Strictly Business Lincoln - June 2023

my two Cents on Customer service

Getting personal isn’t the easiest thing to do, especially in business. Everyone has opinions about what needs to happen and how both employers and employees should go about it. My passion for helping local business grow is no secret, and over the course of the next few months I have every intention of keying you in on a few of the aspects of business that I find most important.

First and foremost, a successful business depends on support. I’m not the first, nor the last, person to say that remaining positive can be a struggle when having a bad day. Maintaining energy and positivity is challenging. However, it is extremely important to stay motivated and positive when entering the office and working with other people. I have been blessed with strong faith, great family and friends and an amazing staff that help me every step of the way. I might be the president, but my success stems from those around me just as much as it does from my hard work.

As we all know, customer service is key. But, it is also something that is sometimes not taught or emphasized enough. I recently saw a post from a client that talked about bad customer service he received at a fast food restaurant where someone commented that you can’t expect good customer service when they aren’t even making a living wage. That comment really struck a chord.

Good customer service should be innate as well as taught and constantly improved upon. Neither customer service nor doing a good job is dictated by the amount of money you make. You should take pride in your work no matter what you’re doing. Regardless of if you’re the owner of a business, working for minimum wage or doing volunteer work, good customer service should be a priority.

It is as simple as a friendly greeting or a smile.

We should strive to always treat others with kindness, respect and a positive demeanor. Whether it’s your coworker, a regular customer or someone you’ve never met before, you should try to give the best customer service you can. Nobody wants to have an experience where people aren’t friendly or nice. To me, it is very important to go the extra mile and give more than what is expected. Being kind and helpful should be innate components of customer service that we do.

Another core value in my life is patriotism. I have a strong love for our country and a special place in my heart for those involved with the military. As such, we’re introducing a new feature on Veteranowned businesses this month. We hope to generate community support and recognition as we publish more down the line.

Currently the Veterans in our community are in crisis. Struggling with posttraumatic stress disorder, mental health and high suicide rates, our Veterans are in need of our support. We here at Strictly Business we are honored to highlight Veteran-owned businesses in the community and hope that you will also honor them by recognizing their service for this country.

Getting personal about topics that aren’t talked about as much as they should be is a daunting task, but this is my attempt at letting you in on my two cents about my values in the business world. I encourage you to reflect on your own values and how they fit into your daily interactions so that we can work towards positive relationships in our community.

Whether it’s your coworker, a regular customer or someone you’ve never met before, you should try to give the best customer service you can.

Next month marks 30 years for Strictly Business! We are excited to celebrate 30 years of successful business in Lincoln and have had fun reflecting on the impact we’ve had on the community. While not much has stayed the same over the years, we have embraced the positive changes that have come with time.

I have been blessed to consistently have a great team of amazing employees. Of all the things that could have stayed the same, I’m most pleased with having a team that is just as good now as when Strictly Business first started. Without them, the last 30 years wouldn’t have been possible.

As the team here at Strictly Business has changed over the years, it has been fun to welcome new employees and wish old ones the best as they step into a new stage of their life. We couldn’t be more proud of past employees who left to start their own businesses, accounting for close to 10 new successful businesses! We are always trying to instill entrepreneurship into the community and are proud to help promote those who start local businesses.

We take great pride in promoting Lincoln and are happy to be a source of information for the community. Not only do we get to show our support for our amazing community, but make community members aware of the latest Lincoln news so that they can show their support as well. One great thing about Lincoln is that people are always consciously trying to support local businesses, something that hasn’t changed in our 30 years of businesses.

Starting out as a black and white news print, Strictly Business has definitely come a long way. Not only has our magazine grown in length, now accommodating approximately three times the number of local businesses, but morphed into something truly amazing with additions of color print and a website with online versions of our print editions. We are able to reach more people than ever before with our

eye-catching covers and internet presence. If there is anything that we’ve learned over the years, it’s how to positively represent Lincoln. Bittersweet has been the ever-changing stream of clients. We always welcome new clients, as our top priority is supporting both new and old local businesses. As such, it is always hard to see old clients move on from us, but we wish them the best in their business endeavors. We are most proud of our recurring clients, many of which have been with us for the past 10, and some even 20, years. Believe it or not, we even have one client, Krueger Development, who has been with us from the start!

It has been a pleasure to work with local businesses for the last 30 years. Getting to watch small businesses grow and develop with success is one of the best parts of working with the community. Since the start of advertising with us, we have witnessed several businesses go from a small start-up to a larger entity with an enormous staff. Looking back at the past 30 years, it isn’t hard to see how much the magazine has changed and adapted, and to wonder where Strictly Businesses will go next. We want to give a big “THANK YOU” to every local business that trusts us with their press and advertising, and also want to give special thanks to our readers for supporting the Lincoln community. We hope that as you continue to support local businesses you share with them that you saw you their business right here at Strictly Business. It’s our pleasure to support the community of Lincoln.

– Paige Zutavern

PRODUCTION TEAM:

Director of Operations Cemre Lively – Cemre@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Art Director Derek Nosbisch – Derek@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

editor Tessa Yeo – Tessa@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Writer Shae Withington – Shae@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

SALES TEAM:

president/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

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

Tessa Shae

Altitude motion media Announces new Video production service package

Altitude Motion Media (AMM) makes it easy for you and your business to get high-quality video for any project, ad and social media campaign. AMM is now offering a $1,000 package for their video production services. This package includes two hours on-site, plus editing. In today’s digital age, video has become an essential tool for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re looking to increase brand awareness, engage with your audience or drive sales, video can help you achieve your goals.

It is amazing what AMM can get done in two hours to create some awesome content for you. This could be used for general business promos, client testimonials, product launches, event promos, holiday specials and more. These videos are great for social media, email blasts, websites, recruiting or anything you’d like. This is a great value for the amount of video you can get done. This could even be a good time to have all of your employees come together to be “actors” in a commercial or a social media video! Altitude Motion Media consistently provides the highest quality video production, podcasts, photography and drone services. Their services increase your potential to succeed by producing content that stands out while building your brand and reputation. For more information, go to www.altitudemotion.com or get in contact with Altitude Motion Media at (402) 417-0678 or team@altitudemotion.com.

farris engineering expands With a new office in Council Bluffs

Farris Engineering, an industry leader in mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering, announced the grand opening of a new office in Council Bluffs. This new office expansion enables Farris Engineering to have a physical presence back in Iowa.

For close to 25 years, Farris Engineering had an office in Des Moines. In 2017, that office closed with some employees transitioning to the Omaha office.

“Iowa is the natural choice for Farris Engineering’s expansion,” said Business Development Executive Darin Cielocha. “We continue to work on projects in Iowa and have established partnerships with several Architects as well. A local presence gives us the right edge to really assert ourselves as industry experts in Iowa.”

To support its growth, two employees from the Omaha office will occupy the space.

“While our main goal is to ensure that our existing clients get the support they need, we have significant capacity to support new clients in what continues to be a very high demand and competitive labor market,” said Cielocha.

With LEED AP+ staff, fire protection engineers, certified geothermal designers, lighting designers and commissioning agents on staff, Farris Engineering is comfortable with the complicated and brings 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.' To learn more, visit farris-usa.com.

Concrete Craft and Greystone flatwork Announce partnership

Concrete Craft of Lincoln and Greystone Flatwork are proud to announce a strategic partnership that expands the capabilities of both teams while providing customers with an exceptional experience when seeking concrete solutions. With this partnership, both teams can facilitate larger commercial and residential projects. From pouring driveways, patios and parking lots to decorative finishes with staining, stamping and polishing concrete from interior to exterior, the teams will work with you to develop solutions regardless of size and complexity. Their comprehensive line of repair and restoration options ensures that we can offer the right solution for your needs, be it more concrete, new concrete or making existing concrete look better, all within your budget.

At Concrete Craft of Lincoln and Greystone Flatwork, they provide quality products and services that exceed expectations. With years of experience and expertise, customer satisfaction is their top priority as they strive to create solutions to meet all of your concrete needs.

Concrete Craft of Lincoln is committed to turning ordinary concrete into extraordinary beauty! Visit concretecraft.com to learn more about their services, or contact them at (866) 590-6547.

hBAL presents second Annual Cruisin’ for the trades Car show

The Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) held its 2nd Annual Cruisin’ for the Trades Car Show on Saturday, May 6. In addition to the 110 cars entered in the contest, the event included large machinery, food trucks and music. First and second place winners received trophies in each of the 19 classes. The event raised almost $9,000 for the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation which will be used to provide financial support to local high school industrial technology programs and scholarships to those furthering their education in construction-related fields.

The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation was established in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit organization dedicated to the future of the home building industry in Lancaster County. The Foundation’s mission is to support the educational and charitable activities of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln. They support the community by contributing to community service projects focused on housing, providing scholarships for students pursuing a career related to the building industry and providing funding for other industry related educational programs. The Foundation has given over $300,000 to various community service projects since 2010.

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.

eschliman Commercial real estate Announces Grand opening of most Wanted mmA studio

Ted and Robin Eschliman of Eschliman Commercial Real Estate (ECR) are proud to announce the opening of Most Wanted MMA, a Mixed Martial Arts and personal training studio at 4220 S 33rd in South Lincoln. Owners McKenna and Jesse Lee offer individual and small group training in their new space. The Eschliman’s represented the tenants of their new convenient location near 33rd and Pioneers.

Most Wanted instructor Jesse James is a native born Lincoln resident. He is an undefeated professional MMA fighter and prides himself at being completely undefeated at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Jesse trains under Duane Ludwig out of Bang Muay Thai in Westminster, CO. Outside of fighting, working and training, you will find Jesse spending time with his family. He has a three-year-old son and one-year-old daughter. A lot of his motivation and discipline stemmed from his son having open heart surgery at one week old. For more information, follow their Facebook and Instagram @MostWantedMMA or email mostwantedlincoln@gmail.com.

Eschliman Commercial Real Estate has been serving Lincoln since the 1990s, with husband and wife team Ted and Robin Eschliman providing 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 human resource management Association Becomes Lincolnhr

Lincoln Human Resource Management Association (LHRMA) is pleased to announce that they have officially become LincolnHR as of May 9. For several years, the LHRMA board has been working to refresh the brand and continue to innovate as they serve the Lincoln community.

For over 70 years, the Lincoln Human Resource Management Association (LHRMA) has been in existence. Their mission has been to be the resource on people management by:

1. Connecting professionals to solve everyday problems

2. Providing quality education

3. Collaborate with community leaders

4. Foster diversity and inclusion efforts

5. Lead change in the industry

LHRMA’s vision has been to be the go-to resource on people management for the community in which we live. LHRMA has been a valuable resource for many in the human resource profession and will continue to do so for many years to come. The change to LincolnHR helps the organization become easily identifiable and furthers their goals to serve and support the human resources profession.

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

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Local entrepreneurs to open first midwest region Body fit training studio in nebraska

Body Fit Training (BFT), a global boutique fitness brand offering strength and conditioning classes in an inclusive, coachled group environment, opened its first Midwestern studio. Located at 1701 Pine Lake Rd., STE 3, BFT fills a gap in the fitness industry, offering science-based group strength programming built for all fitness levels. Having gained popularity in Australia, BFT is expanding to the US, with the Lincoln studio being its fifth location in the states. To give the community an opportunity to become familiar with the BFT experience, the new studio will celebrate its opening with several weeks of discounted founding memberships and a free first class. Body Fit Training is owned by local personal trainer and strength coach Mike Hahn. With a passion for fitness and a background in corporate wellness, Hahn is thrilled to bring functional strength training and oneon-one personal training in a group fitness setting to his community. The new group strength training studio opening in Lincoln combines elements of personal training with group exercise instruction, so members receive the best of both worlds--personalized attention and elevated results within the context of a fun and energetic community environment.

BFT Lincoln is open Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., as well as Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The studio can be reached at www.bodyfitraining.com/location/lincoln or lincoln@bodyfitraining. com / (402) 817-4286. Stay connected by following @bft_lincoln on Instagram and Body Fit Training on Facebook.

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Concorde management & development, LLC Announces new Business park

Concorde Management & Development, LLC is proud to announce a new business park to be conveniently developed in North Lincoln by HWY77 and I-80. The new Salt Bank Business Park has 11 total lots for sale that are available for purchase now. Zoned H4, it is a great opportunity for retail, industrial and office spaces. Blue Rock Construction can accommodate and develop your build-to-suit needs. Established in 1985, Concorde Management & Development, LLC provides a complete spectrum of services to investors and property owners as well as their tenants. By adhering to the ethical and technical standards of property management while also providing a full suite of services, Concorde Management & Development, LLC offers well-crafted solutions to meet the complex needs of clients including tenant services and the sale or purchase of real estate. The mission of Concorde Management & Development, LLC is to deliver unparalleled real estate services to clients though commitment to integrity, competence, professionalism and teamwork. For more information, visit concordemgmt.com or call (402) 476-0086. You can also contact Matt Lehnert at (402) 450-8050 or Carie Leyden at (402) 817-8722 with sales and leasing questions

tfLC supports LGBtQ+ Community in Quitting tobacco during pride month

Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) is highlighting their support for the LGBTQ+ Community during pride month.Tobacco use is an addiction that impacts people of all backgrounds and orientations. However, studies have shown that members of the LGBTQ+ community are more likely to use tobacco products than non-LGBTQ+ peers. There are several reasons for this, including the unique stressors LGBTQ+ individuals face, such as social isolation and discrimination.

As a result of increased use and exposure, tobacco-related health issues disproportionately affect the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ individuals are at a higher risk of developing smoking-related illnesses like lung disease, heart disease and cancer.

Research has also shown that quitting tobacco can significantly improve overall health and well-being. It can have a positive impact on physical and mental health as well as quality of life. It’s important to remember that quitting tobacco is a process that may take several tries, but support is available.

We provide professional and affordable office space near downtown that fits your budget & schedule; giving you the leverage you need to pursue new opportunities without committing to a long term lease.

402.434.3300

Resources such as the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669) provide trained, non-judgmental and supportive quit coaches to help create an individualized quit plan free of charge. If you’re an LGBTQ+ individual wanting to quit tobacco, please don’t hesitate to ask for help.

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

For more information about Tobacco Free Lancaster County, go to tobaccofreelancastercounty.com

furniture, equipment, & utilities included plus free parking!

sCore Lincoln to present “What’s involved in starting a small Business” Workshop June 10

SCORE Lincoln will be hosting the “What’s Involved in Starting a Small Business” workshop on Saturday, June 10 from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The workshop will help start-ups and small business owners gain answers to essential questions needed when starting or running a business. Topics include: Financing Your Business, Practical Accounting / Sales & Use Tax for Small Business, Insurance Needs, “Traditional” Marketing, Online Marketing, What Legal Structures May be Best for Your Business and What is Needed for a Business Plan.

The workshop will be located at Turbine Flats at 2124 Y St. Attendees will learn from experts in the related field and can ask questions specific to their business interests. The full day includes lunch and costs $49 which is refundable. Register at www.Lincoln. score.org. Attendees may also sign up with SCORE for free oneon-one mentoring.

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. Services offered by SCORE include mentoring, webinars/courses on demand, a library of online resources and various local events. For more information about SCORE, or upcoming workshops and events, visit www.lincoln. score.org or call (402) 437-2409.

Lutz Launches new Website

Lutz, a Nebraska-based business solutions firm, is excited to unveil its new website, www. lutz.us, designed to deliver a contemporary, streamlined, user-friendly experience across all devices.

“Our goal was to offer a more straightforward means for people to engage with our company and team that aligns with our brand identity,” said Director of Marketing Merrick Aurora.

Lutz Managing Shareholder Mark Duren, commented, “The updated site supports the firm’s vision for growth and our commitment to client service.”

Highlights Include:

• A reorganized navigation menu allowing users to browse Lutz’s extensive selection of business offerings effortlessly.

• Easy access to resources such as client portals, educational content, business insights and eBooks.

• Improved candidate experience for those applying to jobs within the Firm or externally at open client positions through the Lutz Talent division.

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

Greenleaf Commercial real estate highlights Current inventory

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is excited to highlight their current inventory which can be viewed via the QR code.

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate has helped local business owners purchase, lease and manage commercial properties since 1973. For almost 50 years they have worked with businesses in government, food and beverage, fitness, retail, laboratories, hospitals, manufacturing industries and more. Their focus on relationship building and understand each client’s unique circumstances and objectives allow them to tailor a strategy specifically designed to accomplish their client’s goals.

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.

title sponsor husker rehab Celebrates successful st. Jude radiothon

In southeast Nebraska and northeast Kansas, listeners of NCN Radio Station Ol’ Red 99.5 are stepping up in a big way for St. Jude. Husker Rehab and their owner Ryan Wade is proud to be the title sponsor for the last eight years. This year’s radiothon was the most successful for the organization to date. The owners and staff of Husker Rehab feel passionate about St. Jude’s mission and are honored to be the title sponsor to join in the fight to end childhood cancer.

“Honestly I’m blown away,” Ol’ Red 99.5 Operations Manager Trevor Steinmeyer said. “The highest we’ve done up to this point was $77,000 and our total this year was $95,494 — so close to $96,000 — I’m fully confident next year we’ll make it to six digits and be over $100,000.”

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital prides itself on relying solely on donations and not charging its patients for any of the care they provide.

The owners and employees of Husker Rehab are devoted to supporting the communities that they serve in Lincoln, Beatrice, Fairbury and Nebraska City.

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.

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A1 Automotive to host LnK outdoor movie series June 23

A1 Automotive is excited to announce that they have partnered with the Lincoln Airport to sponsor their outdoor movie this summer on Friday, June 23 at 6 p.m. It will be held at 3801 N W 34th St. in Lincoln. While these outdoor events are always super cool and fun for the entire family, A1 Automotive is especially excited for this year’s movie, Cars!

At the event, they will be raising support for The Lincoln Community Center Food Pantry. Because they do anything they can to positively support the Lincoln community, they live in the pace of helping others, sponsoring events and supporting kids sports teams.

Built on small town values, A1 Automotive was started in 2008 in Lincoln with the sole purpose to help people with their vehicle repair needs. Family owned and operated, A1 strives to provide the highest quality automotive repair to all makes and models. Their motto is “Always Honest Answers” and they live by that every day with their customers.

At A1 Automotive, they believe in always providing every customer with honest answers. They offer nothing less than honest, quality and reliable repairs and services for all customers. A1 Automotive is a full-service auto repair shop that specializes in all makes and models, even diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles. For more information, go to a1autolincoln.com.

Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates featured on 2023 nebraska passport

Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates is excited to announce that they will be featured on the 2023 Nebraska Passport that’s been curated by the team at the Nebraska Tourism Commission.

The purpose of the Nebraska Passport is to help travelers discover Nebraska’s hidden gems. The Nebraska Passport is special because it offers a wide variety of travel adventures, including museums, parks, restaurants, wineries, retail stores and more. The 2023 Nebraska Passport program will run from May 1 through September 30.

“If the state capitol is on your summer travel list,” shares Gaylene Steinbach, owner and chocolatier of Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates, “stop and say hi and secure a ‘Hey, Sugar!’ stamp in your passport.”

Inside this woman-owned business in South Lincoln, you’ll find small-batch gourmet truffles and bonbons, caramels and toffee that make ideal gifts and treats to nibble on as you go on your next adventure!

“We’re thrilled to be part of this year’s Nebraska Passport Program,” Steinbach continues, “and cannot wait to meet you and your family!”

Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates is open Monday–Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, reach out to the Lulubee team at hello@lulubeechocolates.com or (402) 413-2081, or go online to lulubeechocolates.com.

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d.e. Guns to host two Upcoming events with rob pincus

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

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

Rob will also be teaching Fundamentals of Intuitive Defensive Shooting at D.E. Guns on July 1. The Fundamentals of IDS is a one day course that will expose the student to all the core principles and fundamentals of the Intuitive Defense Shooting Program. This course is open to the general public, law enforcement, military and private security. Registration is $280 per student and is available at deguns.net/classes.

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

sponsors needed for BBB torch Awards for ethics Luncheon september 19

Mark your calendar for the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) signature event of the year, the 2023 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics luncheon! Join BBB on September 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at A View West Shores for an unforgettable celebration that includes the winners of the 2023 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics and BBB Spark Awards, and the recipients of the 2023 BBB Students of Integrity scholarships.

Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum President and CEO Clayton Anderson will serve as the event’s keynote speaker. Anderson, who successfully executed six spacewalks and is considered “Nebraska’s Astronaut,” will deliver a sure-to-remember story of big dreams and perseverance.

The event is open to the public. Tickets are $85. Sponsorships are available in multiple tiers. Your contribution as a sponsor supports BBB’s Education Foundation programs that serve the community and elevates community awareness of businesses, charities and students that aspire to the highest level of ethics. Both tickets and sponsorships can be secured at www.bbb.org/omahatorch.

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 is a nonprofit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. BBB services to consumers are free. Visit BBB.org for more information.

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John stevens Berry, sr. of Berry Law firm Launches new prose Book, foot soldier

John Stevens Berry, Sr.'s latest release, Foot Soldier , is a free verse memoir that tells his story of past experiences and present emotions. The beginning of the journey starts with self-reflection, a hard recognition of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that leads to acceptance of the pain that was endured in the days fallen behind.

Berry Sr. spent three total tours serving in Vietnam, both in the Army and as Chief Defense Counsel for the largest General Court Martial jurisdiction in Vietnam with over 80 thousand soldiers under his care. The experiences were ever-changing, whether it was using his Judo skills he had acquired to save his life (as told in the poem, There Will Be Cookies), or being the leading lawyer in foreign claims.

This collection is close to who Berry Sr. is, not just as a Veteran, a lawyer or a writer, but as a human that has seen things that change you to your core. The book is to be read in order like a roadmap, taking you down the lane of highs and lows and how that settles in civilian life. "This book shows why it was important for me to serve as a defense counsel/foreign claims officer in Vietnam. I had already completed my military obligation before I volunteered for Vietnam. I did it because it was the right thing to do," says Berry. Writing for Berry Sr. was meant to be a way to deal with PTSD, but instead became the outlet to face the disorder head on and share with others what it looks like to do so.

Foot Soldier , by John Stevens Berry, Sr., is available on amazon. com and in bookstores. He will be doing several readings, including some coming up in the Fall at the 38th annual Nebraska Vietnam Veteran's Reunion in Omaha . For more information on Berry, Sr., visit jsberrylaw.com/attorneys/john-stevens-berry-sr/ or search "John Stevens Berry, Sr." on Google to see the broad spectrum of work he has done.

Associated Builders and Contractors to host Bassfest June 8

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Nebraska and South Dakota are excited to be hosting the 2023 ABC Bassfest on Thursday, June 8 at Lake Wanahoo – Sand Creek in Wahoo. The tournament is in a buddy style, and at least one of the partners needs to be an ABC member that is at least 18 years old.

The cost to participate is $250 per team, with cash prizes for the top three teams and the Big Fish Prize winner. You must have a valid fishing license and state park permit to participate.

Each team will select their eight largest bass to be scored on the official score sheet. All scored fish must measure a minimum of 12 inches (mouth closed). Each team needs to work together to measure, photograph, record and release each fish.

For further information on tournament registration, contact Ulysses Johnson at (402) 499-5170 or ulyssesj@abcnesd.org.

The Associated Builders and Contractors Nebraska and South Dakota Chapter supports the commercial construction industry through apprenticeship and safety training, advocacy and workforce development. For more information about ABC, call the State/Lincoln location at (402) 477-4451 or visit www.abcnesd.org.

sp Group, p.C. holds Basketball Challenge Between interns and mentors

SP Group, P.C., a growing entrepreneurial accounting firm, recently held a basketball challenge between the tax season interns and their mentors. The pop-a-shot basketball arcade-style game consisted of a 20-person bracket – the SP Group version of March Madness. The tournament was dueled out, head-to-head, in front of their cheering teammates. A few friendly wagers might have been thrown down as they battled to the championship round. Coming out on top was mentor Clayton Peterson and intern Jennifer Sedlacek.

The final pairing did not disappoint in a hotly contested showdown, where pushing, shoving and stealing balls was all fair game but it didn’t rattle the defending champion, Clayton Peterson. He won in honorable fashion and was declared the winner – three-peat for Pete! This contest was a terrific opportunity to mix some light-hearted fun in with the serious business of helping their clients with their tax service needs. Furthermore, the basketball challenge immerses SP Group’s interns into their culture of teamwork and competitiveness. SP Group, P.C. was founded on these four core values: relationships, the power of team, life/work balance and competitiveness. They like to win at SP Group, and this competitive sports-minded culture makes a firm better at achieving success for their clients. Follow SP Group on Facebook (@SP Group, P.C.) or Twitter (@ SPGroupPC). For more information, please call (402) 420-7758 or visit www.spgrouppc.com.

L-r: Jennifer sedlacek-intern, Clayton peterson-mentor

LiBA foundation to host Annual Golf outing september 1

The Lincoln Independent Businesses Association (LIBA) is excited to host their annual golf outing on Friday, September 1. Check-in time for the event begins at 8 a.m. and the tee time will start at 10 a.m. Proceeds go towards scholarships for local high school graduates in Lancaster County who are planning to attend college/university in Nebraska. Those who are looking to sign up for this event can contact Bud Synhorst for more information. If you aren’t much of a golfer, hole sponsorships are also open, in which a sponsor can provide free games, prizes, food and/or drinks for the golfers at certain holes. LIBA is also accepting donations for this event.

The LIBA Foundation strives to educate, strengthen and support the Lincoln business community through youth education, charitable donations, entrepreneurial assistance and perpetuation of the Lincoln Independent Business Association. Founded in 1996, LIBA works to promote its mission through several projects, including sponsorship of Student Vote, contributing to the LIBA scholarship program and sponsorship of Junior Achievement. For more information, visit their website at www.liba.org. If you are interested in registering for the golf tournament, contact Bud Synhorst at (402) 466-3419 or by email at bud@liba.org.

morrow Collision Center hosts successful easter egg hunt

Morrow Collision Center (MCC) celebrated Easter with the community at their first annual Easter egg hunt on April 1. The event was completely free and open to the public. Kids of all ages were encouraged to participate in their appropriate age groups.

The event started early with an inclusive egg hunt for people of all abilities. Fifteen other local businesses were sponsors and helped bring more than 10,500 eggs to the event. They also had booths lined up outside with activities for the kids, and the Easter Bunny was available for pictures, balloon animals and face stickers inside.

The event drew in more than 1,000 people. This was the second free public event that MCC hosted, after the first annual Trunk or Treat in October. MCC is excited to host both events again next year. Their new location at 14th and Pine Lake will be another great venue for events like this in the Southwest Lincoln area.

Morrow Collision Center is a full-service auto body repair and refinish center. They work with all auto insurance companies making the repair process simple for you. Learn more at morrowcollision. com, email regina@morrowcollision.com or call (402) 477-2224.

sCC student and Academic support Center dedicated With ribbon-Cutting

Exactly two years to the day since ground was broken on the $30 million Student and Academic Support Center addition and renovation at Southeast Community College (SCC), the space was officially dedicated. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held April 28 on the Lincoln Campus to celebrate modern, expanded spaces to improve access for students in vital academic support services.

The project involved the construction of approximately 26,000-squarefeet that included a two-story addition and the renovation of approximately 80,000-square-feet of existing spaces. Areas with renovated space include the Welcome Center, Advising, Adult Education, Instructional Design/Virtual Learning, Information Technology, the Student Activities Center, Student Enrollment & Accounts, Safety/Security/Campus Office, Student Support Center, Testing Center, Veteran’s Connect Center, Course Ground Coffee and the Information desk. Many private study rooms and wellness rooms for personal use also were added.

The project also addressed vital fire and life safety needs, including fire suppression (sprinkling) of the current gymnasium, appropriate firewall separations and appropriate egress, all in adherence to current fire and life safety code.

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

Leadership Lincoln to host "Celebration of Community Leadership" on June 15

Leadership Lincoln extends an invitation to the "Celebration of Community Leadership" on Thursday, June 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Union Plaza. By attending, you can contribute to Leadership Lincoln’s mission of civic engagement and support our community leaders. The program includes a social hour with food, a recognition ceremony and subsequent music entertainment.

Join them in commemorating the 38th year and honoring the 2022-2023 graduates from cohorts Fellows 38, Executives 35, Advocates 16 and Youth Leadership Lincoln 26. Preeta Bansal will deliver the keynote address, while Swaul Pope will provide the musical entertainment.

For additional information about this event, please visit leadershiplincoln.org/events. Alternatively, you can reach out to Brendan Evans at info@leadershiplincoln.org or call at (402) 411-4661.

Founded in 1985, Leadership Lincoln was conceived when a group of community leaders convened to envision the future of Lincoln. Leadership Lincoln engages individuals from diverse backgrounds, equipping them with the knowledge, experiences, skills and leadership tools to become effective community leaders. Their mission is to develop strong leaders for a stronger Lincoln. To learn more, visit www.leadershiplincoln.org.

“We believe healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires honest caring without judgment, and we cooperatively assist clients in clarifying their goals for treatment.”

Center sphere Announces June networkWide social June 6

Center Sphere is excited to announce their June NetworkWide Social, set for Tuesday, June 6. The event will run from 4-6 p.m. and will be at Homes Lake North Shore: Paddleboarding, hosted by Lincoln Paddle Company.

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

Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas and resources through genuine relationships. For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event visit CenterSphere.com or connect with Director of Membership

Ashley Hinze at Ashley@CenterSphere.com / (402) 690-4434.

nebraska realty moves Locations

Deb Wagner of Nebraska Realty is to announce that Nebraska Realty will be expanding their footprint in the city with a brand new state-of-the-art office building near 84th Street and Nebraska Parkway. Their commitment to better serving the needs of home buyers and sellers in the area has led them to invest in a larger, more collaborative space designed to inspire and motivate.

Deb and the team at Nebraska Realty couldn’t be more excited to continue serving the Lincoln community and supporting their clients in their real estate journey from their new office. Built on the principles of hard work, dedication and service, Nebraska Realty strongly believes in the power of creating lasting relationships.

Nebraska Realty is the largest independently-owned real estate brokerage in the state, and now the largest real estate office in Lincoln. Nebraska Realty believes in the local nature of real estate, understanding the importance of local dynamics. Established in 1993, Nebraska Realty is a full-service real estate company dedicated to providing the highest level of service for all of your real estate needs. Nebraska Realty has offices in Lincoln, Omaha, Papillion, Grand Island and Hastings. For more information, Deb Wagner can be reached at (402) 440-1314 / Deb@HomesalesByDeb.com.

BUsiness neWs

enterprise truck rental's new Location open in Lincoln

In February of this year, Enterprise Truck Rental opened their brand new location in Lincoln at 7100 Husker Cir. This is expanding an already established footprint that will serve our local Lincoln market.

Enterprise Truck Rental focuses on customer service and extremely clean vehicles. They offer custom rate solutions for seasonal or long-term vehicle needs.

Enterprise Truck Rental is an expansion of Enterprise Rent-A-Car that offers heavy-duty pickup trucks, box trucks and cargo vans. Their trucks are not just for moving and personal use, most Enterprise Truck Rental customers are local business owners. Enterprise Holdings is a family- owned, world-class portfolio of brands.

The team is extremely excited to be working in the Lincoln community. As they say, "It's good to know a neighbor with a truck!"

Enterprise operates a global network that covers nearly 100 countries, with nearly 80,000 dedicated team members and nearly 1.7 million vehicles taking customers wherever they need to go. In any way you want to think about it, they lead the transportation service industry. For more information, you can visit enterprisetrucks. com. To connect with someone at the Lincoln Enterprise Truck Rental and reserve a truck, contact Casey Simpson at casey.j.simpson@ ehi.com / (402) 742-4536.

ALLo Business solutions offering microsoft teams Voice

Communication is key to any successful business and with the newest product ALLO offers, communication just got easier. With ALLO Business Solutions

Microsoft Teams Voice, your company can now have inbound and outbound calls to come directly through Teams. This means calls from your desktop, mobile phone, mobile app and desk phone. This allows your team to engage, chat and collaborate efficiently from anywhere.

Tasks like day-to-day messaging, team meeting calls with the option to record, organize and share your Outlook calendars and all your usual phone capabilities are now in a one-stop shop with Microsoft Teams Voice. To keep things simple, you can keep your current phone numbers, or ALLO can provide new numbers.

ALLO is not about just making the sale. Their team is ready to help train, maintain updates, monitor the network and provide 24/7 support to all customers.

ALLO specializes in providing world-class communications and entertainment services by creating and operating gigabit communities. Hassle-free service and a 100% fiber-optic network will improve how students learn and employees work, whether from home, schools or business. ALLO currently serves over 35 communities in Nebraska, Colorado and Arizona, with a total population of more than 1,000,000 supported by more than 1,300 team members. For more information about ALLO, go to allofiber.com or call (402) 480-6500.

AsK the eXpert: Compro

(402) 488-5100 www.comproins.com

by Krista peeks Dittman Agent, Individual & Senior Benefits

do You Know how Your health insurance travels With You?

Summer means it’s time to travel. And time to explore. Whether it’s exploring our great state of Nebraska, traveling within the country or abroad, it would be a good idea to add “learn about my health insurance travel network” to your to do list before you leave.

If you are insured through your employer, you may or may not have access to a nationwide network of providers – doctors, hospitals, urgent care clinics, pharmacies, etc. You may also be covered to travel internationally. Check with your HR team to know how you can use your health insurance while you are away from home.

If you are on Medicare, it will depend on the type of plan that you have. In general, Medicare is a US based benefit that does not offer international coverage. A Medicare Supplement policy allows you to use any provider that is contracted with Medicare anywhere within the US and may offer a limited amount of international coverage. Medicare Advantage plans offer very little international coverage, and you should also be aware of network issues while traveling in the states.

If you have coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace (Healthcare.gov), you will have coverage for emergency-only services when you are out of state. Urgent care visits may also be covered. There is no international coverage, so an additional travel policy is essential.

In our post-Covid world, nearly every plan offers some kind of telehealth / tele-doc coverage. Many plans offer 24/7 access to this type of care for non-emergency cases. These services can often be accessed through an app on a smartphone and can eliminate the need to find an “in-network” doctor.

Keeping current on your plan information will help you and your loved ones be prepared to avoid the stress of dealing with medical issues if your travel plans lead to a trip to the local doctor.

International travel medical plans are available at a very reasonable price. When you are traveling internationally, you will typically be responsible for paying the medical charges at the time of service and will submit a claim for reimbursement to your insurance company when you return home. Get receipts!

If your travel plans include any “extreme sports” such as mountaineering, scuba diving, hang gliding or bungee jumping, you need to confirm whether your health insurance will cover it. There can be exclusions for high-risk activities.

Have a great summer. Contact ComPro at 402.488.5100 with any questions about your health insurance. They are your trusted and local resource for health insurance plans for Employee Benefits, Individual & Family and Medicare! For more info, visit www.comproins.com.

SAVE THE DATE!

Friday, September 8, 2023

5:30 - 9:00 p.m.

Strictly Business, 9200 Holdrege St., Lincoln, NE 68505

• Local food vendors

• Vodka Bar sponsored by PRG of Berkshire Hathaway

• Local wines and beer vendors

• Herb-inspired cocktails

• Live & silent auction

• Live music & entertainment

Proceeds from this event will go towards supporting the mission of Domesti-PUPS, a local nonprofit that provides therapy dogs, service dogs for persons with disabilities, and trained rescue dogs. TICKETS

allyssa sTaR CITy sIX

Allyssa Sumner

S ERVICE M ASTER PBM

Meet Allyssa Sumner, administrative assistant at ServiceMaster PBM.

Tell us a little about your business. - ServiceMaster PBM is a professional cleaning service for commercial properties.

How did you get started in the business? - I was looking for a different job with a better work culture and I chose this one because of the people.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?My biggest challenge professionally was at a different job and it was trying to work with an individual who I didn’t always get along with. We were able to work things out and we actually became a great team for a while before I left.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - My most important achievement professionally is my ability to be the support person in the office for my coworkers so we can function in the office smoothly and so that we can help our other coworkers with requests or questions they have.

Tell us a little about your family. - My professional family at work are amazing individuals that make a great team to see every day and never a dull moment!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spending time with family, art and roller skating.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - That I secretly perform at comedy open mic nights sometimes.

Who inspires you? - Robin Williams.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “It’s mandatory to grow old, it’s optional to grow up.”

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - Cobrastyle by Teddybears.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Controlling time. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Dancing.

Which talent would you most like to have? - Beatboxing.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - The Humane Society because I love animals, and they need people to be their voice. My adopted dog is like a third kid to me.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?The last good book I read was Everything That Remains: A Memoir by The Minimalists by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus.

What is your favorite movie? - Atomic Blonde .

What is your favorite TV show? - Peaky Blinders .

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Robin Williams or Anthony Bourdain.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 476-2194; adminasst@smpbm.com; smpbm.com.

sTaR CITy sIX Jesse Jesse

Hengelfelt

JOHN HENRY'S

Meet Jesse Hengelfelt, the sales manager at John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning.

Tell us a little about your business. - Established in 1996, John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning is a full-service plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air quality, duct cleaning and water treatment business. Their motto is “Our Family Serving Yours” and this goes much deeper than simple HVAC or plumbing services. They have a committee set aside to ensure they are doing all they can for the community around us.

How did you get started in the business? - I originally started in banking software right after college. I worked in a corporate setting for 15 years helping banks and credit unions with their needs. A family member of mine had a career in the trades and when the opportunity came about to apply I jumped at the chance to apply and be a part of what was going on at John Henry’s.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I would say the largest challenge I’ve come across since being here is COVID and the price increases that every business faced with the supply chain shortages. The reason it was such a challenge was the constant changes that affected all businesses. If you weren’t prepared by leveraging technology and training, it was a difficult time.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Becoming sales manager after spending four years in the field helping customers with the heating and cooling needs was my most important achievement I have had professionally.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my lovely wife, Lindsay for 18 years and we have three beautiful girls: Avery (13), Callie (11) and Maddie (8). We have called Lincoln home since we moved here after college in 2004.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - I would have to say making the jump into the trades. It’s a lot different than the typical corporate work environment and I have really enjoyed the change.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy hanging out with friends and family, having dinner and drinks together typically surrounded by bourbon and smoked meat. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Impactful.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Drink in my Hand,” by Eric Church.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I rarely get the chance to utilize my karaoke skills.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I really admire the work they are doing every day at BraveBe, formally the Child Advocacy Center.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?Favorite book is Wild at Heart and I am currently reading Emotional Intelligence 2.0.

What is your favorite movie? - Tombstone is always a good one.

What is your favorite TV show? - I have watched the series The Office a couple of times over.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - I love Leadbelly here in town.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(402) 770-5148; jhengelfelt@jhlincoln.com; www.jhlincoln.com.

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MULE BAR Mug Rentals available for your Mule to-go!

l aUR a sTaR CITy sIX

Laura Gleason S IGN P RO

Meet Laura Gleason, a graphic designer at Sign Pro of Lincoln.

How did you get started in the business? - After finishing graduate school in California, I moved back home to Lincoln. I started out with some freelance work while applying for full time positions all over the country. I was beyond excited to get on board with Sign Pro, where I would be able to develop my skills as a graphic designer while staying in my hometown. I’ve learned so much about designing, working with clients and working with a team.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Balancing my work load with personal time. As an artist with a full time job as well as freelance work, it is common to feel overloaded. Since finishing grad school, I am still learning how to balance personal time with my career. Sometimes I worry about what I may miss out on by turning away freelance opportunities. It’s extremely important to me that I do my best to meet all project deadlines!

Tell us a little about your business. - At Sign Pro, we are passionate about providing the best possible signage and graphics to meet the needs of local customers, whether it is full business signage or just a small personal project. For 30 years, Sign Pro has helped local businesses promote their services with eye-catching advertising. As the graphic designer, I make sure each project meets the client’s desired style and conveys their message clearly. It’s so exciting to see our projects on buildings and vehicles all over the Lincoln area and beyond!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?That would be when I decided to change career goals during college. I went to school to become a doctor and earned my bachelor’s degree in Biology/Pre-Medicine at Nebraska Wesleyan University. About halfway through, I decided I would rather contribute to the community with my artistic abilities as well as my scientific background. Instead of using my degree for medical school, I temporarily moved to California and earned a graduate certificate in Scientific Illustration. I now spend every day creating visuals to assist local businesses as well as national scientific/medical organizations. I am so glad I made that decision, and that I have chosen to pursue a career out of something I am most passionate about.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I like to wake up later than usual, go to the rock climbing gym, shop, read books and create art! On an extended break, I like to visit my parents in Colorado, where we do a lot of hiking.

Who inspires you? - Definitely my dad. He is an artist and 3D animator who has worked from the ground up to get where he is now. More and more I have realized I have been following in his footsteps every day. We share a love for digital art, trying new gadgets and pushing each other to improve our skills.

What local nonprofit organization are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Clinic with a Heart! After spending a semester volunteering with them, it’s been amazing to see so many doctors, nurses, dentists and even optometrists taking the time out of their busy schedules and working together to provide care to people in need.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - My all-time favorite restaurant is Lazlo’s! I’ve eaten there once a week for years and it’s always just as glorious as the first time!

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?www.signprolincoln.com; (402) 421-6600; artwork@signprolincoln.com.

CITy sIX

lU ke

Luke Bowman D.E. GUNS

Meet Luke Bowman, range master at D.E. Guns.

Tell us a little about your business. - I have been working at D.E. Guns sales and service as a range safety officer and sales associate when the range is not in use for a little over two years. I am currently a NRA certified pistol instructor and while on the range I provide quick advice on proper technique when using a pistol, rifle or shotgun. My entire professional adult career has developed around firearms and it is what I know best.

How did you get started in the business? - I am a native of Nebraska, born in Hastings. Both of my parents and some of my family live in Lincoln. I attended Pius X high school and afterwards enlisted and served four years active duty completing two deployments with a combat tour through Syria in 2017. I have since left active duty and remain in a reserve component status. I came to D.E. Guns from another shooting range I was working at in Southern California. I got involved in firearms sales and training after previously serving as a machine gunner in the United States Marine Corps, which gave me years of experience with safe firearms handling and practical application in self-defense.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - One of my greatest personal achievements thus far would have to be when I was awarded a Certificate of Commendation from my Company Commander while serving as a vehicle commander during a live fire exercise. This was a testament to my expertise on providing close fire support and my ability to coordinate with my machine gun section and the maneuver forces to successfully accomplish the objective.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - My favorite thing to do on my days off is to go on very long walks roughly 10 to 15 miles with my dog out in the country. I enjoy physical exercise, being surrounded by nature, getting away from the city and spending time out in the sunshine.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - A good piece of advice I was always told was to "be a good dude." It’s a short, simple statement I heard many times in The Marine Corps, and to me it means to be the best version you can be and to be in keeping with good order and discipline. It means to take care of yourself so you can take care of and serve other people you encounter in your daily life in whatever way you can, even if it's just as simple as being friendly and greeting someone with a smile while passing by. There is no greater honor than to serve another and that is what I would say being a "good dude" is all about.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Since I've lived on the coast in California for a few years and visited multiple islands, I've developed a taste for seafood. It's my preferred type of cuisine. If I'm going out for dinner in Lincoln, I'm going to Blue Sushi in the Haymarket. It’s by far my favorite restaurant and would recommend it to anyone.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 875- 6500; deguns.net.

Don’t play your life away.

ChRIsTIne

Christine Wilcox UNION BANK & TRUST

Meet Christine Wilcox, the vice president of human resources of Union Bank & Trust (UBT).

| 402-476-2300

These 24/7 helplines are confidential and will direct you to a certified counselor who can provide immediate help. The Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program (GAP) pays for the assessment and treatment of problem gambling for Nebraskans struggling with problem gambling and their families.

For more information go to: www.ChoicesTreatmentCenter.com www.ProblemGambling.Nebraska.gov

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available.

Tell us a little about your business. - 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.

How did you get started in the business? - I am an attorney by training. I started at UBT in 2010 as the in-house attorney during the height of the financial crisis. I worked on large commercial loan workouts and day-to-day legal issues. Prior to coming to UBT, I worked at a law firm in Kansas City where I focused on employment law and have always had an interest in people issues. So, when the opportunity came to serve in HR, I took it.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Being VP of HR during COVID provided a whole host of challenges. From getting people home, creating COVID protocols and having people return to the office, every day brought forth new obstacles. Luckily, I enjoy learning and coming up with new solutions. Did we do everything perfectly? No, but we did the best with the information we had at the time, and I will forever be proud of how we handled unchartered territory with our associates’ best interests in mind.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have an eight-year-old son named Levi who is into soccer, baseball (especially the San Diego Padres) and tennis. My husband, Andy, can oftentimes be found on the golf course and can always make me laugh.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Becoming a parent. There is nothing else that comes close.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Go on a long walk or run, go to coffee or lunch with friends, read and do something outside with Levi and Andy (lately that has been family golf).

Who inspires you? - My group of friends. They are always there for each other. They are phenomenal mothers, wives and businesspeople, and I learn from them every day. They inspire me to be a better person.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Shake it Off” by Taylor Swift. Haters gonna hate.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I have an eye for design. I love interiors and fashion and am quite good at it. In my next life, maybe I will be a stylist or an interior designer.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I wish I could play the guitar like my husband. Andy has the ability to play about any sing-along song, which makes him popular at parties.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I read and listen to audiobooks every spare moment, so this is a tough one for me. As far as non-fiction, "The Power of Full Engagement" by Jim Loehr. As far as fiction, my favorite book of 2022 was "Remarkably Bright Creatures" by Shelby Van Pelt.

What is your favorite TV show? - I enjoy Ted Lasso. It is funny, has great characters, and addresses hard issues in an approachable manner. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Momo’s. I enjoy the food and the atmosphere.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - christine.wilcox@ubt.com; ubt.com.

sTaR CITy sIX Cody

Cody Dunham ARCLIGHT SOLUTIONS

Meet Cody Dunham, the founder/president at ArcLight Solutions.

Tell us a little about your business. - ArcLight is a technology services company offering IT consultation, managed services and data center solutions.

How did you get started in the business? - Ten years ago, a mentor of mine took a chance on me even though I didn't have formal training or schooling in the IT industry. This person gave me an opportunity and I ran with it.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Just starting a business is tough. The biggest obstacle after getting started is keeping your business above water. ArcLight Solutions was established in 2018, so we've made it though the infamously tough first three years and are continuing to grow.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?Getting to a point where I can have a team of employees and not only provide for my own family, but my employees' families that are directly affected by my business.

Tell us a little about your family. - I'm married to my wife Anna, and we have a soon-to-be two year old little girl. Our other baby is a 90lb golden doodle named Walter.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - This is a two-fold answer for me. I was extremely fortunate to meet individuals that have taken me under their wing to mentor me. In addition to that, a huge life-changing moment for me was when my mentor gave me the opportunity to go on a different path than I was on.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Hang out with the fam and friends! I also love to play golf and watch football. I'm a diehard Packers fan.

Who inspires you? - A multitude of different people have had different impacts on my life in different ways. My mentors encourage me to take leaps. My father and of course my wife and daughter inspire me every day.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - My favorite quote is, "If you quit once it becomes a habit, never quit." - Michael Jordan.

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

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Probably my knowledge of the auto industry.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I could see myself doing something in auto or in sports.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?"Greenlights" by Matthew McConaughey - I highly recommend it, especially the audio book version since Matthew narrates it.

What is your favorite movie? - Friday Night Lights.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - ShillingBridge Cork & Tap House.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(402) 890-6790; cody@arclightsolutions.net; www.arclightsolutions.net.

Jayson Becker proudly represents these

horisun hospice Welcomes Kathy Boroff, rn

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

Boroff was born and raised in Fairbury and received her nursing degree at Presentation College in Aberdeen, SD over 30 years ago. She spent many of those years as a director of nursing in both skilled and assisted living communities. She also spent many years as an administrator, and is certified in gerontology. Boroff worked for a hospice company in North Carolina last year and fell in love with the hospice philosophy and taking care of individuals as they near the end of their life. When she moved back to Nebraska, she knew hospice was her calling. HoriSun Hospice believes that hospice care affirms life. Their mission and promise to their community is simple – to provide the best care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all whose lives are affected by a life limiting illness or condition. Comfort, compassion, and caring are our guiding principles. For more information about HoriSun Hospice, visit www.horisunhospice. com, or call (402) 484-6444.

West Gate Bank® promotes Kirby reardon and Jennifer dougherty

The West Gate Bank® (WGB) Board of Directors has elected Kirby Reardon to senior vice president, Commercial Lending and Jennifer Dougherty to assistant vice president, Commercial Lending.

Reardon joined West Gate Bank in 2011 as a teller. A native of Columbus, Reardon graduated from the University of Nebraska Lincoln with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Finance. Reardon is an outstanding lender that excels in West Gate Bank’s core lending niches, while providing expertise and leadership in their specialty loan offerings. He maintains many strong community and customer relationships and embodies WGB’s Code of Excellence. Reardon will be leading the Business and Specialty Lending Team in Lincoln and become a member of the commercial management team.

Kirby Reardon is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Road, and can be reached at (402) 434-4081 or kreardon@westgate.bank.

Dougherty joined West Gate Bank in June 2016 as a credit analyst I and was promoted to credit analyst II in October 2018. A native of Alma, MI Dougherty graduated from Hillsdale College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Financial Management. As a commercial loan officer, she assists customers with their financing needs, including real estate and business lending.

Jennifer Dougherty is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Road, and can be reached at (402) 853-7213 or jdougherty@westgate.bank.

West Gate Bank® is a family-owned community bank with 11 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. The newest West Gate Bank branch is now open at 177th and West Maple Road in Omaha. At West Gate Bank, “our interest is you!” Visit westgate.bank for more information.

Kirby reardon

Jennifer dougherty

LnK Airport executive director dave haring Awarded Community impact Award

The Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) presented Executive Director Dave Haring of the Lincoln Airport Authority (LAA) with the Community Impact Award presented by Governor Jim Pillen and Exchange Bank President Robert Panzer. The Free Enterprise Celebration at Pinnacle Bank Arena was attended by more than 500 business owners, community leaders and elected officials. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication to the LNK Airport team and the support of the Lincoln community.

“LIBA is proud to recognize Lincoln Airport with the 2023 Community Impact Award,” said LIBA President Bud Synhorst. “The airport is expanding capacity and bringing in new flight opportunities to help both business and leisure travelers to have access to destinations around the country. We are proud partners with LNK!”

As airlines were cancelling flights to and from Lincoln during the pandemic, the Lincoln Airport was inspired to renovate and modernize the airport by increasing the number of not just flight opportunities, but job opportunities as well. This is being done with the addition of Burrell Aviation bringing air cargo to the airport, Timpte Inc. manufacturing trailer plant in Enterprise Park and the recent addition of seven new flights; Dallas, Austin, Nashville, Minneapolis, Orlando and Las Vegas with Red Way.

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

Compro Welcomes Jeff Johnson to team of Agents

ComPro is pleased to announce the addition of Jeff Johnson to their team. Jeff has over 20 years of experience in insurance sales and customer service, working as a manufacturer’s representative and benefits specialist. He also owned an insurance agency for 18 years.

When asked what he enjoys most about being an agent, Jeff had this to say, “I enjoy serving my clients and helping them learn about their insurance options. All with the goal in mind to find the best solution for their needs. Building a strong working relationship with each of my clients is important to me. I want them to feel confident that I always have their best interest in mind.” Jeff’s roots are in Lincoln, and this is where he developed his love for the outdoors. On his day off, you’ll probably find Jeff hunting, with his yellow Labrador Jackson or fishing. He has been the Master of Ceremonies for multiple Ducks Unlimited events! ComPro is an insurance broker that offers health insurance plans for employee benefits, individual and family and Medicare. To learn more about ComPro, visit comproins.com or call (402) 488-5100.

Union Bank & trust promotes Gutschenritter, deLos, Wieting and sellers

Union Bank & Trust (UBT) is proud to announce the promotion of four employees.

Stacy Gutschenritter has been promoted to vice president – business development and relationship manager in Retirement Plan Services (RPS). Gutschenritter joined the bank in 1993. In her new role, she will prospect and develop new business, while continuing to develop relationships with plan sponsors to create solutions that meet their benefits criteria and coordinate all required services for each plan.

Marci De Los Santos has been promoted to relationship manager/officer within its Omnify division, which focuses on health savings accounts (HSAs). De Los Santos joined Omnify in 2020 and brings 17 years of banking experience to her new role.

Nate Wieting has been promoted to vice president and trust officer. Wieting brings 16 years of industry experience to his new position. He previously worked at UBT from 2007-08, spent a few years in public accounting and returned to the bank in 2011. A graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Wieting earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Accountancy, with minors in Mathematics and Political Science.

Julie Sellers has been promoted to relationship manager in the Retirement Plan Services (RPS) division. Sellers joined UBT in 2016 and has served in various roles within RPS, including call center representative, generalist and client services supervisor. In her new role, Sellers will work in tandem with individual HR teams to coordinate a variety of retirement plan administrative services.

Union Bank & Trust is a privately owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. The bank has 38 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the thirdlargest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $7.6 billion and trust assets of $43.4 billion as of December 31, 2022. Learn more at ubt.com.

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

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

stacy Gutschenritter

Julie sellers

nate Wieting

marci de Los santos

AmanaCare Announces promotion of mikah Christensen

AmanaCare is pleased to announce the promotion of Mikah Christensen. She will now be the case manager for all of Nebraska.

Mikah has lived in Lincoln for all of her life. At home, she has a five-year-old son with special needs and two cats named Xanda and Scully. For education and work, she has her Applied Science Associates Degree in Health and Human Services.

Mikah has spent the last 10 years working in direct care in many capacities, including non-medical home care, home health/hospice, direct support professional for individuals with mental health diagnosis and juvenile group homes. In her free time, she is a board member for Lincoln’s nonprofit ‘The Tree of Hope’ where she volunteers her time assisting community members in need. She also dedicates time participating in SPARK research for autism. Mikah’s hobbies include reading and painting.

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

Luxury Landscape promotes tim hunt to Crew Chief

Luxury Landscape is excited to announce Tim Hunt’s promotion to crew chief at the end of March!

Tim has been with Luxury Landscape for one year as a landscaper. Tim has worked extremely hard to earn this promotion by learning all aspects of landscaping and improved plant and material identification along with possessing a stellar management style.

Tim has an exceptional rapport with the owners, his co-workers, suppliers and customers. He was born in Lincoln, but grew up in Valentine and Oshkosh. Tim loves working outside and seeing a beautiful, completed landscape come to life that he played a part in - all while getting a tan!

If you see Tim out and about, feel free to tell him congrats!

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

www.customcooling.net

info@customcooling.net

John henry’s Celebrates employee ABC trade school Graduates

John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air is sending hearty congratulations to three of their plumbers who graduated from Associated Builders & Contractors’ (ABC) Trade School in May after four years of schooling. Plumbers Patrick, Sean and Jack all earned their plumbing degrees after joining John Henry’s as apprentices and working for the company while still in school.

This is because of John Henry’s Plumbing Apprentice program. Through this program, people can come into the company with no experience and train under some of John Henry’s amazing plumbers. They also are able to attend ABC Trade School at night to earn their plumbing degrees.

Established in 1996, John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air is a full-service plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air quality, duct cleaning and water treatment business. They have a committee set aside to ensure they are doing all they can for the community around us. For more information or to discuss your home’s plumbing, heating, cooling and indoor air-quality needs, visit jhlincoln.com, call (402) 435-5555 or email info@jhlincoln.com.

Lincoln Chamber Adds Katie Bohlmeyer to policy team

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce (LCOC) is happy to announce the hire of Katie Bohlmeyer, who joined the Chamber team effective May 1. Bohlmeyer comes to the Lincoln Chamber in the role of business policy advocate and will work with local business and government on policies that can best serve the local community.

“I am excited for this opportunity and thrilled to advocate for the Lincoln Business Community,” Bohlmeyer says. “I can’t wait to join the Chamber team and work hard to improve the city that I love.”

Bohlmeyer has previous professional experience as a clerk with the Natural Resources Committee in the Nebraska Legislature and as the research and policy coordinator for the Lincoln Independent Business Association. A 2020 graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Bohlmeyer also volunteers with CASA of Gage County.

“We are thrilled to add Katie to our team,” says LCOC President and CEO Jason Ball. “She is going to play a central role in our business advocacy and economic growth efforts as we pursue the goals of the Vitality Lincoln strategic plan.”

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is Lincoln’s leading business organization, representing member businesses across the community by providing advocacy and connections to help businesses grow and thrive in Lincoln. They are committed to being a five-star accredited collaborative partner in Lincoln’s success as a place of endless opportunities and work closely with their partner organizations. Learn more at lcoc.com.

fnBo hires Chris hove

First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) has announced Chris Hove has joined its commercial banking group as a senior director in its Lincoln market.

“I am thrilled to announce this addition to our growing Lincoln team,” said Nathan McKown, managing director of commercial banking at FNBO. “Chris brings talent and a depth of knowledge in addition to an unmatched passion and commitment to the Lincoln community.”

Hove will serve commercial clients in Lincoln with a comprehensive set of solutions designed to advance business goals.

“FNBO has an incredible history, and I am appreciative of the opportunity to be part of its team here,” said Hove. “I am looking forward to working with our clients and using my experience to find the best financial arrangements for them.”

Prior to joining FNBO, Hove served 10 years in the U.S. Navy. Following that, he spent more than 30 years in the banking industry, the past 20 of which were in the Lincoln market. He is also a past chairman of the Nebraska Bankers Association.

Hove holds a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, and thereafter earned an MBA from the University of San Diego. Additionally, he is a graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) has primary banking offices in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, Texas and Wyoming. For more information, go to fnbo.com.

matt talbot Leader susanne Blue Announces August retirement date

After 25 years as Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach’s executive director, Susanne Blue has announced her plan to retire this summer. Blue will step away from leading the nonprofit on August 23, according to Alynn Sampson, president of Matt Talbot’s Board of Directors.

During her long tenure as executive director, the organization grew from a volunteer-led soup kitchen to a community kitchen and outreach center with 25 professional staff offering housing, case management, outreach, substance use and nutrition programming for families and individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. As a professional social worker, the programs implemented under Blue’s leadership were based on research and best practices to comprehensively address identified community needs.

Throughout her career, Blue has been a strong advocate for the most vulnerable in our community by actively addressing issues of homelessness, hunger, poverty, affordable housing and mental health.

“Susanne is known for her service, hard work, leadership and countless prayers,” said Sampson. “She has established a lasting culture of hope, dignity, encouragement and community among Matt Talbot’s volunteers, guests and staff – a gift to our entire community and we are so grateful.”

The board has formed a transition committee and will begin the process of filling this position as soon as possible.

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.

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

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

Choices Offers the Following Help...

• Free Assessments for Problem/Pathological Gamblers

• Free consultations/interventions for problem gamblers and their families

• Mental Health Assessments

• Individual, Family & Marriage Counseling

• Substance Abuse Evaluations and Treatment (court approved individual, outpatient & intensive outpatient)

• DUI/DWI Education Programs

• Budgeting Classes and Counseling

• Anger Management Counseling

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

Are you experiencing any of the following?

• Are you in a depressed mood most of the day?

• Are you feeling sad or empty?

• Do you find yourself tearful most of the time?

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

• Have you experienced significant weight loss when not dieting?

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

• Are you angry for no particular reason?

• Do you have low/no self-esteem?

• Are you dealing with relationship issues?

• Are you feeling shame or guilt?

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

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

of gambling/gaming.

Voices of hope to release Campaign Video with el Centro de Las Americas

Voices of Hope is excited to announce that they will be releasing a campaign video in June that discusses their partnership with El Centro De Las Americas and how they work together to help victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and other forms of abuse.

Their vision is that all victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as their families and communities, receive responsive, empowering services and support that meet their needs, both individual and cultural, through advocacy and education aimed at eliminating recurrence, challenging oppressive social institutions and reducing violence and oppression.

Voices of Hope has been a vital part of our community for over 40 years. Voices of Hope began in 1975 when the Lincoln Coalition Against Rape, a campus/community group organized and began to provide a crisis line and support services for victims of sexual assault. Before long, the group also began providing services for victims of domestic violence.

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 services are free and confidential. Learn more at voicesofhopelincoln.org.

Camp Assistant positions Available at Bright Lights for students 8th Grade and older

While summer camps have officially kicked off for Bright Lights, there’s still time to apply to be a camp assistant. Being a camp assistant lets students 8th grade and older gain resume-worthy experience and earn fun volunteer hours. These valuable volunteers provide support to teachers in each of the nearly 100 camps Bright Lights offers, enriching the experience for everyone involved. Adults can volunteer for these positions, too! If you’re bringing a student to a camp, consider staying to volunteer. Visit brightlights.org/camp-assistants to apply today.

Camps take place at Roper Elementary as well as at other community sites over five weeks: June 5-9, June 12-16, June 1923, 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.

Bright Lights provides energized, engaging and fun summer learning opportunities. Their week-long half-day and full-day camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills and build new relationships. Find out more about these opportunities at BrightLights.org or call (402) 420-1115.

YmCA of Lincoln to hold 11th Annual YmCA Youth sports Adventure run July 1

The YMCA of Lincoln invites families to kick-off their Fourth of July festivities at the 11th Annual YMCA Youth Sports Adventure Run on Saturday, July 1.

Held at YMCA Wright Park, kids and adults alike will climb their way through obstacles, run through fields and make a splash down the giant slip ‘n slide, all in the name of a good cause – the YMCA Annual Fundraising Campaign Strong Kids. Funds raised provide youth and families in need the opportunity to take part in the YMCA’s life-changing programs, including Youth Sports.

“We encourage the entire family to walk or run the course together,” shared Todd Johnson, executive director of YMCA Youth Sports. “Not only is it a chance for families to take part in a morning of healthy activities, but in doing so, they’re giving back to our community, ensuring that every family has access to YMCA programs like swim lessons, baseball leagues and day camps.” Wave start times will be at 9 a.m., 9:45 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. with a limit of 100 participants per time slot. Registration is available online at YMCALincoln.org and includes a t-shirt with the race fee. One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the YMCA of Lincoln has served the community for over 150 years—promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind and body for all. For more information, visit YMCALincoln.org.

tabitha hospice | A Collaboration with immanuel receives Gold seal Accreditation

Tabitha Hospice | A Collaboration with Immanuel, based in the Omaha area, has earned the Accreditation Commission for Health Care’s (ACHC) official gold seal.

This achievement represents the exceptional quality and value that Tabitha Hospice offers to its clients and their families. Receiving accreditation not only means that Tabitha meets and exceeds standards for quality of care, but also recognizes the compassion, commitment and excellence exhibited by members of Tabitha’s team.

Tabitha and Immanuel entered into a joint venture in 2021 to provide Tabitha Hospice services to Immanuel living communities and the Omaha area, with additional plans to expand into Tabitha Home Health Care in the future. Through this collaboration, Tabitha Hospice has already made an impact on clients and their families through renowned end-of-life care options.

“Our Tabitha and Immanuel collaboration team is honored and grateful to receive hospice accreditation through ACHC,” said Tabitha President and CEO Christie Hinrichs. “Tabitha Hospice provides life-affirming care that gives clients respect, dignity and choice in their end-of-life journey. Being able to meet clients wherever they call home offers a familiar environment to live out the rest of their days comfortably and with the ability to continue making memories with their loved ones.”

Supporting families since 1886 across Nebraska, Tabitha offers a range of services, from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home home health care, innovative living communities, resourceful serious illness support and compassionate hospice services. Tabitha is Your Answer; learn more at Tabitha.org.

registration open for American heart Association’s Lincoln heart Walk August 19

Now is the time to register to participate in the American Heart Association’s 2023 Lincoln Heart Walk, set for Saturday, August 19. The walk is taking place at Antelope Park at 9 a.m. Check-in is at Auld Pavilion building anytime between 9 – 10 a.m., with early check-in beginning at 8:30 a.m. Available routes include one-mile and three-mile options. American Heart Association is excited to host their walk in-person for the first time in two years with a few changes to ensure the safety of all participants.

If you’re looking for a great way to socially connect and engage in physical activity, Heart Walk is the event for you – and you’ll be making a great impact in the community and saving lives! American Heart Association has set a goal of $85,000 in donations for the event. Check their progress and register for the event at www.lincolnheartwalk.com.

The American Heart Association’s mission is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. To achieve this, they work by driving equitable health impact in our communities. Every person deserves the opportunity for a full, healthy life. As champions for health equity, the American Heart Association will advance cardiovascular health for all, including identifying and removing barriers to health care access and quality. For more information, visit www.heart.org. For further questions about the event, contact Luke Allmon at (402) 810-6844 / luke.allmon@heart.org.

nebraska statewide Arboretum Announces June plant sale schedule

The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum (NSA) will offer several plant sales open to the public in June in Lincoln, Bellevue and Gretna. Native plants well-suited to Nebraska’s climate and growing conditions will be available, including trees, shrubs and perennials. All sales will be held at the NSA Greenhouse, located on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus, 2150 N. 38th St. in Lincoln unless otherwise noted.

The plant sale schedule is as follows:

UNL’s East Campus:

• Friday, June 2 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

• Friday, June 23 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Omaha:

• Saturday, June 17 from 9 a.m. to noon at Camp Brewster, Fontenelle Forest, 1313 Bellevue Blvd. North in Bellevue.

• Saturday, June 24, Pollinator Party & Mini Plant Sale, Schramm Education Center, 21502 West Highway 31, Gretna.

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 individuals as well as the larger environment. To learn more, visit plantnebraska.org or contact the Arboretum staff at (402) 472-2971 / arboretum@unl.edu.

The J stands for June bugs. We see a lot of them this time of year. And moths, flies, mosquitoes, grasshoppers and a swarm of other bugs stuck to headlights, windshields, grills and mirrors. The protein these bugs leave behind can damage your clear coat if not taken care of. That’s why every wash at JetSplash comes with our 100% Bug-Free Guarantee.

Just another thing we do differently.

Child saving institute Brings Back touch-Atruck september 9

After taking a few years off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Child Saving Institute (CSI) is thrilled to bring back its free community event, Touch-A-Truck. Touch-A-Truck is scheduled for Saturday, September 9, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the MunroeMeyer Institute parking lot on 69th and Pine Street in Omaha.

The free, fun-filled day for families includes activities for all ages, mobility and sensory needs. Kids and families will be able to see, touch and climb on trucks of all kinds. There will also be bounce houses, face painting, sensory stations, music and more!

Are you interested in joining this event by bringing a truck, sponsoring, volunteering or attending? Reach out to Development Manager Aly Goedeken at agoedeken@childsaving.org for more information or visit childsaving.org. You can also follow CSI on social media to stay up to date.

Child Saving Institute is dedicated to preventing, intervening and healing child abuse, neglect and trauma. For 131 years, CSI has been “responding to the cry of a child” and meeting the changing needs of metro area children. CSI serves nearly 3,000 children and families each year. To learn more about CSI and the programs and services offered, please visit childsaving.org or follow CSI on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Brain injury Alliance of nebraska seeks speakers for Annual Conference

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska is now accepting speaking proposals for the 2024 Nebraska Brain Injury Conference held on March 14 and 15, 2024. In addition to showcasing their research and expertise, speakers will have the opportunity to connect with a broad audience of professionals, organizations and individuals living with a brain injury that stand to benefit from their expertise.

Themes and topics of interest for the 2024 Nebraska Brain Injury Conference include but are not limited to:

• Research and innovations in the field of acquired brain injury

• Precision medicine and brain injury

• Assistive technology for brain injury (apps, programs, devices, practical demonstrations, etc.)

• Educational supports for brain injury (all levels - elementary through post-secondary)

• Brain injury treatment and rehabilitation theories, methodologies or strategies

• Veteran-specific treatments, programs, research or care/case management strategies

• Inspirational stories and lived experiences with brain injury

Speakers are encouraged to consider innovative ideas and approaches that provide new ways of thinking about an old issue or current trends in the topic areas.

The full information on the 2024 Nebraska Brain Injury Conference and instructions on how to submit speaking proposals can be found at biane. org/2024-conference/call-for-speakers.html.

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

Community Action head start Celebrates teacher Appreciation Week

Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties celebrated Head Start and Early Head Start teachers in May for National Teacher Appreciation Week. Community Action Head Start teachers show up every day to provide a safe, consistent and fun learning environment for 493 children across Community Action’s service area.

Children enrolled in Community Action’s Head Start program live at or below 100% of the poverty level and many face additional challenges such as homelessness or disability. Teachers are a familiar and kind face that families know they can depend on, and Community Action acknowledges the many efforts that teachers make to provide the best experience for the students in their classroom.

“We see every day how vital the role of a teacher is in the life of a child,” said Director of Early Head Start and Head Start Jill Bomberger. “I’m so grateful for our team of talented teachers who use their passion for early childhood education to positively impact each child’s growth and development.”

Community Action’s mission is to empower people living in poverty to reach economic stability. Its programs and services address the causes and conditions of poverty in four impact areas: early childhood education, homelessness prevention, financial and family well-being and hunger relief and healthy food access. You can learn more about Community Action Head Start and Early Head Start or about becoming a teacher at www.communityactionatwork.org.

Wingstop Bolsters Lincoln teammates mentor training

Lincoln TeamMates applauds local restaurants who partner to spread the passion for mentoring young people. WingStop of Lincoln is one great partner.

“WingStop is a big hit with our mentors in training,” said Lincoln TeamMates trainer, Christine Davis. A whopping 62 volunteers from the community attended WingStopsponsored evening trainings, sometimes the only time of day when training is feasible for them. With WingStop on the table, 94% of those who register show up. “That matters,” Davis continues, “because full trainings mean we can serve more young people sooner.”

Lincoln TeamMates Coordinator Jim Bennett found working with the WingStop store managers especially positive, “I want to compliment the staff and store manager at the 5001 O Street location. They were amazing to work with and made us feel like VIPs every time.”

Just as WingStop gives trainings a big lift, good food is critical to many of TeamMates’ life-blood events. TeamMates holds a Spring Celebration in May, Senior Mentor Breakfast in June, Fall Kickoff in August, Connection Academies each semester and Winter Recognition in January. Each of these events includes food and brings joy and inspiration to young people and those who support them.

Please consider your own ability to mentor or that of someone you know. Applications are easy to complete at LincolnTeamMates.org

TeamMates would love to partner with other hospitality/foodbased businesses. It’s a win-win to serve the community and promote your business. Lincoln TeamMates Coordinator, Jim Bennett, would love to talk with you about the possibilities. Please contact him at jbennett@lps.org or 402-436-1990.

friendship home Calls on Community for summer needs

With warmer weather and school ending for the summer, the needs at Friendship Home are changing. During the summer months, the families they serve can spend more time together and more time outdoors. Friendship Home’s hope is these families can fully enjoy their summers and time together, and in doing so, they would like to reach out to the community to make that happen.

Some of the summer needs include but aren’t limited to sunscreen, bug spray, outdoor games, beach towels and water balloons. They also include activities families can experience and have fun doing together. This can be in the form of gift cards for miniature golf, bowling, pool passes and Defy Gravity. Whatever your family likes doing together in the summer, Friendship Home families would enjoy and appreciate it.

Friendship Home is Lancaster County’s only safe, confidential emergency shelter for survivors of domestic violence and their children. Services include emergency and transitional shelters as well as supportive services through safety planning, crisis intervention, support groups and mental health counseling. To access safe shelter and services, call (402) 4379302. Learn more about Friendship Home online at friendshiphome.org.

servenebraska Calls for Commissioner Applications

ServeNebraska is currently seeking service-minded individuals to apply to become ServeNebraska Commissioners. ServeNebraska is governed by a 17-member, bipartisan board appointed by Nebraska’s governor. The Commission facilitates AmeriCorps grant funding across Nebraska and host the Governor’s Step Forward Awards for volunteerism each year.

ServeNebraska Commissioners provide leadership in furthering the mission to mobilize Nebraskans to volunteer in their communities and cultivate the culture of service that makes our state special. ServeNebraska Commissioners function as a policy setting board.

The primary areas of focus for Commissioners include:

• Resource Acquisition

• Policy and Strategic Direction

• Public Education and Promotion of Community Service and Volunteerism

• Mentoring of AmeriCorps or National Service Members

To be considered for appointment as a Commissioner, an online application must be submitted to the Governor’s office through www.governor. nebraska.gov/bc/board_comm.html.

Contact ServeNebraska Executive Director Cathleen Plager to learn more about the work of the organization and how your skills and talents could help grow their initiatives. Cathleen can be reached at cathleen.plager@ nebraska.gov or (402) 802-6865.

ServeNebraska is governed by a 17-member, bi-partisan board appointed by the governor. ServeNebraska’s mission is to mobilize Nebraskans to strengthen their communities through collaboration, volunteering and national service. ServeNebraska oversees AmeriCorps programming, hosts the state’s most prestigious volunteer awards and provides training and technical assistance to program staff throughout Nebraska. To learn more, visit www.serve.nebraska.gov.

LCf Giving Campaign raises over $667K for early Care and education

The Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) announced that its recent annual giving campaign for Lincoln Littles raised $667,400 in community support of early care and education. Launched in 2019 and inspired by the Prosper Lincoln community agenda, LCF has raised nearly $4 million in support of Lincoln Littles programs, operations and initiatives – including tuition assistance for infants, toddlers and preschoolers to attend quality early care and education programs throughout the community. Additionally, Lincoln Littles received a $300,000 Workforce Development Grant from the Nebraska Department of Labor, bringing this year’s total funding to $967,400. The grant program supports the recruitment and retention of teachers, including childcare and early childhood education providers. Lincoln Littles will use this grant funding to offer tuition assistance for those with young children who want to pursue or continue a career in early childcare.

In addition to increasing affordable childcare options for families, Lincoln Littles has expanded its work to focus on solutions to additional challenges: increasing quality in early care and education, educating and engaging businesses and the larger community, supporting workforce development in the childcare sector and influencing policies to be responsive to the needs of young children and their families.

The Lincoln Community Foundation, established in 1955, provides leadership and tools that connect donor generosity to local needs and passions. The Foundation serves as a faithful steward for many types of philanthropic gifts and helps donors create lasting legacies of giving. To learn more, visit www.lcf.org.

Christian record services Celebrates the Growth of phonefaith

Christian Record Services, Inc. is thrilled to share news about the growth of PhoneFaith as part of its outreach ministry to the blind community.

When PhoneFaith joined Christian Record Services in 2020, it had approximately 20-30 participants a month. Since that time, the program has grown, and in 2022, the monthly participants ranged from 88 to 179 participants monthly, sometimes peaking during the revivals and during other special programs with well-known presenters. Daily PhoneFaith dial-in presentations offer opportunities to inform and encourage through mental health and wellness sessions, social meet-and-greet interactions, Bible games and prayer.

PhoneFaith was started by CRS Board Member, Dr. Dexter Thomas, who is blind, as he searched for tangible ways to connect with other people who were blind or visually impaired. It continues today under the leadership of Dr. Leanora Ruff, who organizes and coordinates the volunteer hosts and presenters needed for the weekly presentations.

“It is heart-warming to observe the value of PhoneFaith to participants as they engage with others who experience a similar journey. We are grateful, with God’s guidance, to offer a way for the people we serve to connect, engage and grow,” says Diane Thurber, president of Christian Record Services, Inc.

For more information, including a sample PhoneFaith program, please visit www.PhoneFaith.org.

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.

Lincoln Children’s museum to host play, putt, pour fundraiser september 22

The Lincoln Children’s Museum is pleased to announce its upcoming fundraising event, “Play, Putt, Pour,” on Friday, September 22, at the Holmes Golf Course located at 3701 S 70th St. This event promises to be a fun-filled day of golf, games and fundraising in support of the museum’s mission to inspire children to learn through play.

The event will start with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. followed by a day of exciting activities.

Participants will have the opportunity to bid on silent auction items, enjoy games and win pin prizes. Local brewery tents will also be set up, providing a refreshing and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

To register a team of four or sponsor the event, please contact Ken Dobbs at kdobbs@lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. The winning team will receive four trophies and a cash prize of $400.

The Lincoln Children’s Museum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing children with educational and interactive experiences that encourage creativity, critical thinking and learning through play.

“Play, Putt, Pour” is an excellent opportunity to support the museum’s mission and have a great time doing it. Learn more about The Lincoln Children’s Museum at lincolnchildrensmuseum.org.

mosaic and Lincoln Chamber of Commerce to host ribbon-Cutting Ceremony June 22

Mosaic and The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce are excited to host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 22 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska, 5631 S. 48th St., STE 500 in Lincoln.

Join them to celebrate the mission of Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska. Guests have the opportunity to meet Mosaic Executive Director Nic Batterton and Associate Director Malindi Gablehouse. Refreshments will be served.

The program will feature a welcome, ambassador recognition, a message from Nic Batterton and Malindi Gablehouse and a networking reception following the official ribbon-cutting.

For more information, please contact Community Relations Manager Amber Nore at amber.nore@mosaicinfo.org.

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is Lincoln’s leading business organization, providing advocacy and connections to help businesses grow and thrive in Lincoln. They are committed to being a five-star accredited collaborative partner in Lincoln’s success as a place of endless opportunities and work closely with their partner organizations. Learn more at www.lcoc.com.

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. 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.

Jdrf sets Annual one Walk for october 1

Walk with over 5,000 people to help find a cure for type 1 diabetes (T1D) at this year’s JDRF One Walk on Sunday, October 1 at Mahoney State Park starting at 11:30 a.m. The One Walk aims to raise awareness for T1D and to fundraise to accelerate T1D research breakthroughs to cure, treat and prevent T1D and its complications.

T1D is an autoimmune disease that strikes children and adults suddenly. It has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle.

If you have T1D, your pancreas stops producing insulin—a hormone essential to turning food into energy. This means you must constantly monitor your blood-sugar level, inject or infuse insulin from a pump and carefully monitor your eating and activity every single day.

By joining the JDRF One Walk, you’ll be part of the lasting footprint JDRF will make for the T1D community now, and for generations to come. Register for the One Walk today at walk.jdrf.org/lincoln!

Questions about this event including sponsorship opportunities can be directed to Chris Dunn, associate executive director, at (402) 214-0638 / cdunn@jdrf.org.

JDRF has a mission to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications. They do this by funding innovative research, advocating for government action and providing a support structure for our community. For more information, please visit jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa or follow JDRF on Twitter (@JDRFNEIA).

Child evangelism fellowship of Lincoln to host summer experience June 26-30

Join the Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) of Lincoln this summer for their first ever Summer Experience with CEF! Specifically designed for 5th6th graders, this training will give students a sneak peek at what summer training looks like and how they can become involved with CEF to reach the children here in Nebraska. The training will take place from June 26-30 at Heartland Bible Church in Lincoln.

In this training, students will talk about the importance of sharing the Gospel with children and will equip students with some of the tools they need to effectively share the Good News, including how to share the Gospel using the Wordless Book! Packed with lessons, study/practice time, devotions, games and more, this Summer Experience week will provide students a launching pad into the ministry here at CEF and will connect them with local youth who share a passion for spreading the Gospel.

Lunch will be provided each day along with various snacks. Students will receive their very own Wordless Book and study materials to accompany the training.

To participate, the cost is $50 per student to cover needs for the week. Any questions you have may be directed to Summer Experience Director Kaylee Campbell at (402) 607-5030. You may also contact the CEF Nebraska Office at (402) 484-7877.

The Nebraska Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship is part of the world’s largest and oldest children’s youth ministry. Learn more at www.cefnebraska.org.

people’s City mission’s to hold Annual 24 -hour Gimme shelter event June 15-16

For the sixth year in a row, Pastor Tom and People City Mission (PCM) are going for 24 hours without food, sleep or shelter, advocating for the homeless. Thursday and Friday, June 15 and 16, 9 a.m. to 9 a.m., PCM staff and friends will be outside of HyVee at 84th and Holdrege. PCM is partnering with Alpha Media, and several local radio personalities will be on site throughout the event – The Eagle 92.9, Kx96.9, Mix103.3, 104.1 The Blaze and KFOR.

The theme of the event is Hawaiian! Pastor Tom is known for his iconic Hawaiian shirts and the shaka hand sign used to express friendship, gratitude, goodwill, encouragement and unity – all things PCM hopes to encourage in the community. They invite everyone in the to come by and visit with Pastor Tom for a photo and a chat. Donations of water will be encouraged and accepted on site.

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 house 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.

nebraska safety Council providing multiple Learning options for teen drivers

The Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) has expanded their teen driver education program to offer inperson, online and online via Google Classroom courses. Several students now participate in hybrid courses. The flexibility of options allows students to participate and learn in an environment that works best for them.

“Our goal is to provide a strong foundation for teens by providing education and resources to make them safe drivers. Our course emphasizes the importance of distracted-free driving, how to be a defensive driver and why it is crucial to pay attention to signs to avoid speeding and other hazards,” explained NESC Traffic Services Manager Tracy Burmeister. “Parents play a very important role in providing additional behind the wheel drive time. We look forward to partnering with families in the community to help make Nebraska roads safe!” Each course provides 20 hours of in-person classroom or online training, five hours of hands-on driving, five hours of observation and a 30-minute behind the wheel drive test. When behind the wheel, they will cover highway/gravel, parallel/perpendicular/angle parking, marked and unmarked streets/intersections, interstate driving, heavy and city-traffic driving.

The newest offering is a one week class via Google Classroom. This is a hybrid class that allows students the flexibility to work at their own pace with instructor support, have access to an easy-to-use app compatible with mobile devices and virtual office hours for extra one-on-one support with the instructor.

Registration for summer classes is open! Lincoln courses are offered June 12-15, June 19-22, June 26-29, July 17-20 and 24-27. Interested families can register for a teen driver education course on nesafetycouncil.org.

To learn more about The Nebraska Safety Council or to sign up for membership today, visit nesafetycouncil.org, call (402) 483-2511, or email nesc@nesafetycouncil.org.

AidingAngelstoHost14thAnnualGolfingfor a reason fundraiserAugust26

Aiding Angels is gearing up for the 14th annual Golfing for a Reason Fundraiser on Saturday, August 26 at the Highlands Golf Course. The tournament supports the Aiding Angels Foundation.

The registration deadline is August 14. Registration is $125 per person and $500 for a team. This includes green fees, carts, a gift, dinner and a giveaway. If you register after the deadline, prices are $130 per person and $520 per team. To register and/or be a sponsor, send your registration along with payment to: Aiding Angels, 1101 Arapahoe St., STE 104, Lincoln, NE 68502. If you would like to pay by credit card, please call (402) 434-2472

Sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple price points. For more information or questions call Brenda at (402) 730-6244, LuAnn at (402) 430-7975, Maid To Please at (402) 434-2472 or visit www.aidingangels.com.

Aiding Angels is a local, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing free, professional house cleaning to the cancer heroes in our community during one of the most stressful times of their lives. A clean home and environment contributes to the welfare and recovery of patients. All that is needed is a note provided by the doctor’s office stating the individual is going through cancer treatment. It is not cancer specific or financial-need based. For more information, go to www.aidingangels. com or call (402) 434-2472.

Lincoln City Libraries promotes summer reading program

Lincoln City Libraries invites children and adults to participate in the 2023 Summer Reading Challenge. Registration began May 26, but it’s not too late to join the fun!

The Summer Reading Challenge typically involves over 15,000 children, teens and adults. Each person who registers earns a free ticket to a Saltdogs game on Friday, June 9. The program rules are simple and easy to complete:

• Read for a total of ten hours

• Visit the library of your choice four times

• Complete eight reading activities

Everyone who completes the challenge gets a ticket to the July 31 Summer Reading Challenge Recognition Night Saltdogs game and a coupon sheet for free and reduced-price food, as well as a chance to win prize packages donated from community partners, such as restaurants, book stores, coffee shops and more. To register and for a complete list of prizes and partners, please visit your nearest branch library or go to www.lincolnlibraries.org.

Research has shown that reading in the summer months helps children return to school better prepared to learn in the fall. Teens and adults have more time to read in the summer and pursue their interests and goals. Reading aloud also creates strong bonds within the family and groups of friends, so invite your friends and family to join you!

The Foundation for Lincoln City Libraries provides annual support for the programs and services provided to Lincoln residents through Lincoln City Libraries. For more information to donate or volunteer, please visit foundationforlcl.org, email foundationforlcl@gmail.com or call (402) 441-0164.

rejuvenating Women to host happy hour fundraiser on June 10

Join Rejuvenating Women at GL Lounge for a happy hour fundraiser from 3 – 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 10. The event has an admission fee of $25 as well as drink tickets, appetizers, live music and raffle prizes.

Rejuvenating Women is a nonprofit organization committed to providing hope, support, protection and restoration to individuals who have been trafficked and sexually exploited in Nebraska as well as throughout the country. They help survivors lead healthy and independent lives by empowering them with trauma-informed short and long-term housing recovery programs that help restore their physical, emotional and spiritual health. Rejuvenating Women also assists in the prevention of future human trafficking. Their goal is to further their reach to include children experiencing human trafficking and sexual exploitation as well as children in need of specialized care, compassion and a safe and secure environment in which they can receive love and understanding.

Raising awareness in Omaha and surrounding communities is extremely important to Rejuvenating Women. Their team of dedicated staff and volunteers invest in the lives of each individual they assist. Believing in a multidisciplinary team approach tailored for each situation, their integrated curriculum and trauma informed approach honors diversity in perspectives and experiences.

Rejuvenating Women hopes to see you at the happy hour fundraising event to show support and raise awareness for human trafficking and exploitation. For more information about Rejuvenating Women, visit rejuvenatingwomen.org or call (800) 402-0601.

Lincoln CBmC’s 22nd Annual Golf Classic tees up at Wilderness ridge on July 31

The 22nd Annual Lincoln CBMC Golf Classic is set for Monday, July 31 at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course. Each year this event attracts more than 100 golfers who enjoy golfing at one of Nebraska’s premier, private courses, while also supporting the ministry of Lincoln CBMC.

After golfer check-in, the event starts with a breakfast featuring guest speaker Ken Korkow. Ken was raised in a ranching and rodeo family and entered the Marine Corps when he was 18. He lived through the 77-day siege of Khe Sanh, the longest and most deadly battle of the Vietnam War. In 1984, Ken became the first Area Director for CBMC Heartland and continues to serve in this role in the Omaha metro area.

Sponsorships of many levels are available to businesses and individuals to help impact the Lincoln community by supporting the ministry of Lincoln CBMC. Sponsors also receive visibility for their business and excellent exposure as a supporter of the event and the community. Go to lincoln. cbmc.com/golf-classic or call (402) 204-1997 for information or to register, become a sponsor or donate a raffle or silent auction item.

CBMC equips men in the marketplace to grow personally, professionally and spiritually. CBMC offers Christian peer advisory groups for business owners and leaders, young professionals groups, one-on-one mentoring, Bible studies, leadership development and events. Information about CBMC can be found at lincoln.cbmc.com or connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne).

Leadership harbor foundation promotes CALm suicideandBullying prevention training

The Leadership Harbor Foundation takes great pride in providing resources for those in the community to learn and grow as individuals and organizations. As part of this, they provide CALM Suicide and Bullying Prevention training for schools, businesses, churches and any other groups that are interested in learning. Recently, they have been using CALM training to train over 783 students in Monticello, MN as of June 1. With the suicides and bullying in Lincoln alone, what could happen if more people were aware of the potential to prevent it in our community? If someone is interested in bringing the CALM program into a local school, church or club, we’d love to have a conversation.

CALM Workshop Training is appropriate for youth and 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. Their goal is to connect you with the tools and resources to get help in times of need.

Leadership Harbor Foundation speakers and trainers provide CALM at no charge. They are able to do this through the generosity of Individuals and businesses that care. These are incredible life skills to gain.

The Leadership Harbor Foundation enhances Leadership Harbor through a partnership that allows their team to add value to, serve and recognize in five distinct areas: CALM Suicide and Bullying Awareness Prevention; Veterans; Youth Leadership; Education; and Scholarship. Learn more at leadershipharbor.com/foundation.

i’ve Got A name seeks sponsorshipsfor Connect to protect Conference

I’ve Got A Name is a local nonprofit that is leading the fight against sex trafficking through street outreach, where they personally connect with women and girls who are entangled in this injustice… some as young as 10 years old.

On Saturday, August 5, the organization will host its Connect to Protect Conference – the first local conference to specifically address sex trafficking in Lincoln!

I’ve Got A Name is calling on the Lincoln business community to help protect youth against this injustice by sponsoring this critical event! The conference will increase awareness and equip parents, businesses, organizations and all other sectors of the community to prevent and protect Lincoln’s youth.

The organization is providing several sponsorship levels so any business, small or large, can take a stand against this injustice. All sponsors will be recognized for their partnership at the conference.

Your support has the power to save young lives, and the Connect to Protect Conference will do just that! From now until July 1, businesses can become a sponsor by visiting ivegotaname.org/sponsor.

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 about their mission to protect, rescue and restore, visit ivegotaname.org.

heartland Cancer foundation seeks impact partners to supportCancer patientsYear-Long

The Heartland Cancer Foundation (HCF) offers an Annual Impact Partnership program that allows individuals and businesses to invest in their mission throughout the year. The foundation aims to provide immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients, ensuring they can focus on their healing without worrying about expenses. Impact Partners have the opportunity to maximize their philanthropic efforts and time by supporting the foundation once a year during the renewal period.

As an Impact Partner, supporters gain visibility at the foundation's signature events, including the Mardi Gras Gala, Heartland Golf Classic and Oncology Symposium. HCF will work with you to create a customized recognition and participation plan including event tickets and recognition at all events, across all social media platforms, on the foundation's website and in email newsletters.

Furthermore, the Heartland Cancer Foundation is a qualified 501(c) (3) tax-exempt organization, meaning Impact Partnership investments are tax-deductible charitable contributions. This offers an additional incentive for individuals and businesses to participate.

In summary, the Heartland Cancer Foundation's Annual Impact Partnership program provides a unique opportunity to invest in their mission. By becoming an Impact Partner, supporters contribute to the immediate financial assistance of cancer patients while gaining visibility and networking opportunities. Together, as Impact Partners, we can create a community where cancer patients receive the necessary support to focus on their healing and well-being.

To learn more, contact Chris Blum at chris@heartlandcancerfoundation. org or go to heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

hopespoke’sGourmetComfortClassic raises $72K to provide Youth mental health services

Supporters of mental health services for children and families joined HopeSpoke on May 5 for the annual Gourmet Comfort Classic, raising more than $72,000 to support the agency’s mission to “inspire healthy futures for children and their families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services.”

HopeSpoke thanks participating chefs from Billy’s, Chez Hay, Doorstep Diner, Mary Ellen’s and Venue, with Mary Ellen’s winning the crowd vote for Best Latin Inspired Comfort Food.

HopeSpoke honored Annette Dubas, executive director of the Nebraska Association of Behavioral Health Organizations, with the Leader in Mental Health Award, and Lincoln Pediatric Dentistry as Volunteers of the Year.

HopeSpoke is grateful for support from Benefactor Sponsor, Union Bank & Trust; Visionary Sponsors, ABC Electric and Chateau Development; Champion Sponsor, Healthy Blue Nebraska; and Advocacy Sponsors, ALLO, Ameritas, Regan Anson, Assurity, Brester Construction, Bryan Health, CFO Systems, Cline Williams, Complete Children’s Health, Korby Gilbertson Munger, the McLeese family, MilliCare, Nebraska Total Care, Pinnacle Bank, Megan and Curt Ruwe, Servicemaster, Sinclair Hille, Soarin Group and UNICO Group.

HopeSpoke helps vulnerable children and families in need of behavioral and mental health treatment. Last year, more than 1,000 children and teens found help at HopeSpoke, from outpatient therapy to school-based services, crisis response programs and extended day treatment. For more information about HopeSpoke or to support mental health for youth in our community, visit www.hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666.

epilepsy foundation to host epilepsy nightat Werner park June 15

The Epilepsy Foundation is excited to be hosting Epilepsy Night at Warner Park as an evening to celebrate the community, raise awareness for this challenging diagnosis and shine a light on the need for Seizure First Aid for the one in ten people who will have a seizure in their lifetime. The event is set for Thursday, June 15 at 7:05 p.m. This local event is a fun, family-friendly event where The Epilepsy Foundation and guests can advocate and raise awareness for those in our community, including our friends and family, who struggle daily with seizures. Tickets are free to those who register. Registration can be found here: bit.ly/3K6dM0e. Any additional questions can be directed to Samantha Tena-Morales at stenamorales@efa.org.

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

humanities nebraska Awards over $144K in Grants

Humanities Nebraska (HN) is proud to announce that they have awarded Omaha nonprofit organizations with numerous scholarships.

• African Culture Connection was awarded $5,715 to help support summer enrichment programs.

• Circle Theatre was awarded $1,000 supporting “The Tales of Chelm.”

• Great Plains Theatre Commons was awarded $5,000 to help fund the 2023 New Play Conference.

• Kindair at the Benson Theatre was awarded $728 in support of the spring edition of “Conversations withMichelle Troxclair” and $700 for a related DEIA workshop.

• Nebraska Poetry Society was awarded $800 for Spring 2023 events, $1,400 for Fall 2023 events and $718 to help fund the 2023 reading series.

• Partners for Livable Omaha was awarded $2,000 supporting “Friction, Feedback, and Failure: A Brief History of Noise Music” discussion & the Noisefest event.

• Together We Achieve Miracles, Inc was awarded $1,000 for multimedia equipment.

• Tri-Faith Initiative was awarded $5,000 for their 2023 Race, Religion and Social Justice Conference.

• University of Nebraska at Omaha Board of Regents was awarded $2,000 for “Making Barlaam & Josaphat,” $2,000 in support of “Nobody’s Listening” and $2,000 for the Winchell Lecture with Kathleen Belew.

Humanities Nebraska is a statewide nonprofit that is celebrating 50 years of helping people explore what connects us and makes us human. HN is funded in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities, an appropriation from the Nebraska Legislature, private donations and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Visit humanitiesnebraska.org for more information.

American red Cross Celebrates military Appreciation month in may

The American Red Cross provides support to our U.S. military community at every step of their career — from the time a service member takes their oath to navigating life as a Veteran and each event in between. You can find American Red Cross support of military communities across the globe at military hospitals, on installations locally and overseas and through local chapter offices in every state. Throughout the month of May, the American Red Cross invited people around the country to turn ‘Thank you for your service’ into action. For those with a military background or just a heart for military and Veteran communities, opportunities to volunteer and support were also available. “Oftentimes when military families go through a crisis, they are separated from their families and their support systems,” said Michael Jordan, president, Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces & International Services. “Red Cross volunteers make a huge difference in the lives of military families through emergency relief, comfort and care during the most harrowing of times.”

Over the last year, the Red Cross provided more than 19,000 military families with support through Resiliency Workshops. Visit www.redcross.org/saf for full information about programs that support military communities.

Turn your appreciation into action by volunteering with the Red Cross today. To learn more, visit redcross.org/volunteer or contact your local Red Cross chapter to learn about open availabilities.

For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

At ease UsA highlights ptsd Awareness month

To raise awareness to the impact of PTSD on our military and medical heroes, At Ease USA (AEU) is hosting a 5K Fun Run on June 24. AEU is also undertaking a yard sign campaign. If you would like to help raise awareness, please request a sign at ateaseusa.org/yard-signs.

Post-Traumatic Stress is a mental health condition that develops as a fear response to a shocking, scary or dangerous event. Symptoms of PTSD include intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. Symptoms interfere with a person’s ability to function, and many people living with PTSD are unable to work. PTSD presents differently from person to person and symptoms may evolve. People who experience PTSD are at higher risk for developing depression, drug addiction, alcohol abuse and eating disorders and are at higher risk for suicide.

At Ease USA removes barriers and offers person-centered behavioral health services through an in-house clinical director and a diverse Preferred Provider Network of culturally sensitive, licensed mental health professionals who are trained in PTSD treatment. AEU utilizes many approaches, including family and couple’s therapy, one-to-one peer support, yoga and group and one-on-one therapy, to address PTSD.

At Ease USA is committed to providing access to confidential trauma treatment to active military, Veterans and their loved ones suffering from PTSD. For more information, contact Beth Kramer at beth@ateaseusa. org or (531) 247-4040, or go to www.ateaseusa.org.

A Q&A with Access Family Medicine...

What is Access Family Medicine?

Access Family Medicine is Lincoln’s first Direct Primary Care clinic. They provide tailored care around giving you more access to your physician without the hassles of a traditional medical practice. It is our pursuit to create the most individualized care imaginable — uniquely centered on you, the patient. Our number one priority is helping prevent, diagnose and treat your health issues with affordable solutions that work best for your life.

What sets Access Family Medicine apart from other practices?

We have shrugged the bureaucracy. We have shredded red tape. In refusing to recognize any interference with the sanctity of the patient/physician relationship, we have returned family practice medicine to its root values of clinical excellence for and compassionate knowledge of every patient. In every aspect of family health care and custom health care, we promise accessibility, convenience, and affordability.

Will I have to pay a fee for my office visits?

No. Your membership covers all of your office visits. There is no copay. The only additional fees you may need to pay are for wholesale and discounted labs, meds, incidental procedures or imaging.

Does Access Family Medicine accept health insurance?

No. Happily, no.

Perhaps the most critical distinction in their model of care centers on a direct, personal relationship between you and your doctor. That directness carries over to their business model as well. While the tender mercies of an insurance company might apply to the fixing of a damaged fender on your automobile, we see no reason for any insurer to have a voice about either the quality or the cost of your family’s health care.

We forgo insurance payments in order to save our patients from the arbitrary, intrusive decisions that inevitably follow with third-party payors. Furthermore, this direct fee-for-services arrangement frees us from the typical contractual agreements that prevent physicians from offering wholesale prices on laboratory tests, imaging, and medications.

Can children become members of Access Family Medicine?

Yes. We are happy to accept the children (birth to 20 years of age) of our enrolled clients. Non-members can still enroll their children for $50/month

What makes this better for people?

Our physicians are not paid per appointment. This frees them to spend more time with you. When physicians are rushed to go from patient to patient, that pressure can prevent good listening, which is required for accurate diagnosing and development of a treatment plan that is best for you. Ultimately, your physician can give you better care, leading to you saving time and money.

Last month recap

May has flown by and we are heading straight into summer. We can hardly believe how fast this year is going by. We had a wonderful month at our networking events and thank you to those of you who were able to join us.

Friends4Lunch brought us to Tipsy Tina's Taco Cantina for fresh margaritas and tacos. The atmosphere of Tipsy's is so welcoming, we always have the best experience there. Not only is their staff amazing, but the whole place is just bursting with positive energy. Our favorite appetizer here at SB are the quesadilla bites and the queso - of course you have to add chorizo!

We had Friends4Drinks at the From Nebraska Gift Shop tasting room for some amazing James Arthur Vineyards wines. The staff whipped up some amazing spinach and artichoke dip and we sipped on some lovely wines like Horizon, a refreshing sparkling rosé that is as smooth as it sounds. We always have a great time visiting with Jim Ballard, owner of James Arthur Vineyards, and his staff's hospitality never goes unnoticed.

In June, we are ONLY hosting Friends4Lunch! With summer starting and schedules beginning to quickly fill up, we wanted to give ourselves some time to relax. Don't worry, Friends4Drinks will be back in July, so stay tuned into our social media to see where we'll be next.

Friends4Lunch is still in full swing and we'll be meeting at Vic's Pizza on June 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vic's Pizza is located at 8340 Glynoaks Dr. STE 100. We've been here before and can't get enough of that Nebraska Pizza Massacre! Something about the peanut butter sauce, corn bread streusel and sweet potatoes fries on a pizza keep bringing us in. Please join us and bring a friend.

As always, these events are free to you – you only pay for what you order! We love hosting these networking events where business professionals of Lincoln are always making new connections. We're grateful for the opportunity to host alongside our amazing clients. If you have any questions, reach out to cemre@strictlybusinessomaha. com / (402) 466-3330.

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.

North Risk Partners specializes in strategic insurance solutions for businesses and individuals. They are committed to helping clients face risk head-on with right-fit insurance coverage and attention to opportunities for preventing avoidable losses. For businesses, they offer programming and compliance support in the areas of HR, safety, worksite wellness, and more

Established as Benefit Professionals, Inc. in 1989, they later joined North Risk Partners in 2018 as a means of growing their client services. Since then, they have been able to do so much more to help businesses face the complex risks that inevitably come with being an employer.

Busi N esses

e mployee Benefits

At North Risk Partners, they focus on cost containment and managing risk. Whether your organization is small, large, or growing, their team has the knowledge and resources to support you in nearly all aspects of your employee benefits program. They value creating a foundation of trust in our relationships to make way for honest and challenging discussion, commitment and accountability; and they believe developing these characteristics within themselves, their teams and with clients and partners leads to achieving and celebrating amazing results.

Commercial i nsurance

Your business faces many threats—from natural disasters and data breaches to other risks specific to your industry or company. North Risk Partners helps organizations large and small face risk head-on.

s urety Bonds

North Risk Partners takes a common-sense approach to bond underwriting. Experience and quality relationships with surety companies gives them the best platform to serve your bonding needs.

i N dividuals a N d families

Home, a uto and m ore

North Risk Partners’ large network of carrier partners allows them to match you with the optimal coverage for your situation.

Health and l ife

As a client of North Risk Partners, you and your family benefit from non-biased, personalized advice on health insurance plans, including Medicare, cost and more.

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Whether you run a hobby farm or a full-time operation, their professionals across the Midwest understand your needs and the complexities of insuring a farm that may also be your home.

by Jason Ball president

Anticipation is Building for the Guardians of freedom Airshow

The summer of 2023 will be a big one for Lincoln. With an impressive list of community events on the horizon, our team is anxiously preparing to welcome thousands of visitors to our community, and we are incredibly excited to be partnering with the 155th Air Refueling Wing of the Nebraska Air National Guard, the 55th Wing at Offutt Air Force Base, the Lincoln Airport Authority and the City of Lincoln to host the highly anticipated Guardians of Freedom Airshow August 26 – 27 at the Lincoln Airport.

With a strong history of hosting successful air shows dating back nearly 30 years, this year’s family-friendly event is shaping up to be another incredible milestone event for our community and for the region. The Guardians of Freedom airshow is expected to welcome over 250,000 visitors to Lincoln, which will have an immense impact on our local economy. It is also the first Lincoln airshow hosted in partnership with the 55th Wing of Offutt Air Force Base. This new partnership represents our community’s strong support and celebration of our flying forces, and the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is proud to play a key role in the planning and hosting of this year’s event.

We are also excited to announce new, elevated experiences and opportunities at the airshow. In addition to the highly anticipated headlining act, the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels, the Guardians of Freedom Airshow will also offer unique first-class performers, stunts, exhibits and displays. In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Nebraska National Guard’s partnership program, members of the Czech Republic’s military will play a special role in the opening ceremonies, including their parachute team and honor guard. Premium seating will be available for purchase soon on our website at lincolnairshow.com. This is the first year we are offering this exclusive experience, which will be an incredible new benefit for spectators and provide additional enjoyment for such an amazing event. Opportunities still exist for businesses to participate in our Airshow Corporate Partnership Program, offering exclusive airshow marketing opportunities and a platform to provide hospitality to customers, clients and employees while supporting a premier community event that will have a substantial impact on both Lincoln and the entire state. Exhibitor booths are also available, providing consumer market based companies the opportunity to sell and promote their products and services or provide information about their organization to spectators. To learn more about our unique volunteer, exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities, contact Derek Feyerherm at dfeyerherm@lcoc.com.

We look forward to welcoming you to one of the Midwest’s premier aviation events this summer and hope you will join us in our support of the Nebraska Air National Guard, the Nebraska Military Department and the 55th Wing. Thank you to the growing list of incredible community and business supporters that all play a vital role in the success of this impactful, anticipated event. Visit our website, lincolnairshow.com, and follow our social media for ongoing updates and important information as the airshow approaches. We look forward to seeing you in August.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank

“Personal Banking Like You Remember”

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank has been providing Nebraskans with personal banking solutions since 1906. They believe that everyone deserves to save and achieve their dreams.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is dedicated to providing Personal Banking Like You Remember. This means putting you first.

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Small Business checking and savings solutions that feature multiple account users, convenient features like Bill Pay, and low fees.

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Your home is your biggest asset! Their home mortgage experts will help you on your journey with loan products to fit your unique situation. Offering conventional, NIFA, VA, USDA, FHA, and jumbo financing.

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If you are an investor or entrepreneur looking for a commercial real estate loan, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank can assist you with purchasing, building or refinancing.

- James G., Customer

doWntoWn LinCoLn AssoCiAtion

by Todd Ogden, president

(402) 434-6900

• downtownlincoln.org

top 5 Liminal spaces of downtown Lincoln

With dimly lit staircases and winding hallways that feel stuck in time, Downtown Lincoln has a lot of spaces that are perfect for an adventure during the spookiest month of the year.

A liminal space is a location that is a transition between two other locations or states of being. They can be abandoned, oftentimes empty. Think of the Skywalks or an apartment lobby at 4 a.m. This makes it feel frozen, slightly unsettling, but still familiar to our lives.

Here are the top five places in Downtown Lincoln that show the liminal space aesthetic is the perfect one for Halloween.

5. US Bank Building – The occasional water-stained carpet makes the spaces feel more real and less dreamlike. Still, with its empty walls, you can’t help but feel there is something lurking outside the halls. A zigzag-y hallway in the depths of the US Bank Building, fit with a small foot-tall outpost.

4. Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel – The consistent patterns of the green railing and the brick walls feel untouched by humanity. Everything inside feels like a repeating pattern that could be a location in a video game. The Cornhusker Hotel provides an industrial color scheme that allows the architecture of the building to stand out. Tall brick pillar-like walls contrast the blue-green stair railing inside the Cornhusker Hotel.

3. Skywalks of Downtown Lincoln – The Skywalks of Downtown Lincoln feel futuristic or like a fever dream. A hallway floating in between two buildings allows you to look out onto the street while staying out of the elements. These skywalks provide an ominous feeling with their repeated window paneling.

2. M Street Parking Garage – This space feels like it is pulled straight out of a zombie apocalypse. The unkept interior makes it appear forgotten, and the facade could use a touch-up, but it feels more appropriate just the way it is. Down into the parking garage where the light is dim, who knows what is lurking. And lastly…

1. Atrium Building – This is the most liminal space in Downtown Lincoln. The inside feels untouched by humanity and the feels like a perfect parallel scene with small touches that make it feel more like a place where people work. The escalators perfectly frame the interior of the Atrium Building, creating a calming atmosphere while making your stomach flop because something is missing.

At the top of the escalators in the Atrium Building, the sun shining through the windows brightens the space.

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

Celebrating 45 Years of Dining Excellence at daVinci’s!

It’s daVinci’s 45th Anniversary!

Like the painter Leonardo daVinci, we strive for excellence in everything – our food, our service and our restaurant environments. It’s been the philosophy the Knudson family has shared since we opened our first restaurant in 1978.

In 1977 Kal Knudson, a husband, father of six and an ordained minister along with his wife, Darlene decided they needed something to bring their family together and give them a common goal. One day Kal and Darlene called their kids and asked them all to come home and help set up a family business. To turn this dream into a reality Kal took a leave of absence from his church, Darlene gave up her teaching career and sons, Kent and Kevin left jobs in Illinois. After intense restaurant training the Knudson family opened their first restaurant in April of 1978 – Pontillo’s Pizzeria, located at 13th & Q in downtown Lincoln. They did most of the work remodeling and mechanical construction themselves, turning the little building into a comfortable place to visit.

Pontillo’s Pizzeria was the beginning of a growing restaurant business that would provide not only an occupational livelihood for the family, but a source of unity as well. Kelly and Randy continue to oversee daVinci’s five Lincoln locations.

Over the last 45 years we’ve strived to provide a variety of delicious food that starts with the finest and freshest ingredients. All our meats are chosen based on their quality and flavor, and we use 100% real mozzarella. Our Italian bread is baked fresh, we use only fresh vegetables, and we make our pizza dough from scratch daily. Our alfredo sauce, marinara sauce, and chili are homemade and developed using our family recipes. We do all of this because we think you deserve the best.

Thank you, Lincoln, for continued support! We wouldn’t be able to continue without your patronage and we don’t take that for granted. We are so thankful for you!

All five daVinci’s locations are located in Lincoln.

4344 O Street

4120 S 48th

745 S 11th

2650 Superior

2901 Pine Lake Rd Ste G

by Bud Synhorst, president

taxes, taxes, taxes…

Local political subdivisions are preparing or have already begun their budget processes. This means our focus has been watching what is happening with our taxes in Lincoln and Lancaster County. We pay several different taxes here in Lincoln – property taxes, sales taxes, wheel taxes and more. Now that these groups will be entering into budget season, we the citizens must stay informed and be in touch with our elected officials to have conversations about their budgets and taxes.

You will often hear our local political subdivisions make statements like, “we kept the property tax levy rate the same,” which is sometimes interpreted as “holding the line on property taxes.” However, the devil is in the details. With skyrocketing property valuations in Lincoln and Lancaster County, keeping the property tax levy rate the same means you are paying more in property taxes every time your valuation increases.

When preliminary valuations were sent out earlier this year, property owners received quite an eye-opening with their new valuations. LIBA members from across the county have shared their increases – 10%, 20%, 30+% or they share their values are going up on some cases over $100,000. Now, understand, if your valuation is going up at this rate and the local political subdivisions continue to keep their levy rate the same, you will be paying a larger property tax bill next year.

Recently the Lincoln City Council had a resolution before them to agree that only taking the amount of property taxes in the budget for the upcoming fiscal year was appropriate. This is a non-binding resolution which would have established the City Council’s philosophy that only taking the amount in the budget for property tax asking was appropriate. This resolution failed on a vote of 2-5. The publicly available city budget does not include a breakdown of each stream of tax revenue. However, the budget passed in 2022 projected the property tax asking to be $92,369,588.

During the process of preparing to testify in favor of this resolution, I discovered over the past three years, the City of Lincoln has collected $101,888,974 above their budgeted tax revenue.

Broken down as follows:

2018-2019 $38,445,876

2019-2020 $33,066,140

2020-2021 $30,376,958

Total $101,888,974

In LIBA’s conversation with council members, we continue to discuss the importance of government restraint in taxes when it comes to property tax asking. The citizens of Lincoln and Lancaster County have experienced great inflation in everyday items over the past few years, while wages are not increasing at the same rate as expenses that families are incurring. There has been much media coverage on the state level on property tax relief and changing the tax codes at the state level. Meanwhile, I maintain, all politics is local. Decisions made locally have a greater impact on our day-to-day lives when it comes to the taxes we pay to support local government entities. Over the course of the summer as business owners and citizens we need to pay close attention to the budgets being considered and take time to go to a public hearing and offer our thoughts on what is happening in all these political subdivisions. You have often read my message, “decisions are made by those who show up.” Let’s show up and have the conversation about how we are being taxed in Lincoln and Lancaster County.

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

While it’s important to work hard, it’s also important to play some too. Getting out of the office and bonding with coworkers and community members alike is easily one of the most fun parts of working for a company that wholeheartedly supports company retreats. Not only is it a break from the usual office routine, but a chance to develop relationships in a completely different environment.

Whether looking to relieve pressure in the workplace or grow as a team, company retreats are perfect opportunities to connect and reduce stress. The value that stems from company retreats is far more than most give credit, especially when considering that they not only offer employers the chance to show appreciation to their staff, but are an opportunity for teams to bond and grow stronger together. Team bonding is important because it improves interpersonal relations among coworkers – something that benefits both personal well-being and company productivity.

If you haven’t participated in a company retreat or are looking to plan your next, check out the many options available in Lincoln! You don’t have to travel far to break from your office routine and have a great time.

Fit for Anyone

Company retreats are meant to include everyone. No employee should be left behind or feel out of place when at a retreat designed for inclusion and a break from office endeavors. When choosing where to host a company retreat, it is important to consider what your employees want out of the retreat. At Sun Valley Lanes & Games , every employee is sure to find something they enjoy.

“Sun Valley Lanes & Games is a great place for employees to let loose and feel Jen miseno sun Valley Lanes & Games

like kids again. We offer fun activities for people of all ages, ranging from bowling, lucky putt, laser tag and arcade games to delicious food and drinks,” said Jen Miseno , event coordinator at Sun Valley. “Having activities both indoors and outdoors makes it a great retreat anytime during the year, but summer retreats have the perks of enjoying the outdoor greenspace. Outside, people can play cornhole and gather around fire pits after sunset.”

Because retreats are a great opportunity to reward staff with fun activities outside the office setting, Sun Valley Lanes & Games offers customized group offerings when applicable. They have a variety of food and bowling packages as well as the ability to add on other activities to increase the length of the party. They have noticed that small groups seem to enjoy the friendly competitiveness of laser tag.

When considering a company retreat, Sun Valley Lanes & Games advises not to wait until the last minute.

“When booking for a large group, space and available times are often very limited. Even when considering a small group, some offering might not be available,” Jen explained. “However, we do their best to make company retreats more fun than a hassle. We can customize an event to fit your needs and your budget for groups of ten up to 384!”

If you are looking to set up an event, Sun Valley Lanes & Games encourages you to give them a call. Based on company needs, they can offer suggestions that would best accommodate group size and budget. The variety of activities they offer is unrivaled in the area, making them a fit for any company retreat.

You’re Never Too Old!

Regardless of the ages of your employees, whether in the same age group or ranging across the span of 20 years, company retreats are meant to bring out the side of everyone that doesn’t typically show at the office. As a way to relax, have fun and let loose, the activities at company retreats aren’t restricted by age. Anyone can have fun doing anything if they are willing to give it a try.

If you’re looking for a company retreat to inflate the spirits of those working for your company, look no farther than Lincoln Inflatables, a locally-owned business that has been serving the greater Picayune and surrounding areas with great pride and satisfaction.

Known for having great communication and service, Lincoln Inflatables takes pride in providing excellent customer service and developing solutions to fit any particular needs. Their rental service team strives to provide friendly and reliable service from start to finish as well as to respect your privacy with utmost discretion. If you want it and they can do it, it’s yours.

Whether you're looking to rent for a day or a weekend, they are sure to have the right portfolio of products, services and knowledge to satisfy all of your needs and put any concerns to rest. They firmly believe that your company retreat should be all about fun, not work. Regardless of your age, you’d be surprised how much fun a group of adults can have with a few inflatables – especially when they don’t have to worry about setting them up or taking them down.

Lincoln Inflatables has top-of-the-line inflatable bounce house units, slip and slides, waterslides, obstacle courses and combo units. All things you haven’t done since childhood? No worries! You are never too old to play with inflatables. Let loose, have fun and let your inner child shine outside of the constraints of an offi ce.

Defy Gravity, Reduce Stress

While the goal of a company retreat isn’t necessarily to find your inner child, there are definitely perks to reverting to a younger version of yourself. Acting like a kid with no concern for matters at the office is one of the best ways to reduce stress and have fun.

If you’ve ever thought it would be good to run around in a giant hamster ball, then you are sure to get a hoot out of knockerball. Nebraska Knockerball brings an outstanding lineup of games and activities to company events hosted by local businesses. They know

Your Party Destination

how stressful work can be, so they don’t add on more when planning a company retreat. They take care of everything so you can enjoy the retreat instead of being the one running it. After the all, the whole point of a company retreat is take a break from work.

Knockerball, a single chamber inflatable sphere with inner handles and adjustable shoulder straps, produces a sensation similar to that of defying gravity, though it doesn’t put any stress on the body. Knockerballs range in size, so fit is predicated on the height of the user. With two or more Knockerballs, the experience is catapulted into roaring laughter as well as exhilarating knocks and rolls that will keep you coming back for more. The only pain you risk by participating is that from laughing too hard from having way too much fun. Then again, is there such a thing as too much fun?

Aside from knockerball, Nebraska Knockerball offers basketball connect four, footdarts, human foosball, lumberjack axe throw and an assortment of smaller yard games such as giant connect four, giant jenga, yard dice, cornhole, yard pong and tug of war. Basketball connect four consists of a 15 foot tall inflatable that is irresistible. Once you start shooting, you won’t be able to stop. Footdarts, a 12 foot tall inflatable dartboard that you either kick Velcro soccer balls or throw Velcro baseballs at, is equally entertaining. On the reverse side of the dartboard is the opportunity to improve your throwing or kicking accuracy with a three hole football toss.

Human foosball is a unique game that allows you to hold on to cables in a 20X45 foot field. If you’ve ever thought of what it would be like to be the characters on a foosball table, now’s your chance to find out.

Lumberjack axe throw is similar to traditional axe throwing, but involves a 13X13X11 foot inflatable.

Regardless of how you like to play, Nebraska Knockerball’s giant inflatables are tons of fun for everyone.

Downtown Fun

One of the easiest ways to have fun is to head downtown. There are always activities to partake in and new places to explore. Whether traveling in small or large groups, everyone is sure to have a good time. Downtown Lincoln is not only convenient because it acts a hub for activity, but because it’s easy for everyone to get to as well.

The convenience of downtown Lincoln makes the Talon Room an ideal venue for company retreats. Partnered with many local vendors, their “Talon-t’d” staff will plan and execute the event of your dreams. Event coordination, full-service catering and bar and decorating services sets the Talon Room apart from the rest. They set it up, and you make it a party! It is an easy, streamlined venue for a company retreat.

“The Talon Room has an on-site kitchen that can accommodate all of your food needs,” said Owner Matthew Rogge . “We allow for outside catering for a percentage fee based on attendees, but have great options for in-house catering. They also have a liquor license and bar service, so they can provide beverages of any kind for your party.”

Because they provide start-to-finish planning, you don’t have to stress as much about the number of people anticipated to attend or about how much work it will take to plan and set up the event. They provide the ease of allowing companies to simply show up, have a good time and leave without the hassle of cleanup. This way, companies can focus on enjoying the retreat they have worked so hard to obtain.

A Night Out

It isn’t uncommon for coworkers to get together after work for drinks, dinner or a short activity. While sometimes talking about the work day, the after work excursions often stray from thoughts of the office to personal matters - coworkers become friends. So, why shouldn’t the entire workplace go out together every once and awhile?

When it comes to company retreats, you can never go wrong with a night out on the town in a party bus. Tailored Dreams, a local business offering customized limousine party bus experiences at an economical price, is a great option for a quick, fun company retreat. With a three hour minimum night out reservation, Tailored Dreams ensures that there is enough time for everyone to let loose and have some fun.

Tailored Dreams is known for their friendly drivers and for creating an experience tailored to your particular group.

With a multitude of buses to choose from, your company is sure to find a great time. Buses include the Mirage, a 35 passenger pink party bus; the Oasis Party Bus, which holds 26 passengers; the Odyssey, a 28 passenger party bus; the Fantasy, a 35 passenger black party bus; the Disco, a 35 passenger gray party bus and the Executive, a 45 passenger party bus. All 35 passenger party buses are wheelchair accessible.

It is important to note that regardless of which bus and package you purchase, Tailored Dreams does not cross state lines. However, these buses can take you to a destination of your choice in the state of Nebraska while jamming to music that gets everyone dancing and having a good time. Just reserve your bus ahead of time and then tell your chauffeur where you want to go when you arrive for your party. They’ll get you there and back safely.

Many find comfort in the confines of the party buses as they are small enough to talk to about anyone they want to while still having enough room for personal space and dancing. Tailored Dreams party buses are a great place to make connections and have fun.

Relaxation at Its Finest

Everyone enjoys relaxing after a long, hard day of work. After weeks or even months of working without break, time dedicated to unwinding is necessary.

If you’re looking for a low-key company retreat where your company can relax and enjoy good company, consider James Arthur Vineyards. Their richly appointed private party room with comfortable furnishings, rich decor and spectacular views affords an extraordinary venue available nowhere else in the region. They are known for excellent service, ambiance and food – regardless of who they are serving and what the event is for. They personalize their menu to your company, offering custom-catered meals and an award-winning selection of fine wines. Everything is delicious, though there are plenty of options available for picky eaters and drinkers.

At St. Croix Room, a private party room, you will have an astonishing overlooking view of both the St. Croix grapevines outside and the wine production area inside. This beautiful, sunny room features a stone fireplace, wine-tasting bar, catering kitchen and French doors leading to a private deck. The St. Croix room is the perfect place for your next company retreat. It’s always available for use and provides multiple power outlets to help with audio-visual equipment needs. 15 guests are required to use the room and up to 50 guests can be accommodated.

The James Arthur Vineyards facilities offer a warm and relaxed atmosphere – something your company deserves after consistent hard work. Join some of the area’s most successful businesses and plan your next business retreat at James Arthur Vineyards.

Looking for Just Transportation to Your Company Retreat?

Transportation is sometimes one of the most difficult components of straying from the traditional office setting. You have to consider convenience, parking, if employees will be drinking and the overall safety of everyone attending. Company retreats are a great way to get employees to have fun outside of the office, and it shouldn’t

matthew rogge talon room

be hindered by your company’s ability to safely and conveniently transport everyone.

At Eastside Transportation LLC, they understand that transportation plays a vital role in the lives of just about everybody. That’s why they work hard to ensure that their vehicles are always well-maintained, clean and equipped with the latest technology to ensure your safety and convenience. Their professional drivers are trained to provide courteous and friendly service, making your experience with them as pleasant as possible. If the whole point of a company retreat is to relax and have fun, then great service is a necessity. Since transportation is the first part of a company retreat that employees experience, having a fun lighthearted mood in the vehicle is important for setting the tone for the rest of the retreat.

Eastside Transportation LLC is proud to serve the Lincoln community. They believe in building long-lasting relationships with clients by earning their trust and loyalty. They are dedicated to providing clients with the highest level of service possible at an affordable rate. Eastside is about elevating community, impacting lives and bringing riders and drivers together to create an amazing experience.

Planning Your Next Company Retreat

Now that you know of some of the best places in Lincoln to host company retreats, which will you choose? With so many amazing options, it isn’t an easy decision. Before choosing a place to host your next company retreat, consider the following:

Budget: Knowing how much money you can spend on the entire company retreat is a great first step. When considering your budget, remember to leave some wiggle room. Life happens and sometimes things are more expensive than planned for. By leaving a little bit of extra room in your budget, you shouldn’t have any financial concerns at the end of your company retreat. It can also be helpful to break your budget down into categories such as activities, transportation, meals and venue expenses.

Goals: It is important to know what you want out of a company retreat before undertaking one. Is your focus team bonding, relaxation or pure enjoyment? Knowing what the goal of your retreat is will help you decide on a venue and the activities to purchase at said venue. Once the base for your company retreat has been set, you can narrow your focus by choosing a venue, activities, meals and means of transportation.

Venue: Choosing the right place to host your company retreat is key for staying under budget and meeting your goals. You want to host your retreat in a convenient location that is equipped to handle your chosen activities. Sometimes it’s easier to choose a venue and then plan activities accordingly. Other times, it’s easier to choose activities first and then book a venue that accommodates / provides them. This mostly depends on the goal of the retreat and how big the budget is.

Activities: The most important part of a company retreat is the activities available for employees to participate in. When choosing activities, you should consider which ones align with your goals as well as which align with the interests and desires of employees. It is best to consult employees to see what they think would be best as well as to offer a variety of activities that they can bounce between at the retreat. The goal is to include everyone and for everyone to have fun. Because most venues offer a variety of activities and activity packages, it should be relatively easy to find something that everyone will enjoy that stays within your budget. Additionally, when choosing activities you should consider their organization. Whether having them available the entire time or preparing an itinerary for employees, the activities should all have a time and place at the retreat.

Meals: If planning a retreat that spans across mealtime, don’t forget to plan for feeding everyone. Some venues offer catering packages, while others are easy to hire outside catering for. Regardless of which route you go, be sure to choose meal options that are suitable for all employees. And, with meals, don’t forget about drinks. From water to soda to alcohol, drinks are necessary at company retreats.

Transportation: Once you have decided upon a venue, you must consider the best way to transport employees to the retreat. While employees

can always drive themselves, it is important to consider alternative routes to ensure the safety and convenience of employees. Whether carpooling, shuttling or hiring a transportation service, planning ahead of time will save hassle later on.

When planning your company’s retreat, remember that you don’t have to do it all the first time around. Company retreats should be a regular endeavor, meaning that you can try all of the best places in Lincoln at some point in time. It even means that you can go back to the same places and either try different activities or have the same exact company retreat. So long as you and your employees are having fun outside of the office, it doesn’t matter what you do. Company retreats are extremely beneficial and extend far beyond what many realize. When planned and utilized in the correct way, company retreats enhance many aspects of the work environment and are a contributing factor in cultivating the future of your company or business. From reducing stress to connecting coworkers – and everything in between – company retreats are a great opportunity for companies to show appreciation and have fun together. They are well worth the time. Plus, many local businesses are more than willing to work with you on your company retreat from start to finish both helping plan and execute the retreat. They are dedicated to supporting and guiding you through a retreat that exceeds expectations and leaves everyone feeling refreshed.

Here at Strictly Business, we encourage you to find the time to plan and execute your own company retreat – whatever it may be. Though you can always travel outside of the community, we highly recommend utilizing local venues and vendors. Supporting our community is a top priority for us, partially because we know how amazing our local businesses are! There are countless great options in Lincoln, many of which are discussed above, and we encourage you to check them out!

Supporting local businesses is one of the most important values that Strictly Business holds. After all, we are a magazine dedicated to local businesses and their success. As such, our mission is to help small businesses grow and maintain a steady stream of business by encouraging community support.

With a multitude of resources available in Lincoln to help businesses grow, the dream of owning a successful, forwardthinking business is obtainable. Whether new to entrepreneurship or feeling like you have whole business owner thing down, the resources available in Lincoln are here to help take your business to the next level.

Let’s Get Popular

Altitude Motion Media offers high quality, attention-grabbing videos that help get businesses in front of potential customers. They love sitting down with business owners to great a plan for a video that is tailored to their wants and needs. Their goal is to provide a video, or videos, that entrepreneurs can use on their social media platforms, emails and websites to draw as much attention as possible to who they are and what they do.

Providing high quality video content that new businesses can use strategically as part of a marketing campaign is Altitude Motion Media’s bread and butter. They provide 30 second reels along with full-length videos that engage people in today’s fast-paced, screen-scrolling world. For instance, when putting together a video, or video series, for a business, customers can decide to release videos on whatever timeline they choose. They can be released one a week for a month or one a month for a year. Regardless of when videos are released, they help keep businesses’ customers and potential customers thinking about them.

“Good exposure is necessary to successfully grow a business and shouldn’t be shied away from. Having a well-done, eye-catching

video that helps potential customers understand your business is a simple way to get public,” explained Owner Ryan Lindbeck . “It’s exposure that spreads like wildfire! Anyone planning on growing their business should make sure they are constantly in front of people, whether it’s networking, social media posts or emails. If you are consistently a business that people see, they will start to notice and remember you.”

It’s important for entrepreneurs to know that marketing a business is an investment, and getting your business out to the public via video is a great investment. Not only can customers see your face and business in action, but hear your voice and message as well. It’s exciting, appealing and noticeable. You won’t regret taking this first step towards public popularity.

Where to Grow

Eschliman Commercial Real Estate (ECR) is quite knowledgeable about the local market, with a 30-year real estate Veteran and 40-year former retailer leading the business. Robin and Ted Eschliman know the commercial space terrain and monitor the changes to keep current on availability, both on- and off-market. Their Grow Lincoln radio show and podcasts keep their fingers on the pulse of Lincoln’s unique economic development.

“If you’re expanding your space, it’s important to think numbers,” shared Ted Eschliman . “What a space generates per-square-foot in income doesn’t always scale up if you don’t have the labor, supplies, or enough hours in the day to produce and maintain that over the term of your lease commitment. We encourage factoring net (not gross) income when calculating new space needs – and we can help a tenant with that.”

Ted went on to explain more on how Eschliman’s expert team can guide you through the process with ease.

”We can assist startups in the current availability and market pricing of retail, office and industrial flex space, but this is only a portion of the expenses to expect in a brick-and-mortar operation,” explained Ted. “A good business needs to be prepared to adapt to market changes. Lack of cash flow in temporary slowdowns has killed many good businesses. Your vendors, employees and landlord expect to be paid whether you get paid or not.”

ECR’s most crucial service is assisting in the search for the best location. You never want to be one-half block away from success and negotiating the finer points of a lease. The institutional knowledge of a good commercial realtor can greatly shorten that path. Business owners need to understand their lease obligations in paying for their space, including HVAC responsibility, and participating in upkeep of common areas.

“We have commercial space multiple listings on our website for searching retail, office and industrial space, and that’s a good place to get a feel for what’s out there, and current pricing,” Ted said. “Still, the finer understanding of gross lease and Triple Nets are best explored with an experienced commercial realtor. You can find more at ecrproperty.com/property-search.”

As we all know, things don’t cost the same as they used to. Business owners should be prepared to spend a little bit more for quality services and products.

“It’s no secret. Everything has gotten more expensive in the last 18 months, from supplies to construction to labor,” Ted shared. “You want the

assistance of professionals and mentors in all phases to help you make the best decisions. Don’t try to reinvent the wheel. Measure twice, cut once!”

Solutions You Can Count On

When you outsource your accounts receivable, you will be able to focus on doing what you do best while simultaneously bringing in more funds that will be instrumental in the growth of your business. To learn more, we spoke to Aaron Newell ,

founder of AR

Solutions . AR Solutions is a licensed, bonded and insured collection agency headquartered in Lincoln and offering services to the surrounding Lincoln and Omaha areas. With more than 60 combined years in collections, AR Solutions understands that you don’t have time to waste – in Accounts Receivable or in managing multiple vendors. Not only do they offer solutions, but they give you the time you need to balance the competing demands of clients and critical receivable management issues. There’s also zero risk and zero cost, with no fees incurred unless AR Solutions recovers money for you. All of the Asset Recovery Specialists at AR Solutions are American Collection Association (ACA) certified, so you can trust that your accounts will be handled with the highest quality and dignity. Aaron Newell founded AR Solutions in 2005 after working in the collection industry since 1996. The company was created under the value of integrity: “If you have integrity, nothing else matters; if you do not have integrity, nothing else matters.”

“In addition to offering past due accounts receivable collections, we can also consult with clients to help them set up their receivables process to increase their in-house collections or to prevent future

ryan Lindbeck Altitude motion media

ted eschliman eschliman Commercial real estate

Aaron newell Ar solutions

issues,” said Aaron. “I often use this quote: ‘Do what you do best and pay for the rest.’ It is as simple as being able to communicate with the consumer at a specific date and time. If you are not able to communicate with them at that specific time, you may not get a second chance. Collecting past due receivables is all we do… and if we don’t collect, we don’t eat.”

Aaron advises clients to gather as much information as you can on your customers before the transaction is complete, and to also keep in mind that not all customers are going to pay on time, or pay at all. At some point, you may need to use a law firm or collection agency to pursue payment on past-due accounts, AR Solutions has both under one roof. By outsourcing this job to a third party that you trust to uphold your reputation as an extension of your business, it takes the emotions out of it and you don’t have to be the bad guy.

AR Solutions works with all types of companies that have accounts receivable issues. They also have a specialized Healthcare division that is HIPAA compliant and understands the ebbs and flow of medical billing and insurance processing. They will partner with you and your staff to:

• Accelerate cash flow

• Transform accounts receivable

• Backlog into cash

• Sliding scale pricing based on

• Accounts receivable aging

• Lower operational expenses

• Increase efficiencies

• Reduce write-offs

• Maintain positive consumer relations

• Extend billing office capabilities

AR Solutions’ collection process is just as important as how they collect. Their specialists approach their work as skillful sales

people and are trained and certified to remain professional, ethical, confident and firm – even in the most difficult situations – to get payment in full on the initial contact. Their company policy dictates that everyone is treated with respect and dignity while also approaching collections in a firm and persuasive manner. AR Solutions has recently implemented an AI (artificial intelligence) platform to increase collections, compliance and ease of communications with consumers.

A Space that Fits Your Needs

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is a full-service commercial real estate company located in Lincoln, with its roots dating back to 1973.

Most businesses find it challenging to find the perfect space. An essential element of finding that location is building relationships. At Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate, they strive to understand each client’s unique circumstances and objectives to tailor a strategy designed to accomplish your goals. Throughout the process, they emphasize communication and accountability to earn each client’s trust and confidence. Their experienced group of professionals is there to help you reach your goals for your business and community.

“We assist entrepreneurs with decisions related to their commercial real estate needs,” said Brett Harris of Greenleaf. “Even with the increasing popularity of remote work, most businesses require some type of commercial real estate and we work with entrepreneurs to identify the best location and space to help their business grow.”

Finding a space that works for your business now while also preparing for the potential growth in the future can be tough. The economy is unpredictable, and events like the COVID pandemic can throw a wrench into a five-year plan in an instant.

“It can be difficult to project future space needs for a growing business. Business owners are reluctant to take on too much too soon but also don’t want to fall behind in terms of their real estate needs as they grow,” Brett explained. “It’s a tricky balance but knowing when to be proactive about expansion or relocation can be critical for a growing business.”

The easiest way to avoid a blunder while searching for a new space for your business is to work with the experts that know best, and are eager to help you every step of the way. They also have the tools that make the search a lot easier that you may not have access to.

“As a smaller, boutique real estate company, we enjoy working with entrepreneurs and start-ups and we feel that we have good knowledge of the local real estate market,” said Brett. “We believe we can be a valuable asset to help businesses determine a proper strategy for their space needs as they grow. There are a variety of technology-based tools that can be used to determine the best location for a particular business. One example is the Site-to-Do-Business offered through our membership in the CCIM Institute. This program allows us to access detailed demographic and mapping information for any site.”

Brett and the team at Greenleaf urges business owners to be proactive about future space needs.

“Finding a new location, negotiating a lease or purchase and then doing any required renovation can be a lengthy and complicated process,” Brett shared. “It’s best to plan for it a year or so ahead of time.”

Brett harris Greenleaf Commercial real estate

Invest in Technology

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

“As a business grows, so do the demands upon their technology,” said Darren Lichty , owner. “It is at this point that small nuances can become major problems. Worse yet, the technology that is serving your business needs fine today can, and often does, hinder your business as it grows. This can be avoided if you have a trusted partner who will explain these things to you in a way that you understand.”

Darren explained that sometimes, it’s the little things that can have the most impact on a business’s growth, especially for small businesses with limited resources. Take, for example, something as simple as Google’s G Suite. It’s perceived to be more professional and there’s a higher trust and credibility factor with an email that uses your domain name as opposed to @gmail.com or @yahoo. com. You can also take advantage of improved email security, a full suite of productivity apps and accessibility from anywhere on any device.

“The pace of innovation keeps increasing. This is not only true in the technology field, but in businesses of all varieties,” Darren shared. “The key to keeping up with this pace is continuously challenging yourself to try new approaches. Continuously making small bets can add up to big wins. Just as important is continuously measuring the success and failure of these steps along the way. That said, prepare yourself to be uncomfortable, as it is an indication that you are moving forward. Don’t fear failure, as it is a very powerful tool. Thomas Edison once said, ‘I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.’ He also said ‘Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.’”

It Must be a Sign

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

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

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

your business grows to help you keep your signage and graphics looking great. A rebrand or refresh is often part of the growth of a business, and Sign Pro wants to be the ones that help you make your brand shine!

A Personal Touch to Payroll Services

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

Owner and Manager Terry Clark has over 20 years of experience in multi-state payroll and bookkeeping. With the latest software technology available, Terry’s attention to detail and experience, plus being a member of the Lincoln community, all set TAC Payroll Solutions apart from the big box companies.

As a small business owner herself, Terry has some advice for those looking to organize their finances.

“I found that it was a little more expensive to get things set up than expected, and I hadn’t budgeted for that. Sitting down with a professional before making big decisions would have saved me a lot of time and money,” said Terry. “Hiring an accountant and attorney first is key to getting your business set up correctly, and establishing that relationship is important. They will be on your side and have a deeper understanding of your business when you are experiencing growth.” Terry and her team bring a personal approach to providing payroll and bookkeeping services at a fair and reasonable

darren Lichty panology tech solutions

Julie shald sign pro of Lincoln

terry Clark tAC payroll solutions

cost. They love being a part of the Lincoln community and pride themselves on bringing good customer service to every interaction they have.

The Newest Tech to Drive Your Success

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

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

The IT solutions offer a range of benefits for your business. Yost can help your business increase your internet speed, implement system automaton and create a data monitoring system.

Your network is vital to your business’s success. If your network is slow, your production will be slow. Trust Yost Network Solutions to create a pathway that helps you work well. Yost’s network design services are customized to every client and their needs. They will work with you to determine your needs and ensure your new network can handle the workload. Wireless network design is a breeze with the right people on the job. When getting network design services, you need to know about your needs and plans.

The crew asks the right questions so that you get the right services:

• What type of services do you provide?

• What types of clients do you support?

• What are your data needs?

• What level of bandwidth will you need?

With the right wireless network design, you can serve your customers well and avoid the pitfalls of a bad network.

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

Contact Yost today to find out how they can help your business.

Real Estate Help on Your Side

NP Dodge Real Estate has been a locally owned, Nebraska-based real estate company for over 165 years. NP Dodge is America’s only real estate company to be led by the same family and is one of the longest running family-operated businesses in the nation. As the most experienced real estate company in the country, NP Dodge is passionate about real estate, the local communities and helping clients make the best property investments.

“There are a lot of good companies out there, and competition is strong. However, I believe we stay on our A-Game by training and providing agents that offer quality support,” June Ring shared. “Communication with one another and our leadership is pinnacle. I enjoy giving people the support they need in achieving their home buying or selling goals.”

NP Dodge Real Estate cares about you and your business, and they want to help you find the perfect space ton continue to grow.

“I strongly recommend to people to reach out for help,” said June. “Realtors are connectors. We know a lot of people that can help you with preparing and getting ready for the next big thing in the buying process. We also help you see the things you may have overlooked, and can make a stressful life change a lot easier. I’m always willing to sit down with folks and process their options, too. Sometimes it’s the right time to jump into the process and sometimes it’s not, but I want to assure you that I’ll be there when you need me.”

Getting Technical

ArcLight Solutions is a technology services company offering experienced consultation and complete IT management for small to mid-sized companies and solutions for large-volume data centers ranging from assessments and migrations to decommissions and support.

Their mission is to provide comprehensive technology services and strategic IT solutions to increase revenue, create efficiency and optimize resources. ArcLight promises to provide responsive, trustworthy expertise to assist your organization in identifying needs and solving technology challenges.

ArcLight is driven to help you transform your technology services by optimizing your assets and creating rock-solid migration plans, ultimately yielding an unmatched ROI for IT and business operations. Their strategies reshape how you conduct your business by finding ways to improve efficiency and grow your technology ecosystem.

June ring np dodge real estate

Abante Marketing specializes in brand building with a focus on screen printing, embroidery and promotional products. Servicing corporate, government, private sector, schools and nonprofit customers with exceptional pricing and years of experience, Abante takes pride in their industry expertise and professional customer service.

Abante also provides a variety of finishing and fulfillment services, which may seem simple, but are often valuable time savers. In addition to vinyl names and numbers, services include distribution, warehousing, custom order forms and folding and bagging. As well, their custom web stores are a great service for customers who want to eliminate the hassles associated with traditional paper order forms.

Abante Marketing has two screen printing facilities in Omaha and Sioux City. Together, they operate five manual and five automatic screen printing presses, giving Abante the ability to print thousands of shirts hourly. Their embroidery department is located at the Omaha location and operates four six-head embroidery machines and one single-head machine. Since opening, Abante has become one of the largest apparel decorators in the Midwest. They are also in the top 15% of their industry in terms of apparel decoration while 85% of their competitors outsource their screen printing and embroidery. Therefore, they can provide a better product, at a savings to their clients, and ensure faster turnaround times.

Your Local Chamber

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is another great connection tool. The chamber is a key player in the efforts to grow businesses in Lincoln. They work with lawmakers and local officials to advance important policies affecting the business community and start conversations for needed changes. The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce hosts monthly events to bring business leaders together and ignite collaboration. Through networking opportunities before and after work such as The HIVE and The LNK, members of the business community are given the chance to share their mission and ideas with like-minded individuals.

You may ask yourself if joining the Chamber is a good idea as a growth strategy for your business, and the Chamber can assure you this is true. They are Lincoln’s leading business organization, with over 1,300 businesses with one strong voice for business advocacy and growth. They want you to be part of their organization, and they’ll go to work to help you grow your business as they advocate for a positive business climate in Lincoln.

Don’t Forget About Us!

Last but not least, Strictly Business is an awesome marketing tool offering services in the Lincoln area, and we would love to partner with you to promote your brand and help your business grow. Not only do we offer advertising in print, digitally and on social media, but we also have the IN THE ISSUE monthly email blast that is designed to break down each issue of Strictly Business in a clean, concise and easy-to-digest digital format. Our goal is to get in front of even more people in this ever-growing digital age and to further promote all of the local businesses that we love and partner with. Contact us today to learn more!

In recent years, content marketing has evolved from being just blog post and editorial strategies. It has become a holistic approach that relies on a broad range of digital marketing strategies including social media, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and paid media to engage businesses with their customers and potential customer. At Strictly Business, our goal is to help your visibility skyrocket and not only draw new customers or clients to your business, but also help them understand why they can trust you and depend on you to do the best work possible for them. Call Paige at (402) 466-3330 today and find out how we can help you grow your business!

ready to grow your business? Contact these Lincoln professionals to learn how they can help you expand your brand throughout the community and beyond.

Aging is an inevitable aspect of life, as are the unexpected twists and turns that come along with it. With age comes higher risk for chronic health problems as well as for infectious diseases. To maintain good health, excellent preventative care and treatment is essential. But, for seniors and their families, health is about much more than simply living longer. By maintaining good mental, physical and emotional health, seniors can live life to the fullest and enjoy activities such as picnics, board games and outdoor walks. Socialization with friends, family and the community is a great way for seniors to avoid isolation and live as happily as possible. As such, seniors and family members of those in need of care seek out only the best.

Check out some of the best home care and senior living options in Lincoln, all of which are ready to help you and your loved ones enjoy life as much as possible. As they like to say, they are just one phone call away.

Striving for Excellent Home Care

Home care is a great option for seniors who want independence but need additional care and support. Home health care offers seniors greater independence, relief for family caregivers and the safety, comfort and convenience of living at home. Because seniors can receive personalized care at home, avoidable trips to the hospital can be prevented and family members can worry less about their loved ones.

Instead of appointing a family member as a caregiver for a loved one, consider hiring home care. With home care, licensed and trained professionals care for your loved one. They take on the responsibility of helping with day-to-day activities and chores, providing transportation to doctor’s appointments and assisting with meals. The goal of home health is to make life as easy and enjoyable as possible for seniors and their families.

When discussing senior health, it is always best to be proactive. According to Worry Free Home Care, seniors can engage in physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, manage chronic conditions, stay mentally stimulated and practice good hygiene to prevent or delay health challenges.

However, everyone knows that health isn’t entirely within our control. Luckily, Worry Free Home Care offers a wide variety of

services to help seniors manage their health. Worry Free Home Care strives to help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life in the comfort of their own homes. They understand the importance of senior health and well-being, which is why they provide personalized care plans that address each client’s unique needs and preferences. Their caregivers are trained to assist with activities of daily living, medication management and mobility support among other services to ensure that seniors can live comfortably and safely at home.

Worry Free Home Care also understands the importance of communication and collaboration with healthcare providers, family members and other caregivers involved. They work closely with clients and their families to ensure that all aspects of their health and well-being are addressed, providing ongoing communication to keep everyone informed and involved in the care process.

“As the founder and owner of Worry Free Home Care, I believe in the power of compassionate caregiving,” said Founder Racheal Odoy. “Our caregivers are not just professionals; they are dedicated individuals who strive to create a positive difference in the lives of seniors through exceptional home care services. Service above self is our guiding principle.”

When discussing the healthcare wishes of a senior loved one, Worry Free Home Care suggests choosing the right time and place. By selecting a quiet, private setting and a time when your loved one is relaxed and not distracted, you can create a comfortable environment for them to share their thoughts and feelings. Approaching the conversation with empathy and respect, actively listening to your loved one and being prepared with information and resources can help you address concerns and develop a plan to meet their healthcare needs in the future.

Worry free home Care

racheal odoy

For all your In-home Care needs Our Services are tailored to an Individuals’ specific needs

With several new breakthroughs in senior health research, such as advancements in telemedicine, innovative treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, improved mobility aids, wearable devices for health monitoring and digital health platforms, there is potential for seniors to greatly benefit from the ability to maintain their health, manage chronic conditions and age in a place with greater independence and quality of life.

Telemedicine has become a popular way for seniors to receive medical care remotely, allowing for virtual consultations with healthcare providers and remote monitoring of vital signs. Digital health platforms help seniors manage their health by providing access to educational resources, medication reminders and tools for tracking health metrics. Additionally, researchers have made significant strides in developing new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, including medications that target the underlying causes of the disease and gene therapies that aim to prevent or slow its progression.

Wearable devices, such as smart watches and fitness trackers, can monitor a senior’s heart rate, blood pressure, activity level and other health metrics, providing valuable data that can help identify potential health issues. Improved mobility aids, such as canes, walkers and wheelchairs, have become more advanced in recent years, with features such as adjustable seats and backrests, lightweight materials and improved shock absorption.

By utilizing advancements and breakthroughs in senior health research, Worry Free Home Care is able to provide excellent home care and help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life in the comfort of their own homes.

Keep Your Independence

Also aiming to help seniors keep their independence, AmanaCare is a family-owned, faith-based company with 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 to produce the best experience possible. They offer transportation to social events and doctor’s appointments as well as needed services and activities at home. They believe that there is a difference between living at home and thriving at home, and strive to help seniors live their best lives.

“Every person is unique and their approach to wellness will depend on their personal health status, preferences and lifestyle. AmanaCare works to tailor your care specifically to your needs and preferences,” stated Founder

Kathleen Horsley.

AmanaCare’s Care 360 model is a best practice approach to senior wellness. AmanaCare assists with everything, from planning to execution of excellent senior health. The Care 360 model includes:

Fall Prevention: Falls can cause serious injuries among seniors. Fall prevention strategies can include regular vision and hearing checks, maintaining a clutter-free home, maintaining good lighting in the home and exercises to improve balance and strength. AmanaCare can assist with home maintenance and other activities to prevent falls.

Collaborative Caregiving

Caring Friends in Home Care strives to help assist with daily needs. Their caregivers encourage participation and engagement as much as possible, something they call collaborative caregiving. Caring Friends’ goal is to help keep their clients physically and mentally active, as well as to build relationships. By focusing on collaborative caregiving, they elevate the quality of clients and their families’ lives.

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.

Caring Friends benefits clients by taking walks together during visits, attending exercise programs at local senior centers and engaging with games and puzzles. Engaging and stimulating indoor games and puzzles help seniors stay motivated and mentally active. Board games and puzzles require handling pieces, which helps keep hands nimble as well as stimulate the mind. Additionally, Caring Friends in Home Care assists with the preparation of healthy meals, medication reminders, and the management of doctor’s appointments and activities schedules. Caring Friends in Home Care serves its clients wherever they call home, providing services from housekeeping, bathing, dressing, laundry, meal

Your

YourTrusted

Our Services:

• Preparing Meals

• Transportation

• Personal Care Needs

Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help seniors maintain their strength and balance, promote heart health, boost mood and manage chronic illnesses. At AmanaCare, we look to engage seniors in movement activities such as walking or stretching. AmanaCare can also provide transportation for those wanting to engage in swimming, tai chi or yoga classes outside of the home.

Kathleen horsley AmanaCare

Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains as well as adequate hydration is crucial for seniors. AmanaCare caregivers can assist in meal preparation and ensuring seniors stay hydrated.

Regular Check-ups: Regular health check-ups and preventive screenings are critical for early detection and management of potential health issues. AmanaCare can help schedule and transport seniors to appointments.

Mental Wellness: Mental health is just as important as physical health. Social interaction, mental stimulation and hobbies can help maintain cognitive function and mental wellbeing. Let AmanaCare staff assist with hobbies, mentally stimulating games and social interaction.

• Medication Reminders

• Light Housekeeping

• Laundry

• Shopping & Errands

• Companionship

Convenient

payment

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https://caringfriendsinhomecare.com

Virginia Cole

Caring friends in home Care

preparation and transportation to appointments with no minimum number of hours required.

“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.”

Caring Friends in Home Care reassures clients by ensuring that they work with staff that is dedicated to their satisfaction. Known for dependability, Caring Friends assigns caring staff that is qualified, compassionate and a compatible match based upon personal needs and desires. With Caring Friends in Home Care, you or your loved one will have the necessary assistance needed at home to maintain a safe, independent and enjoyable lifestyle.

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.

You Are Not Alone

Visiting Angels, an exceptional home care service provider, offers comprehensive home care that is customized for seniors based on their individual needs and preferences. No two older adults have the exact same care needs. In order to address the wide range of health and wellness concerns facing seniors, they provide personalized assistance. If your family member’s needs change during the course of their care, their services can be adjusted.

By choosing Visiting Angels for all your home care needs, you will be met with a personalized approach to home care services. They treat each client with the utmost respect when establishing a unique, comprehensive care plan.

“Home care services provide an array of help in many categories,” Owner Natalie Leon shared. “They can aid in simple housekeeping, like cleaning, dusting and doing the laundry. Hygiene and grooming are fundamentals that should be kept up with for a person’s health and dignity. A home care service provider can assist in this regard, which can boost a patient’s morale.”

One of the many benefits of home care services from Visiting Angels is your loved one’s ability to receive assistance on their schedule. From a watchful eye overnight to a helping hand during the day, they are there when your loved one needs them. Their services are available at all times, including weekends, holidays, short-term, long-term and aroundthe-clock. Visiting Angels has caregivers that can help with hygiene assistance, meal preparation, housekeeping, errands and much more. Visiting Angels encourages seniors to consider home care because it is allows them to maintain their lifestyle and continue their routines in the comfort of their homes. Visiting Angels offers loving and experienced caregivers for home care as an alternative to an assisted living facility or nursing home. Many seniors have a network of friends and family, and most importantly, a routine that actually helps them thrive and be happy. Retaining this standard of living is a crucial part of their continued health, and studies have shown that seniors do well remaining in their homes. For those providing care for their loved ones, Visiting Angels wants to remind you that you are not alone. For most people, caregiving is not a profession. Caring for your family while working a normal job can be taxing, stressful and develop resentment towards family members. To avoid negativity, start by having an open and honest discussion with your loved one and other family members. This first step is essential when you are trying to decide if introducing home care services is the right option. Active communication among all family members is the building block to a strong support system for an older parent and all family members involved.

Initiate the Conversation

natalie Leon Visiting Angels

According to ProMedica Hospice, who provides specialized care that focuses on supporting you and your loved ones during an advanced illness, initiating a conversation about healthcare wishes for the future can be sensitive but crucial. Below are some steps to help adults approach this conversation respectfully and effectively:

Choose the Right Time and Place: Select a comfortable and relaxed setting where all parties can focus and have privacy.

Express Concern and Love: Begin by expressing your love and concern for your elderly parents. Let them know that you want to ensure their well-being and honor their wishes.

Use Open-Ended Questions: Start the conversation with open-ended questions that encourage your parents to share their thoughts.

Active Listening: Allow them to express themselves. Show empathy and understanding by actively listening to their concerns, fears and desires. Respect Autonomy and Independence: Recognize that they have the right to make their own decisions regarding their healthcare. Assure them that you are there to support their choices.

Discuss Future Scenarios: Explore hypothetical situations to prompt reflection and decision-making. Discuss topics such as living arrangements, end-of-life care, advanced directives and medical interventions.

Follow-Up and Revisit: Remember that this conversation is ongoing. Revisit the topic periodically to address any changes in health or preferences. Regular communication and updating of healthcare wishes are essential.

ProMedica Hospice knows that every individual and family dynamic is unique, so they advise you to adapt these steps to suit your specific situation. The key is to approach the conversation with empathy, respect and a genuine desire to understand and support your loved one’s wishes.

No one wants quality of life to diminish, and hospice care enables seniors to live each day to the fullest as comfortably and dignified as

possible. ProMedica Hospice services integrate holistic principles with palliative disease management, expert pain and symptom control, family education and psycho-spiritual support for end-of-life care. They believe in the power of the individual, the importance of relationships and the value of respect and dignity at every stage of life.

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

Your Local Pharmacy Pros

When it comes to prolonging seniors’ ability to remain healthy and in their own homes, one of the most crucial pieces of the puzzle is comprehensive medication management. Nebraska LTC Pharmacy offers unique free services that help keep seniors healthy, home and out of the hospital. As a locally-owned company that provides a wide array of services in the Lincoln and Omaha areas, Nebraska LTC Pharmacy provides individualized patient care that increases safety and prolongs clients’ independence at home. They strive daily to differentiate themselves from big-box chain stores and pharmacies. Nebraska LTC Pharmacy truly is a concierge pharmacy. Their customer service and attention to detail far exceed that of retail pharmacies.

Nebraska LTC Pharmacy was created to fill a need in the community for a pharmacy that did more than just count pills and slap labels. With goals to provide individualized patient care that increases safety and prolongs patients’ independence, avoid the use of multiple drugs to treat a single condition, increase communication among healthcare professionals, reduce medication errors and hospitalizations with the use of adherence packaging and provide a “small town” level of customer service, they provide the highest level of care for their patients. There are no automated systems or punching in prescription numbers - just great personal care.

“We have a patient care coordinator who will come to your home and gather all of your medications. Then, the pharmacist will conduct a medication review to ensure the medications do not interact poorly with each other,” said Owner Shannon Hammerschmidt. “We will contact any of the doctors involved with your care and convey any concerns to ensure that everyone involved is on the same page. We will put the medications into packaging that is extremely easy to use, and we will deliver the medications right to your door. When you are taking the right medications at the right time, it will help eliminate unnecessary trips to the hospital and keep you home safe and sound.”

Integrating Healthy Living with Senior Living Communities

Senior living doesn’t have to be thought of negatively. Though many who live in senior living are there because they can no longer live at home, there are benefits to living in retirement communities.

First and foremost, senior living communities encourage a low maintenance lifestyle that many find extremely enjoyable. There are fewer chores, meaning that seniors have less hassle and more time to do the things that they enjoy. The safety and comfort of seniors is a priority.

Second, retirement homes are social hubs. There are always people to talk to and play games with. Whether interacting with other seniors or the staff, you are bound to have fun.

Additionally, senior living offers personal care options and promotes healthy living, ultimately enhancing quality of life. The staff at senior

Kass mounce promedica hospice

shannon hammerschmidt nebraska LtC pharmacy

living communities practices hands-on assistance with daily activities, so you never have to worry about getting something done the right way.

Regardless of what you or a loved one are looking to get out of senior living, you can rest assured that the senior living communities in Lincoln are great places for seniors to live their life to the fullest. Since seniors are near and dear to the heart of Lincoln, their safety, health and happiness is always prioritized.

Retirement living is something that is much more enjoyable when done before it is truly ‘needed’ for health concerns. Living in a community can be a fun and enriching experience, especially at Legacy Retirement Communities where activity and healthy nutrition are prioritized in a holistic approach that adds years to your life.

“We understand that being ‘well’ is much more than staying active and eating healthy foods. We strive to integrate all aspects of healthy living into our residents’ lives: physical activity, social interaction, mental stimulation and growth, avenues for continued learning and volunteer opportunities that allow our residents to use their unique skills and abilities,” stated Director of Wellness Katie Johnson. Due to the vast array of programs we offer, our residents are able to choose what ‘being well’ looks like for them.”

At Legacy Retirement Communities, seniors are encouraged to get moving, eat healthy, sleep well, regularly visit a doctor and take care of their mental health. As we age, it is increasingly important to exercise frequently, strive for a well-balanced diet, sleep enough to remain healthy and alert, partake in regular screenings and check-ups with doctors and manage aspects of mental health such as social isolation, stress and depression.

With the help of technology and innovation, it is becoming easier to provide our senior population with the care they need and

deserve. Remote monitoring has become a popular way for families or caregivers to keep an eye on seniors without having to be in the same room. This monitoring allows seniors to stay independent longer, giving families the peace of mind that they’ll be alerted right away if an incident occurs. Telehealth has also been a game changer. Telehealth, or virtual care, allows seniors to get medical attention in the comfort of their homes. This type of healthcare includes video consultations with doctors, telemedicine appointments and virtual physical therapy sessions. Robotic tools have also become important to senior health since they can be used to perform a variety of tasks, from housekeeping to medication management to companionship. Approaching a family member about retirement living can be a tough undertaking. It’s important to remind your loved ones that you are exploring this route because you love them and want to see them living the best life they can. When it comes to retirement living, it’s an opportunity to live a more active, social and healthy lifestyle than possible at home. As you look into retirement communities, engage with the residents who live there and see what their story was on making the change. This can help reassure loved ones as well as yourself.

Meeting Your Needs

The Waterford Communities, comprised of three different senior living communities, is yet another great option available in Lincoln. The Williamsburg and College View locations are both assisted living communities, while there is also Wilderness Hills Memory Care available for seniors. Each home provides a high staff-to-resident ratio, daily home-cooked meals, regular housekeeping and security among other features to give you peace of mind.

Though small in comparison to some other senior-living communities in the area, The Waterford Communities is prized for its size, as residents appreciate the smaller community that many believe makes it feel more like home than a facility. Seniors are less likely to feel overwhelmed and often adapt to the change easier.

“Prior to move-in at one of their communities, our care team will assess your current health and review your medical history to see how we can best meet your needs,” explained Executive Director Dan Klein Jr. “The care team will discuss your preferences as well as your normal routines to develop a care plan that’s tailored to you. We regularly update this plan to meet your evolving needs.”

Williamsburg Campus is the community’s largest and most traditional community. College View is nestled in the middle of a neighborhood, giving it an extra homelike feel. Wilderness Hills Memory Care is a specialized community, with rooms solely dedicated to memory care. At Wilderness Hills Memory Care, they provide the optimal environment for loved ones who require additional attention and specialized care. They believe that everyone should have a place that feels like home close to home.

The Waterford Communities offer an alert system that includes a pendant or bracelet in case of an emergency. When managing health, they support a family’s right to choose their loved one’s health specialist, whether it’s the primary care physician or the physical therapist. Residents may keep their current physicians or The Waterford’s team can help them find physicians near the community.

On their website, thewaterford.net, The Waterford Communities has a resource hub with materials and articles to help you choose the best option for your loved ones when exploring assisted-living options. Resources include a simple care-level quiz to help point you towards the needs required for your particular situation and a senior-care glossary to help you understand the lingo you might encounter regarding senior health. While finding the right assisted-living community can be overwhelming, The Waterford Communities wants you to know that you are not alone and that they are here to help.

Katie Johnson Legacy retirement Communities

dan Klein Jr. the Waterford Communities

Skilled Nursing

While most retirement and senior living communities are equipped to accommodate the vast majority of seniors, there are some that require additional care. Designed specifically for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia, Sumner Place is a skilled nursing facility that offers rehabilitation, long-term care, respite care and memory support services. In their Memory Care household, Sumner Place focuses on the strengths of each memory-care resident by using their historical personal interests as a method of minimizing the difficulties associated with dementia-related symptoms, which could be as simple as giving a former painter a paintbrush. Additionally, they use “Buddies Forever,” which is a comprehensive dementia program that employs techniques and skills such as getting down below eye level, using simple statements and endorphin boosts to create a foundation for person-centered care. Their goal is create a comfortable, safe environment for seniors dealing with unsettling conditions. According to Sumner Place Admissions and Public Relations coordinator Megan Herter, “At Sumner Place, we specialize in individualized programs designed to reduce feelings of confusion, fear, and agitation, and offer meaningful, enjoyable activities that stimulate the mind and body.”

Services at Sumner Place include their restorative program, therapy programs, full time dietician, daily spiritual services, morning rounds by their medical director, social outings in the community and their Dream Weaver partnership. In addition to serving seniors with more active lifestyles, Sumner Place also offers 24/7 medical surveillance, which includes medication management, out-of-character response interventions, safety awareness, fall preventions, proper hygiene and healthy nutrition.

Sumner Place, nestled in a cozy neighborhood, has a great culture and home-like environment that sets them apart from other senior living communities. They strive to create a living environment that radiates love, dignity and safety, while encouraging personal independence with personalized care. All operating decisions are made locally to assure that Sumner Place remains responsive to the needs of their residents and the community.

More than Housing

When looking for independent senior-living options that include opportunities for engagement, check out the Lincoln Housing Authority As we age, so does our desire for independence. They pride themselves on providing “more than housing,” going above and beyond to make their seniors happy.

Burke Plaza, Crossroads House and Mahoney Manor house more than 270 seniors. Residents have access to a wide variety of social and personal support services through the Resident Services and Congregate Housing Services programs. Any and everything they need is at their disposal. 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 potluck 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.

Services of two full-time social workers who share time between all buildings are combined with the Congregate Housing Services Program (CHSP). 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.

With great home care and senior living options available in Lincoln, we can continue to live life to the fullest long after our ability to do everything ourselves fades. Be sure to reach out to the businesses in Lincoln prioritizing senior health to learn more about what they have to offer you and your loved ones.

megan herter sumner place

Almost everyone is attracted to a new, fresh look. From new technology to a revamped office space, remodeling is a great way to give new life to an old space. Not only does remodeling cut costs in comparison to building new, but allow for businesses to show creativity and express themselves in little ways periodically.

If you are thinking of spicing things up, commercial remodeling projects are a great way to freshen up your look. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of the many resources available in Lincoln, ranging from details as small as light fixtures to as large as infrastructure. Regardless of your vision, Lincoln has you covered.

Revolutionizing Concrete

Merritt Concrete’s volumetric concrete mixer trucks play a crucial role in commercial construction projects. Not only do they provide efficient and flexible on-site concrete production, but customizable mix designs, flexible batch sizes, on-time delivery, cost and time savings and reduced environmental impact as well. These services make them valuable assets for commercial construction projects, offering efficiency, flexibility and sustainability like never before.

Because volumetric concrete mixer trucks are equipped with a specialized mixing system that allows them to produce fresh concrete on-site, on-site concrete mixing takes the construction process to the next level. Carrying the necessary ingredients - aggregates, cement, water and additives - in separate compartments and mixing them in precise proportions as needed enables the production of customized concrete mixes tailored to specific project requirements.

“Reducing environmental impact is a top priority on commercial construction projects. On-site concrete production with volumetric mixers contributes to a smaller environmental footprint," said general manager

Howell, "By producing concrete as needed, there is a reduction in transportationrelated emissions and the associated energy consumption. Additionally, customizing the mix design and avoiding over-ordering helps minimize material waste, promoting sustainable construction practices.”

Customizable mix designs are critical for commercial construction because jobs often demand different types of concrete mixes, such as high-strength concrete, self-consolidating concrete or colored concrete. Volumetric mixer trucks can adjust the mix design during the pouring process, allowing contractors to modify the concrete’s composition on-site to meet project specifications and achieve desired performance characteristics. This ultimately saves time and money, streamlining the construction process.

Volumetric mixing trucks offer several cost and time-saving benefits. Contractors can eliminate the expenses of ordering ready-mixed concrete from external suppliers and paying for unused concrete. The ability to adjust the mix design and batch sizes on-site also minimizes material waste and provides greater control over project timelines.

terry howell merritt Concrete

Experts that Care

At Kingery Construction, they provide full-service construction solutions, from pre-construction through project completion. Their mission is to deliver an exceptional level of professionalism, integrity and honesty, while also providing cost-effective solutions in a timely manner. With their team’s exceptional management skills and strong work ethic, they guarantee the highest-quality workmanship on every project. Kingery highly values their relationships and are committed to maintaining the trust and respect of employees, project owners, vendors and partners.

“Over the years, we have successfully completed projects through a variety of processes, including Design Build, Design Bid Build, Construction Management and as General Contractor,” said Director of Construction Operations Jen Cowher. “Our experience, combined with our dedication to excellence, enables us to meet and exceed our clients’ expectations on every project.”

Kingery prides themselves on staying up-todate on improvements and new trends in the construction industry.

“Virtual construction remains in high demand as more owners recognize the benefits of BIM (Building Information Modeling), not only for reducing errors during construction, but also for maintenance after construction is completed,” Jen explained. “This technology provides a 3D digital representation of the building that includes all its components and systems, allowing for more accurate planning and visualization.”

In addition to BIM, there are now programs like Matterport that are designed to document the construction process through photos and videos. This technology provides a virtual tour of the building during each stage of construction, allowing stakeholders to monitor progress and identify potential issues before they become major problems.

“Overall, the continued development of virtual construction technology is helping to make construction projects more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable,” continued Jen. “As these technologies continue to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative solutions that will transform the way we build and maintain our infrastructure.”

Kingery Construction takes pride in the variety of projects they have completed and are currently working on. One of their current projects is the final phase of construction at the Lincoln Regional Center, where they are improving patient safety. They are also excited to be renovating Lefler Middle School to provide students with improved classroom and lunchroom facilities. The Omaha Kingery team is currently working on several projects including Ralston High School, Mockingbird Community Center, and D.B. Property/ Voss Electric.

In recent years, the drive for environmentally friendly products and projects has increased. Many consumers are beginning to prioritize companies that use these eco-friendly processes, even at a slightly larger cost.

“Sustainable, eco-friendly building materials are still in high demand, and at Kingery Construction, we recognize the importance of utilizing such materials whenever possible,” Jen explained. “In projects where owners desire to prioritize sustainability, we have found that many green materials are only minimally more expensive than traditional building materials.”

As construction costs, material supply and workforce challenges continue to be concerns in the industry, Kingery has the expertise and ability to assess each project and find cost-effective alternatives without compromising quality or sustainability. Their commitment to providing excellent service and innovative solutions allows them to deliver projects that meet both their clients’ and their own high standards of quality and sustainability.

“Kingery Construction is thrilled to announce our expansion into the Omaha market through the acquisition of Construct Inc,” shared Jen. “This move aligns with our strategic goal of delivering exceptional commercial construction services to the communities of Nebraska. By integrating the

expertise and knowledge of Construct Inc.’s employees in Omaha, we are confident that Kingery Construction will maintain our position as a premier provider of construction services for many years to come.”

Remodel to Bring Workers Back to the Office, Attract and Retain Talent

AOI Corporation offers solutions for the built environment through their construction, furniture, and premanufactured construction groups. They’ve recently been seeing a lot of traction with their pre-manufactured interior construction group because it is perfectly suited to address the major issues that continue to face the industry – labor shortages, intermittent supply chain issues and unpredictable project costs. We sat down with Vice President of Business Development Patrick Jensen to learn more about what AOI has been seeing as of late.

“Post COVID, businesses are working hard to bring people back to the office and give them the kind of workspace they desire. Couple that with the hot competition for talent and attracting and retaining talent is still paramount for the companies we work with,” shared Patrick. “The pandemic changed the way people want to work and their expectations of what a workspace should deliver. If companies don’t adapt and adjust, they will most certainly lose out to the ones who are demonstrating that they value their employees.”

Patrick cautioned that building owners must be flexible with their expectations, budgets and design choices when remodeling their structure. Intermittent supply chain issues are still a factor as is the increased cost of labor and materials. The changing availability of materials coupled with the tight labor market means costs can be unpredictable, which extends project durations and increases budgets. AOI mitigates these challenges by having alternative options ready to go for clients, who must also be able to make decisions quickly to eliminate any potential impact to their budget and schedule.

Jen Cowher Kingery Construction

patrick Jensen Aoi Corporation

“AOI is unique because of what we offer with regard to interior renovation. We are the only general contractor that has a construction group along with a full-service furniture dealership – MillerKnoll – and pre-manufactured construction group – DIRTT,” Patrick explained. “This gives us the ability to be neutral with regard to solutions that fit clients’ needs. We don’t know whether the solution to their issues will be something a construction solution solves, or if a furniture solution may solve it, or if their issue is better served with a pre-manufactured approach – or maybe it is the combination of all three. That’s why our products and services are available individually or combined as part of a holistic approach developed in close collaboration with our clients and their design teams. We are trying to truly meet their needs, rather than offer solutions that pigeonhole them into ours.”

If you’re a first-time remodeler, Patrick recommends partnering with a design team and general contractor you can trust. They are going to be your advocates for purchasing construction services and providing you with the best solutions to achieve your goals, while driving your project to fruition. For the time that they are engaged with you on your project, they should act – and be treated – as an extension of your business.

Your Construction Partner for Life

As an employee-owned firm that has been in business for over 60 years, you can be assured that Cheever Construction will deliver on their promises. They’ve completed numerous renovations, historical renovations and new construction projects since their start. For each project, decisions on many different aspects will affect the ultimate outcome.

“While there are many different delivery methods, the three that are most often used are design-bid-build, construction management and design build,” explained President Justin Kurtzer. “To start, in designbid-build delivery, a business owner hires an

architect to design the remodel in full. They create both a plan and specifications to fulfill the owner’s program requirements. The project goes out for competitive bid to a select group of general contractors, or as ‘open-to-all.’”

Some of the advantages of design-bid-build include its single point of responsibility for construction, compliance with public bidding policies, construction documents that clearly define the scope of work, and a project cost that is established through the bidding process. As for the construction management approach, it begins with a business owner hiring a construction manager early in the planning process to provide pre-construction services; working with the architect and/or engineer (under separate contracts with the owner) to establish the project program, constructability and schedule; and establish benchmark budgets in a team environment.

“With a design-build approach, a business hires, under a single contract, the construction manager and design professional, which combine services to provide a single point of accountability for the entire project,” explained Justin. “The entity is responsible for delivering both the design documents and completing construction according to the owner’s requirements. Some advantages of this approach are that the contractor has input during design, the price is guaranteed, there is a single point of responsibility for construction, and design and construction can overlap to accelerate project delivery.

Whichever method you choose, Cheever Construction approaches each project with consistent objectives for success. They strive to make each project the precursor to the next project, while building a lasting relationship with everyone involved.

Lincoln’s Tile Maven

From kitchen backsplashes to entryway flooring to the shower walls, tile and stone are some of the most important details you’ll pick out when building. Choose wisely when selecting the tile and stone to put into your business – it can really make a difference on the outcome of the remodel! In this case, we recommend the professionals at Maven Tile & Stone.

Justin Kurtzer Cheever Construction

They are a tile design studio that specializes in showcasing unique tiles and stones, as well as other commodity products. They offer both specialty and commodity products, and clients who purchase through Maven are offered

improve the look, feel and functionality of your busineess. Many painters use the same old products they are used to and never explore new paint technologies that can help you improve your business. Remy Refinishing is committed to evolving and growing with the current trends to provide you a space you can be proud of.

Owner

Lizett

Nissenson’s tile design services at no charge. The store is open to both the general public and the trades. To make the building process even more convenient, job site delivery is also available at an additional charge.

“We strive to help you pick the product that is best for your individual needs and goals,” shared Lizett. “We are here to make your process easier, which includes answering the technical questions and doing walk-throughs on projects during non-business hours. Plus, clients that purchase through us are offered my tile design services at no charge.”

The hands-on tile design studio has samples available in their showroom and design center for builders who come in with a set of plans or property owners who want to get ideas and advice for their remodel. Some of the commercial projects Maven has been on before includes restaurants, yoga studios, med spas and hotels.

The hands-on tile design studio has samples available in their showroom and design center for homeowners who want to get ideas and advice for their new home.

Give Drab Concrete a New Look

Concrete Craft of Lincoln can provide a variety of solutions for both interior and exterior concrete. From basic flatwork needs, to decorative finishes with added color and texture their team is ready to help. Whether a new build or a remodel project, their decorative concrete finishes can bring that wow factor to your plain concrete floors. Looking for something a bit more elaborate or even adding your logo? Concrete Craft has you covered. Even if plain grey concrete meets your needs let them help you find the right finish for your concrete to ensure it is easy to maintain and long-lasting. With the variety of solutions, they offer we can work with you to find the best solutions for your budget. You don’t have to settle for plain when it comes to concrete finishes. A touch of color or a little shine can make all the difference.

Let the team at Concrete Craft help you transform your space and upgrade its overall appearance. Bringing decades of experience, continual employee training and using some of the highest quality products in the industry, their flooring solutions deliver premium results. Contact Concrete Craft today to discuss your concrete flooring needs. Their team is here ready to help!

Fresh Paint

Fresh coats of paint and on-trend aesthetics can help bring a business to life. If you aren’t looking to completely remodel your business, a new color may make a room look brand new. 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. This could make your business look dull or unclean. 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.

“I am a big fan of a newer product from Ben Moore called Scuff X. Their demo videos online show how it’s nearly impossible to leave those unsightly black scuff marks on walls painted with Scuff X,” Owner Jeremy Day shared. “It looks beautiful on a wall and it’s a tough durable finish that will keep a wall looking great for a long time.”

It’s beneficial to ask a knowledgeable painter what kinds of products are out there that can

“When you invite people into your business, you want to make sure you are putting your best foot forward,” Jeremy said. ”Paint is one of the highest impact things you can do to make your space look beautiful and inviting to your employees and clients.”

For top-notch paint jobs and top-of-the-line customer service, look no further than Remy Refinishing!

Tackle

Challenges Head-On

Tru-Built Construction is a big fan of taking an existing building and implementing some remodeling to create a fresh, dynamic workspace. Co-owner Bo Jones finds that remodeling can produce the same great benefits as a new building in a shorter timeframe and smaller price.

“Sometimes, the best option is to take an existing building and make improvements,” said Bo. “Our portfolio includes many different premier remodeling projects, such as the apartments at 1421 P St., the Willa Cather Museum, QP Ace Hardware on 27th St., the Aristos Apartments at 40th and Yankee Hill, the Grand Manse Penthouse Suite, LeadBelly and The Old Spaghetti Works building.”

One of their biggest and most notable renovation projects includes the former The Post & Nickel building. Tru-Built’s remodeling work turned the building in a mixed-use one that is now home to Chase Bank, Lululemon Athletica and Madida Clothing. In addition, it includes leased condos on the upper floors. The building is actually four separate buildings built

Lizett nissenson maven tile & stone

Jeremy day Remy Refinishing

Bo Jones tru-Built Construction

side-by-side, offering Tru-Built a unique set of challenges. This included varying floor levels, split plumbing and electric and working on the remodel in the tight confines of the downtown area.

“Regardless of these challenges, we ended up with a unique building with some fabulous features,” Bo said. “We preserved some of the original elements, such as the floors and the old billboard ads on the brick walls, and we restored the big windows that had previously been filled in with brick over the years. You wouldn’t believe it’s the same building as years before – it’s a great example of what can be done through commercial remodeling.”

Since they began offering their services in the early 2000s, Tru-Built has grown larger, completed countless remodels, custom home projects and more. The Tru-Built reputation of having an expert team dedicated to high-quality work and making people’s vision come true is well-earned.

Save Energy, Save Money

Building automation – intelligent, data-enabled automated and related controls – continues to become more and more common in today’s commercial spaces. Engineered Controls offers affordable integrated building control and automation systems that make your buildings smarter and more efficient by providing essential instrumentation and control.

“These systems save energy, lower operational costs, and enable productive and secure environments,” explained Owner Pat Killeen. “Our building automation platforms connect your HVAC, lighting and safety and security systems, enabling them to talk to each other in a single language on a single platform. This gives you information to make better decisions, save money and improve the way your building functions.”

When conducting commercial remodeling, Engineered Controls can help you implement energy solutions to save money. As most

building owners know, energy is the single largest expense in a building’s total operating budget. In fact, 30% is used inefficiently or unnecessarily. One of the best ways to keep those costs down is to develop a comprehensive strategy to reduce energy use.

“We offer a comprehensive energy evaluation program for our customers where our Energy and Environmental Optimization (EEO) program certified professionals are equipped with the training, tools, and experience to quickly assess your building’s current state and consult with you on the goals and objectives of your energy efficiency project,” Pat said. “Our EEO professionals participate in a rigorous training program learning how to guide building owners and managers through a structured process of analysis and discovery.”

Engineered Controls’ EEO program software identifies poorly performing buildings and then provides and automates corrective actions. Their EEO certified professionals can help accelerate implementation of the most popular energy conservation measures to optimize your facility.

“When you choose a partner for energy reduction projects, choose one with the experience and extensive product portfolio needed to customize the right plan for your building,” suggested Pat. “Stay up-to-date on energy rebates and incentives with a partner who is knowledgeable in these areas. At Engineered Controls, we design our solutions to be complete – saving money and energy, making sure you can meet required regulations while satisfying comfort, safety and convenience.”

Brighten Up

If you’re remodeling your building, don’t forget to include lighting in your project plan. The choices are endless, and the effects can really transform your space.

According to the National Electrical Contractors Association, less than 10% of electrical contractors nationally are owned by women, and Oak Electric, Inc is proud to be one of them. 100% owned and operated by Crystal Collins, she has intentional focus on her team to ensure everyone has what they need to be successful. This includes anything from a new tool in the field,

pat Killeen engineered Controls

skills and safety training, or administrative support. Her team of knowledgeable professionals are ready to help you get your home shining bright.

“Lighting is one of the most important things to think about in any building,” said Matt Collins , master electrician with Oak Electric. “For example, if you are investing thousands of dollars into a new workspace, why not invest a little more to install under-cabinet lights to showcase your new space? The same goes for bathrooms. You can install new lighting over the shower or bath area, and you might be surprised how much it showcases your investment.”

Matt says the most popular trend in indoor lighting today is strategically placed can lights. Another stunner is to design directional lighting to enhance artwork or photography that you have hanging on the walls. Don’t forget your exterior lighting, either.

“Lighting is equally important on the exterior of your business as it is on the inside,” Matt said. “Outside lighting provides safety after dark, and gives your space a more welcoming curb appeal.”

When you’re starting a project of just about any kind, Matt warned us that it’s absolutely crucial to make sure you know exactly how it will affect your building’s overall electrical workings to ensure the safety of you and your company.

“Before you start any project, please have a licensed electrician evaluate your building’s electrical panel to ensure that it can safely handle any and all upgrades.”

Evolve Your Walls

It’s amazing what a professional paint job can do for your home’s curb appeal. A fresh coat of paint, whether on the interior or exterior of your business, can be all a room needs. We highly recommend Walter’s Painting Inc. for all of your painting needs. They offer efficient, reliable service with minimal disruption to your commercial activity. If you want to make sure your painting project is completed on-time and on-budget, you need to work with the crew at Walter’s Painting .

“Walter’s Painting uses only top-quality products and qualified painting crews experienced with helping clients make the most informed decorating and painting decisions,” said Owner Jeff Walters . “With our team of welltrained and experienced painters, we understand what business owners expect from a painting company, and we are always ready to deliver.”

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 painting job is satisfactory.

“Many remodelers are tempted to simply do the painting work themselves, but this takes up valuable free time that could be spent elsewhere,” said Jeff Walters, owner. “We know that today’s fast-paced lifestyle means that most people are just too busy for improvements like painting and plastering, and especially all the prep work. We strive to make the entire process stress and worry-free, in addition to providing premium quality products and services that produce outstanding results.”

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.

Kingery Construction is thrilled to announce our expansion into the Omaha market through the acquisition of Construct Inc.

This move aligns with our strategic goal of delivering exceptional commercial construction services to the communities of Nebraska. By integrating the expertise and knowledge of Construct Inc.’s employees in Omaha, we are confident that Kingery Construction will maintain our position as a premier provider of construction services for many years to come.

When you hire Concrete Craft® to beautify your home or business and be ready to hear "oohs" and "aahs" from everyone who sees it. When you tell them that it was half the cost of other materials with fewer hassles and less maintenance, you might even get a big round of applause. We consider ourselves craftspeople who take pride in bringing artistry to one of the most durable, affordable, and beautiful materials on earth.

Your options to customize with color, design, and finishes are virtually limitless. We offer stamping, resurfacing, and staining, and because most projects are an overlay over existing materials, jobs go quicker, with a lot less mess and upheaval.

When you’re ready to transform your space, choose the team with experience as solid as the materials we use.

matt Collins oak electric, inc.

Jeff Walters Walter's painting

Build Your Vision, Build With Quality

Having been a proud member of the Lincoln business community for 90 years, ABC Electric has the experience and knowledge to handle any application. They’re on the leading edge of LED lighting and controls, offering unique and sustainable designs to set your business apart from others.

“We recently completed an interior renovation for the VA in the Denney Federal building,” shared Project Manager

Jon Eicher . “We furnished and installed new LED lighting and lighting controls, fire alarm system upgrades, complete phone and data systems including fiber optic cabling and uninterruptable power supplies, card readers and door access systems and modular furniture along with other conventional wiring systems. This is a fairly common renovation for us – as you can see we can do it all!”

ABC Electric has been seeing a growing trend of energy efficient LED lighting and the versatility of the lighting controls packages coming together. Owners are interested in the latest data technology infrastructure, which ABC Electric can gladly suggest the best options – and provide them. Even more, they offer a 25-year warranty on all data installations that they design and install.

“First and foremost, when conducting a commercial remodeling project, hire professionals in their respective disciplines,” said Jon. “Obtain the appropriate building permits and prepare an accurate budget which includes a contingency amount to help offset any surprises you may encounter along the way.”

Protect Your Property

Empire Netting & Fence is a leader in commercial fencing of all types, including security and property fences, ornamental steel fences and specialty fences offered by many vendors in the industry. In addition, they can provide both custom and prefabricated railing and other amenities that allow them to be a one-stop-shop for large commercial projects.

Empire can also assist you during your commercial remodeling project by providing temporary construction fencing around the jobsite to provide safety. This keeps the site safe from outside individuals who may wander in and allows the crews to have a visible boundary of where they are permitted to work.

Exterior Remodel

For businesses that are looking for a more historical, classic design to spruce up their building’s exterior, brick is always a stable choice—and has the big advantage of being low-maintenance. Established in 1881, Yankee Hill Brick works with local contractors to supply quality brick of all varieties and colors. Brick is an ideal material for siding and retaining walls and it continues to be a popular choice for its charming aesthetic. Yankee Hill produces its own clay mixes and high temperature firing kiln to produce a range of looks for their own brickwork. In addition to their own bricks, they also import a selection of bricks from other manufacturers, chosen to complement the local Nebraska market.

The folks at Yankee Hill Brick pride themselves on offering only the best brick products, something contractors have learned and come to rely on. Their products are specified on many awardwinning projects. The combination of quality, color and pristine makes Yankee Hill Brick an attractive choice for architects.

ready to start taking out those walls and ripping up that flooring? We suggest first putting on some safety glasses and reaching out to these local remodeling businesses. Your priorities are their priorities, and you’ll find yourself in your ideal workspace after partnering with these contractors.

Jon eicher ABC electric

Veteran-owned businesses

Although the calendar only marks two days out of the year to honor military Veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, it is important to be thankful for the sacrifice of Veterans in our community all year long.

Veterans are some of the bravest and hardest-working members of our community, and it is important to give back to the men and women that fought for our freedom. After serving in the military, many go on to new professions or business ventures and we want to highlight the businesses in our community that are owned by Veterans.

Supporting these businesses shows your support for our troops and the sacrifices they have made for our country. Coming back from deployment is often not an easy task, so having a supportive community around them makes the transition a lot easier.

Post-traumatic stress disorder, a mental disorder that occurs after a person experiences a stressful sevent, affects about 15 million people each year. 21+ Veterans commit suicide daily, so it is important to keep strong relationships with their local Veterans Service Office and Veterans Associations. Over 1.7 million Veterans received mental health services at VA last year. Their services range from peer support with other Veterans to counseling, therapy, medication or a combination of these options. Their goal is to help you take charge of your treatment and live a full and meaningful life. Military OneSource is another free service that provides expert support to connect military personnel and their families with the best available resources to fit their needs.

All of us at Strictly Business are honored to get the chance to highlight these businesses and the Veterans that run them every day. Your bravery, strength and dedication to our country does not go unnoticed. Thank you for your service!

If you would like to be featured in next year’s Veteran-owned Business feature, please reach out to Cemre at cemre@strictlybusinessomaha. com or call our office at (402) 466-3330.

adam schroeder

Marine Corps (1999-2003); nebraska national Guard (2003-2010)

Adam Shroeder of Strat V Consulting served in the Marine Corps and the Nebraska National Guard leading and executing military operations with the US and abroad before moving into civilian life and getting his degree. He received his Masters in marketing from Doane University in 2020. By the time January of 2021 rolled around, Adam was opening the doors to Strat V Consulting.

Having 20+ years of experience in strategic planning, supply chain and operations gave him great insight into what makes businesses tick, and just as importantly what doesn’t.

“I saw a gap between business leaders and the people that support those businesses, the employees. I knew there was an opportunity to close that gap through connecting the individuals in the business across all levels,” says Adam.

Strat V Consulting works with all business sizes, and working with his larger clients has helped him see that small businesses can and should have the same opportunities to improve their processes and grow their business. They enjoy opening up a whole new world for clients that may think they aren’t big enough to fully utilize a business consultation partner. Strat V is committed to coming alongside all of their clients in a way that makes sense to each individual company they work with to provide a personalized consulting experience.

You can get in touch with Adam from Strat V Consulting by reaching out to aschroeder@stratvconsulting.com / (402) 730-9776; or going to www. stratvconsulting.com.

brenda rohren us navy (1981-1986)

Behavioral Health Resources

(BHR) was founded in Spring 2011 by Brenda Rohren as a private, for-profit organization. This endeavor was prompted by requests from several CARF-accredited organizations that were interested in contracting for consulting to prepare for CARF accreditation surveys.

Behavioral Health Resources was incorporated as a domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Lincoln on June 8, 2011 and was accredited by the Better Business Bureau on June 13, 2012. In March 2013, business operations were expanded to include Clinical Services. BHR was designated as a verified Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB) on October 31, 2013. CARF accreditation was obtained on October 31, 2014 for the trauma-focused Integrated SUD/MH Outpatient Treatment (OT) programs for Children/Adolescents and Adults. (The accreditation status is a Three-Year accreditation, the optimal accreditation outcome indicating high quality of services.) Licensure in Nebraska as a Substance Abuse Treatment Center was obtained on March 20, 2015; deemed status based on CARF accreditation was obtained on October 21, 2015. Services were expanded again in May 2015 to include Professional Development (sponsoring EMDR therapy basic and advanced training workshops, providing consultation to EMDR therapists pursuing EMDRIA certification and becoming the corporate sponsor for the Southeast Nebraska EMDRIA Regional Network).

For more information, please visit www.bhr-llc.com or call (402) 486-1101.

John berry Jr. us army

John Berry, Jr. is a trial attorney at Berry Law Firm since 2003. For the past twenty years, John has been a powerhouse when it comes to his clients. As a Veteran himself, he has skilled knowledge of the Veteran Affairs system and commits himself to finding justice for thousands of Veterans.

John served in the US Army for over 20 years, retiring as a Battalion Commander and was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the 209th Regimental Training Institute for his service. He has spent his whole life committing himself to the betterment of the community around him and continues to do so today. His passion extends to his family as well, his wife and four children continually encourage him to be the best family man he can be.

Berry Law’s success stems from the foundation John has laid. His most recent accomplishment was being recognized by “Best Lawyers in America Criminal Defense” in 2023. He has successfully led teams in Bosnia and Iraq and continues to lead successfully both in the courtroom and in the firm. Berry Law represents Veterans with VA appeals nationwide and maintains a regional trial practice that includes criminal defense, personal injury, civil litigation and military law. John makes sure their high standards are met with each case.

With over 250 years of combined legal experience and 300 years of combined military service, the team at Berry Law is well-equipped to handle the most serious legal needs. The firm has expanded to offer Criminal Defense, Personal Injury and Veterans Law. To learn more, go online to jsberrylaw.com.

John stevens berry sr. us army

John Stevens Berry Sr. has written several books over the years, including fiction, nonfiction, biography and poetry. His writing is heavily influenced by his esteemed military service, and he takes his readers on a journey into his brilliant mind with each page.

His first published work was Darkness of Snow in 1973, a beautiful collection of poetry. With his next publication, a prose memoir, he explores his experiences of the ambiguities of law within the walls of the military. Those Gallant Men: One Trial in Vietnam was published in 1984. In 2014, John Sr. co-wrote The Twelfth Victim: The Innocence of Caril Fugate in the Starkweather Murder Rampage. This book covers the life and crime of Charles Starkweather and his girlfriend, Caril Fugate. This shocking story went on to become a documentary series on Showtime released in early 2023. In May, John Sr. released his latest book, Foot Soldier. This piece is a memoir, a collection of free verse poetry written after his diagnosis of PTSD. It offers insights into war, small-town America and a life fully lived. Fellow author Marcia Southwick says about Berry, “I used to think J.S. Berry was a famous attorney who had once studied poetry with Yvor Winters at Stanford. Now I realize, after reading these poems, that he’s really a famous poet who has been disguising himself as an attorney for the past 57 years.”

Currently, John Sr. is living in Lincoln with his artist wife, Margaret Berry. He passes his leisure time with his grandchildren and farming interests. If you would like to get a copy of John Sr.’s latest work, you can find it for sale on amazon.com by searching for Foot Soldier.

Jim Cada

us army (1968-1970)

Jim Cada was born and raised on a farm north of Schuyler. He served in the U.S. Army 19681970, obtaining rank of staff Sgt., and leaving with a Purple Heart and honorable discharge. He graduated at UNL with a BS., MA. and JD. Jim’s practice of law includes personal injury, estate planning and probate, collection of business accounts and establishment/representation of business and corporate entities.

Jim currently serves as the NE Aide to Secretary of the Army, is on the Governor’s Advisory Commission and serves as a board member of the Nebraska Veterans Council, which promotes legislation to help Veterans. He’s been president of the State Veterans Home Board since 1998; and, since 1994, he has served on the Lancaster County Veterans Service Committee that provides an array of services for Veterans.

Jim Cada and Cada Law have spent their careers giving individuals, families and businesses the help that they need at the time they need it. With over 50 years of combined experience, they know that their firm could not have had such continued success without a genuine commitment to our clients and community. Regardless of who you are, your legal issues and concerns are unique, important and deserve to be treated with respect. Call or text today to get the help you need at (402) 477-2233 or email office@cadalaw.com.

Jason Krueger

a rmy r eserve (1985-1990); a rmy (1990-1991)

Jason Krueger has always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and after serving in the Army he was working but looking for a new opportunity.

On the hunt for a franchise for supplemental income, circumstances changed and Jason needed a full-time franchise to support himself. He switched focus and started looking into companies that aligned with his morals and motivations.

Kitchen Tune Up was at a franchise convention and Jason knew that they were a good fit together. With company values like honesty, integrity and care for customers, this was the perfect opportunity. Jason’s franchise started in June of 2018 and has been thriving ever since.

Over the years, Kitchen Tune Up has acquired some businesses that rounded out the company to become a one-stop shop for customers. Any home repairs you need, Jason will have someone in mind who he knows will care for you just like he would. Those high standards are hard to come by.

Community is extremely important to Kitchen Tune Up and Jason loves being as involved as he can. He’s donated items to LIBA auctions and is always trying to get people more involved with the organization. He is part of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln remodel council, which puts on an annual event called Crusin’ for the Trade and gives a scholarship to lucky students looking at trade careers. It’s an awesome family event that they’re looking forward to seeing grow. Jason also supports Foster Closet, donating shelving and time when he can.

If you’re looking for an elevated kitchen and remodeling experience, Kitchen Tune Up and Jason Krueger will partner with you to exceed your expectations. You can find out more information by going to www.kitchentuneup.com/ lincoln-ne/ or contacting Jason at jkrueger@kitchentuneup.com / (402) 340-0008.

Marty Fortney us Marines (1986-1992)

I joined the Marines out of high school to serve my country. In 1986, we were still engaged in the Cold War. I trained as a combat engineer specializing in cold weather mountain warfare. I got experience working with explosives, mines and building bridges to accommodate the new M1 Abrams 60 ton tank.

After being in the Marines for a few years, I married my wife of 34 years now. Six months after we were married, I was deployed to a little country Kuwait that nobody really spoke of until they were invaded by Saddam Hussein. They did not have a standing army and were easyily overrun by opposing forces. My wife and I communicated mostly with paper, pen and stamps! There was a 30-40 day turn around for letters. I can still only imagine how difficult that was for my wife and loved ones to watch the news and wonder where we where or if we were still alive.

Ironically, I had trained for years to operate in the mountainsnonetheless, Marines are taught to adapt and overcome. I saw and participated in war actions that I would wish for no one to witness. The injustice that the Republican Guard of Iraq placed on those defenseless people of Kuwait is indescribable. I am so grateful to have served my country but in no way do I believe that war is a way to solve any problem. I believe that we the United States of America and our coalition forces saved many lives in Kuwait. We have an amazing country with rights that are protected by our constitution. Every citizen in our country should know those rights and exercise them with civility. I’m proud to continue serving my country in a different way through my small business, Superior Storage. The opportunities that are given to us by the men and women who serve continue to open up for my community. God bless the USA.