the brain unharmed by dementia. Selecting the appropriate music for each resident triggers pleasurable emotions from their past.”

Megan shared with us a few things that can increase one’s chance to live independently and safely for as long as possible. Increased socialization, availability for healthcare, routine visits to the doctor, life enrichment programs, and/or meaningful work/ volunteering all contribute to improved quality of life. However, whenever the time comes for your loved one to move into a higher level of care, Sumner Place will be ready to take them in as their own.

“When visitors and family members walk through our doors, they always comment on how welcoming and inviting our facility feels,” shared Megan. “We hear people say, ‘It feels different.’ We feel different because we are different. People learn from interacting with us that they can trust us to be who we say we are and do what we say we’ll do.”

Going b eyond the Standard

Senior living communities aren’t one-sizefits-all, which is why Legacy retirement Communities offers four wonderful locations around Lincoln. This includes The Legacy at 56th and Pioneers; The Legacy Estates at 72nd and Van Dorn; The Legacy Terrace at 57th and Fremont; and The Legacy Arbors, also located at The Legacy Terrace campus. The Legacy

AmanaCare would like to recognize and thank their dedicated caregivers state-wide who provide support to those who need it most!

Aubrey paulsen tabitha

megan herter sumner place skilled nursing & rehabilitation

Kyle Yates Legacy retirement Communities

Arbors is a memory care community while the other three locations offer independent and assisted living options.

“Our mission at Legacy Retirement Communities is to provide an independent lifestyle that also caters to the needs we face when we age,” shared Kyle yates , senior living advisor. “Our assisted living options at each location allow us to go beyond the standard care of independent living, while still providing a comfortable living environment.”

Since the start of the pandemic, Legacy has implemented new ways to engage their residents, ensure their happiness, keep them active, and focus on their overall well-being. From building elaborate outdoor patio spaces, getting a shuffleboard table, and having Legacy’s enrichment staff engage and connect with the residents, they have opened up their routines to allow for more fun. Kyle also touched on the topic of planning for retirement living, and how you can approach something that may come off as intimidating with all of the available options and decisions that come with them.

“Gathering information about retirement living options is something that should be done a day at a time,” Kyle explained. “Trying to learn everything at once will leave most people reaching for the headache medicine. It’s important to know what you value and hope to get out of each community you visit. Knowing what’s important to you and finding something that really aligns with your core values will leave you feeling happier with your decision.

“Our goal is to help people find the right fit,” Kyle continued. “Whether they end up at one of our communities or not, we will always serve them and help point them in the right direction. All of us at Legacy hope to continue serving each person we meet with dignity, respect, compassion, and integrity.”

“Our goal is to help people find the right fit,” Kyle continued. “Whether they end up at one of our communities or not, we will always serve them and help point them in the right direction. All of us at Legacy hope to continue serving each person we meet with dignity, respect, compassion, and integrity.”

Home Care and Care Management

The caregivers at Home Care Partners dedicate their professional lives to caring for others and providing them with the greatest quality of life, wherever they call home. Home care is an option for families who are looking for support and care management in their health care continuum.

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

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

“The shared focus and oversight on health, home management, and maintenance keep everyone on the same page – without one person

Karla frese home Care partners

getting burned out,” explained Karla. “For example, when there are multiple appointments, a caregiver can transport mom or dad to an appointment for hearing, vision, foot care, hair, etc., and the daughter or son can save their day off for other important commitments.”

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

More than Housing

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

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

avoid e xtra Pain

At a rthritis relief Specialists of Lincoln , they help people suffering with osteoarthritis of the knee eliminate their knee pain without surgery. In addition, they incorporate preventative measures into their treatment approach so their patients can avoid future episodes of knee pain. Arthritis Relief Specialists provides specialized medical services exclusively for people looking for ways to quickly and easily end their chronic pain caused by osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis and the most common joint condition worldwide. In the U.S. alone, OA accounts for more than 25% of all visits to primary care providers and half of all anti-inflammatory during prescriptions. Joint replacement surgery, once considered a last resort, is expected to reach 3.4 million cases by the year 2030, an increase of 673% since 2006. Replacing your natural joint with an artificial joint can lead to complications such as blood clots, infection, pain in other joints, and long recovery times due to limited range of motion.

In light of these complications, there is some good news. Relief from your knee pain and lost function can be achieved using a promising nonsurgical technique. The Advanced Arthritis Relief Protocol is an FDA approved medical breakthrough for pain associated with osteoarthritis. The procedure actually prevents cartilage breakdown, promotes tissue growth, and restores function to the affected joint. Studies published in several prestigious medical journals cite decreases in joint pain, cartilage destruction, and bone damage along with improvements in function.

If you’ve tried everything to get rid of your knee pain and have been told your only other option is joint replacement surgery, here’s news: Arthritis Relief Specialists of Lincoln has developed a knee arthritis treatment program specifically designed for people looking for a way to stay active, eliminate their pain and stiffness, and avoid joint replacement surgery.

To help you get a clear picture of what your life could be without chronic and severe arthritis pain, they invite you to schedule a FREE consultation. In less than an hour, you’ll receive an assessment of your problem and provided with the best recommendations you’ll need to recover quickly and begin enjoying the life you know you deserve.

a Community for you

Family-owned, faith-based company a manaCare has a mission to serve seniors and disabled adults all throughout Nebraska. On the surface, they provide non-medical assistance in the comfort of their clients’ homes, but their services go beyond just that of ordinary caregiving. AmanaCare focuses on fostering the relationship between their clients and their caregivers.

“We believe family/community engagement is crucial for maintaining a happy life at home!” said Sara Jeffery , retention specialist. “Our team is dedicated to keeping our clients active in the things that bring them joy, whether it’s a walk around the neighborhood enjoying the sights and sounds of nature, or a trip to a local museum or market. Our clients make appearances at staff birthday parties and team events and if they can’t come to us, our owners may just stop by with lunch and a friendly hello!”

AmanaCare is expanding quickly, but at their core, they’re still a family-owned company. They deliver professional services with a personal touch and strive to make their clients feel like part of their family. They believe their employees are their greatest assets, and organization-wide focuses include training and on-the-job mentorship to help their employees grow both personally and professionally. In addition, AmanaCare regularly shows their appreciation for their employees through retirement parties, birthday celebrations, and other staff outings. Sara says that happy staff members lead to happier clients!

“Home care is about more than just housekeeping,” Sara concluded. “At AmanaCare, we realize that there’s a difference between staying home and thriving at home! We focus on all areas of care to ensure our clients remain happy and safe and exactly where they want to be.”

a Soft Place to Land

Imagine coming home to a warm, friendly community that’s luxurious, safe, and comfortable, in a great location for fun local outings. Maintenance and housekeeping is included, and every meal is made fresh by the culinary team. With all the work done, you have time for family, friends, and the important things in life.

That can be your life at Savannah Pines retirement

• No buy-in/month-to-month rent

• Weekly housekeeping

• Freedom Dining program

• Concierge services

• Studios, 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms

• Full designer apartment kitchens

• 150-seat theater

• Pets warmly welcomed

• 24/7 alert system

Residents can relax at the movies or live entertainment in the theater. At Savannah Pines Retirement Resort, the lifestyle director schedules activities designed to meet resident’s requests. Ultimately, companionship with others is a powerful tool to help the residents at Savannah Pines appreciate retirement.

a ffordable Home Care

At Caring Friends In Home Care , they are committed to providing exceptional trusted care at home, and always going above and beyond. They passionately want the best for their clients, and always deliver care in familiar surroundings. Their team has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare field. Your care will be directed by you and your own individualized choices. Many of their seniors are striving to stay engaged, happy, and active in their community.

Caring Friends can help with these goals by taking walks together on a visit, attending an exercise program at a local senior center, assisting with preparing healthy meals, and giving reminders to stay hydrated. They strive to meet all your loved ones’ needs. Caring Friends can give medication reminders, assist to cook meals, manage doctor’s appointments, and help keep schedules. Some ways to keep their seniors active and engaged include staying busy with games and puzzles. Engaging and stimulating indoor games and puzzles can help seniors stay active and

resort !

Designed for comfort, apartments come in a variety of floor plans. Each apartment features window coverings, climate-controlled thermostat, and ample closet space. Apartment kitchens are equipped with full-sized appliances.

The best feature is the live-in community manager team. They live on site to help take care of everything so residents and families can enjoy their best life.

Savannah Pines Retirement Resort is full of amenities, allowing residents to delight in the conveniences without the hassle of upkeep. All utilities and the following are included:

sara Jeffery AmanaCare

motivated. Board games or puzzles require handling pieces and are wonderful opportunities for seniors to stimulate their minds, while keeping their hands nimble. Caring Friends can help with taking on an appropriate exercise program tailored to meet your physical abilities. Staying active through movement improves emotional well-being and promotes good health. There are many options for low-impact exercises that are free of charge and possible to do at home. Incorporating exercise into the daily routine will help seniors experience increased energy levels and maintain their health.

“Caring Friends can assist in designing individualized plans of care and services that meet the individual’s needs,” shared Virginia Cole , COO. “If those needs change and require medical services or services beyond our scope, we have community organizations that we can partner with to ensure a continuum of care. If the individual or their family makes the decision that it is time to relocate to a different setting for care, Caring Friends will follow the individual in their new setting to assist in making the transition more comfortable.”

The saying “The early bird gets the worm” has been around for years, but even today that saying rings true when deciding the right timing of bringing in some in-home care for your loved ones. Begin thinking about home care before your loved one needs it. You don’t want to be put in a position where you’re reacting to sudden problems. The talk is hard enough as it is sometimes, so the more priming you can do before home care is needed, the less resistant your loved one will be when the time comes. Consider your loved one’s specific needs.

While priming your loved one for the idea of home care, you should do everything you can to ascertain what your loved one needs. Talk to friends and family. Word-of-mouth and personal experience are valuable. Selecting an agency for home care services must be an informed decision. Contact local agencies and conduct interviews to learn more about each agency and how they compare.

At Caring Friends In Home Care, they are there to help assist with daily needs. Their caregivers encourage participation and engagement as much as possible. This is what they call collaborative caregiving. Caring Friends’ goal is to develop a relationship with their clients and help keep them physically and mentally active. They believe in-home care is more than just completing tasks on a list. They offer personalized care that helps clients enjoy their time and improve their quality of life. By focusing on collaborative caregiving, they can elevate the quality of clients and their families’ lives.

“The leadership of Caring Friends has over 100 years of combined senior care experience,” said Virginia. “At the end of the day, our goal is to help individuals keep their independence – sometimes; all you need is a little assistance from a friend with the value of excellence at home!”

e veryone 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

adults

Virginia Cole

Caring friends in home Care

SKIN EXPERTS – Starting a Skincare Revolution

Skin Experts is adding a modern touch to the skincare and facial treatment industry that go beyond the surface level. They brought their skincare revolution to Lincoln on Tuesday, November 15 with the grand opening of their new location at 4400 Lucile Dr., STE 101. By combining the most advanced technologies with revolutionary skincare using ingredients for proven results, their experts are here to create long-term change you can really see. You will be able to customize your facial for your skin and add any booster at no additional cost for any skin type. From sensitive to combination skin, Skin Experts offers a transformation worth sharing.

Integrating Science

Skin Experts combine technology from Europe and Asia with carefully curated ingredients that work synergistically to help skin look fuller, fresher, and younger. The skin care includes natural ingredients such as rose extract, hyaluronic acid, probiotics, micro-algae, bakuchiol, and hemp seed oil. These may seem complicated but their lasting effects are quite simple. The ingredients create an uplifting natural aroma full of antioxidants and skin-refreshing properties, draws and maintain moisture from the environment directly to the skin, creates conditions for the skin to look younger, healthier, and more even. They also combat the effects of the environment and digital devices to reduce signs of aging. They are filled with a gentle retinol alternative that gives antioxidant protection for a healthy glow, safe for sensitive skin, and are rich in antioxidants and fatty acids which may help protect the surface of the skin to hydrate and soothe skin. The products are always free of harmful sulfates, phthalates, toxins, artificial colors, GMOS, and artificial fragrance.

Aff ordable Luxury for all

To celebrate their recent opening, Skin Ex perts is offering a series of specia l deals for their new clients. All first-time customers will be able to receive a free 25-minute Glow on Express Facial with advanced booking. New clients will also be able to receive th ei r first 55-minute Signature Facial for $50, they are usually $109. Advanced booking is also required.

Skin Experts uses a comprehensive skincare system that includes six simple steps; cleanse, sup er hydrate, seal and protect, firm, moisturize, repair, and glow. You will be able t o c hoose a fa c i a l t h at focuses on a certain areas of skincare designed and recommended just for you.

A customer, Krisna was very happy with her first facial at Skin Experts as she shared her experience, “this was my first facial ever and Veronica definitely made it special and did an amazing job! She made sure I was comfortable and was attentive to my needs. Veronica knows her stuff! She was really educated on my skin type and told me things about my skin I had no idea about. Overall, my facial was relaxing and I felt so refreshed after. I will be returning.”

A Glow that Never Stops

See your skin transform with monthly facials and professional guidance from the skin experts. Their membership includes one Signature Facial and 10% off all products to maintain the glow at home. Other membership benefits include 15% off products when you purchase four or more, and if you can’t make your appointment, they accumulate month over month so you never miss out!

Employing lincoln

Every month, Strictly Business celebrates the accomplishments of local businesses and highlights the excellent products and services they provide in their fields. Our quarterly Employing Lincoln feature is an opportunity for these businesses and organizations to also promote themselves as a great place to work and share with our readers what positions they are hiring for.

At Strictly Business , we truly believe that Lincoln is a wonderful place to live, WORK, and play. We are honored to partner with so many amazing employers, and we are proud to tell you a little bit about a few of them in this feature. Whether you have recently found yourself “between jobs” or you’re curious about pursuing a new passion, we encourage you to read through the following write-ups to learn about employment opportunities at some amazing local companies. In addition, if you are currently with a company that is looking to add people to your team, please reach out to Strictly Business about participating in our next employment feature!

Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest was voted one of Lincoln’s Best Places to Work in 2022! As a leading electrical and low voltage contractor in the Midwest and Southwest, we are constantly striving to exceed the needs and expectations of our customers. We complete some of the largest and most complex projects in the industry, all while fostering a fun work environment where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and advance their careers. From field technicians to administrative staff, our people are our greatest asset here at Commonwealth Electric. Since the company’s inception in 1987, we have grown to employ over 1,000 individuals across our nine branch locations and are continuing to grow! Commonwealth Electric is always looking for individuals to join our team who are empowered, customer-focused, have strong character, and practice masterful work in their field. To see our open positions, please visit commonwealthelectric.com/careers.

We are proud to be 100% employee-owned company through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan. This plan has translated into higher levels of productivity, marketplace success, employee retention, and at its core, pride in being an owner.

As the state’s quality awardwinning senior care expert, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Supporting Nebraskans since 1886, Tabitha employs nearly 1,000 team members, offering results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home home health care, innovative living communities, resourceful serious illness support and compassionate hospice services.

Tabitha’s newest senior living community, Tabitha at Prairie Commons in Grand Island, opened to its first residents in December 2022 and is seeking a dedicated team to exhibit Tabitha’s Core Values of Care, Connection and Collaboration. Additionally, Tabitha Home Health Care is seeking LPNs and RNs to help support growing needs throughout Nebraska, with offers of sign-on bonuses of up to $15,000 for eligible positions.

A top finalist in the 2022 Lincoln’s Choice Awards for “Best Work Environment,” Tabitha offers a wide range of rewarding careers in compassion and opportunities for advancement and growth. A career at Tabitha includes variety, flexibility, competitive benefits, and—most importantly—work with a purpose. Learn more and view current job listings at tabitha.org/careers.

You know that feeling you get when something just suits you to a T? Union Bank & Trust (UBT) has opportunities ranging from banking and lending to IT, from wealth management to mortgage loans. With a family-first culture, community focus, and genuine interest in the well-being of its employees, UBT is comprised of authentic, talented people who really care. From salaries and benefits to time off and wellness initiatives, our work environment keeps our employees engaged, challenged, and rewarded. Are you ready to join the UBT family and see for yourself that you belong here? Visit the Careers page at www.ubt.com/careers or email careers@ubt. com. Equal Opportunity Employer. Member FDIC.

As the Lincoln Choice Awards 2022 winner for the Best Automotive repair facility in Lincoln, A1 Automotive is here for all of your automotive repair needs. We service all makes and models and have focused extensive training on BMWs, Audis and Porsches in the last year. A1 Automotive offers customer service that is exceptional as well as loaner vehicles while we have your vehicle in for repair. Our list of loaner vehicles includes a Tesla 70D, Mercedes C300, and a BMX X1. We offer an industry leading 55k mile warranty on all repairs a tribute to Thurston County in Northeast, Nebraska.

A1 Automotive offers health, dental, vision insurance as well as 401k, also including short- and long-term disability coverage as well. Along with culture that is outstanding and a team environment that focuses on supporting each other both in the shop and just as importantly outside and in our personal lives.

We care about people and their vehicles here at A1 Automotive, our core values stress the importance of integrity, giving back and being honest. A1 Automotive is always looking for technicians, service writers and general service technicians as well as our team and company continue to grow. Please reach out to service@a1autolincoln.com if you are looking to join a great team!

LI-COR Biosciences is a leading innovator in systems for plant research, gas analysis, drug discovery, protein research, and small animal imaging. From the first low-cost light sensor for the waveband absorbed by plants, to the development of near-infrared fluorescence detection systems for DNA sequencing, LI-COR provides innovative solutions for researchers.

Scientists around the world use LI-COR technology to advance discovery and improve lives in areas ranging from global climate change to cancer research. Researchers rely on our products and services to help answer important environmental and biological questions.

Our mission is “Impacting Lives Through Science.” We are driven to improve the human condition through innovative research tools that help scientists respond to the challenges that face humanity.

We’ve been impacting lives for more than 50 years. Our stability comes from our values and strengths-based strategy. We’re careful about selecting the very best, and once you’re on board, you’re an important part of the team.

We offer core benefits, including medical, dental, vision, 401k, 10 paid holidays, and paid leave, plus a wellness program, company-wide events, and opportunities for community engagement. We celebrate milestones, and reward hard work and accomplishments. For more information and to view career opportunities, go to licor.com/careers.

Build a rewarding career with Community Action! Every day, dedicated and passionate Community Action staff work alongside their community members to make a positive difference where they live and work. Community Action’s mission is to empower people living in poverty to reach economic stability. Achievement of this mission begins with having a dedicated team. The agency offers a number of great benefits including medical, dental, and vision; 401K retirement plan; flexible work schedules; PTO; and paid professional development. Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties, operating in Lincoln since 1965, offers 17 poverty-fighting programs in four impact areas: Early Childhood Education, Homelessness Prevention, Financial and Family Well-Being, and Hunger Relief and Healthy Food Access.

Currently, Community Action has a number of open positions within Early Childhood Education, Human Services, and more. A couple of our specific openings include:

• Development Coordinator – This role supports our fund development strategy through grant writing, communications drafting, and gift processing. We are looking for someone with strong communication skills and experience with grant writing.

• Senior Accounting Coordinator – Grants and Contracts – This role collaborates on administration and accounting of grant funded activities and contracts for the agency. The ideal candidate will have formal accounting education and experience with nonprofit grants and accounting.

Individuals can apply for these and other roles at www. communityactionatwork.org or inquire by calling (402) 875-9315

ServiceMaster Professional Building Maintenance employs professional cleaners and floor technicians within the Lincoln area who are trained and certified to ensure top-quality service for our customers.

ServiceMaster PBM is looking to add to our Management and Leadership teams! We have full-time evening/night Management, Supervisory, and Production Assistant positions available!

ServiceMaster PBM is a locally-owned and operated company that offers excellent benefits. These include benefits such as 401K+Company matching, health, vision, and dental insurance for full-time employees. We offer onsite training, employee and hiring bonuses*, employee recognition, and referral programs. There are no limits to opportunities for personal, professional, developmental growth within the company! *Bonuses and Incentives will vary based on position.

ALL ServiceMaster employees are eligible for PTO and paid holidays after 6 months of employment. Please call (402) 476-2194 or visit www.smpbm.com for more information on employment opportunities.

“Good leadership requires you to surround yourself with people of diverse perspectives who can disagree with you without fear of retaliation.”

~ Doris Kearns Goodwin