Strictly Business Lincoln - May 2021

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

LINCOLN • MAY 2021 TM

Josh McCaslin Supervisor

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

The Power of a Press Release When you open up Strictly Business, you’ll likely they make an employee feel valued. It’s something they can take flip to a page of our news section as it takes to friends and family, point to, and say, “Hey, that’s me!” A great up the majority of the magazine. If you’re example of one of our clients that does a wonderful job of this is a business owner or in a leadership position Luxury Landscape (shout out to Ken and Jackie!). Whenever they within your organization and you’re NOT bring on a new crew member, they tell us about it so we can run a utilizing press releases for when you have an press release to welcome them to the team. These are individuals exciting announcement to share, I’m addressing who have probably never been featured in a magazine before, so this month’s Letter from the President to you. it’s a really cool opportunity to put them in the limelight. We also It’s time to stop missing out on such an easy often hear from our clients that when they run a press release in and effective way to promote your company! Strictly Business, they’ll get texts and calls from their loved ones When I say exciting announcement, I mean and colleagues expressing congratulations. I can’t tell you how everything from a milestone anniversary to bringing someone many parents and grandparents have stopped by the office to new onto your team. Other great examples of a newsworthy pick up extra copies of the magazine. announcement include: I know that not every organization has someone on the team to carry out press writing. Many business owners either don’t have • New website the time or they don’t have the skill set. This is why • Rebranding so many businesses appreciate their partnership “Press releases allow you with us. We help them turn their little things into • Expansion big things by writing about it and sharing it in our to leverage the moves • New location news section—in print and online. Our team touches your business makes, big base with all our clients each month to see if they • New community partnership have anything they could announce. Even if we don’t or small, to keep your • Upcoming event/event recap hear back via email, we do our best to keep up audience captivated.” with our clients online and on social media to see if • Receiving an award or recognition they are posting about anything that could qualify • Being selected to speak at an event as a newsworthy press release. If needed, our goal is to do as much of the legwork as possible before final approval • Completing a training/workshop from the client to make it an easy process on them.

• Introducing a new product or service When you partner with Strictly Business, you are partnering with a • and much more! team that makes it our job to celebrate you and your team. I think that If your business or organization did any of these things in the past makes us pretty unique as an advertising tool. Our advertisers get a year, ask yourself what you did to let the community know. These free press release each month as a part of their campaign, and the are significant events, and they should be celebrated as such! professional writing is free as well. Nonclients have the opportunity That’s what a press release helps accomplish. Even if you don’t to run a paid press release. We publish press releases in print, online feel like something is that big of a deal, you can still leverage on our website, and on our the major social media channels. This is the moves you make to keep your audience captivated. how we take our client’s marketing dollar as far as it can go.

In my opinion, personnel announcements especially bring value to Let Strictly Business help you lock in your status as THE EXPERT a company. Not only do they connect faces with company names, in your industry, utilizing print, the internet, and social media.

Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330.

CONTENTS NEWS 4 Business 27 Personnel

34 Nonprofit 48 Health

SPOTLIGHTS 52 The Mechanix Garage

ASK THE EXPERT 19 ComPro Insurance COLUMNS 20 Star City Six

54 Luxury Landscape 56 Tru-Built Construction 58 Talon Room

53 55 57 59

FEATURE STORIES 60 Women’s Health

Strictly Business Magazine

63 64 68 77 4

Office Efficiency Severe Weather Building Your Dream Home Employing Lincoln Strictly Business MAY 2021

Strictly Business Upcoming Events Lincoln Independent Business Association Downtown Lincoln Association Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

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ABOUT THE COVER

Brown Brothers Construction, Inc. has been providing excellent commercial construction services for over 15 years. Brothers Ray and Jared Brown started the company with a commitment to bringing Lincoln business owners the best, helping them keep their storefronts and interiors functional and modern. To learn more about Brown Brothers, we interviewed Supervisor Josh McCaslin: What do you think makes Brown Brothers different from other companies in the same industry?

I think that one of the biggest differences between us and other companies is the personal attention each job gets from not only the superintendents but also the owners to ensure that we are meeting and exceeding the customers' expectations of quality and craftsmanship.

Who are the owners and what makes them great to work for/what are their values?

Jared and Ray Brown. I would say they are great to work for because they care about the employee beyond just work, and they always have the customers best interest in mind. That allows us to make quick decisions on the job site to keep the job moving forward.

What do you like about doing business in Lincoln?

The differences we have in each job. With so many different kinds of businesses and sizes of businesses, we get to work on so many different projects. Some might only take a week and some might take six months, but all of them come with different challenges that keep the job interesting.

Tell me about your team—how do you all keep motivated to best serve your clients?

We work with small groups of employees which allows us to build camaraderie, and to make sure that we are pushing each other every day to reach new levels of quality and success. We stay motivated by wanting to do our best work every day. With every day comes a new challenge that we have to overcome, allowing us to be better at our

jobs. By not doing the same tasks everyday it's easy to want to come to work and learn new things.

What changes have you seen in the industry and your company in the past few years?

One of the biggest changes is with the rising cost of building supplies.

We have to really manage our supplies and make sure we are keeping costs down. By making sure that we properly manage supplies and cutting waste, we can increase profitability and keep prices lower for the customers—making both sides happy.

What do you see happening with the business and/or industry in the next five years?

The one constant in our industry is the need for space. I see a lot of companies trying to maximize space while still trying to protect employees health concerns due to the pandemic. I believe that even after the pandemic is gone, there will still be conscious efforts made by companies to keep proper distance and controls in place to minimize risk to associates. It will remain important for us to come up with ways to help companies to achieve these goals at a cost-effective rate.

Tell me about some recent project or projects that you're the most proud of.

We just did a complete remodel of an office floor downtown. I’m very proud of this project not only because it turned out well, but we were able to complete it in the given timeframe—and we did all of it in the middle of a pandemic. We used multiple sub-contractors that all were occupying the same space and working side by side and didn’t have a single case of COVID-19 traced back to the job site. It wasn’t without its challenges. Getting materials here in a timely fashion and people having to miss work due to outside sources of illness made it tough, but the project was still completed on time. The best part of the project was to hear the customers walk through and really appreciate the space for its beauty and functionality.

Call Brown Brothers Construction, Inc. for an estimate at (402) 858-5155 or visit their Facebook page (@BrownBrothersConstructionInc).

PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor/Operations Hannah Hundley – Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Writer Diane Gumaer – Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Dillon Crawford – Design@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com

Hannah

Diane

Dillon

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BUSINESS NEWS Heartland Urgent Care Opens Second Clinic in Lincoln, 1265 S Cotner Blvd.

Guiderock Commercial Realty Celebrates 5 Years Serving Businesses, Property Owners

Heartland Urgent Care is pleased to announce the recent opening of a second facility designed t o p ro v i d e c o n ve n i e n t a n d affordable urgent care for residents of Lincoln and the surrounding communities. Now accepting patients, the new facility is located in the Piedmont Shopping Center at 1265 S Cotner Blvd., STE 41. The clinic is open seven days a week with office hours of Monday–Saturday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m., and Sundays, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Guiderock Commercial Realty LLC is celebrating five years of serving businesses and property owners in eastern Nebraska. Founded in 2016 by Cathy Kottwitz, Guiderock Commercial Realty began with a focus on helping business owners get the most out of the sites they select for their businesses. The company also provides sales, leasing, and property-management services to property owners.

Heartland Urgent Care provides a full range of medical services.

They accept individuals of all ages and serve businesses as an occupational health center that provides corporate services and treatment of worker compensation injuries. The clinic also does comprehensive lab work, sports physicals, laceration repair, occupational medicine, employee drug testing, COVID testing, and treatment of most common ailments.

Heartland Urgent Care's first Lincoln location is at 965 S 27th St. To learn more about either clinic, call (402) 2426500, email admin@heartlandurgentcare.com, or visit www. heartlandurgentcare.com.

The Nebraska Competes Coalition Announces First Cohort of Businesses Nebraska Competes, a non-partisan coalition of businesses committed to ac hieving nondiscrimination policies at the community and state levels, has announced its first cohort of businesses.

The list includes the following 35 businesses/organizations: Audubon Nebraska; Bozell; Center for People in Need; CIO Wealth Strategies; Data Security, Inc.; DLR Group; DoMore Consulting Company; Empyrean Brewing Co.; Fiedler Law Firm; Firespring; FireWorks Restaurant; Friedman Law; Heartland Family Services; Hudl; Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary; J Brasch Co., LLC; Kindred Psychology; Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill; Lincoln Chamber of Commerce; Lincoln Public Schools; Lux Center for the Arts; Maxwell; Mid America Casing Supply, LLC; Nebraska Appleseed; Nonprofit Association of the Midlands; Pearl Street Counseling; Signature Performance Inc.; Spreetail; Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center; Stubbs Chiropractic; The Mill Coffee & Tea; University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Union Pacific; Verdis Group; and WP Engine.

Coalition members support inclusive and diverse business practices, including protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Nebraska Competes believes in building a stronger Nebraska where LGBTQ employees and customers are valued. Their efforts attract the best talent to increase business-to-business and business-to-consumer relationships, and to ultimately grow Nebraska’s economy.

Organizations interested in joining Nebraska Competes can contact the team with further questions or sign-up on the Nebraska Competes website at nebraskacompetes.org. You can contact Nebraska Competes at info@nebraskacompetes.org or by calling (402) 488-1130.

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“We have been fortunate over these past five years to have the opportunity to serve amazing clients, many of whom have grown alongside us,” Cathy said. “Our team has grown to include two agents with additional experience that will serve a broader range of clients as well. We are proud to be a part of the Lincoln business community, and our team is committed to continuing to help Lincoln grow and prosper.”

Guiderock Commercial Realty LLC is a Lincoln-based commercial realestate firm providing services for business owners and investors. For more information, visit www.guiderockrealty.com or contact Cathy Kottwitz at (402) 421-7474 / cathy@guiderockrealty.com.

Lincoln Airport Authority Moves Forward with LNK NEXT Terminal Expansion Project On April 9, members of the Lincoln Airport Authority voted unanimously to use their taxing authority for the first time since 1986 by authorizing the issuance of up to $56 million in bonds to pay for the LNK Next terminalexpansion project. The price has increased since fall, due in great part to increased costs of materials, but airport officials are hopeful that those costs will still come down. Construction is expected to start sometime this summer and take 18-24 months to complete.

The LNK NEXT project will update amenities at the 50-year-old terminal, add two new gates to expand airport capacity, leave room for additional expansion, and add infrastructure to allow TSA to run full pre-checks. The renovation also will consolidate the ticket counters and allow for food-and-beverage service, including the Flyers Club, postsecurity. The project calls for expansion of the north side of the terminal, consolidating airline gates and adding about 35,000 square feet to the existing 58,000-square-foot building. Lincoln’s Sampson Construction has teamed with Christman Construction out of Michigan, which was selected to serve as the construction manager-at-risk.

Consolidating the airline ticket counters in the departure-flight area will enhance passenger flow and simplify future expansion. The project also will reposition the baggage claim and rental-car counters to enhance traffic on level one of the airport facility. Since the terminal was designed in 1974, its split-use, disconnected layout has required two fully staffed security checkpoints and two separate checked-baggage facilities.

Consolidating these checkpoints and bag-screening facilities will add efficiency to the passenger experience through minimized bag movement and reduction in the number of times personnel would have to be split up.

The Lincoln Airport Authority operates the Lincoln Airport, a public/military airport located five miles northwest of Lincoln that delivers more than $1.3 billion per year in value to the economy.

To stay up-to-date about LNK NEXT, visit next.lincolnairport.com.

To learn more about the Lincoln Airport or to book a flight, visit lincolnairport.com or call (402) 458-2480. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Lincoln Federal Savings to Host 16th Annual Golf Tournament to Benefit Make-A-Wish

Kinetic Celebrates Military Appreciation Month with Podcast, Thank a Hero Drive

Lincoln Federal Savings B a n k ’s 1 6 t h A n n u a l M a ke - A - W i s h ® G o l f Tournament will tee off June 5 at NuMark Golf Course in Lincoln. Team and sponsorship registration is open to the public. The cost is $340 per team of four, and the registration fee includes cart rental, 18 holes of golf, and a boxed lunch on the day of the tournament. Each year, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank holds this benefit tournament with hopes of raising enough money to send a local child on his or her Wish Trip. They have been lucky enough to achieve this goal year after year!

At the tournament, prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place for two flights and the optional target hole, so be sure to bring cash for the Target Hole! To be entered for door prizes, mulligans must be purchased at time of registration. All proceeds will benefit Make-A-Wish® Nebraska.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is a depositor-owned financial institution specializing in residential home loans, construction loans, home equity loan products, commercial real estate loans, and deposit services.

For a full listing of products, services, and locations, visit lincolnfed. com. To join in on their 16th Annual Make-A-Wish® Golf Tournament, visit eventbrite.com/e/make-a-wish-benefit-golf-tournamentregistration-141467851151.

As a business recognized for a commitment to hiring veterans, Kinetic Business by Windstream is giving thanks and celebrating our troops throughout Military Appreciation Month in May. Kinetic has partnered with A Million Thanks to launch the Kinetic Heroes initiative, through which community members can write and send thank-you notes to deployed service members by dropping letters off at any Kinetic retail store. In their Connecting Business podcast in May, you will also hear from an active-duty Army National Guard staff sergeant and a member of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve on how businesses of all sizes can be good military employers.

According to a report by PEW Research, a majority of veterans say their military service was useful in giving them the skills and training they needed for a job outside the military and provided good preparation for a civilian job. Kinetic has been and will continue to be a proud partner of veterans and remains committed to hiring and retaining military veterans across their footprint and in Lincoln.

In every year since 2018, Kinetic has been awarded the HIRE Vets Medallion Program Award from the U.S. Department of Labor.

Kinetic Business by Windstream has been building a network to better serve Lincoln residents and businesses for years. For more information, visit GoKinetic.com and follow Kinetic Business on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. To view the podcast, go to business.windstream.com, scroll to the very bottom of the page, and select “Connecting Business Podcast” under “Support.”

Accounting Today Names Lutz a 2021 Top 100 Firm and a Regional Leader Lutz, a Nebraska-based business solutions firm, has been named a 2021 Top 100 Firm by Accounting Today. This is the third consecutive year that Lutz has been named to the Top 100 list, climbing from No. 92 in 2020 to No. 88 in 2021. Lutz has also been recognized as one of Accounting Today’s 2021 Regional Leaders in the Midwest. This is the seventh consecutive year that Lutz has been awarded this title.

“We are fortunate to be able to provide our customers new solutions to ensure their success,” said Managing Shareholder Mark Duren.

“This past year, Lutz continued to expand its offerings by establishing new service lines including risk assessment, data analytics & insights, and family office support. Our team is committed to delivering superior service to our clients, even during these challenging times.

We look forward to continued growth and are eager to see what opportunities the next year holds.”

The annual rankings of the largest firms in tax and accounting offer a host of benchmarking data, as well as strategies and advice from the most successful firms. For more information on Accounting Today’s 2021 Top 100 Firms and Regional Leaders, visit www.accountingtoday.com/report/the-top-100-firms-andregional-leaders.

Lutz is the business solutions firm for people seeking a partner to help energize and heighten financial and organizational success. Born and raised in Nebraska, their experienced team simplifies complexities and provides accounting, wealth management, recruiting, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and technology services. They embrace your business as their own to spark the right solutions and help you thrive.

For more information, visit lutz.us. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Husker Rehab Celebrates One Year in South Sixth JetSplash Location to Open in Summer, Lincoln, Offers Complimentary Consultation Seventh Location Planned for 40th and South Husker Rehab is celebrating one year in its south Lincoln location, at 4445 S 86th St., and while continued pandemic concerns have postponed a celebratory open house, they are inviting visitors to stop by and see the new clinic or take a virtual tour of it on their website. As part of the celebration, they are also offering complimentary 15-minute consultations with Physical Therapist Tyler Klotz, PT, ATC, DPT.

JetSplash Car Wash has announced that their sixth Lincoln location will open at 1615 Pine Lake Rd. in early summer, depending on the weather. In addition, a seventh location is in development on the northwest corner of 40th and South Streets. There is currently an abandoned U.S. Bank building located there. Demolition began in April and development will begin promptly thereafter. JetSplash is planning on opening the seventh location later this year in November or December.

If you are suffering an injury or have been dealing with nagging pain, schedule a quick assessment to determine if physical therapy can help you! Proudly serving Lincoln and the surrounding area since 1999, Husker Rehab can help get you moving, feeling better, and back to daily activities. The compassionate staff are movement-therapy experts who understand the biomechanics of the body and work with your other healthcare providers to integrate your medical care so that you achieve the best outcomes possible. With two locations in Lincoln, their physical-therapy and wellness services are designed thoughtfully to support your goals with a customized program based on the initial evaluation and presentation to the clinic with ongoing assessment and progression to reach your goals.

Since 2003, JetSplash Car Wash has washed more than 6 million cars in Lincoln. They will be washing even more thanks to the two new, convenient locations. Existing JetSplash locations are at Highway 2 and Pioneers, 84th and Holdrege, 27th and Superior, 56th and Pine Lake, and 84th and Highway 2. All locations demonstrate superior levels of speed, satisfaction, and sustainability, and not many other car-wash facilities can boast use of only eco-friendly and 100% biodegradable products. Plus, all vacuums and wash machines are state-of-the-art and energyefficient. As a locally owned business, JetSplash is excited to bring the community more options and convenience for a speedy and spotless car wash. For more information, visit jetsplash.com.

For more information about Husker Rehab or to take a virtual tour of the facilities, visit huskerrehab.com. To schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation or an assessment of your pain, call (402) 261-4739 or email bmendoza@huskerrehab.com.

Windcrest Assisted Living Residents Getting Back to a Somewhat Normal Living Schedule Thanks to COVID vaccinations and THE improvements in pandemic conditions, Windcrest assisted-living residents at Windcrest on Van Dorn on Van Dorn are beginning to enjoy at least a partial return to normalcy COMMUNITY in their daily lives. Meals are being ser ved in the dining room again, more activities and entertainment are available, and limited in-person family visits are allowed. At the same time, some of the adaptations that Windcrest made because of COVID will remain long-term additions, including increased hydration and exercise encouragement for residents, continued use of Facetime and other video apps to keep them in regular visual contact with friends and family, and increased all-staff engagement with residents as true extensions of their families.

Windcrest Assisted Living works collaboratively with you, your family and, when needed, their team of caregivers to design a custom, person-centered approach to nurturing the whole self. Their fi rst-rate amenities, active social community, and delicious culinary options create genuine, meaningful experience.

Windcrest is known for particularly impressive restaurant-style dining with a large selection of fantastic food. On the tenet that food connects us, brings us joy, and can be a creative outlet, the residents also are invited to get into the action with food through things like bake-offs, organized recipe exchanges, and working together safely on fun cooking projects.

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Windcrest on Van Dorn continues to take safety measures and follow guidance from officials. The safety of the residents and team members at Windcrest on Van Dorn is their top priority.

For more information, visit capitalsenior.com/community/thewindcrest-on-van-dorn or call (402) 486-0011. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS

DAILY TACO SPECIALS? 200+ TEQUILAS? 32 DRAFT BEERS?

BNI Announces First-Ever Virtual National Conference on May 20–21 If lifelong learning is a value that fuels your business, you’ll be encouraged to learn that BNI has curated resources and speakers to help you grow at the first-ever virtual BNI 2021 U.S. National Conference on May 20 at 11 a.m. to May 21 at 5 p.m. With the theme “Succeed Anyway”, the conference will cover topics on the following: Nurturing; Not Spamming Your Customers with Email Marketing; Rapid Growth in the Face of Uncertainty; Servant Leadership: A Philosophy for Success; and How I Grew My Business from Startup to $30M through BNI. The keynote for the event will be Best Selling Author Mike Michalowicz.

By his 35th birthday, Mike had founded and sold two multi-million dollar companies. Then he became a small business angel investor, and proceeded to lose his entire fortune. Attendees will be inspired by his story of going from a “cash-eating monster to a money-making machine.”

BNI is the world’s leading referral organization, with over 270,000 members in 70+ countries. Their members generate word-of-mouth business for each other through structured, results-driven groups around the world. In 2019 alone, their members generated over $16 billion (USD) in revenue for member-businesses. For more information on becoming a local BNI® Heartland member, visit bniheartland.com or contact (402) 880-6311 / info@bniheartland.com.bniusevents. com. To register for the national conference, go to bniusevents.com.

OH YEAH, WE GOT THAT. 800 Q Street | Lincoln, NE

Go to GiveToLincoln.com and give BIG to the nonprofits you love

Cheever Construction Completes Renovation on Fremont City Auditorium Cheever Construction recently completed a wide-ranging renovation on the Fremont City Auditorium. There was a grand reopening held on April 3 to celebrate, and a virtual tour made available for those who could not attend. Justin Kurtzer, president of Cheever, was in attendance and expressed his gratitude for being selected as the general contractor for the project. It took 1.5 years to complete the $3.87 million project, which came in more than $400,000 under budget. The renovations included a new roof; new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system; fire sprinkler system; main floor restrooms with handicap accessibility; newly refurbished main area with technology and a movable wall that can divide the area in two; new meeting spaces; caterer-friendly kitchen; and entries and exits that are Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible.

Dedicated in 1937, the Fremont City Auditorium building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has served generations of Fremont-area residents. For decades, people have gathered there for a host of activities from wedding receptions to pancake feeds and volleyball games.

Headquartered in Lincoln, Cheever Construction is an established and recognized construction firm that brings integrity, expertise, and exceptional professionals who deliver quality work to each project. Cheever is committed to providing specialized solutions and services that align with each client’s goals. Working together, Cheever employees have formed collaborative relationships with clients, architects, engineers, and subcontractors, supporting the company’s reputation for superior workmanship and performance.

For more information about Cheever Construction, please call (402) 477-6745 or visit the company’s website at cheeverconstruction.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

CONTACT US TODAY! 402.476.8614 www.rayslawn.com MAY 2021 Strictly Business

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Kinetic Business by Windstream: Limited-time offer available for new customers only. Subject to availability and all applicable terms and conditions found at https://www.windstream.com/about/legal/kinetic-business-terms-and-conditions. © 2021 Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC. All rights reserved. Kinetic and Windstream are registered service marks or trademarks of Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC and/or its affiliates. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

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BUSINESS NEWS HBAL Spring Parade of Homes is May 9-16 The Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) Spring Parade of Homes has been a Mother’s Day tradition for more than 25 years! The FREE parade runs from May 9-16, with tour hours of 6-9 p.m. weekdays and 1-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. With interest rates so low, now is the perfect time to leap into the home of your dreams, with options for sustainability, energy efficiency, creative floor plans, added space, and modern features like you’ve never imagined!

HBAL’s builders, trade contractors, and suppliers have created 30 wonderful homes in all areas of Lincoln for the public to tour. The Parade includes homes in the following subdivisions: Iron Ridge; Wilderness Hills; The Preserve at Cross Creek, Roca; The Woodlands at Yankee Hill; Vintage Heights; Boulder Ridge; Covenant Addition; Wandering Creek; White Horse; Waterford Estates; Dominion at Stevens Creek; Prairie Village; Northbank Preserve; Legends Addition; Fallbrook; Highland View; Hartland’s View Pointe West; and Southwest Village Heights.

HBAL's Spring Parade of Homes offers potential homebuyers a great opportunity to walk through brand-new homes and meet the builders. View or download the online guidebook at HBAL.org/ events/parade-of-homes. If you have questions, please contact the Home Builders Association of Lincoln at (402) 423-4225 or info@ hbal.org. Follow HBAL on Facebook (@HBAofLincoln), Instagram (@hbalincoln), and Twitter (@HBALincoln) for the latest updates.

402-418-0550 Residential Commercial Industrial

Bethany A Arnold, Financial Advisor 8135 S. 15th St., Suite B | Lincoln, NE (402) 421-7418

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Jason B. Krueger

FOR AIRPORT AUTHORITY in the General Election on May 4th 402-890-4947 jason@kruegster.com

The Haymarket Farmers’ Market is Ready for Upcoming Season, May Through October The City of Lincoln’s Haymarket Farmers’ Market will be open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon, beginning May 1 and continuing through October 9. Guests can expect farmfresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and handmade items from over 100 vendors to be sold on the streets and sidewalks. Many of the restaurants and retail stores open early offering a unique selection of food, antiques, clothing and specialty gifts. It is a grand display of how rural and urban business can work together to offer a rich shopping experience.

The Haymarket Farmers’ Market serves as one of Lincoln’s main social and culinary events. It is a place where people gather to shop, meet with friends, and exchange ideas and recipes and to plan the perfect feast. Farmers’ Market is ever changing in its effort to present an enormous array of fresh locally grown produce and farm produced products. The Market displays glorious flowers, delicious bakery items, and Nebraska arts and crafts. You will find baskets and tables overflowing with wonderful products that you can only find on Saturday mornings in this historic district.

The Market boasts a “Performance Showcase” program. Featured are both local and Nebraska talent performing folk, jazz, blues, classical, and dance. It is indeed a delight to applaud these talented artists. Farmers’ Market also offers educational demonstrations to inform customers and vendors about various programs like nutrition and aging. There are also many civic organizations that hand out information and give demonstrations at the Market.

Returning managers of the City of Lincoln’s Haymarket Farmers’ Market include Linda Hubka, vendor relations, and Jeff Cunningham, business manager. They are happy to provide any additional information needed. They can be contacted by calling (402) 4357496. Learn more online at lincolnhaymarket.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

AOI Launches New Herman Miller Workspace Collection to Optimize or Create New Spaces AOI Corporation announced the April 1 launch of a brand-new Herman Miller OE1 Workspace Collection of optimized essential office pieces to usher in a new era in the wor kplace. OE1 is designed to fit seamlessly into the existing fl oorplates of any business—amplifying and optimizing existing spaces or creating totally new ones! As a certified Herman Miller dealer, AOI is offering the OE1 collection to provide agility for organizations, teams, and individuals by creating flexible, fluid environments that adapt to evolving goals and personal preferences.

OE1 helps organizations adapt their facilities quickly and easily, scaling their spaces to meet evolving needs. Its multifunctional designs can be used across the fl oorplate, helping optimize real estate and fluidly adjust to changing workforces. Spaces equipped with OE1 empower teams to create the environments they need when they need them. A quiet spot for focus can quickly transform into a collaborative zone for group work or a casual area for daily stand-ups.

AOI Corporation works with clients that include everything from small start-ups to Fortune 500 corporations. They provide solutions for construction, furniture, and prefabricated interiors. For more information, visit aoicorp.com or contact Penny Johnston at (402) 476-0055 or pjohnston@aoicorp.com.

MAY 2021 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS Agemark Senior Living Recognized Among 2020 Best Workplaces for Aging Services

ComPro Insurance Responds to American Rescue Plan Act, Effective April 1

Agemark Senior Living has been named among the 2020 Best Workplaces for Aging Services

by Great Place to Work® and FORTUNE Magazine. Agemark, the parent company of various communities in Lincoln and Omaha, has been recognized three years in a row by Great Place to WorkCertified™ organizations in Senior Housing & Care and At-Home Care in the Aging Services industry. In 2020, Agemark was named the 11th best place to work on the Senior Housing small/medium list.

The ranking considered feedback representing 189,159 employees working for Great Place to Work-Certified organizations in the senior housing industry. Great Place to Work, a global people-analytics and consulting firm, evaluated more than 60 elements of team-members’ experiences on the job.

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) went into effect on April 1, 2021, so ComPro Insurance is working closely with individuals/families and employers whose health plans are being affected. For individual/family health plans, ARPA provides the opportunity for people with higher incomes to enroll in a health insurance plan through healthcare.gov and receive a Premium Tax Credit subsidy that reduces the monthly premium. Those who have not qualified in the past will likely qualify now. Self-employed individuals and those who work for small businesses that do not offer group health insurance should contact ComPro to find out what their savings could be.

“Our employees are the heart of our company; to say we value them is an understatement,” Agemark Senior Living Chief Operating Officer Marty Hug said. “Each day, they focus on changing the lives of our residents, family members, and their co-workers. In return, they know their lives change for the better.”

Agemark Senior Living has communities throughout the United States, including CountryHouse communities in Lincoln, Omaha, Council Bluffs, Grand Island, and Kearney; The Meriwether in La Vista; and The Kensington in Beatrice and Hastings. If you’re interested in learning more about Agemark communities and their memory and senior care services, visit www.agemark.com.

For employer-sponsored health plans, ARPA provides a 100% subsidy of COBRA premiums. The subsidy covers the full cost of COBRA and State Continuation from April 1, 2021 through September 30, 2021. An employee is eligible for the subsidy if they were involuntarily terminated or had an involuntary reduction in work hours. Employers are responsible for notifying affected employees of the availability of the COBRA subsidy.

ComPro Insurance (Compensation Programs, Inc.) is committed to helping you connect the dots. Let the agents at ComPro Insurance, located at 1040 N Cotner Blvd., help you! For more information, call (402) 488-5100 or visit comproins.com.

BBB Business Tip: Being Cash-Flow Positive First National Bank of Omaha Awards is Crucial for the Survival of Your Business $40K in Grants to Fund Housing The Better Business Bureau (BBB) recently offered some information to help businesses understand how crucial positive cash flow is to their very survival. As you know, businesses cannot operate without working capital, and working capital dries up without a positive cash flow. Positive cash flow, or having more money than you do overhead, indicates that the liquid assets of a business are increasing.

It is a sign of growth. Liquid capital is needed to pay the bills, reinvest in the business, and save enough money to cover expenses during slower times. If your company has negative cash flow, it is dying a little more every day.

How can you find out if your business is cash flow positive or negative?

At the beginning of the month, tabulate how much cash you have on hand that you can use, without including any unpaid invoices or collections. Subtract from that amount your expenses, including operating overhead, debt repayment, investor payments, and other monthly bills. If you have money left over, your business is cash-flow positive. If the number is negative, you have a negative cash flow.

Bankers need to know that a business is making sales and will pay the bills every month if they extend a line of credit. If they can see that a company expects enough revenue to cover the bills, they will open liquid operating capital to help the business meet demand.

The Better Business Bureau has been serving local communities since 1936. The overall mission of the organization is to be a leader in advancing marketplace trust. For more information, visit bbb.org/ nebraska or call (800) 649-6814. For more ideas about growing your business, go to bbb.org/article/business/23745.

12 Strictly Business MAY 2021

First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) recently announced its first round of Impact Grant recipients for 2021, including a total of $40,000 in grants awarded to organizations in the Lincoln area. The following grants will support affordable housing and neighborhood stability programs: • A $10,000 grant to the Lincoln/Lancaster Habitat for Humanity will provide funding for affordable home construction materials.

• A $10,000 grant to Lincoln Housing Charities will support the construction of one affordable home in partnership with the Lincoln Housing Authority.

• A $20,000 grant to NeighborWorks Lincoln will provide funding to build one to three affordable homes in Lincoln.

FNBO awarded a total of $862,000 in Impact Grants to 49 organizations in Nebraska, Iowa, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas. The grants support programs related to affordable housing and neighborhood stability, as well as entrepreneurship and small-business development. In Nebraska and western Iowa, FNBO awarded $605,000 in Impact Grants to 29 organizations across the region.

First National Bank of Omaha is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $24 billion in assets and nearly 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas. For more information, visit fnbo.com/community, and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@fnbo). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Neemann & Sons Proud to Celebrate 40 Years of Providing Quality Home Exterior Services Neemann & Sons is proud to be celebrating 40 years of serving the Lincoln community with quality exterior home services! Terry Neemann started Terry Neemann Roofing in 1981 as a part-time job to earn some additional income. As the business and family & grew, the name was changed to Neemann & Sons, Inc., with Terry’s wife, Chris, serving as office manager and their three sons, Travis, Trevor, and Trent, joining the team as their business continues to grow. Neemann & Sons started out offering only roofing and, over the years, added a wide array of exterior and repair services. The Neemann & Sons expansion continued with the acquisition of Sprague Roofing’s commercial roofing division in 2018.

Neemann & Sons provides their customers with family-friendly service, using high-quality products. They offer a wide range of exterior services, including roofing, siding, seamless gutters, aluminum soffit and fascia, replacement windows, blown-in insulation, gutter cleaning, Halo Lights, and other repairs. Terry & Chris Neemann appreciate their loyal customers over the past 40 years. Neemann & Sons have dedicated their business to great customer service and will be here to service clients for many years to come. Learn more at neemannandsons.com, call (402) 423-4853, or email info@neemannandsons.com.

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Operation Triumphus Captures Vietnam Veteran Stories to Help Preserve History Operation Triumphus is a new platform designed to preserve the stories and memories of Vietnam Veterans in an interactive multimedia experience. The site is designed to crowdsource and catalogue stories, pictures, and videos from Veterans and share them in a way that is engaging and interactive.

By splitting stories into themed segments and applying hashtags and links, Operation Triumphus allows users to dive deeply into related content, dates, themes, locations, and even military units. The platform will allow users to share their stories, photos, and videos and interact with other users’ stories.

The service launched to the public on April 15. It is free to make an account, and both Veterans and their family members can share content. In addition to preserving history and memories, the site will function as a social network for Vietnam Veterans to reunite and collaborate and will endeavor to provide the “welcome home” that many of the era’s Veterans never received.

“Vietnam Veterans weren’t given the same celebration as other Veterans who returned home, and if we aren’t careful, before too long our stories and legacies will be gone,” said Former Crewmember U.S.S. Missouri BB-63. “That is why a project like Operation Triumphus is so important! Our stories deserve to be heard.”

To share your stories about Vietnam, please visit operationtriumphus. org or email Steve at steve@operationtriumphus.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Kingery Construction Co. has built a wide variety of projects for educational, medical and religious facilities as well as commercial, governmental, industrial and private owners. We are honored to have constructed several iconic landmarks and developed relationships with owners and architects that span decades.

Kingery Construction Co. has the expertise to manage any project.

We have successfully completed projects of Design/Bid/Build, Design/ Build, Construction Manager at Risk and Construction Manager as Agent methods.

Below are a few of our recent projects.

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MAY 2021 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS WISB Meeting Set for Wednesday, May 12 at Venue Restaurant, with Guest Speaker

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The next Women in Sales & Business (WISB) monthly meeting is set for Wednesday, May 12, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The meeting will be hosted at Venue Restaurant & Lounge in the Lancaster / Nebraska room, 4111 Pioneer Woods Dr., STE 100. They will begin with their regular business meeting, followed a presentation from Heather Legge. Heather is a returning speaker and will share with the group what she discovered through the “Lead With Moxie” interviews of women running businesses!

Guests are welcome and current members are encouraged to attend with a guest. The cost to attend in-person is $16 for members including lunch, $10 without lunch, and FREE for first-time guests. All women attending should be prepared to make a brief introduction of themselves and their business. Please register on the Women in Sales and Business Facebook page (@wisblincoln)!

Women in Sales & Business began meeting in 1987 to offer businesswomen in Lincoln the opportunity to network within an allfemale setting. To learn more or inquire about membership, call (402) 472-8675 or visit wisblincoln.org.

Nebraska Department of Labor Administers Hiring Incentive Programs

Individual and group benefits

Life and Health Benefits

Jennifer Larabee

Jennifer@fumafinancial.com Kevin Harrington Mark Kavan 402-560-0047 kevin@fumafinancial.com mkavan@fumainsurance.com 402-253-6926 402-421-1921

MKAVAN@FUMAINSURANCE.COM | FUMAFINANCIAL.COM

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Strictly Business MAY 2021

T h e N eb ra s k a D e p a r t m e n t of Labor (NDOL) is offering employers a variety of hiring incentive programs, including the Federal Fidelity Bonding Program, Work Opportunity Tax Credit and On-the-Job Training reimbursement.

The Federal Fidelity Bonding program is a new program for companies looking for innovative ways to meet their hiring requirements while protecting their assets. The program is a hiring tool that provides employers insurance coverage for former offenders and other at risk or hard to place job seekers. The Federal Fidelity Bond provides $5,000 of insurance to cover events such as theft, larceny, or embezzlement by the employee during their first six months of the job or promotion.

Employers receive the Federal Fidelity Bond free-of-charge. Contact NDOL today at DOL.FidelityBonds@nebraska.gov for more information.

The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a Federal tax credit available to employers for hiring individuals from certain target groups who have consistently faced significant barriers to employment.

Employers may be eligible for a tax credit up to $2,400 if hiring an individual within one year of release from incarceration due to a felony conviction. Email wotchelp@nebraska.gov for more information.

The Nebraska Department of Labor is also offering an on-the-job training reimbursement for employers who are planning to hire a worker who was impacted by a layoff. Employers who are willing to provide training on the job may be eligible for a 50–75% wage reimbursement up to $10,000. On-the-job training helps employers recruit more efficiently, hire better-prepared employees who understand workplace expectations, and reduce their training costs.

These programs also help jobseekers quickly reenter the workforce while increasing their skills and earning a wage. Contact one of NDOL’s job centers to speak to a reemployment coordinator or email NDOL.EconomicTransition@nebraska.gov. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS TELCOR Experiences Growth with Expanded Business Offerings In 2017, TELCOR launched its laboratory billing service. Having started with three billing specialists, the team has grown to more than 100. In addition to its billing service, TELCOR offers billing software for laboratories and point-of-care middleware for hospitals. All TELCOR product lines have experienced significant growth over the last year despite the pandemic.

“The growth of TELCOR has been exciting,” said Kwami Edwards, chief customer officer. “Laboratories across the country need a billing service that understands the unique nuances of laboratory billing and TELCOR meet those needs.”

“As a healthcare vendor, our businesses have been able to address several of the challenges our customers faced during the pandemic,” added Chris Terrano, chief technology officer.

“Our company and our software are extremely adaptable to the ever-changing healthcare environment.”

A strong and thriving Lincoln business for more than 25 years, TELCOR is an innovative company providing healthcare software and service to more than 2,700 hospitals and laboratories across the United States and Canada. With more than 250 people working in the office and remote, TELCOR is proud of its strong culture allowing teams to collaborate across locations. With its growth, TELCOR is looking for dedicated, innovative people to join its team. With a culture of integrity and acceptance, employees are truly part of something special that has a positive impact on people’s lives. For information on joining the TELCOR team, visit telcor.com or call (402) 489-1207.

Buy. Sell.

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Working with Buyers & Sellers Deb Wagner Realtor

402.440.1314

HomeSalesByDeb.com Pollack & Ball, LLC

Attorneys at Law Sanford J. Pollack John C. Ball Heather S. Colton

Criminal Law | Family Law Personal Injury Cases 1003 H Street | (402) 476-7474 | pollackandball.com

Nebraska LTC Pharmacy Expands Quickly, Completes Addition of Next-Door Space As Nebraska LTC Pharmacy’s Lincoln location grows quickly, t h ey c o m p l e t e d a n expansion into the nextdoor space in mid-April to meet the demands of patients’ needs. Owner and Pharmacist Shannon SchultzHammerschmidt said the growing demand for more attention to the medication process and to patients, in general, led their speedy growth. They spend a great deal of time on every step of every patient’s medications, which has made their Lincoln location popular. Adding the additional suite to their space will allow them to provide those services to the expanding clientele.

A Fairbury native, Shannon founded LTC Pharmacy in 2011 when she recognized a need in the community for a pharmacy that did more than just count pills and slap on labels. She wanted to make a difference. With a single phone call to the pharmacy, that difference will be clear: No automated systems and no punching in prescription numbers, just great personal care.

The folks at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy set themselves apart from bigbox chain stores by providing a small-town level of customer service while providing the highest level of care for their patients. They provide free delivery, both in Lincoln and Omaha, ship medications if they are outside of their delivery areas, provide in-home consultations and medication reconciliations; and offer free-adherence packaging that has been proven to increase medication adherence up to 90% to help you achieve your health goals. For more information, visit neltcpharmacy.com or call the Lincoln office at (402) 328-0231. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

MAY 2021 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS Lincoln Running Co. Launches 2021 “Beginner’s Luck” Running Program

Nebraska Safety Council Offers Three-Day Electrical Safety Hands-On Training in May

If you’re looking to start a running program, losing weight and need an exercise program to help get you in shape, or want to do a road race but don’t know how to prepare, Lincoln Running Co.’s “Beginner’s Luck” classes are for you!

On tap for 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday from June 9 to July 28. Each session—in the commons are at Southwest High School—will start with a speaker covering a topic related to running … and then the running begins. They will have four different running schedules to follow, starting with an option for the “very beginning” runner and advancing from there. Lincoln Running Co. will also have a host of volunteers on hand to advise and encourage runners throughout the class and running sessions.

The goal of Beginner’s Luck is to inspire and motivate people who want to run. Participants will meet some great new friends who will hold you accountable, and vice versa, to continue running even after the class ends. Beginner’s Luck accomplishes more than that, though, as noted by a recent participant, who said: “In this class, you learn to be healthy, you learn proper techniques, you learn about how to deal with aches and pains, and you learn how to become a better, healthier you. The best part is you may show up alone, but you will have an entire group of people and coaches there beside you the entire way.”

The Lincoln Running Co. is Lincoln’s oldest locally owned running specialty store, having served Lincoln runners for nearly 40 years.

For more information about Beginner’s Luck, stop by the shop at 1213 Q St., visit lincrunningcompany.com, or call (402) 474-4557.

The Nebraska Safety Council is offering a three-day 70E Arc Flash Electrical Safety hands-on training May 17-19 at the NESC office in Lincoln. Perfect for electricians, linemen and utility workers, warehouse employees, temporary workers, safety directors, electrical contractors, and more, participants will learn how the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70E standards apply to a facility, why safe electrical work practices are important, and what can be done to ensure that your organization meets government standards for electrical safety. This three-day course covers OSHA and 2021 NFPA 70E standards.

Training will run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. The cost for members is $1,495 and, for nonmembers, $1,825. The hands-on labs will help employees comply with demonstrated ability and annual auditing requirements using Job Safety Analysis (JSA) procedures, which are part of paperwork completed to document that participants have safely and correctly completed the labs.

The Mission of the Nebraska Safety Council is to provide education and leadership to empower Nebraskans to live safe and healthy. They offer comprehensive programs, training courses, events, and services that are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel, and on the job. For more details about the three-day training or to register, visit Nesafetycouncil.org and click on “Worker Education and Events,” then choose “Training Courses” from the dropdown menu, or call (402) 483-2511.

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Strictly Business MAY 2021

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BUSINESS NEWS Heartland International Holds Metal Roofing and Advanced Roofing Systems Trainings Heartland International invites current and aspiring roofing contractors to learn more about Conklin Roofing Systems at the upcoming Metal Roofing and Advanced Roofing Systems Training seminars on tap in Kansas City in May and June.

The one-day Metal Roofing System Training will cover not only the application process of a Conklin MR® System but also will provide an overview about how to get started as a Conklin contractor and introduce strategies for making sales calls, quoting a roof, presenting proposals, and working with building owners. The next Metal Roofing System Training programs take place on May 20 and June 10.

The three-day Advanced Roofing Systems Training provides a more in-depth coverage of Conklin Roofing Systems and gives contractors a chance to participate in a hands-on construction of the systems using industry-standard tools and materials. Participants in this training must have completed a one-day Metal Roofing System Training program as a pre-qualification for this advanced program. Check out one of the next Advanced Roofing Systems Training programs on May 12-14 and June 2-4.

For more information about the Heartland International, Inc. training programs, please visit thesecureroof.com.

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Center Sphere Provides Rally Cry for Lincoln Small Business Community During Pandemic

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As the 12-month mark passed and the world realized that we are a full year into the Covid-19 crisis, Center Sphere has continued to expand its mark in the small business community and provide an affordable option to its members throughout the pandemic. Starting at just $29.95 per month, the organization is determined to keep the price point low while offering members more value than ever before.

“Before the pandemic, networking was looked at as more of an option,” said Center Sphere President Erin Pearson. “However, as we launch forward into this new world, we realize how important those relationships are to business and what an impact they can make on whether or not someone’s doors stay open.”

More than just a weekly chapter meeting, Center Sphere is offering more and more ways for its members to plug in. Most recently, the organization launched its Women in Business Collaborative, a virtual space where women from around the country can come together to learn from each other and grow.

“Even though these conversations are happening across state lines,” Pearson said, “there’s no doubt they make an impact in each of our local communities.”

Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. The Lincoln Network is currently made up of nearly 50 chapters and have access to members nationwide. For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event, visit www.CenterSphere.com or connect with Lincoln Area Director Cheryl Hansen at CherylHansen@ CenterSphere.com or (402) 499-2009. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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MAY 2021 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS SP Group Cares Team Helps Businesses Navigate COVID Assistance 1 Year Later A ye a r a f t e r a s s e m b l i n g assembled the SP Cares Team to guide and support clients as they navigated federal programs for small businesses, SP Group, P.C. team continues to lend a hand to local businesses.

This team comprises professionals at the firm who possess an indepth knowledge of the financial-assistance programs available to small businesses. The SP Cares Team is actively engaging clients in the ever-changing complexities of the many loan programs and Covid-related tax credits as the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact small businesses.

Members of the SP Cares Team include Troy Stentz, Rachel Clymer, Mark Chapin, Ross Reynolds, Erica Vossler, Amy Windle, and Kevin Rademacher. This team of experts walks alongside our clients as they navigate changing tax rules, analyze their operations under unprecedented conditions, and find creative solutions to rise up in tough times.

SP Group, P.C., a growing entrepreneurial accounting firm, was founded on four core values: relationships, the power of team, life/work balance, and competitiveness. If your business has questions about the CARES Act or needs expert assistance with the Paycheck Protection Program, please call the SP Cares Team at (402) 420-7758. Follow SP Group on Facebook (@SP Group, P.C.) or Twitter (@SPGroupPC) for consistent updates. For more information, visit www.spgrouppc.com.

Krueger Development Announces Opening of Master Lee’s Taekwondo in South Ridge Krueger Development recently welcomed Master Lee’s Taekwondo to their S o u t h R i d ge V i l l a ge proper ty at 7125 S 29th St., STE C. Master Lee’s Taekwondo proudly t e a c h e s Ta e k wo n d o, Korean traditional martial arts. They offer the best quality classes from ages four to adults, along with family classes, to help build life skills such as confidence, focus, and discipline. Owner Master Y. Lee has more than 25 years of martial-arts experience. Throughout his years of competition, he has been involved in both national and international tournaments. As a part of Master Lee's grand opening, he is offering specials on trial classes and a Taekwondo birthday party. To learn more, visit www.

NebraskaTaekwondo.com or contact Master Lee at (402) 781-0360 / mltkdlincoln@gmail.com.

For more than 30 years, the family-owned and operated Krueger Development has contributed to Lincoln’s commercial and residential marketplace by developing communities, retail centers, and multifamily residences. For leasing information at South Ridge Village or other south Lincoln commercial spaces, contact Allison Santana with Krueger Development at (402) 423-7377 / asantana@ kruegerdevelopment.com.

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Strictly Business MAY 2021

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BUSINESS NEWS Community Foundation Hometown Internship Program Works to Draw Young People Home The Nebraska Community Foundation’s (NCF’s) Hometown Internship program is working to draw young people back to home in Nebraska by providing opportunities for young Nebraskans to return to their hometowns for the summer and further the work and mission of their local Nebraska Community Foundation affiliated fund. On the heels of tremendous success with 13 exceptional 2020 Hometown Interns, NCF expanded the program to include up to 25 interns for summer 2021.

The expansion feeds on the results of the 2020 NCF Youth Survey, which revealed that most participants would prefer to live in a small community, and they’re motivated to make a positive impact on the places that raised them. The primary reason young Nebraskans don’t envision a future in their hometowns comes down to job opportunities—44% of respondents said the main reason they would not remain in their area is because of career opportunities elsewhere. NCF’s Hometown Internship program aims to capitalize on that by creative those opportunities here at home.

Headquartered in Lincoln with employees working from hometowns in every corner of the state, Nebraska Community Foundation provides financial management, strategic development, donor education, and training in partnership with 1,500 volunteers serving 272 hometowns in 83 Nebraska counties. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $393.1 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.

Arnie’s Pet Food Store Offers All-Natural Earth Animal Flea, Tick Protection for Pets If you are shopping for flea and tick protection for your pets, Arnie’s Pet Food Store has the all-natural solution you need to keep your furry friends safe from pests and pesticides.

When it comes to protecting dogs and cats from mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks, Earth Animal Wellness and Longevity Solutions—on sale now and sold exclusively at Arnie’s Pet Food Store—offers a non-toxic, all-natural form of flea and tick protection. Earth Animal’s philosophy matches that of Arnie’s Pet Food Store: Dogs and cats should never have to carry, be externally treated with, or consume pesticides. Mother Nature doesn’t use synthetic chemicals, and neither does Earth Animal.

Using Earth Animal flea and tick protection avoids the pitfall of overthe-counter everyday use flea and tick collars, which contain an FDA registered pesticide listed on the box. In fact, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) concluded that these collars, even when used as directed, can have “serious health consequences to humans and pets.” They found that unsafe levels of pesticides from flea and tick collars can remain on a dog or cat's fur even after the collar is removed. What’s more, the pesticide on these flea and tick collars and can rub off on contact, onto other animals, beds, furniture, and whatever else your pet contacts. Oral medications, or chews, for flea and tick control have similar health risks.

Located in the Alamo Plaza at 56th and Highway 2, Arnie’s Pet Food Store is your neighborhood family-owned pet food store, where they are as much about your pets as they do their own. Stop by or shop online at arniespetfoods.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Leadership Harbor Focuses on the Value of Leadershifting to Enhance Personal Growth With the perpetual change in our world today, Leadership Harbor is focusing on the importance of Leadershifting, or the ability and willingness to make leadership changes to enhance organizational and personal growth. The only way a person, especially a leader, can face the rate of change in things like technology, social media, and the future, is by continually making leadershifts.

Leadership Harbor Coach Chris Hansen said they are focusing on three types of approaches to encourage growth in this environment, including Masterminds, or smaller groups that offer a combination of brainstorming, education, peer accountability and support to sharpen your business and personal skills; traditional leadership coaching that uses John Maxwell’s Leadershifting: 11 Essential Changes Every Leader Must Embrace to help people who want to get into coaching themselves; and Grad Shift, which targets juniors and seniors in high school to determine how they want to transition to their next step, be it a two-year school, four-year university, or direct transition to the working world.

Leadership Harbor helps people develop the skills to be more relational and influential in their personal, business, and faith lives. They offer individual, group, and business coaching, training, and speaker support. For more information about Leadershifting opportunities, visit leadershipharbor.com or contact Chris Hansen at (402) 525-0568.

Now offering products from

Black Hills Bagels!

3 New Flavors Every Month

12 Grams of Protein NO Preservatives, Cholesterol, Eggs, Oil, or Dairy!

531-500-4684 | 5025 Lindberg St. | Lincoln, NE MAY 2021 Strictly Business

19

BUSINESS NEWS Fill Your Kids’ Summer with Character, Faith, and Fun at Carol Joy Holling Camp

Lincoln Chamber Schedules Part Three of Virtual Women in Business for May 13

If you’re looking for a winning combination of personal and spiritual growth and summer fun for your kids, the Carol Joy Holling Camp, Conference & Retreat Center can fill the bill! Their camps in June and July are aimed at helping kids feel the joy of childhood but also gain the life skills they will need to develop into productive, happy adults. Carol Joy Holling camps are primarily for kids in grades 1 through 12 and are mostly weeklong programs (Sunday through Friday), plus specialty parent/child and parent/grandchild camps, as well as one camp for special-needs youth and three for special-needs adults. What’s more, they offer a Confirmation Camp and day-camp programs on site.

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce announced that Part 3 of their Virtual Women in Business Series is schedule for May 13 from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom. The featured speaker will be Dr. Gwen Combs, associate professor of management in the College of Business and director for faculty diversity and inclusion in the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor at the University of Nebraska Lincoln.

Participants in Carol Joy Holling camps get to enjoy activities including boating, swimming, horseback riding, archery, high-ropes courses, zip-lines, and more. They also include a program called Coop that focuses on team-based activities and games that teach kids how to work with a team. New this year is a $3.2 million building called the Hazel Dillon Lodge, which will provide housing for elementary kids at the TrailHead site.

For more information about Carol Joy Holling Camp, Conference & Retreat Center or to register your children for camp, visit caroljoyholling. org, email registrar@NLOM.org, or call (402) 944-2544.

At their core, diversity and inclusion initiatives are not new to the context of work organizations. Many organizations have been attempting to address equity, fairness, and concerns about workforce representation for some time with mixed results and divergent levels of success. In this session, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce will present and discuss evidence-based practices that have demonstrated and suggest better opportunities for success of organizational diversity and inclusion initiatives.

The Lincoln Chamber serves as Lincoln’s lead business organization championing Lincoln’s innovative, bustling business community. They serve as a convener and collaborator that brings all voices together to grow our city and move it forward! If you want to get to know Lincoln, they would love to show you around! Learn more at lcoc.com or call (402) 436-2350. Register for Part 3 of the Virtual Women in Business Series at us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__yIZ2ZuXQlurO2qalozoRw.

EXIT Realty Professionals provides the most advanced systems and tools designed specifically to take you to the top!

JOIN OUR TEAM

- Tami Bonnell CEO

At EXIT Realty Professionals, we pride ourselves on doing things differently. When you become a part of the EXIT team, you become family. We are committed to high-level training, coaching, and development to ensure your long-term success.

The Most Impactful Training Sytems • Professional Training with 100 Days of Greatness • Listing Presentation • Power Prospecting

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Strictly Business MAY 2021

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

by Chris McPike Vice President, ComPro Insurance

Two Important Health Insurance Changes for Individuals in 2021

We are addressing two important health insurance changes for individuals in 2021 as a result of the American Rescue Plan Act that was signed into law by President Biden on March 11, 2021.

1. There are new income guidelines to qualify for the Health Insurance Marketplace.

The new law changed the eligibility guidelines to enroll in coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace by eliminating the upper income limits. Previously, a single person making more than $51,000 or a couple with income greater than $69,000 did not qualify because their income exceeded 400% of the Federal Poverty Level. Now the general guideline is that you should not have to pay more than 8.5% of your income for health insurance premiums for a silver benefit level. A bronze plan will be less expensive.

Examples

aged Single, aged 35 Married, 50 & 48

2021 Estimated Adjusted Gross $60,000 Income

$150,000

Premium Tax Credit Eligibility

$232

$777

Premium for Silver CoPay Plan

$275–$440

$650–$1,100

The people who can benefit the most from this are self-employed and those with no access to employer provided health insurance.

Realtors, farmers and ranchers, self-employed trades people, early retirees, and small business owners should find out how much savings are available to them.

2. The amount of Premium Tax Credit has been increased.

Anyone that is already enrolled through the Health Insurance Marketplace is eligible for a larger amount of Premium Tax Credit (PTC) in 2021 than the amount that was calculated when you enrolled. If you are paying a premium, it would be smart to update your account so that the higher amount of PTC can be applied to your account. If you already have a $0 premium, you will be able to collect the additional PTC when you file your 2021 income tax return. The average amount of additional PTC is $50 per month per person. There is also an option to use the additional PTC to upgrade to a new policy with a higher level of benefits. However, be careful, as this may cause any yearto-date medical expenses that you have paid to be reset to $0 on a new policy.

Apartment s

Lincoln's Newest Luxur y Apartment Community

A Special Enrollment Period continues until August 15th.

Anyone that is eligible but has not enrolled in the Health Insurance Marketplace can take advantage of this Special Enrollment Period. You do not have to prove that you have lost other insurance coverage or just had a “qualifying event”. Your health insurance will begin on the first of the month after you complete your enrollment. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

FOR LEASING INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL

531-500-3131

MAY 2021 Strictly Business

21

CULTIVATE BRAND LOYALTY AND AWARENESS WITH SOME

GREAT SWAG!

STAR CITY SIX

PENNY

Penny Johnston

AOI CORPORATION Meet Penny Johnston, the general manager at AOI Corporation.

1530 S 70th St., STE 102 | 402.540.3077 adoele@flickerpromotions.com | www.flickerpromotions.com

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Do I have a problem with money?

Or do I have a problem with gambling?

You or someone you know may have a problem with gambling.

Help is just a phone call away.

CALL NOW FOR HELP OR INFORMATION 24/7 Helpline: 402.476.2300

CONFIDENTIAL. 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK.

Local Provider CHOICES Treatment Center 127 S. 37th Street, Suite B Lincoln, NE 68510 402-476-2300

www.ChoicesTreatmentCenter.com

The Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program (GAP) pays for confidential counseling with certified problem gambling providers to Nebraskans and their families who suffer a gambling addiction.

A list of all GAP-certified counselors in Nebraska is located at

www.problemgambling.nebraska.gov

Nebraska 24/7 Helpline—Call 1-833-238-6837 National/Nebraska 24/7 Helpline— 1-800-522-4700

22

Strictly Business MAY 2021

Tell us a little about your business. - AOI represents over 100 brands of commercial furniture with our main product line being the Herman Miller family of brands. We service Lincoln and the surrounding area with furniture solutions for corporate, healthcare, and higher education.

AOI is also a certified DIRTT Partner which is a Pre-engineered Interior Wall System that has environmental and cost-saving benefits.

How did you get started in the business? - As a student studying architecture and interior design at UNL, my senior year internship was at AOI. At that time, AOI was known as Advanced Office Interiors and just getting started as the Herman Miller furniture dealer in Lincoln and Omaha. I was their first intern on the furniture team. This is where I began my career as an interior designer. After graduating from the College of Architecture with a BS in Architectural Studies, I went on to work in Lincoln as an interior designer focused on healthcare design. Some of the places I worked include Davis Design, in facilities at Bryan Health, and at a smaller architecture firm called Visions in Architecture. After 12 years of design, I was ready for a new challenge and shifted gears by becoming a sales representative for various furniture and architectural product manufacturers. Mohawk Flooring would be the most well known of the group. My sales roles all focused on the architecture and design community, which I knew best.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Becoming general manager at AOI in Lincoln. It has taken me full circle in my career.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Bart is Sr. manager, web development at Hudl. We will be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary this December. We have two amazing kids, Mitchell who is a freshman at East High and Lily who is a seventh grader at Moore Middle School.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “It’s only carpet.” This was the best advise my manager from Mohawk gave me. What she meant was, there are more important things in life than (insert your job here). Family and your life outside of work should always come first. Now as a manager myself, I give that same advice to my team.

Which talent would you most like to have? - For those familiar with the Gallup Strengths Finder, I would love to have the talent of WOO. Having small conversations with people I do not know is very challenging for me, but I love being in conversations.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would be a meteorologist. Growing up on the farm, life revolves around the weather. Because of that, I have been fascinated with weather my whole life. I saw my first tornado when I was eight years old “riding the bean bar” with my dad and siblings. (Those who grew up on the farm back in the late 80s/ early 90s will know what I’m talking about!) I’m always tracking and following the weather.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am a member of Lincoln Rotary 14. For the past two years, I have been on our Rise.Shine.Give. Committee, which is our biggest fundraising event of the year.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 800-8978; pjohnston@aoicorp.com (preferred); aoicorp.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

TERRY

Terry Lindstrom

EXIT REALTY PROFESSIONALS Meet Terry Lindstrom, broker and owner of EXIT Realty Professionals in Lincoln.

Tell us a little about your business. - We are a real estate brokerage company under a franchise umbrella of EXIT. Our partnership with them has a lot of advantages—there are multiple tools and resources for an agent to build their business and clientele.

How did you get started in the business? - I’ve been in the housing business all of my life. I’ve gone from building homes, selling offers, and selling the whole product for the last 36 years.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

- Becoming a mentor for younger agents entering the real estate business.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- I’ve always been in top 10-15%. This year, I was top 100 of 70,000 agents in EXIT. Tell us a little about your family. - We raised three boys, all of whom are now married to wonderful women. They have given us seven grandchildren.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy riding motorcycles and flying planes with my sons. Also, even though I don’t have them today, riding horses is my all-time favorite hobby.

Who inspires you? - The Pastor of the church in O’Neill, NE. He lead me to Christ. Even though my time with him was short, I still rely on words he said to me.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - We judge ourselves by our intentions and we judge others by their actions. It’s important we start to look at the possible intentions of others before we cast judgment.

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “I Can Only Imagine” by Mercy Me. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - To accurately read people to a point where I could know what their true goals and desires are.

Which talent would you most like to have? - To be really great at golf.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I have a skill set in sales. The other profession I’ve thought about is photography. I’d get a camper, drive around the country to take photos of old houses in the mountains and trees, and then find out the history behind the houses.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Habitat of Humanity. EXIT is proud to support and donate to their mission.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I like all the books by C.J. Box. I’ve tried collecting all the good books by him.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - I’d get a big kick out of meeting Dolly Parton. I’ve seen her grow throughout most of her career.

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

- (402) 730-6005 (cell) / (402) 466-8181 (office); TLindstrom@ EXITRP.com; exitrealty.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

5600 s 48th St 402.423.2206 staufferscafe.com Facebook.com/stauffersCafe/

“Food that Grandma Makes” M-F: 6am-8pm Sat: 6am-2pm Sun: Closed

Bob Nohavec Plumbing Service Remodeling New Construction Water Heaters Water Softeners 3400 S 6th St. | 402-420-1552

LIFE IS COMPLICATED ENOUGH BUT YOUR FINANCIAL LIFE DOESN’T HAVE TO BE. WE ARE

RELATIONSHIPS TEAMWORK LIFE/WORK BALANCE COMPETITIVE

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

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



MAY 2021 Strictly Business

23

STAR CITY SIX

HEIDI

Heidi Harsin

ACTON ACADEMY LINCOLN Meet Heidi Harsin, co-founder of Acton Academy Lincoln.

Multi Color Printing • Full Color Envelopes • Graphic Design • Digital Black & White Wide Format Color • Digital Color Copies • Engineering Copies – Color/B&W Crazy Fast Service

402.483.7575

www.pioneerprintinginc.com

Water Shouldn’t Be Hard

Tell us a little about your business. - Acton Academy's mixed-age classrooms are learner-driven, self-paced, and student-led. For me personally, the fact that Acton doesn’t do lectures, tests, or homework was all I needed to know. Another highlight is that children must master their subjects before moving on, requiring they have a full understanding of the material. What's even better is the fact that, by the time students graduate from Action, they will have all completed 15-20 real-world apprenticeships and internships, giving them true knowledge about their passions and strengths.

Tell us how you got started in the business. - The idea for Acton Academy Lincoln was born in February of 2019, preRent a water softener or “Improve the quality of your life by letting us improve the COVID chaos. I was really struggling as a mom with what our reverse osmosis system for quality of your water. Our low-pressure sales experience next move was as we prepared to move our oldest from preschool YOU SAVE is why 9 out of 10 people who talk to us...work with us.” to kindergarten. My instincts told me that the traditional model * Jeff White, Aqua Systems wasn’t going to be the right fit for our family. My husband came across a Facebook ad for Acton Academy Omaha. Once we did month our research, we knew that not only was Acton the right fit for First 3 months @ $4.95/mo. with installation cost of $149; after our family, but we also had no doubt that many other Lincoln introductory period, rental is $23/mo. families would feel the same. While we know that Acton is not the right fit for every family, we still want every family to know Shop and compare at ilovemywater.com that Acton exists. As we worked to find the right school choice iLoveMyWater.com for our family, the most challenging piece was not having a true S M E T S Y understanding of what all of our options were. Lincoln families WAT E R S OF N E R S · DRINKING S TE deserve to know they have a choice about their child’s education.

It’s been a very powerful six months, listening to other Action parents share their stories, watching our own daughter develop Lincoln Rises and grow as a confident leader in this space, and seeing what 2020AquaSystems_3_68x2_41.indd 1 3/19/20 10:58 AM big things these kids are capable of when given the freedom and power to do so.

This is where these winding roads have led,

4

$ 95

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402-235-5867

I can see a day of gold ahead, Can’t be done, impossible they’ve said, But I’ll get there, I’ll get there, I will rise up, I will not fall, I will stand up, I will not fall, I will stay strong, I’m never giving up faith, I will go on, go all the way, This will be the day, This will be the day.

“This will be the Day,” by Lady Bri

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I think most moms would agree, it’s the balancing game between work and home.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Zach and I have three kids: Haddie (5), Sawyer (3), Milo (1), and our beloved pup Bailey. We’re both small-town Nebraska kids that came to Lincoln for college and never left.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spend time outdoors with my family, get a workout in, read, go on a date with my husband, take a nap...the list goes on and on.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Being in two, or three, places at once.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I’m currently reading, There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather by Linda Keson McGurk. I’m obsessed with getting our children outdoors.

What is your favorite TV show? - The Office.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Blue Orchid, Carmela's Bistro, and Copal Mexican Restaurant are at top the list.

LCOC.COM 24

Strictly Business MAY 2021

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 858-5151; hello@actonacademylincoln.com; actonacademylincoln.com. I encourage parents to schedule a tour if they are interested in learning more! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

JA’SHA

8,975sf Industrial space for lease at 54th & Cornhusker

Ja’Sha Graham

ROCK ‘N’ JOE COFFEE BAR Meet Ja'Sha Graham, shift manager/assistant manager at Rock 'n' Joe Coffee Bar. Tell us a little about your business. - Rock 'n' Joe is the one-stop coffee shop! Not only do we offer a huge selection of beans, brews, and lattes, but we also have an amazing variety of craft beers and wine. Guests can come hungry as well. We serve breakfast items all day, along with lunch salads and sandwiches.

Our conference room can be rented free of charge, and we organize many live music nights.

How did you get started in the business? - I wanted a more creative and open-minded work environment. Rock 'n' Joe allows me to make drinks with crazy flavors and decorate them with latte art—it's like turning each drink into its own little masterpiece.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Getting to the point in my career where other employees look up to me. Being in leadership has given me the opportunity to show people how to be the best they can be at work and in their personal lives. Helping people grow means the world to me.

Tell us a little about your family. - My family consists of me, my mom Sheila, my dad Jack, my two brothers—Delveion and Ja'Qwan—and my sister Na'Taya. My cat Autumn is also in there!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The moment I realized that there is always something I can do better to improve a tense situation as work. I can't have an "I did nothing wrong" attitude when working in customer service.

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

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have a scholarship to New York Film Academy for acting.

Who inspires you? - My mom. She faces new challenges every single day but, in all my 21 years of life, I've never seen her give up. She's the strongest person I know!

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Happy. I live my life to the fullest and do everything with passion. Even if I'm having a bad day, I put on a smile and push through.

Contact Cathy Kottwitz or James McCombs for more information!

1530 S. 70th St., Suite 102 | Lincoln, NE 68506 | (402) 421-7474

OLE’S Boot & Shoe Repair Excited for warmer days?

Might be time to spruce up your favorite pair of sandals!

We repair Soles, Heels, Elastic, Velcro, & More!

The Piedmont Shopping Center | 1265 S. Cotner Blvd, STE 16 (402) 483-6766 | www.olesbootandshoerepair.com

Your Neighborhood Experts For

Plumbing, Heating & Air Plumbing Faucets & Sinks | Toilets & Urinals | Showers & Tubs | Disposals & Drain Lines Dishwashers & Water Lines | Water Heaters & Sump Pumps

HEATING & COOLING Furnace Service & Installation | AC Service & Installation | Air Quality Specialists Geothermal Systems | Commercial & Residential

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - "Good Day" by Coi Leray.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Teleportation!

I'd love to be able to go to the beach whenever I want to.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I'd like to be better at math.

What is your favorite TV show? - New Girl.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Virginia's Travelers Cafe.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Martin Luther King Jr. I love to learn about people's life experiences, so it'd be awesome to hear more about the events that took place in his life.

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

- (531) 500-4684; jashagraham@gmail.com; www.rocknjoe.com; or visit me at the cafe, 5025 Lindberg St. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Call us today !

(402) 466-8118 w w w.biggerstaf fs.com MAY 2021 Strictly Business

25

Delta Air Lines is back.

Let’s fly.

Book your flight from LNK on Delta today.

The Lincoln Airport and Delta Air Lines, operated by SkyWest, are partnered once again to connect travelers to Minneapolis and beyond.

Together, we’re stepping up to better serve Lincoln, its businesses and you.

Flights begin May 26, 2021.

Visit LincolnAirport.com/Delta for flight information and booking.

26

Strictly Business MAY 2021

STAR CITY SIX

JENNIFER

Jennifer Larabee

FARMERS UNION MIDWEST AGENCY Meet Jennifer Larabee, financial services specialist at Farmers Union Midwest Agency.

Tell us a little about your business. Farmers Union Midwest Agency provides insurance protection to individuals and business of all sizes. We strive to build better communities by protecting where you work, where you live, what you own, and the ones you love. It is our individual and organizational goal to provide quality products and the highest level of customer service to not just meet our customer’s expectations, but to exceed them! We are able to help employers with their Group Employee Benefits as well as helping individuals who need Life insurance, Health insurance, Disability insurance, Medicare supplements, and more. Being an Independent Agency allows us to have access to multiple companies where we can find the best fit for your needs.

How did you get started in the business? - I started at Assurity Life Insurance in an accounting position over 16 years ago. I worked multiple positions at Assurity Life Insurance and then with State Farm. With these positions, I found my passion helping companies and employees understand their Employee Benefits as well as finding life insurance that fits everyone’s individual needs.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Hearing all the misinformation regarding insurance and then helping the client understand the correct information. I see it way too often where a client does everything online without the help of an agent. With this, they get coverage that is not exactly what they thought they were getting. Helping people find the right coverage that fits their needs and budget is what we’re here for, and we want to make sure our clients are taken care of.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Starting my own insurance agency with Farmers Union Midwest Agency. I always wanted to start my own business, and it feels good to be able to help people.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my husband Shawn Larabee for six years. He works as a superintendent with New Generation Construction here in Lincoln. We have one four-legged furry friend named Ninja.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - During the summer, we love spending time by the pool. I just enjoy not having any plans and going with the flow—whether it's relaxing, shopping, watching movies, or working on projects, I’m game!

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I grew up on a dairy farm outside of a small town of about 300 people. I can drive a tractor and haul around hay bales.

Who inspires you? - Anyone who has started a business from scratch and stuck with it! Growing a business is hard and stressful. It takes passion, dedication, and drive to succeed.

What is your favorite quote? - "Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right." – Henry Ford If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Dedicated.

What is your favorite movie? - Pretty Women, Dirty Dancing, and Footloose.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Mazatlan.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - I can’t choose! Ellen, Reba McEntire, Michael Jordan, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jennifer Lopez...

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

- (402) 560-0047; jennifer@fumafinancial.com; fumafinancial.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

CARRIE

Carrie Sterns

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

How did you get started in the business? - One of my good friends is an electrician and for years he would tell me how much he enjoys working for Oak. At that time, I was working for a national corporation and was beyond excited for the opportunity to join Team Oak! What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Being a part of the service industry requires a lot of flexibility and accommodating. Some days can be challenging to try to please everyone.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - When I left the corporate world and found my “home” in small business, I discovered how much better life is when you genuinely love your job. It is very rewarding to be apart of team working towards the same goal. I feel like I can be the best version of myself, and I have found the balance between work and family.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband and I have three busy boys (ages 11, 7, and 1) plus two fur babies. It’s a full house, but what’s life without all the chaos? We all love football— Saturdays it’s the Huskers, and we root for the Cowboys on Sundays.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Anything with my family. I am very close with my siblings, and I love spending time outside. If I’m not watching my boys’ sports games, you would probably find me by the pool.

Ample Food & Sturdy Drink!

• 50 Irish Whiskeys • 20 Beers on Tap • Open Daily at 11am Check out our menu!

From Shepherd’s Pie to Bangers & Mash, we have a variety of Irish cuisine.

Kitchen open daily until 10 pm

151 N. 8th St. Ste 140 (In the Haymarket)

402-477-0021 • www.McKinneysPubLincoln.com

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

Individual, Family, and Couples’ Counseling + Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) + Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Substance Use/Mental Health/Co-Occuring/Trauma Evaluations

531-289-1005 DARINGMINDSTHERAPY.INFO

Unmatched Senior Living Experiences

Who inspires you? - This might sound cliché’, but I am inspired by my boss Crystal. In the past year of being with Oak, I have watched her handle many challenges. She knows how to stay cool, calm, and collected and doesn’t make decisions based off emotions.

She’s confident and sincerely cares about her team.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - I have a tendency to always put others’ wants before my needs and I have learned to establish healthy boundaries.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? Teleportation. I get so busy, I wish I could be in three places at once. Let’s be honest though, being a mom is a super power in itself.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Gifts of Love is a great organization! I also support the Capital Humane Society. I have always had a soft spot for dogs and, if I could, I would adopt them all!

What is your favorite movie? - Sweet Home Alabama or The Blind Side.

What is your favorite TV show? - Yellowstone.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - La Paz Mexican Restaurant.

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

Celebrating 35 Years 6800 A Street, Lincoln | (402) 483-1010 Reserve your tour at gramercyhill.com MAY 2021 Strictly Business

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Who Will YOU give to?

The nonprofit organizations that make Lincoln a great place to live deserve their day of the recognition. Now the city has one! It’s the 10th Annual Give to Lincoln Day and it take place on May 25th.

That’s when we ask everyone to make a gift to our local nonprofits who contribute so much to improving Lincoln. Together, we have the power to raise thousands of dollars and help them change lives.

Go to GiveToLincoln.com and make a gift on May 25th.

visionmakermedia.org (402) 472-3522

awarmerday.org (402) 261-0096

casa4lancaster.org (402) 474-5161

aidingangels.com (402) 434-2472

Lincoln.CBMC.com (402) 540-1093

dsafnebraska.org (402) 421-1338

heart.org (402) 875-7382

advocacypartnership.org (402) 421-8866

thebridgenebraska.com (402) 477-3951 branchedoakobservatory.com (402) 480-5515

cefnebraska.org (402) 484-7877

pcmlincoln.org (402) 475-1303

centerpointe.org (402) 475-8717

friendshiphome.org (402) 434-0167

communityactionatwork.org (402) 471-4515

hopespoke.org (402) 475-7666

domesti-pups.org (402) 465-4201

lincoln.ja.org (402) 467-1010

lmep.com (402) 483-4581

FreshStartHome.org (402) 475-7777

malonecenter.org (402) 474-1110

mtko.org (402) 477-4116

GiveToTabitha.org (402) 486-8509 dreamcatchersride.org (402) 679-3996

themeditationcenter.org (402) 441-5740 csshope.org/gld (402) 474-1600

pregnancycenterpartners.org (402) 483-4247

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Strictly Business MAY 2021

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PERSONNEL NEWS

A Full-Service Commercial Real Estate Appraisal Firm

Cain Retires after 22 Years as Legacy’s Executive Chef; Leyden Takes Over Post After 22 years as an executive chef at Legacy Retirement Communities, Keenan Cain has announced his retirement. Many residents and guests enjoyed Cain’s talents with each dining experience or by attending any Legacy event. In retirement, he is eagerly looking forward to spending more time in nature, fishing, and traveling.

As Cain makes his exit, Eric Leyden has stepped in as executive chef at Legacy Estates. Leyden’s education and wellrounded experience with various styles of cuisine and restaurant management make him a great fit for the company’s dining-services team. His most recent experience—working in private clubs including the Nebraska Club and Sandhills Golf Club—gave him a unique appreciation for hospitality and provides a perfect complement to his role at Legacy Estates.

Now offering property tax and litigation support appraisal services.

Thomas W. Kubert Owner

6001 S. 58th Street, Suite F | Lincoln, NE 68516 Inquiries? (531) 500-0890 (Lincoln Office) | KubertAppraisal.com Keenan Cain

Legacy Retirement Communities continues to provide Lincoln with award-winning elegance, superior care, and countless reasons to live an enriched life. They offer Eric Leyden independent living and assisted living at three locations: The Legacy at 5600 Pioneers Blvd.; Legacy Terrace at 5700 Fremont St. and Legacy Estates at 7200 Van Dorn St. Memory care is offered exclusively at Legacy Arbors, at 3777 N 58th St. Learn more at LegacyRetirement.com.

CCA Home Care Welcomes Audrey Pecha as New Client Care Coordinator in Omaha CCA Home Care welcomed Audrey Pecha as their new Client Care Coordinator in the Omaha office effective March 1.

Audrey has an innate passion for helping others, as evident from her decade of service as a residential manager with Duet, a developmental-disabilities service provider in Omaha. Ready to jump into a new challenge, she is thrilled to be helping people develop care plans through CCA Home Care that suit their needs perfectly.

“In my new role, I meet with potential clients, and their families, that need a little extra help in their lives,” Audrey said. “We sit down and talk about all the things they need help with and come up with a care plan that is best for them. Some individuals need more medical support, some need daily living support like help in the shower or making meals, and some just need help making sure their home stays clean and safe. I am SO excited for this new position and all the people that I will meet. My passion is helping people, so I feel like I am in the best role possible to make that passion flourish.”

CCA Home Care provides and manages a Home Care Registry for individuals and families in need of home care that allows loved ones to remain in their homes even when they might require some assistance to do so. They screen and refer caregivers to work for these families and provide client-directed care to ensure that YOU make the decisions regarding care for your loved one. For more information, visit CCAHomeCare.com, email Office@CCAHomeCare. com, or contact Owner Kyle Johnson at (402) 398-1848. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

West Gate Bank Promotes Tana Wagener and Jaci Kerns-Loy The West Gate Bank® Board of Directors recently announced the promotions of Tana Wagener to senior vice president, director of human resources and Jaci Kerns-Loy to assistant vice president, branch manager.

Wagener has worked in the financial industry for 20 years, joining West Gate Bank in 2010. She was promoted to human resources and training officer in 2011 and is a certified Human Resources Generalist. During Wagener’s time in the Tana Wagener human resources role, West Gate Bank has grown to include more than 250 employees. With her promotion, Wagener will focus solely on the human-resources needs of the bank, including payroll and 401K administration, enrollment, and administration for employee benefits, newhire orientation, and onboarding. She has also been appointed to the bank’s West Gate Bank Executive Committee. Outside of the office, Wagener is a volunteer board member for Lincoln Literacy and serves as secretary on the nonprofit’s executive Jaci Kerns-Loy committee, is a member of the Bank Training Advisors for the Nebraska Banker’s Association’s Education Advisory Committee, and participates in bank-sponsored community activities. Wagener is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Rd., and can be reached at (402) 323-8962 or twagener@westgate.bank.

Kerns-Loy began her West Gate Bank career as a teller in 2013 and has been promoted several times over the years. In her new role as Branch Manager of the West Gate Bank branch at 50th and O Streets, Kerns-Loy will be responsible for developing and maintaining business relationships with customers, providing personal service to meet their financial needs, and coaching her staff to achieve customer service and sales goals. Outside of the office, Kerns-Loy volunteers with Junior Achievement of Lincoln, as well as participating in bank-sponsored community activities.

Kerns-Loy is located at 4955 O St. and can be reached at (402) 853-7274 or jkerns-loy@westgate.bank.

West Gate Bank® is a family-owned community bank with 10 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. The newest branch is under construction at 177th and West Maple Road in Omaha and is expected to open in mid-2022. At West Gate Bank, their interest is you! Visit westgate. bank for more information.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Jannah Vanie Joins LHRMA's Board as New Stepping Stones Welcomes Trisha Lott to Programs Chair Team of Mental Health Counselors The Lincoln Human Resources Management Association (LHRMA) is pleased to announce that Jannah Vanie, MBA, SHRM-CP has joined LHRMA's Board of Directors as the new Programs Chair. Jannah works for Union Bank & Trust as a talent acquisition specialist. She is passionate about helping people. While she was in her MBA program, she was most interested in the courses about human resources and how a positive employee experience leads to positive business results. Janna wants to help people have a great experience in the organizations they are in and find fulfillment through work.

The purpose of the 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 promote professional ethics and acquaintanceship among those involved in professional human resource management. Ultimately, the vision is to be the go-to resource on people management for the community. Membership dues are $75 per individual for the year. Benefits include HR information, committee work with peers, monthly newsletter, area wage and salary survey, PHR/SPHR/GPHR certification, career development, legislative updates, membership directory, professional networking, scholarship programs, monthly meetings/workshops, and diversity programs. To learn more, visit lincolnhr.org or contact Justin Schreier, membership chair, at (402) 432-7585 / membership@lincolnhr.org.

Stepping Stones is pleased to welcome Trisha Lott to their team. Trisha is a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP), Certified Professional Counselor (CPC), and a Provisionally Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (PLADC). She has worked in the Human Services field since 2015 and has six years of counseling experience. Trisha enjoys working with adults who have developmental disabilities and with senior populations. She has extensive experience treating substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and trauma, as well as having expertise in management of personality disorders and life transitions.

Trisha uses treatment approaches and therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness Strategies.

Stepping Stones encompass counseling for mental health and cooccurring disorders, drug and alcohol assessment, and substance use counseling and treatment. Stepping Stones is a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership located at 4600 Valley Rd. Appointments are available Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and are scheduled through Lincoln Family Medicine Center by calling (402) 483-4571. Later appointments may be available upon request. If you have a non-appointment related question and wish to speak to a Stepping Stones counselor, please call (402) 488-6511.

For more information, visit www.steppingstoneslincoln.com.

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Strictly Business MAY 2021

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PERSONNEL NEWS Seven Members of Lincoln Federal Mortgage Lending Team Recognized as Top Originators Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is proud to announce that seven members of its mortgage lending team received Top Originator recognition in the 2021 Scotsman Guide. Those who make the rankings were recognized as mortgage professionals who rose to the occasion despite the stressful times that the last year delivered.

L i n c o l n F e d e ra l S a v i n g s B a n k mortgage-lending professionals who made the latest prestigious Top Originator rankings include: Vice President - Mortgage Loan Officer Chris Elgert ranked No. 1 in Nebraska for total loans closed and total dollar volume; Vice President – Mortgage Loan Officer Shane Podliska ranked No. 2 in Nebraska for total loans closed and total dollar volume; Cami Moran, Mike Isaacson, Corey Rhone, Dave Arkfeld, and Mary Byrnes all received the designation of Top Originator. Lincoln Federal applauds the determination and effort these loan officers have demonstrated over the past year!

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank specializes in Mortgage Lending with multiple programs available to suit each borrower’s unique situation. To work with one of these incredible local loan originators, visit lincolnfed.com/meet-our-team. Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Waterford Honors Christy Merritt for Five Years of Exemplary Administrative Service Waterford Communities Owner Dan Klein, Jr. recently recognized Christy Merritt for more than five years of exemplary service as executive director of Waterford properties. Christy is moving on to a new opportunity, but her tireless efforts and accomplishments in guiding the company’s three senior-living communities during the last five years provide a strong base upon which her successor can build. Christy started as administrator at Waterford’s Williamsburg assisted-living community five and a half years ago and was quickly promoted to administrator of all three Waterford communities just six months later.

“Christy came to us with no senior-living experience and had a background in retail buying and therefore experience with finances, teams and marketing,” said Dan. “About six months later, we decided to reorganize our leadership of the Waterford Communities and hire an executive director over all three Lincoln Waterford facilities. Christy applied and was offered that role. She has a heart of compassion for the elderly and did us all proud.”

In her time as executive director, Christy had overall operational responsibilities for all the Waterford Communities and their teams, and she helped create symmetry and collaboration between each campus rather than “segmented” operations at each one. At the end of March, Christy took a position as a district director of operations over a number of facilities with Brookdale, a national senior living organization in Phoenix AZ, and is excited to be near her two grandchildren. For the short term, Waterford has hired an RN consultant with whom they have worked for several years to serve as interim director for the transition and onboarding of their new executive director.

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

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PERSONNEL NEWS True North Technologies Welcomes Lincoln’s Reggie Ellis to Team as New Sales Associate

Pemberly Place Welcomes Kathy Schultz as Volunteer Addition to Activities Team

True North Technologies, a Lincoln-based business launched by Renee Sobotka, recently brought Reggie Ellis onto the team as Sales Associate. Originally from Mississippi, Reggie moved to Nebraska to pursue an education at Hastings College, where he was offered a football scholarship and received his bachelor’s degree in health promotion and management in 2000. Reggie also studied massage therapy at the Myotherapy Institute of Lincoln, earning an associate degree in 2008. His extensive medical sales background combined with his top five Gallup strengths (Positivity, Achiever, Developer, Includer, and Woo) make Reggie an amazing addition to the True North Team. His engaging personality and can-do attitude continuously inspire those around him to find and follow their own True North.

Pemberly Place is proud to welcome Kathy Schultz as an addition to the Activities team.

Kathy has a long list of volunteer work and is always willing to learn new things—and the residents love having her around! Raised in Nebraska City, she learned about volunteering when she was in high school and she joined several friends in volunteering to give tours at the Arbor Lodge State Park Mansion (home of Arbor Day) during the summer and found it to be a great way to meet people and to help visitors learn about history.

“My career has afforded me the opportunity to meet a lot of people in the Lincoln community,” Kathy said. “Before volunteering at Pemberly Place, I was an executive assistant in an assistant living facility, and it was there I came to realize how wonderful and educating seniors are. Their family and work histories are truly inspirational. I love that Pemberly Place has a very active activities program with something for everyone, too! Some of the residents have taught me how to play cards; we have weekly movies, twice a week Bingo, crafts, and we celebrate every holiday in grand style. It is the residents’ generous spirit, and the exceptional Pemberly Team, that make my volunteer hours so meaningful.”

Pemberly Place is known throughout Lincoln for their creative service planning and attention to each resident’s individual needs. Locally owned, the community offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care options. To learn more or volunteer, call (402) 413-9770 or visit pemberlyplace.com.

Reggie lives happily in Lincoln with his family, including three children, ages 13, 9, and 5. He enjoys playing, coaching, and watching football, cooking, exercising, and supporting his community. Reggie loves helping and serving others and can often be found volunteering at local nonprofits such as the Center for People in Need.

True North Technologies makes technology simple with website and mobile app development, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), branding, and social media marketing. Learn more online at www. go-tnt.com or call (402) 420-5101.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Acton Academy Lincoln Expands Team to Meet Demand for More Student Slots Following the addition of more seats for K-8 students, Acton Academy Lincoln has added three new guides (teachers) as they experience burgeoning growth and are closing in on filling spaces for the fall session at the alternative-education academy in Lincoln. New guides hired recently include Devon Zurek, Montessori; Brittany Ullman, elementary; and Luke Fisher, middle school. Acton has just a handful of spots left for each of these three studios.

Founded by Zach and Heidi Harsin, Acton Academy Lincoln serves families who want the best possible independent learning experience for their children, not hampered by an antiquated one-size-fits-all, grade-specific school system. They have tripled enrollment available for the 2021-22 school year to foster more joyful, curious children by developing their individual passions. The goal of Acton Academy is to maintain a community of like-minded families seeking a modern approach to education that will help equip their kids for the 21st Century using a blend of Montessori elements, Socratic questioning, and learnerdriven education that allow students to discover and develop their Godgiven passions and unique callings in their lives, learning through quests and apprenticeships, and developing mastery of reading, writing, and arithmetic using the latest technology and self-paced learning.

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Acton Academy Lincoln is located at 8400 Cody Dr. If you’re looking for an alternative education option in Lincoln, they are hosting tours daily.

For more information, to request an information kit, or to schedule a tour of the beautiful space, visit actonacademylincoln.com, email hello@ actonacademylincoln.com, or call (402) 858-5151.

RISE Academy Welcomes New Board Members in February RISE Academy recently welcomed four new board members, including Naomi Hattaway, Dr. Mark Foxall, W. Todd Wallace, and Ava Thomas. They will help guide the mission and activities of RISE in bridging the journey from incarceration back into the community via character development, employment readiness, entrepreneurship, and case management.

Hattaway is passionate about community building, diversity and accessibility in online and physical spaces, and affordable housing so folks can thrive, not just survive, in the places they call home. The founder of I Am A Triangle, an international social network, Hattaway now consults nonprofits and organizations on inclusive program design, equity and housing solutions. Dr. Foxall is a professor in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Nebraska Omaha where he received his Ph.D. He joined the staff at the Douglas County Department of Corrections in 2000 and began serving as their director in 2011 until his retirement in 2018.

Johnson is a cogent thought leader and community-growth professional proficient in organizational leadership, team building, workforce psychology and the science of strengths-based career development. He is past global channel leader of entrepreneurship and job creation at Gallup and is current senior vice president of economic development at the Greater Omaha Chamber. Thomas is the President and Publisher of the Lincoln Journal Star and has over 25 years of experience in the industry, having worked her way up from a classified ad-taker to the president of the company. For more information about RISE Academy, visit seeusrise.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

402.436.3000 legacyretirement.com

On-the-Job Training Reimbursement Program Employers willing to provide on-the-job training to laid off workers may be eligible for a 50–75% wage reimbursement up to $10,000 through the Nebraska Department of Labor.

Benefits to Employers. On-the-job training helps employers recruit more efficiently, hire better-prepared employees and reduce their training costs.

On-the-job training helps jobseekers quickly reenter the workforce while increasing their skills and earning a wage.

Contact us today to learn more: email: NDOL.EconomicTransition@nebraska.gov our job centers: dol.nebraska.gov/ContactUs

Equal Opportunity Employer/TDD: 800.833.7352 Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

MAY 2021 Strictly Business

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PERSONNEL NEWS Nebraska LTC Pharmacy Welcomes Gayleen Gumaer Marks 1 Year with Strictly Business Bradley as New Patient Consultant, Liaison May 1 marked Diane Gumaer’s one-year N e b r a s k a LTC P h a r m a c y O w n e r and Pharmacist Shannon Sc hultzHammerschmidt are excited to announce that Gayleen Bradley is their new patient consultant and community liaison, having joined the team in March. Gayleen has a very decorated career working in the senior-care industry, and her knowledge and love for others make her the perfect addition to the LTC Pharmacy team.

“I’m excited to be working with Nebraska LTC Pharmacy because Shannon goes the extra mile for her customers and her employees to let them know she cares about them,” Gayleen said.

Nebraska LTC Pharmacy is a locally owned pharmacy that provides a wide array of services in the Lincoln and Omaha areas. They provide individualized patient care that increases safety and prolongs customers’ independence at home. Their Lincoln pharmacy is located just off of 40th and Normal Blvd.

Their goal is to offer the “small town” level of customer service while providing the highest level of care for their patients. To learn more, visit neltcpharmacy.com or call (402) 328-0231.

anniversary as a writer for Strictly Business.

Diane’s role includes communicating with clients and writing more than 100 press releases and several feature stories for the publication each month. Coming from a 35-year background in writing and communications, she enjoys putting her skills to work for a company that she believes truly makes a difference to businesses in the Lincoln and Omaha communities. Diane recently moved to McCook to follow a new job opportunity for her husband but continues her role on the Strictly Business team as a remote employee.

“Working for Strictly Business to partner with local businesses in content marketing is a super-rewarding job,” Diane said. “I have worked in a variety of communications roles throughout my lengthy career, and none have made me feel more like I am making a real difference. I love working closely with clients to identify their marketing needs and provide content that helps increase their visibility and establish them as experts in their industries. The staff and owners of Strictly Business make it a pleasure to go to work each day, too. They are like a second family!”

Strictly Business is a reliable news source and effective advertising tool, publishing original content in print, online, and on social media. To learn more, visit strictly-business.com. To contact Diane, call her directly at (308) 655-1056 or email office@strictlybusinessomaha.com.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Lincoln First Realty Welcomes Fords, Herrold, and Kruger to Sales Team Lincoln First Realty is excited to announce the newest additions to its sales team: Chuck and Heather Ford, James Herrold, and Tami Kruger. These agents are highly regarded in their communities and will continue to work tirelessly to serve their clients by way of their own education and professionalism.

Chuck and Heather Ford chose Lincoln First Realty because of their strong desire to learn from other extraordinarily successful agents. They have already proven to be extremely driven people in a variety of ways, which lends itself well to their success as Realtors. Chuck and Heather can be reached at (402) 430-3996 or (308) 520-0907.

James Herrold is a Lincolnite through and through. Lincoln First Realty’s strong presence in the community appealed to him as he builds his business off of the many strong relationships he built while attending the University of Nebraska Lincoln and raising his family here. James can be reached at (402) 413-5290.

Tami Kruger got into real estate with a lot of personal experience in what “makes a home tick.” She has taken on the challenges of real estate already in her personal life and saw what Lincoln First Realty had to offer as a way to hone her skills while helping out others realize their real-estate goals. Tami can be reached at (402) 883-7447.

Lincoln First Realty has three offices: 7575 S 57th; 5701 S 34th St., STE 101; and 1101 Cornhusker Hwy., STE 200. Chuck and Heather will work alongside each other, primarily out of the 75th Street office, while James will work primarily out of the Cornhusker Street office, and Tami will work out of the 34th Street office.

Lincoln First Realty is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cornhusker Bank and is a full-service professional real-estate company. For more information, please call (402) 434-2222 or visit LincolnFirstRealty. com. You can also connect with Lincoln First Realty on Facebook (@lincoln1st), Instagram (@lincolnfirstrealty), and Twitter (@LNKFirstRealty).

Chuck Ford The future is changing rapidly.

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“ YOUR GARDEN, OUR PASSION” James Herrold

Tami Kruger

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 editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com, or submit your news online via www.strictly-business.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS CEF of Nebraska “Leaders Lead” Features Keynote Speaker Paige Zutavern on May 4 The Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) of Nebraska announced that their monthly “Leaders Lead” event on May 4 will feature keynote speaker Paige Zutavern, owner and president of Strictly Business magazine. Sponsored by Mary Jo Cassner and Transworld Business Advisors, the event is scheduled for 8 to 9:30 a.m. in the Vital Services Building, 7400 Cornhusker Highway.

Doors open for a meet-and-greet, networking, and refreshments at 7:45 a.m., followed by a presentation about the Impact of the Child Evangelism Fellowship at 8:15 a.m., Paige’s comments at 8:30 a.m. and a Q&A session and final networking at 9 a.m.

Along with her husband, Paige founded Strictly Business Lincoln more than 27 years ago, and she leads the sales efforts for both the Lincoln and Omaha markets. Paige is the proud mother of two grown boys.

She will talk about how her faith in Christ inspires her in navigating leadership, both personally and professionally.

Child Evangelism Fellowship is a Bible-centered, worldwide organization composed of believers whose purpose is to evangelize boys and girls with the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and establish them in the local church for Christian living. CEF currently has 3,423 missionaries around the world, 96% of whom are nationals. The CEF of Nebraska mission is to provide the 250,000 elementary-aged children in the state with an opportunity to hear of and respond to saving Gospel messages. For more information or to register for the May 4 Leaders Lead, visit cefnebraska.org.

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Date Announced for 2021 Party in the Garden Benefitting Domesti-PUPS Strictly Business will host the 9th annual Party in the Garden Fundraiser on Annual Friday, September 10, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. The event will take place at the Zutavern residence, 9200 Holdrege St. in Lincoln. Attendees will enjoy free food and drinks, a live and silent auction, the chance to buy plants from Earl May, and live music throughout the evening, all in a beautiful outdoor atmosphere. Get tickets for yourself, your friends, or your business today! Early bird individual tickets are $40 per person; after August 1, they will be $50 per person. Sponsorship tables are available as well for 10-tops (Gold Sponsor - $1,500), 8-tops (Silver Sponsor - $1,000), and 6-tops (Bronze Sponsor - $500). Hors d’oeuvres and beverages are donated by local vendors, including a selection of wine from James Arthur Vineyards and Whispering Winds Vineyard & Tasting Room. Once again, Professional Realty Group (PRG) of Woods Bros, led by REALTOR® Ben Bleicher, has committed to being the Vodka Bar Sponsor for Party in the Garden.

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. The costs to acquire, maintain, and place these highly skilled canines is quite high—veterinary costs alone are over $2,500 a month as DomestiPUPS has over 40 dogs in their care at any given time. These dogs receive quality care and require extensive testing to ensure they are healthy enough to do their future jobs.

Tickets will be made available on the Domesti-PUPS website at domesti-pups.org. Go to the Facebook event page for more information. If you have questions about table sponsor benefits or donating food and auction items to this event, please contact (402) 466-3330 / editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS A Warmer Day Launches Fundraising Efforts for Storage/Retail Location, New Truck or Bus A Warmer Day has launched a fundraising campaign to pay for a storage/retail location and a replacement truck or bus to aid their mission of distributing free coats to those in need. Several fundraising events toward the goal are planned throughout 2021, including A Warmer Day’s annual golf tournament, in addition to some local bingo events as a fun way to raise money for the cause.

The all-volunteer nonprofit also encourages area residents and businesses to hold coat drives to collect warm outerwear for community members in need. A Warmer Day used zero tax dollars and zero payroll dollars to distribute thousands of pieces of winter apparel to more than 1,000 families during the 2020-21 winter season, but they depend on the kindness of businesses, individuals, neighborhoods, and volunteers to provide warmer winters to those who are less fortunate but need to keep their families safe and warm.

A Warmer Day is a non-profit 501(c)(3), all volunteer organization.

Their mission is to provide coats and winter apparel to Nebraskans in need. Because they have no payroll, all proceeds raised go directly to the cause. Since they were founded in 2016, A Warmer Day has distributed more than 20,000 pieces of winter apparel. All of this is accomplished with no tax dollars and at no cost to those who receive the warm winter coats. For more information, to become a member, or to donate to A Warmer Day, visit awarmerday.org, email info@ awarmerday.org, or call (402) 261-0096.

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Mediation Center’s Small Claims Mediation Team Celebrates 25 Years Serving Community The Mediation Center is excited to observe 25 years of providing mediation services to those taking a claim to Lancaster County’s Small Claims Court. Launched in 1996, the Small Claims Mediation program is the Center’s oldest continuous program and has mediated nearly 3,000 cases during that time. Small Claims mediations are done at no cost to participants, delivering a valuable opportunity offered to small-claims participants and fulfilling The Mediation Center’s mission of “being a place where citizens from all walks of life can find professional assistance to resolve disagreements.”

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For 25 years, skilled mediators from The Mediation Center have been at the courthouse every Thursday morning when Small Claims Court is in session. Those waiting to go before the judge are encouraged to try mediating their case first. These mediations last 30-60 minutes and take place while the judge is hearing other cases. Mediations are held in a private room and allow the parties involved to create their own solution to their dispute.

The majority of people that try mediation reach an agreement.

Established in 1992, The Mediation Center fills a unique and important niche in our community. With a professional staff possessing expertise in conflict resolution, along with the commitment of nearly 100 extensively trained affiliated mediators, the Center opens nearly 1,000 cases each year, offers a sliding fee scale, and is dedicated to providing anyone in our community with access to our services regardless of their ability to pay. To request services, call (402) 441-5740 or visit themediationcenter.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Kiwanis Aktion Club, The Arc of Lincoln Pass 1 Million Mark in Collection of Pop Tabs The Lincoln Kiwanis Aktion Club and The Arc of Lincoln have collected a total of more than 1 million pop tabs to serve the mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities, earning them membership in the 1 Million Club, upon which they immediately set their sights on the 2 Million Club. To put into perspective what 1 million pop tabs looks like, put end-to-end, they would stretch 15.78 miles! Each pound of pop tabs—about 1,130 tabs—brings between 40 cents and 50 cents, netting a total of about $6,000 per year. All told, Ronald McDonald House Charities received about 35 million pop tabs in 2020, which helped to pay the electric bill each month. The organization provides the catalyst for creating a world where children have access to quality healthcare, and their families are able to better comfort and support them while actively participating in their care.

The Arc of Lincoln advises the Lincoln Aktion Club, whose mission is to provide adults with disabilities an opportunity to develop initiative and leadership, to be integrated into society, to serve their community, and to demonstrate the dignity and value of citizens with disabilities. Action Club activities enable members to: participate in the active life of their community; contribute to their community; develop leadership skills; participate in social life; develop creative skills; and achieve personal and service goals. The Lincoln Aktion Club meets the second Saturday of each month; for more information, contact Advisor James Brewer at jamesbrewer136@gmail.com. To help in their pop-tab collection, save aluminum tabs off of drink, soup, and other cans and contact Michelle Johnson at (402) 421-8866 or drop off the tabs at 6500 Holdrege St. For more about The Arc of Lincoln, visit arclincoln.org.

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NAM Promotes Spring Giving Days Across Nebraska to Help Give Back to Nonprofits The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) is promoting Spring Giving Days to communities throughout Nebraska to give back to nonprofit organizations that strengthen economic development, education, health, and cultural awareness every day. Nonprofits are essential to the quality of life in Nebraska communities, with many communities in the state relying on donations and giving days as effective forms of fundraising. Between 2018 and 2019, charitable giving days across Nebraska and southwest Iowa grossed more than $16 million for local nonprofits, but many communities were unable to host any in 2020, due to COVID, so the need is greater than ever in 2021.

Nonprofit organizations work tirelessly year-round to help their communities and need support of residents statewide during Spring Giving Days to make an impact. You can make a difference this year by supporting nonprofits with an online donation. NAM is promoting the following Spring Giving Days in Nebraska this month: Spring into Giving Day in Custer County (Broken Bow), May 1; Wyobraska Gives in Scottsbluff, May 4; Fremont Area Big Give, May 4; North Platte Giving Day, May 5; Columbus Big Give, May 4-8; Go Big Give in Grand Island, May 6; Give Hastings Day, May 6; Norfolk Area Big Give, May 25; and Give to Lincoln, May 25.

NAM is a state association that represents more than 700 nonprofit organizations in Nebraska and southwest Iowa. NAM strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofits to enrich the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. For more information about Spring Giving Days, visit nonprofitam.org/givingdays. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Friendship Home Partners with Capital One to CBMC Expands Young Professionals Groups Deliver Economic Empowerment Program to Help Men 22-40 Navigate Life’s Challenges F r i e n d s h i p H o m e i s a ga i n partnering with Capital One to provide educational support for victims of domestic violence throughout 2021. This is a continuation of Capital One’s commitment to empower survivors served by Friendship Home to receive intentional advocacy on finance-related topics and help them attain independence and rebuild their lives—free from violence. The individualized counseling amid pandemic restrictions, in partnership with Capital One, allows Friendship Home’s economic empowerment advocate to work with domestic violence survivors to assess their financial situations, pull credit reports, apply for micro-loan programs, budget, and search for jobs.

This work is part of the Capital One Impact Initiative that aims to advance socioeconomic mobility by advocating for an inclusive society, building thriving communities, and creating financial tools that enrich lives. Visit capitalone.com/about to learn more.

Friendship Home provides crisis services, emergency shelter, and transitional housing to victims of domestic violence and their children.

If you, or someone you know, is experience domestic violence, please call Friendship Home’s 24/7 crisis line at (402) 437-9302. Learn more at friendshiphome.org.

CBMC Lincoln is excited to announce they have expanded the number of Young Professional (YP) groups they offer. These YP groups are designed specifically to help men ages 22 to 40 navigate the challenges, pressures, and priorities of family, work, community, and faith. They offer a close-knit community where men can grow personally, professionally, and spiritually, and they foster strong relationships of like-minded peers who help each other live a life of purpose, fulfillment, and impact.

Each CBMC YP group comprises 8 to 12 men who meet once a month, with an initial 12-month commitment. The format includes sharing dinner and fellowship, learning and applying principles for spiritual growth, and hearing from a seasoned Christian business owner or leader, who shares some principles learned in life, leadership, and business, followed by a Q&A. The meeting concludes with a time for participants to share, challenge, and learn from each other in a facilitated discussion, as well as time for prayer. Each member is encouraged to connect with one or two other members between monthly meetings to build relationships, support, and accountability.

CBMC Lincoln is part of a global ministry that encourages men toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others positively. To learn more about CBMC Lincoln, call (402) 540-1093 or visit Lincoln.cbmc.com, and follow them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne).

Family Service WIC Among Just Six to Receive WIC Special Innovation Grant

There’s Still Time to Register Youth to Participate in 2021 Bright Lights Camps

Family Service WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) of Lincoln is one of just six recipients of a prestigious Special Innovation Grant from the Council of State Governments (CSG) and the U.S. Depar tment of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service. The March 2021-June 2022 grant is part of a total of $5.2 million in awards to special supplemental nutrition programs, with other recipients including Colorado, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Public Health Foundation Enterprises WIC in California. The funds will support implementation and evaluation of innovative project ideas to improve the WIC certification process. Family Service WIC of Lincoln strives to overcome common barriers to certification and better meet the needs of WIC-eligible families.

During the course of the grant, Family Service WIC will work with CSG and their evaluation partners at Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition to focus on improving the WIC certification process in three ways: Creating an online portal for uploading of documents prior to appointments; adding a way for clients to chat and request appointments on the organization’s website; and revising all WIC information on the Family Service website to include auditory and written information in four additional languages, including Spanish, Arabic, Vietnamese, and Kurdish.

Family Service WIC provides healthy foods at no cost to eligible participants—pregnant women; infants and children up to age 5; breastfeeding moms for a year; and postpartum moms for six months—to help keep them healthy. For more information, visit familyservicelincoln.org/wic-women-infants-children, email kabel@ familyservicelincoln.org, or call Kayla Abel at (402) 904-5564.

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There’s still time to register your students for 2021 Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventure Camps in a variety of halfday and full-day camps. From robotics to rock climbing and cooking to coding, they have something for everyone! Bright Lights Summer Camps gives youth the opportunity to focus on their talents, strengths, and interests in summer camps that will make the most of their out-of-school time. It’s an ideal way for K-8 students to maximize the fun of summer vacation while reassuring parents that their children are avoiding “the summer slide” learning loss. If you have older students (8th grade and up), they can also gain some resume-worthy experience and fun volunteer hours by applying to be a camp assistant. These valuable volunteers provide support to teachers in each of Bright Lights’ 90+ camps, enriching the experience for everyone involved.

Bright Lights camps take place in five week-long sessions: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25, June 28-July 2, and July 12-16. Want to make it a full day of fun without registering for a full-day camp?

Just choose a half-day morning camp at Holmes Elementary, and then add Lunch Care and a half-day afternoon camp at Holmes. If you need to drop kids off before you head to work, Bright Lights also offers Before Care beginning at 7:30 a.m. at select sites. Simply choose it during the online registration process.

To register for 2021 Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventure Camps and learn more about available camps, visit BrightLights.org and click on the registration link. You can filter the camp results by the grade your student is in this spring so you can see all the half- and full-day camps from which your particular student can choose. To apply to become a camp assistant, visit brightlights.org/assistants.

If you have additional questions, call (402) 420-1115. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Angels Among Us Gears Up for Annual Bland Cares Golf Outing Set for July 12 Angels Among Us is excited to announce that their 11th Annual Bland Cares Golf Outing will tee up on Monday, July 12 at Champions Run. Online team registration now is open at myangelsamongus.org, and the event is expected to sell out quickly. All major sponsors have been secured, but Angels Among Us is still has some corporate team spots available. Angels Among Us is grateful for major sponsors: Pillar Restaurant Group will provide lunch for the day; Anchor Roofing is the Golf Cart Sponsor; REDiTECH took on the Beverage Cart Sponsor; Truck Center Companies is the Putting Green Sponsor; and Gregg Young Automotive Group is providing a hole-in-one opportunity on the course. The Angels Among Us golf event is always a huge success, thanks to such extensive community support.

Angels Among Us is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to any family whose child is battling pediatric cancer living in or being treated in the state of Nebraska. Register for the Bland Cares Golf Outing at myangelsamongus.com and turn out for a fun day on the golf course to support local pediatric cancer families. For more information about ways to make an impact and get involved in the Angels Among Us mission, please contact Aly Theilen at alyssa@myangelsamongus.org.

Lincoln Community Foundation Celebrates 10 Years of Success via Give to Lincoln Day The stage is set for the 10th annual Give to Lincoln Day on Tuesday, May 25. Coordinated by the Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF), in partnership with local nonprofit organizations, the annual event has raised more than $33 million for local nonprofits in its nine-year history.

“Give to Lincoln Day represents the strength and compassion of our community,” said LCF President Barbara Bartle. “We’ve seen from the past nine years that when Lincoln comes together big things can happen. The modern symbol for the 10th anniversary is a diamond. Let’s make the 10th a real gem of a giving day for our community!”

Give to Lincoln Day is a giving day event that encourages everyone to contribute to Lincoln and Lancaster County nonprofit organizations through a single online giving platform between May 1 and May 25. Every donation makes a bigger impact on Give to Lincoln Day because nonprofits also get a proportional share of a $500,000 match fund made possible by LCF, Presenting Sponsor West Gate Bank, and other generous sponsors. Donors may search nonprofits and give online at GiveToLincoln.com.

LCF recently announced the continuation of West Gate Bank’s Presenting Sponsorship for Give to Lincoln Day for the next three years. As a locallyowned community bank, West Gate President Carl Sjulin said giving back to Lincoln is an important part of their mission: “Our continued commitment to Give to Lincoln Day is one of the many ways we are investing back into the community in order to keep Lincoln growing and thriving. We are proud to partner with the Lincoln Community Foundation as the Presenting Sponsor for Give to Lincoln Day.” The Lincoln Community Foundation strives to continually enrich the Lincoln community by promoting and achieving perpetual philanthropic support. For more information and to see a complete list of sponsors and information about donating, visit givetolincoln.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Malone Center Hosts Pregnant and Parenting Support Groups through January 2022 In partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln, the Malone Community Center is offering Melanin Mommas Pregnant and Parenting Support Groups on the first and third Saturday of each month through January 8, 2022 (there will only be one group on May 19, 2-4 p.m., because of the holiday). First Saturday groups will be from 10:30 a.m. to noon and the third Saturday groups run from 2 to 4 p.m.

Groups will take place at the Malone Center, 2032 U St. This free event is for pregnant and parenting mommas and their babies! There will be light healthy snacks, participation prizes, open discussion time, and educational materials to take home. This is an opportunity to discuss the ups and downs of breastfeeding, navigating motherhood, and building your support network.

The Malone Community Center’s wellness programs are dedicated to combating the inequities and disparities in Black infant and maternal health while providing safe and culturally competent care. Programs focus on decreasing Black infant and maternal mortality and morbidity rates and increasing breastfeeding rates by implementing initiatives that include education, empowerment, support, access to healthcare resources, and client services during pregnancy, and a year+ after childbirth. Since May 2019, the Malone’s breastfeeding support programs have served over 34 BIPOC families. To learn more, go online to malonecenter.org or check out the Facebook page (@MaloneCommunityCenter).

Questions can be directed to (402) 474-1110.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Make a Difference in the Community by Participating in the JDRF One Walk If your business is looking to make a difference in the community, JDRF has a perfect opportunity via their 2021 One Walk, which is set for Sunday, October 10. The JDRF One Walk will bring together people across Nebraska and southwest Iowa to change the future for people living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). This fun, family-friendly event gives people with T1D and their friends, families, and coworkers the opportunity to raise money for life-changing T1D research.

Companies of any size can participate in this flagship community event. By participating in the JDRF One Walk, corporate partners can enhance their recognition and goodwill in the community, provide employee engagement opportunities to promote team building, and receive marketing exposure across the entire state of Nebraska and throughout southwest Iowa. The JDRF One Walk is your chance to show the world that together, we can conquer T1D. For more information on becoming a corporate sponsor or registering a team, please call (402) 397-CURE (2873) or email Chris Dunn at cdunn@jdrf.org. Help them turn Type One into Type None and get more information or register for the One Walk at walk.jdrf.org/lincoln.

Matt Talbot to Honor Longtime Community Partners at “Feeding the Soul of the City” Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach’s 15th annual Feeding the Soul of the City fundraiser is scheduled for June 17 at Junto Wine and is open to the public.

Two longtime community partners—John Turner and the St. Francis & St. Claire Hunger Relief Team—will be honored with Compassion in Action awards for their dedication to defeating hunger and homelessness and restoring hope among individuals and families experiencing homelessness. All money raised supports continued outreach and support of the homeless, near homeless and hungry in Lincoln.

John Turner has advocated for people experiencing homelessness for nearly 30 years through his work at Community Action, CenterPointe, Region V, and now at Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA). He has been active with the Lincoln Homeless Coalition and Governor’s Commission on Housing and Homelessness, and he goes above and beyond to address housing barriers for people who have experienced homelessness, substance abuse and mental health challenges. The St. Francis & St. Claire Hunger Relief Team comprises a multigenerational family that has served dinner on the fourth Thursday of every month for 21 years, preparing a homemade, nutritious, and thoughtful menu that is different each time. The team is always at Matt Talbot on Thanksgiving to serve a traditional Thanksgiving feast with all the fixings.

The community is invited to attend the Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach Feeding the Soul of the City event to help defeat hunger and homelessness in Lincoln! Enjoy delectable pairings of Junto wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres along with a cash bar and snacks. Social hour starts at 6 p.m. and the program begins at 7 p.m. To join a special VIP experience that starts at 5:30 p.m., contact Vicky at (402) 477-4116. Learn about sponsorship opportunities and make a reservation for the event at mtko.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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DreamCatchers Offers Partnerships to Serve Up Summer Fun for the Entire Team, Family DreamCatchers Ride has plenteous options for summer fun, and they are available for partnerships with local organizations and families to make memories and build bonds in 2021. Their inexpensive hands-on learning opportunities are perfect for groups and designed to share the bond between horses and humans with people who might not otherwise have the chance to interact with horses in person.

They’ll bring a horse or two to your site or meet your group at a local park, where they will teach basic knowledge about horses, and participants will be able to groom, pet, and feed the horses treats. So, if you’re looking for a fun, affordable summer activity for your team or other group, DreamCatchers has you covered!

The nonprofit DreamCatchers also has expanded their services to include bringing horses to those in need of companionship or emotional support—including people in retirement communities, rehabilitation facilities, after-school and/or mentoring programs, and mental-health and civic organizations, to name a few.

Jodi Freeman founded DreamCatchers Ride in 2018 based on the knowledge that there are many people in Lincoln who have a passion for horses but whose families simply cannot afford the time or financial commitment a horse requires. They provide a safe place where, through learning about equine companionship and care, people can be comfortable and able to express themselves. For more information, to learn more about how you can partner with DreamCatchers for summer fun for a very nominal fee, please contact Jodi Freeman at (402) 6793996 or jodi@dreamcatchersride.org. For more information about the organization, visit dreamcatchersride.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Catholic Social Services Partnership Grant Funds Greenhouse, Grows Food for Pantry Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) recently received a partnership grant from the University of Nebraska Extension to fund a project for CSS to build and maintain a greenhouse to grow food for those in need. This will allow CSS to grow vegetables year-round for their food pantries.

Staff members Martin Garcia, Jeremy Sousek, Bill Meduna, and Bill Feltes designed and built the greenhouse, and Sousek is the main caretaker for maintaining the plants, as he has a degree from UNL’s East Campus and has experience in agriculture.

This new greenhouse ties together lives from across the state. This will allow CSS to provide fresh, healthy produce through their food pantries in Lincoln, as well as Auburn, Hastings, and Imperial. Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is grateful to UNL for teaming with them to help bring hope in the good life!

Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska provides food pantry services, emergency services including rent and utility assistance, disaster relief, refugee and immigration services, St. Gianna Women’s Homes, and a clinical and family counseling program. Founded in 1932, CSS serves all individuals across the 24,000 square miles in southern Nebraska, regardless of faith. For more information, visit csshope.org or call (402) 474-1600.

Gateway Sertoma Golf Event June 11 to Support Tabitha Meals on Wheels Benefits On Friday, June 11, grab some friends and join Tabitha for the 19th year of their annual Gateway Ser toma golf tour nament at NuMar k Golf Course.

The event will benefit the more than 500 friends and neighbors who rely on the daily meal and safety check that Tabitha Meals on Wheels delivers. The fourperson golf scramble features games, hold prizes, food, and drink. Registration and lunch begin at 11:30 a.m., followed by a shotgun start for the golf tournament at 12:30 p.m. and awarding of prizes at 5:30 p.m. Team fees include golf, golf carts, and boxed lunches for participants.

Founded in 1961, Gateway Sertoma is a service club in Lincoln.

The group’s mission of “service to mankind” motivates members to volunteerism and fundraising for community programs in needs, including Tabitha Meals on Wheels.

Tabitha Meals on Wheels began in 1967 as the first service of its kind in Lincoln. Today, they serve a hot noon meal to more than 500 clients daily, 365 days a year. Unlike many other Meals on Wheels programs around the country, Tabitha continues to say yes to all those needing this lifeline service, regardless of their circumstances or resources, and has not capped program numbers despite a 62% growth rate in the last 10 years. Visit Tabitha.org/give/events/golf to register as Event, Silver, Team, or Hole sponsor, or as an individual player for the Gateway Sertoma golf tournament. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Wear Yellow Nebraska Hosts Registration & Gear Pop-Up at Twisted Vine Wine Bar It’s time to start thinking about the 2021 Wear Yellow Ride, Run & Walk and purchase your own awesome one-of-akind Wear Yellow Nebraska gear, so mark your calendars for the event Registration and Gear Pop-Up at the Twisted Vine wine bar on May 18.

From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., you will have the chance to register for the annual event, buy your gear, and then head on in for your favorite wine, craft beer, or handcrafted cocktail and enjoy some live music! Twisted Vine is located at 123 N Washington St. in Papillion and promises an evening of networking and fun in preparation for the 18th Annual Wear Yellow Ride, Run & Walk.

Wear Yellow Nebraska is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a clear focus on niche initiatives that offer cancer survivors support in ways that were not previously being addressed and for people who would otherwise fall through the cracks, truly caring for an individual’s special circumstances. They organize the Wear Yellow Ride, Run & Walk to fund the Wear Yellow Cab Ride program powered by Lyft, as well as other initiatives that support a mission to make a difference for cancer survivors. Your registration fee will provide two rides to a fellow Nebraskan who is fighting cancer but does not have adequate transportation to or from their treatments. To learn more or register for the event, go to wearyellownebraska.org, email contactus@ wearyellownebraska.org, or call (402) 965-1699. Or better yet, turn out for the Registration & Gear Pop-Up at Twisted Vine on May 18!

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NONPROFIT NEWS National Goodwill Week Celebrates the Power of Work to Transform People’s Lives

Mark Your Calendars for Aiding Angels Golfing For A Reason Tourney August 21

As they do annually during the first full week of May, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska is celebrating National Goodwill Week to highlight the defining principle of their mission of transforming lives through the power of work. This year, that mission is maybe more important than ever, with the last year and a half having propelled millions of people into unemployment. As the community begins to rebuild, individuals must continue to advance their skills to be successful in an ever-changing workplace. In celebration of National Goodwill week, each day from May 2-8, follow Goodwill on social media on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to learn about their mission, earn exclusive discounts, and more.

Mar k your calendars for fun on Saturday, August 21 with the 13th annual Golfing For A Reason Tournament at Highlands Golf Course to support the Aiding Angels Foundation. Start forming your teams early because the roster always fills up quickly—including men’s, women’s, and couple’s flights. Proceeds from Golfing For A Reason will benefit Aiding Angels in providing FREE professional housecleaning services to improve the lives of women, men, and children in our community who are dealing with cancer, so they can focus on treatment and healing and their families can focus on them!

Goodwill’s mission has always been to connect people with skills training and employment opportunities, and the people they serve work hard to overcome personal and professional challenges to employment. For example, Goodwill’s Job Connection Center at 1731 O Street is a free computer lab with employment specialists ready to help with resumes, cover letters, job applications and more. They also offer a virtual learning and online skills academy.

Fighting cancer is difficult enough but living with it is even tougher— and that’s where Aiding Angels Foundation steps in. While the coronavirus pandemic made it impossible for nonprofits like Aiding Angels to hold in-person fundraisers last year, cancer did not take a hiatus. After being forced to cancel the golf tournament due to COVID in 2020, your help is needed maybe more than ever in 2021.

Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska thanks their shoppers, donors, employees, clients and community members for their support in helping Goodwill continue their mission of “Willing workers employed, and community resources maximized.” For more information, visit lincolngoodwill.org, call (402) 477-0436, or follow them on Facebook and Twitter (@lincolngoodwill), and Instagram (@lincoln_goodwill).

The Aiding Angels Foundation offers free, professional cleaning services for individuals fighting cancer in Lincoln. Given the global health concerns of the day, their services are more important than ever. More details about the 2021 Golfing For A Reason Tournament are forthcoming. Watch for information at aidingangels.com, follow them on Facebook (@aidingangnels) or contact Brenda Schwery at (402) 434-2472 / Brenda@maid-to-please.com.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Ditch the Cooped-Up Blues with Fresh Start’s First Spring Rubber Chicken Fling

People’s City Mission to Host Memorial Day Picnic for All Mission Guests May 30

If you’re feeling cooped up, Fresh Start has the cure for you with their First Annual Picnic and Spring (Chicken) Fling event on Sunday, May 16, from 2 to 5 p.m. in Antelope Park, at 23rd to 33rd and Sheridan Boulevard. Set your alarm clucks for a Fresh Start “pecknec” and join them for a rubber chicken toss tournament, terrible chicken joke contest, and other fun lawn games. This event will raise funds to support Fresh Start’s mission to empower women who are experiencing homelessness and help them change their lives. The event includes appetizers prepared by Relish Catering featuring locally grown produce from Robinette Farms. Don’t forget to have cash on hand to participate in other family-fun activities!

People’s City Mission (PCM) recently announced plans to host a Memorial Day Picnic for all guests of the Mission on Sunday, May 30. The picnic will include great food, activities for kids, and even some live music! It will all happen in the employee parking area of the PCM campus—and guests are really looking forward to it! In the midst of shutdowns last year, the Mission was forced to cancel many of their activities, making life much more difficult for those staying there. They are, however, looking forward to better times ahead, and while keeping masks and social distancing in place, plan to celebrate and enjoy this especially important holiday.

Fresh Start is a goal-orientated program designed to assist women through case management to overcome barriers to economic stability. Since its formation in 1991, nearly 1,800 women have called Fresh Start home. Tickets for the First Annual Fresh Start Spring (Chicken) Fling are $20 per person, and teams of four are encouraged for the tournament fun. Register

by May 12 at FreshStartHome.org/events, but walk-ins are also welcome! For more information, including team registrations and sponsorships, visit FreshStartHome.org, follow them on Facebook (@FreshStartHomeLincoln), or call Audrey at (402) 475-7777.

Sponsor a Community Action Head Start Baby-Toddler Class to Invest in Community Community Action Head Start is inviting community members and groups to sponsor a baby/toddler classroom to help invest in the future of children in the Lincoln area. Individual or combined sponsorship in the amount of $2,500 provides the necessary supplies and resources teachers need to support the development of enrolled children—everything from classroom supplies to diapers and baby bottles—for a year. Sponsors also receive a recognition plaque placed outside the classroom of their choosing.

Community Action has been welcoming children and families from at-risk backgrounds into its Head Start early childhood education programs in Lincoln for more than 55 years. Enrolled children live at or below 100% of poverty level ($26,500 annually for a family of four), and many face additional challenges such as homelessness or disability. Community Action provides these young children with opportunities to learn and grow all year long in preparation for kindergarten and beyond. Their centerbased programs respond to a critical local need for high-quality, affordable, full-day early childhood education services—but to accomplish this work, community support is critical.

“The children and families participating in Community Action Head Start work alongside program staff to build skills and create opportunities for success in school and in life,” said Early Head Start and Head Start Director Jill Bomberger. “We’re so thankful to be part of such a generous community. Continued support from community members is essential to this work’s success, and therefore the success of the children and families we serve.”

For more information about Community Action Head Start classroom sponsorship, contact Heather Loughman at (402) 875-9339 or hloughman@communityactionatwork.org. To learn more about the nonprofit organization, visit communityactionatwork.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

During the celebration, PCM will also honor homeless veterans who have died during the last year and will acknowledge those who are still with us. People’s City Mission is so grateful for their service and want to remember their sacrifice on this special day.

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

Down Syndrome Association for Families Announces 2021 Individual Education Plan Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF) has announced its Individual Education Plan (IEP) Focus for their 2021 educational series. The IEP series sessions began in April and will continue through December on the third Tuesday of the month via Zoom, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The free series, originally launched in August 2019, has been widely successful and informative, providing monthly training and education for parents of children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome. Friends, families, educators, and other providers are also welcome. In addition to the new IEP topics for 2021, all courses are recorded, and handouts and other resources are made available online so families in all parts of the state can benefit from the incredible speakers and topics covered. Upcoming session topics are as follows: • May - Summary of Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performances in IEP • June - Annual Goals, Progress, and Levels of Achievement in the IEP Document • July - Special Education Services, Related Series, Aids, Modification, and Accommodations in IEP • August - Annual IEP Reviews and Prior Written Notices and Re-Evaluation • September - Re-Evaluation and Due Process • October - Behavior Intervention Plans—What About Restraint and Seclusion?

• November - Transportation within IEP • December - Transition and the IEP The Down Syndrome Association for Families recognizes that every person with Down syndrome is an individual who has a unique purpose and set of abilities. It is their mission to provide support and a positive vision for the future for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, friends, educators, and professionals who share in their lives. To learn more or sign up for the series, visit dsafnebraska.org/edseries.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Junior Achievement Lincoln Seeking Young Vision Maker Media Presents Documentaries Professionals to Apply for Service on Board to Celebrate Organization’s 45th Anniversary If you know a young professional who is looking to form deeper connections in the Lincoln community, Junior Achievement (JA) Lincoln wants to hear from them!

JA is currently accepting applications for members to serve on their Young Professionals (YP) Board. The Board comprises a group of innovative, energetic, and philanthropic youth professionals (approximately ages 25-40) with an interest in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and work readiness. Members are ambassadors for JA throughout the community and work to support the organization’s mission. YP Board members have opportunities to network, fundraise, work with community leaders, and participate in and plan exciting events!

Junior Achievement is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their futures, and make smart academic and economic choices. Junior Achievement Lincoln has been impacting students’ lives for 50 years and empowers kids to believe in themselves and have a sense of purpose so they can achieve their highest potential. For more information about the nonprofit, visit lincoln.ja.org. For a YP Board application and to learn more about the impact this dynamic Young Professionals group is making, contact Tera Norris at tnorris@jalincoln.org.

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Vision Maker Media's 45th Anniversary celebration includes the presentation of two 2021 documentary film premieres: Sisters Rising and Chasing Voices.

Sisters Rising, which premiered April 20, is the story of six Native women fighting to heal a society crippled for far too long by violence against Indigenous women in the United States. Sisters Rising now is available for streaming on America ReFramed at bit.ly/ARF_SsRising. Chasing Voices premieres on FNX May 2. This film tells the extraordinary life journey of controversial ethnographer John Peabody Harrington, who compiled well over 1 million pages of notes about more than 100 different Native American languages during his 50-year career.

Vision Maker Media is the premiere source of public media by and about Native Americans for 45 years. To learn more about Chasing Voices and Sisters Rising, and to browse their collection of high-quality films, please visit visionmakermedia.org. To check your local listing, visit pbs.org/tv_schedules.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Collective Impact Grant Allowed LuLu’s to Supply 150 Easter Meals, 126 Baskets A grant from Collective Impact Lincoln funded LuLu’s on N’s nonprofit partner, Loaves and Fishes, to provide 150 Easter meals and 63 Easter baskets through a distribution at Connection Point to residents of the Clinton Neighborhood and 63 more baskets to folks that went to Brock’s Boutique.

Everything that Loaves and Fishes accomplishes is thanks to generous donations that support their mission of feeding all those who are hungry. If you want to donate, visit lulusonn.com, mail a check to LuLu’s at 1417 N St., Lincoln, NE 68508, or use LuLu’s on N for your catering needs. All proceeds to Loaves and Fishes and every paid meal at LuLu’s on N provides food for someone who is not able to pay.

Loaves and Fishes is a nonprofit that strives to walk alongside downtown Lincoln’s homeless population, offering them food, support, and basic hygiene items. LuLu’s on N is a walk-up restaurant and full-service caterer in downtown Lincoln. They provide community meals at St. Paul United Methodist Church from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday and 3-4 p.m. on Wednesday, along with groceries. To learn more, visit lulusonn.com or contact Karen Lamb at (402) 540-8532 / lulusonnst@gmail.com.

TeamMates Recognizes Nelnet for Donating Staff Services as Mentors for 10 Years Plus

Register Now to Participate in the Virtual American Heart Association Heart Walk If you have not yet registered for the American Hear t Association (AHA) iconic Lincoln Heart Walk for 2021, now is the time! With the coronavirus pandemic continuing to keep Americans distanced, AHA has moved the Heart Walk to a virtual platform for the second consecutive year. On Saturday, May 15, Heart Walk participants and teams will remain physically apart but together in their efforts to celebrate heart and stroke survivors, encourage physical activity, and raise lifesaving funds for AHA, the leading voluntary health organization focused on heart and brain health for all. Get moving at home and around your neighborhoods, follow along with the fun on Facebook (@HeartNebraska), take a walk outside, get the whole family involved with an indoor dance party, try out some new strengthening exercises, create an at-home circuit workout, or do whatever gets you moving for heart health!

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. To learn more or register for the virtual Lincoln Heart Walk, visit www.LincolnHeartWalk.com. Stay up-todate by downloading the Heart Walk mobile app, and encourage friends and family to join in via email or social media. On the day of the event, everyone is encouraged to wear their Heart Walk shirts and post pictures and videos to document their activity using #LincolnHeartWalk. Money raised funds research, advocacy, CPR training, and promotion of better health.

TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln is recognizing Nelnet, Inc. for donating staff volunteer resources to serve as mentors for students in the area for more than a decade, including providing paid time to more than 60 employees to serve as mentors during the last three years alone. The studentloan service staff are completing another rewarding school year, during whic h 33 NelNet team members have mentored young people across 16 public and parochial schools in Lincoln each week.

“Our whole company knows that TeamMates is fully supported, which makes it easy to work out with your leader how you can fit weekly mentoring into your schedule,” said Kim Harrison, a Nelnet employee and seven-year TeamMates mentor.

Nelnet also is one of three generous sponsors of the Learn to Dream Scholarship along with Acklie Charitable Foundation and Union Bank & Trust. “Learn to Dream” is a college scholarship program for youth who qualify for free or reduced-cost lunch, giving them the opportunity to complete up to 60 semester credit hours at Southeast Community College without paying tuition and fees. Like Lincoln TeamMates, the co-sponsors know that a college education improves a young person’s chances at having a promising career and fulfilling life.

“Nelnet is a model for other organizations that may not realize the kind of difference they can make in their community and in their employees’ lives by championing mentoring,” says TeamMates staff member Christine Davis. “Nelnet is a true advocate of mentoring and it shows in the investment they make in youth, sharing not only their financial resources but the time and dedication of their valued associates.”

For more information about TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln, please visit LincolnTeamMates.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

gift yourself some love!

Swedish • Deep Tissue • Prenatal • Reflexology • Sugar / Salt Scrubs • Heated Bamboo • Hot Stone • & More!

self care isn’t selfish! when was the last time you got a massage?

6201 S 58th St., STE A | Lincoln, NE 5elementsne.com | (402) 617-7992 MAY 2021 Strictly Business

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HEALTH NEWS BBB Tip: Hunting for a COVID-19 Vaccine?

Be Careful Sharing Personal Information

Tobacco Free Lancaster County Empowers Youth with World No Tobacco Day, June 1

If you’re looking for assistance scheduling an appointment to get a COVID-19 vaccine, the Better Business Bureau warns against sharing personal information with “vaccine hunter” websites, online forums, and social media groups that have sprung up offering to help people find open appointments and leftover vaccine doses. While most of these website and online groups are legitimate resources, this situation is an ideal opportunity for scammers to push phony vaccines and other cons. The BBB warns to use caution when following links or providing personal information.

Tobacco Free Lancaster County is empowering local youth with World No Tobacco Day on June 1. World No Tobacco Day, founded by the World Health Organization (WHO), celebrates bringing attention and awareness to the dangers of tobacco use, business practices of tobacco companies, what is being done to fight the tobacco epidemic, and what people around the world can do to claim their right to health and healthy living and protect future generations.

Centralized vaccine availability websites, similar to airfare aggregation sites, scan the databases of vaccine providers, such as CVS or Rite Aid for availability. VaccineFinders.org is one such site and is promoted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These websites can be handy tools, but be wary of lookalike sites that collect personal information or require payment. The best way to avoid cons when looking for a vaccine appointment is to go through official public health channels—such as the public health department or a pharmacy—and approved providers.

Anyone claiming to sell vaccine doses is a scammer, and don’t pay to add your name to a waiting list.

The Better Business Bureau has been serving local communities since 1936. The overall mission of the organization is to be a leader in advancing marketplace trust. For more information, visit bbb.org/ Nebraska or call (800) 649-6814.

At the local event, youth will learn about all things tobacco, including health risks and environmental effects of e-cigarettes, while visiting the Lincoln Children’s Zoo and enjoying lunching in the park. In addition to preparing our future leaders to fight big tobacco, Tobacco Free Lancaster Country supports the World No Tobacco Day 2021 theme “Commit to Quit” with quitting resources, free support to implement or improve tobacco-free policies at your workplace or multi-unit housing community, and much more.

Funding for Tobacco Free Lancaster Country is provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement. If you are ready to quit tobacco, call 1-(800) QUIT-NOW for free confidential help getting started. For more information about World No Tobacco Day and associated activities, contact Sophia Yelkin at (402) 441-4108 or syelkin@lincoln.ne.gov.

Now Offering an All Natural Alternative to Botox!

Meghan Hungerford, DDS

NO CHEMICALS. NO FILLERS. ALL NATURAL REGENERATIVE SCIENCE.

What is Platelet Rich Fibrin?

PRF is a technology that uses your body’s own natural and powerful healing proteins. It encourages the production of collagen, treats, acne scaring, rejuvenates skin, stimulates hair growth, removes fine wrinkles, and tightens loose skin.

All within the power of a simple blood draw.

Family Dentistry • Restorative Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry • Emergency Dentistry 4525 S. 86th Street, Ste. A | Lincoln, NE 68526 starcitydentalne.com | (402) 489-7806 50

Strictly Business MAY 2021

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HEALTH NEWS CBD American Shaman Rolls Out New Products, CBD Lollipops and Hard Candy CBD American Shaman is excited to announce the rollout of a couple exciting new products, CBD lollipops and CBD hard candy. In stores as of April 1, these CBD suckers give people a quick way to get their serving of CBD for the day. The lollipop effects are smooth and will give you the calmness you are looking for. Each CBD sucker has 25mg of CBD, and each hard candy has 10mg of CBD. They are a yummy, on-the-go way to get your CBD. The lollipops and candy come in a variety of flavors, including grape, green apple, blue raspberry, and watermelon.

CBD American Shaman is U.S. Hemp Authority® Certified. They have a propriety Nanotechnology that makes their products nine times more bioavailable than other CBD companies. To learn more, visit cbdoflincoln.com or contact Franchise Owner Lance Schroeder at (531) 500-3672 / lincolnamshaman@gmail.com. They have three CBD American Shaman stores in Lincoln, which are located off of 48th and O St. (next to Yogurtini), 27th and Cornhusker Highway (next to Super Saver), and 16th and Old Cheney (next to Precious Pets).

ACCESS TO YOU.

ALL THE TIME.

Dr. Todd Johnson · Access Family Medicine is Lincoln’s only membership based, primary care clinic. · Provide your team with healthcare & peace of mind · Employees will receive all of their primary care needs for one low monthly rate!

Reduced, flat-rate plans available for businesses!

Krystal Jackson, PA-C

Stop by our location in Legacy Square today!

Join HopeSpoke in Crucial Conversation for Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week In honor of Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week May 2-8 and Mental Health Awareness Month throughout May, HopeSpoke is asking the comm unity to join in crucial conversation about mental health. The fact is, one in five of us is affected by mental health or substance use issues, and young people are not immune. Children and teens cope better when they know that mental health challenges are not uncommon—and that it is important to reach out for help. If a young person in your life needs to talk about their problems, HopeSpoke can help. Last year, nearly 1,800 children, youths and families gained insight and skills through the nonprofit’s comprehensive behavioral and mental health services.

“We look to others, especially those who we admire, to learn how to cope when we are struggling,” said HopeSpoke Executive Director Katie McLeese Stephenson, MSW. “Be the adult that lets them know that what they are experiencing is normal, and that there is help available. Your response can make all the difference at a crucial time.”

Take “Nick,” for example. He is a young person who has learned to improve his mental health by talking about it. Nick was fighting with classmates and teachers and running away or hurting himself when feeling upset. At HopeSpoke, Nick learned healthier ways to manage anxiety, such as journaling to express his feelings. He and his mother also have learned healthy communication and calming skills via interactive therapy. Today, Nick is living a healthier, more joyful life—the kind every child should have.

For more information about HopeSpoke, or to support mental health for Nebraska youth, visit www.hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666. Join the conversation and be a champion for your child’s mental health! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

8101 O St., Suite 302 • AccessFamilyMedicine.com • 402-858-1510

Integrated Medical Rehabilitation Physical Therapists for All Your Needs Proud to Support Our Local Athletes. Stay Strong and Go for the Gold.

Otoe 402-873-5151 Nebraska City

HuskerRehab.com

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HEALTH NEWS Southeast Nebraska Cancer Center Changes Name to Cancer Partners of Nebraska After almost 25 years of providing cancer and hematology care to greater Lincoln and surrounding areas, Southeast Nebraska Cancer Center is now Cancer Partners of Nebraska. According to Executive Director Justin Rousek, PhD, MPH, the Lincoln-based medical group, has a reach beyond southeast Nebraska and their named needed to reflect that. In addition to the name change, Cancer Partners of Nebraska has adopted a new logo that depicts a road, or path, as a reminder of the path that every patient who is facing cancer takes.

Founded in 1997 by Cary Peterson, MD, a specialist in medical oncology and hematology, the clinic has grown in both size and scope of services. Today, there are nine board-certified oncology physicians supported by advanced practice providers, therapists, counselors, a registered dietitian, and more than 130 staff members who provide a vast array of services that can be critically important to a patient undergoing cancer treatment.

Cancer Partners of Nebraska provides comprehensive cancer care in Lincoln and in eleven communities throughout greater Nebraska.

Cancer Partners combines advanced medical oncology, radiation oncology, and multiple oncology support services at their two locations in Lincoln. For more information, visit CancerPartners.com.

Clearwater Counseling Advocates for Mental Health Awareness Month Throughout May Throughout the month of May, Clearwater Counseling, PC is advocating for Mental Health Awareness Month, an observance intended to bring mental health to the forefront.

One in fi ve American adults experience a mental health issue, and one in 25 Americans have lived with a serious mental health illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or depression. The Clearwater Counseling team understands that mental health is just as important as physical health, and while many factors can attribute to mental health problems—including biological factors, life experiences and even family history—recovery is possible. Treatment varies for mental health problems and a strong support system is critical for those dealing with mental health struggles.

Clearwater Counseling works with clients who are struggling with a variety of mental health diagnoses including depression, relationship issues, stress, grief/loss/trauma, addiction and recovery, co-dependency, anxiety and phobias, parenting problems, sexual abuse and incest, physical abuse, and violence, and more. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please don't be afraid to reach out to others and talk about it. Only together can we raise awareness and end the stigma surrounding mental health.

Clearwater Counseling, PC is a private practice offering mental health services to children, adolescents and adults in the Grand Island and Omaha areas. They work to treat mental health diagnoses through personalized and compassionate counseling practices that promote growth, development, and well-being to further enhance quality of life. To learn more about staff, services, or resources, visit clearwatercounselingpc.org. To schedule an appointment or for more information about mental health services, please call (308) 210-8487 or email info@ clearwatercounselingne.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Bridge Behavioral Health Shares Success Story from Program Client Maybe nothing tells an organization’s story better than the testimonials of clients, so The Bridge Behavioral Health is letting them do just that. They are teaching the community about what they do by sharing first-person stories that tell their story for them. Today we hear from Ben. “I had struggled with my alcoholism for 20+ years,” Ben said. “I went through multiple bouts of sobriety and numerous outpatient treatment programs, but nothing seemed to work for me long term.

In 2014, I finally was brought to a place I consider my bottom.

With no options left, and nowhere to turn, I accepted help from The Bridge and was accepted into their inpatient treatment program. I am not being hyperbolic when I say that The Bridge saved my life.“ “With the skills I learned in treatment, and the opportunity to accept responsibility for my actions up to that point in a safe setting, I was able to start building a strong foundation in sobriety. With a few one-days-at-a-time, I was then able to rebuild my life. Today, as I type these words, I am coming up on seven years of continuous sobriety. I get to strive for the dreams that the wife and I thought impossible just those few short years ago. The gratitude I have for The Bridge is endless. They really made all of this possible, and I embrace any opportunity I have to give back what was so freely given to me. Words can never do justice to what The Bridge has done for me. With that said, I will simply say: Thank you!”

The Bridge Behavioral Health has served as an essential part of the Lincoln community’s safety net since 1984, connecting people suffering from addiction and related mental-health issues with support and treatment. For more information, visit thebridgenebraska.org.

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Striving for Perfection on All Your Auto Performance and Auto Repair The Mechanix Garage, offers quality auto services and repairs, off-road customizing, and semi tractor modifying.

Backed by years of experience, The Mechanix Garage has a proud history of excellent work and customer service.

They will remain loyal in serving their community and, in return, have been recognized through their township, state, and local business organizations. Through their success, they will continue to give back to the community through donating and volunteering with many local charities. The Mechanix Garage recently sponsored the North Star High School Booster Club's Family Bingo Night, which ended up raising over $700!

What makes The Mechanix Garage unique is that it is a woman-owned business.

Delta Nelson grew up around the auto industry, starting with her greatgrandparent's salvage yard. She's worked on race cars, co-owned an auto glass company, and solely managed a Honda/Toyota specialty shop in Lincoln. During her management years, it became clear that, in order to continue maintaining and repairing her customers vehicles properly and safely, she must venture out on her own. Delta works closely with her husband Stacey and her sons Garrett, Kolby, and son-in-law Nick Lukert. Stacey has a passion for off-road vehicles, from Jeeps to side-by-sides. His attention to detail is a great asset to the business. Garrett has been turning wrenches and changing tires since he was old enough to pick up a wrench. Also growing up in the automotive industry, Garrett took a liking to dirt track racing at a young age. He first started with racing go karts and eventually moved up to cars, racing at surrounding tracks. Garrett is also the youngest in IMCA history to win the National Championship in 2009.

Through that experience and knowledge it has taught him a vast majority of his knowledge. Kolby has grown up on the farm which has made him a hard worker. He knows his way around anything mechanical, and he doesn't hesitate to offer a helping hand wherever it is needed. Another key member of the team is Nick Lukert. Nick has traveled millions of miles across the U.S. with his own trucking company. He has had ample opportunity to know what he likes and dislikes when it comes to a semi tractor. His experience far surpasses the normal diesel technician.

The Mechanix Garage offers the following services: • Full automotive service and repair facility for all makes and models, domestic and foreign • Customization of off-road vehicles • Semi tractor air ride systems Already certified in many areas, the team at The Mechanix Garage will continue training and certifications in order to strive for perfection for their customers.

"The most amazing owner! Quick and great pricing for the work to be done. Highly recommended!" - Chandra D. "I called them late in the day close to their closing time, and they was able to get me the next day and had the issue with my 2015 Duramax pinpointed before noon. They are very professional and easy to work with. I will definitely be bringing my truck back." - Chase W.

"Delta has advised us on auto repairs for years.

She has always been very honest and helpful. I am so thankful for her advice. Recently, she has helped maintain our cars and do a prepurchase car inspection. Delta does what she says she will do and in a reasonable time frame." - Mandy M.

"Knowledgeable, fair priced, clean...what more can you ask for?" - Jethro H.

Monday–Thursday, 7 a.m.–5 p.m. Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m.

1323 Dawes Ave. | 531.249.1899 | themechanixgarage.com 54

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STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS Last Month Recap Cactus Modern Mexican & Cantina by Venue is where we gathered for our most recent Friends4Lunch event on April 9. We really enjoyed our time and our food! Our group ordered a variety of different taquitos, enchiladas, and tacos. There are so many great combos and platters to choose from.

Cactus also has a delicious drink selection. Many of us opted for Mexican drafts, while others went the fruity cocktail and margarita route! Cactus is a family-oriented restaurant that utilizes locally-sourced ingredients to dish out innovative, modern Mexican cuisine. Some of the restaurant’s amenities include a cantina bar, private dining room, and spacious outdoor patio. Thank you to all who came out for a fun networking lunch!

& hair stylists • wig consultations • microdermabrasion

CALL TO SCHEDULE

(402) 467-4646 www.ovation.salon

Tipsy Tina's Taco Cantina - Thursday, May 6, 11:30 a.m.

Please join us on Thursday, May 6, for this month's Friends4Lunch networking event! Bring the Cinco de Mayo energy for a fun time of connecting with other professionals in Lincoln while enjoying delicious fare from a local eatery. Positioned nicely in the downtown Haymarket, Tipsy Tina's menu features street tacos, churros, breakfast tacos, chicken or steak fiesta salads, and more. They also offer 32 draft beers, 200+ tequilas, and signature blended drinks. Look up Tipsy Tina’s hours and menu offerings on Facebook (@ tipsytinastacocantina).

WHERE HOME IS...

James Arthur Vineyards Tasting Room - Wednesday, May 19, 4 p.m.

Stop by the From Nebraska Gift Shop, where you can find the James Arthur Vineyards tasting room, for our Friends4Drinks after-hours event on Wednesday, May 19. Make it a Wine Wednesday! James Arthur's award-winning wines are served from a bar constructed from an actual grain bin. They serve cider as well. While sipping, you can browse through the gift store where they showcase the best products made in Nebraska. Friends4Drinks is another chance to get out in the community and represent your business. Anyone is welcome to attend! If you've come to one of our events before, we encourage you to bring a friend or colleague with you this time.

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

Sharing a laugh with a loved one.

LOCATIONS The Waterford at Williamsburg Assisted Living The Waterford at College View Assisted Living The Waterford at Wilderness Hills Memory Care

402.480.6950 | www.thewaterford.net MAY 2021 Strictly Business

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

"Your Outdoor Living Is Our Passion!"

If you’re looking for a unique and professional landscape experience, you’ll find that partnering with Luxury Landscape to be a lot less work and a lot more fun! Luxury Landscape offers an array of services—from design and installation to maintenance, for both residential and commercial properties.

Landscape Maintenance Landscape Design & Consult When you work with Luxury Landscape, the first consultation is at no cost to you, the customer.

During this first meeting at your property, their team will listen to your wants and needs and discuss how you would like to utilize your space. Based on your wishes, they will offer suggestions, advice, and can even provide a detailed scaled drawing of your project.

Once your beautiful landscape is completed, the work doesn’t end! There’s occasional weeding, trimming, and pruning. Once it gets away from you, it can take hours to return it to that completed look! Landscape maintenance is a service offered by Luxury Landscape and takes away those tedious tasks such as pulling/spraying weeds, deadheading perennials, and more. This gives you the time and freedom you deserve, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor oasis.

This service includes scheduling time in your landscape every other week, throughout the growing season, keeping your landscapes looking fresh and beautiful all season long.

Landscape Installation As a full-service landscaping company, Luxury landscape can design and construct retaining walls, paver patios, pathways, outdoor kitchens, water and fire features, pergolas, gazebos, planter boxes, build berms, drainage control, install edging, landscape cleanup, mulch, snow removal, outdoor lighting, and planting of flowers, shrubs, and trees...the only thing they don’t do is mow lawns!

Luxury Landscape was the perfect choice for my unique backyard projects. I gave Ken and Jackie an idea of what I was thinking and they presented me with more ideas. I felt we were always on the same page and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the finished product. For sure this is a five star company!! - Sue T.

"Thank you Luxury Landscape for making our dream a reality! After contacting Ken and Jackie, they visited our home and listened to all of our wishes for our outdoor area. We are so thrilled with the final project and all the special touches, right down to polished Mexican Pebble Rock and wet-look sealer!" - Shari

Why Choose Luxury Landscape?

Luxury Landscape designs and installs unique and luxurious landscapes for their customers that don’t look like their neighbors.

Professional & Experienced—Every member of Luxury Landscape is extremely respectful and brings over 50 years of experience in all aspects of landscaping.

Reliable & Trustworthy—You can rely on Luxury Landscape for great communication and to get your project done efficiently and beautifully.

Fully Insured—Luxury Landscape is fully insured, making partnering with them stress-free.

Luxury Landscape was launched in October of 2018 by Ken and Jackie Svoboda.

These two have always dreamed of working side by side and decided to make it a reality! They are both passionate about creating unique, creative landscapes, using their 40+ years of combined landscape experience and offering it to their clients.

Call 402.430.9430 or 402.640.6034 today! luxurylandscape-llc.com 56

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

by Bud Synhorst, President

(402) 466-3419 • www.liba.org

What LIBA Has Done for You Lately!

When the pandemic began to impact the operations of our community, at LIBA we chose to make sure to be available for our businesses. First and foremost, it was vital for our offices to be open and ready to help the business owners of this community as they were figuring out how to operate within the parameters placed upon them by government.

Our goal at LIBA was to change our staffing model of the office and still maintain full office hours as usual. I am so proud of the LIBA staff for their efforts to make sure we were available to assist our business owners when they called or stopped into our offices.

Below are some of the highlights of ways LIBA helped our local businesses: • Worked with Congressman Fortenberry and the Small Business Administration (SBA) to put on teleconferences and webinars to help business owners learn more about the various programs available to small business owners and to ask questions to get the help they needed.

• As new information and resources became available at the local, state, and national levels, we shared information via social media and through email communications with members.

• In cooperation with the Nebraska Retail Federation and Sandhills Global—in the very early stages of the pandemic—we built and launched a website (NebraskaBuyLocal.com) for businesses to sell gift cards, which allowed many of our small, local businesses to generate revenue to help keep their businesses open.

• To continue engaging with members, we launched a weekly Facebook live event with the help of No Coast Business Advisors. These live events were informational and brought together guests who could share their stories of how they have adapted to the pandemic as a way of sharing ideas. Other guests included local and state officials talking about the way we respond to the pandemic. The engagement in these events was from members and the community at-large.

• As businesses were allowed to open again in early summer, we followed suit by hosting in-person events for our members, while following the directed health measures, allowing businesses the opportunity to connect again.

• As a member of the economic recovery task force, I advocated for ways the city could make it easier for our local, small businesses to conduct business with the city. This program is now in effect in Lincoln.

• During the football season we worked with our members to have mini-tailgate events to get people out on game day to support our local businesses.

• As the Christmas holiday approached, we again promoted NebraskaBuyLocal.com to help small business generate revenue for the holiday shopping season.

• We created a weekly policy update for members to provide updates on local, state, and national policies impacting small business owners.

• Beginning in January, we have gone back to regularly scheduled in-person events three times per month and are following all local government guidelines while providing masks and hand sanitizer for attendees and working with business owners in the planning to protect everyone involved.

• We hosted an in-person forum for all City Council candidates.

LIBA is proud to stand as the voice of small business and provide business owners with direction for the resources they want and need to help stay open and serve their customers. We will continue to be here as the resource and voice for small business.

LIBA studies and promotes these types of issues that are important to businesses and our community. If you have an interest in joining, please call LIBA at (402) 466-3419. LIBA membership is not restricted to just businesses. We also have “individual” memberships for those who want to help influence our local government decisions.

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

BUILDING BETTER

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL Tru-Built Construction has everything under one roof to complete a project and are able to customize the perfect team to suit your project’s needs. They offer design and build solutions for commercial renovations, custom homes, additions, and remodeling.

THE ARISTOS APARTMENTS Early in the design process of the Aristos Apartments, the owner group established one simple question that helped to guide the architects and engineers through the process. That question was, “Is that what you would want if you lived here?” Now, thanks to Tru-Built Construction, Aristos Apartments is a community where residents love where they live and they are excited to invite their friends and family over to visit.

The Location — Aristos Apartments are located at 4101 Hohensee Dr. As Lincoln continues to expand to the South, the 40th and Yankee Hill intersection will become a hotspot for businesses, restaurants, and other services. The surrounding area has plans for a new LPS elementary school, LPS middle school, St. Elizabeth medical facility, Bryan medical facility, and large office and retail opportunities.

The Site — The layout of the 21-acre site has 400 living units with a mix of studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and

three-bedroom apartments. The has two large courtyards that, combined with other green spaces, will total over 20% of the overall site.

Interior Features — Much attention went into the interior layout of each and every apartment with the intent of making

each space functional and to include features found in high-end custom homes: open floorplans with 9’ tall ceilings, large kitchens with seating at the island, black stainless-steel appliances, white painted cabinets with black hardware and soft close doors and drawers, granite countertops in kitchen and bathrooms, durable wood plank LVP flooring and carpet, walk-in closets, LED lighting throughout, large windows and doors that are Energy Star rated and reduce noise, large elevator and wide hallways allow for ease of furniture moving, and much more.

“FINISHED PRODUCT IS MORE THAN WE COULD HAVE EVER IMAGINED!”

NEW BEAUTIFUL ACREAGE HOME "We have waited for this day for so long. Many years spent finding the right place, deciding what we wanted or needed in our house, and selecting the right partner to create this special home for us, our families, and friends. As we developed the vision for our house, Tru-Built Construction was there to help us, guide us, and in several cases make incredible suggestions that could not have been more perfect! We will cherish every day and every memory in our new home, all thanks to the stellar team from Tru-Built Construction! We can never thank them enough for all their time, creativity, and labor to give us a one-of-akind, once-in-a-lifetime home!"

- Kathy and Jeff Wagner

CALL (402) 477-4663 OR TRU-BUILT.NET TO SEE MORE PAST PROJECTS! 58

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

by Todd Ogden, President

(402) 434-6900 • www.downtownlincoln.org

Shannon Formalwear is Here to Help You Find Your (Most Dapper) Suit of Armor

On a sunny Wednesday afternoon, we found Andrew Shannon helping a customer pick out the perfect suit for his 50th wedding anniversary while the Talking Heads played on a turntable. With good tunes and a space decked out with antique motorcycles, velvet upholstery, and dapper suits galore, Shannon’s in his element.

“I love what I do, I love helping people put on their suit of armor and get them dressed and ready for events,” he said. “I'll be having a bad week, and then someone comes in and we figure something out and get them really feeling good. That's what it's all about.”

Shannon Formalwear just celebrated a full year since moving downtown from the Gateway Mall to its current location at 1630 O St. Owner Andrew Shannon said he couldn’t be happier with the decision.

“We wouldn't have been able to make it through the pandemic if we hadn't moved, as a small business,” he said. “This is the best thing that could've ever happened.”

Moving away from the culture of the mall and into a building bursting with character was a step in the right direction for Shannon, who took over Best Styles in 2013 and has since renamed the business and moved away from rentals and more towards retail.

“I wanted to better serve my customers,” he said. “As a rental place, I didn't feel we were providing the best fits and options for their money.”

Shannon still offers rentals, but now estimates that 75 percent of his business is retail. Throughout the pandemic, he’s worked to take the business online and streamline a made-to-measure program.

“I feel like we do offer more competitive prices, just because we're not a national chain,” Shannon said. “It's just me, and our overhead is low.

I have more options.”

Men’s Wearhouse often refers customers looking for a more unique look to Shannon, and if a customer walks in looking for high-end sneakers, they’re almost in the right place—Shannon also helped his son, Hunter, take over the back of the building to open up his own vintage streetwear shop, Exclusive Hype. It’s accessible from the back alleyway.

“Him and his friends were collecting their stuff, and he'd been selling online for a couple of years,” Shannon said. “He saw that I was able to run a business off of something I enjoy and love, so I think he just kind of followed that path, and he's killing it. It's so fun to see them every day and work with them.

They are so good at what they do.”

Shannon said it’s a passion for clothing and people that keeps customers coming back.

“We're just trying to get people to look their best for these big events,” he said. “I've dressed people to meet the President, and all kinds of crazy stuff. It's neat, the connections you make doing that.”

Founded in 1967, the Downtown Lincoln Association provides services and champions initiatives for maintaining and enhancing our vibrant downtown. Our vision is to create an energetic downtown environment where we live, learn, work, invest and play. DLA has evolved into a multi-faceted organization supporting a wide range of programs and activities including maintenance, economic development and advocacy. For a complete listing of downtown businesses, events and residences visit downtownlincoln.org. ‘Like’ us on Facebook at facebook.com/downtownlincoln.

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BROOKE ROMAN

STUDIO

Hair • Nails • Skin • Eyelash Extensions 4300 S. 48th Suite 3

402-486-1466

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

HOST YOUR NEXT EVENT AT

TALON ROOM Nuzzled in the historic Spaghetti Works building, Talon Room has been established as the perfect venue to host a wedding reception, Husker tailgate, company party, business meeting, or social gathering in downtown Lincoln. The “Talon-t’d” staff at Talon Room will plan and execute the event you envisioned.

How many people can Talon Room hold? Talon Room can accommodate as many as 300 people for a stand-up event and up to 250 people for a sit-down event.

What is the cost to book an event at the Talon Room? There is a variety of price ranges to fit every budget and event type. Pricing is based around the catering service for your event, time of week, and the amount of people attending. The very best way to get exact pricing is to email owner and director, Matt Rogge.

What are the hours of operation? As it is the way of the food service industry, Talon Room staff is used to getting up early and staying up late. They can host events as early as 8 a.m. and as late as midnight, Sunday through Saturday. Want to party late? They will stay up with you, however there will be a small fee.

What is the parking situation? Talon Room is conveniently located near three parking garages that offer first-hour-free parking, as well as many off-street parking options.

Does the venue provide tables and chairs? Yes! They have a fantastic set of tables and chairs. However, if you are looking for cocktail tables or large round tables, they will rent those. No problem though, Talon Room has outstanding relationships with rental companies around town. Round tables can only be used for parties of 150 people or less.

Does Talon Room have a liquor license? The Talon Room does have its own liquor license, which means that they provide all of the beverages for each event.

Does Talon Room allow outside catering? Talon Room has an on-site kitchen that can accommodate all of your food needs. They allow for outside catering for a percentage fee based on attendees.

2022 Preferred Vendor Wedding Package Talon Room, a premium event venue in Downtown Lincoln, has partnered with their preferred wedding vendors to offer an all-inclusive wedding package for 2022. They did the shopping so you don’t have to!

VENDORS Talon Room and Talon Catering Crown DJ Services McCoy Photography Next, Flowers for Special Occasions

Does Talon Room provide decorations? Talon Room provides select decorations for a small fee—they are always adding new items to their arsenal, and they do enjoy helping decorate for the event.

Package pricing for 200 guests starting at $65/ person. That includes venue, dinner, bar service, decorating, DJ, photobooth, photographer, and floral. Total of $1,200 savings.

Book Your 2022 Date Today!

(402) 641-0943 | matt@talonroom.com | www.talonroom.com 60

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

by Wendy Birdsall, President

(402) 436-2350 • www.lcoc.com

Celebrating Recovery Through Travel in Lincoln

Lincoln is a community that plays host to numerous exciting events and, as a result, welcomes visitors from all over the world.

As we celebrate the power of travel throughout the upcoming National Travel and Tourism Week from May 2–8, we also focus on our recovery and the return of the energy and enthusiasm that comes with welcoming guests to our city.

It is no surprise that COVID-19 has greatly impacted the travel industry from coast-to-coast. Data from Destination Analysts suggests that 2021 will have two very distinct seasons—January through June and July through December. Their research shows that 26% of American travelers have already planned trips for the month of July, and many are planning to travel more than in 2019.

Over the past couple of months, the Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau has seen a significant uptick in groups inquiring about coming to Lincoln and meeting throughout the summer and fall months, beating all projections mentioned by national tourism professionals. Specifically, the group tour/motorcoach industry illustrates that fully-vaccinated, retired individuals are ready to travel. As vaccinations increase and consumer confidence continues to grow across all demographics, we are anticipating the July through December 2021 time period to be full of events and opportunities for visitors to fully embrace their travels to Lincoln and explore what we have to offer.

According to the latest figures from Visit Nebraska, direct travel spending in Nebraska generated 40,400 jobs and earned $770 million in 2019.

The national average growth rate for tourism was 4.2% in 2019— Nebraska outpaced that number at 4.6% for 2019 and at 5.4% in 2018. Travel and tourism is a sector that continues to grow in all corners of our state and one that will boom again in a post-pandemic landscape.

The impact of travel and tourism on our local and state economies continues to increase, thanks to the quality of our events, attractions and of course, “The Good Life” that we offer here in Nebraska.

Our local tax receipts benefit from travel, which means our local businesses are also positively impacted.

A recovery also includes an increase in safe business travel, meetings, and events, and we applaud our local attractions and venues that have worked hard to ensure their facilities and experiences are safe for visitors, adhering to local guidelines.

While analysts predict it may take until 2024 for a full nationwide recovery, Lincoln is poised to see an earlier return to 2019 numbers and remain ahead of its peers across the country.

With events such as the Husker Spring Football Game and Lincoln Marathon helping us begin May on a high note, we are looking forward to additional large events on the horizon such as the National High School Finals Rodeo, concerts and normal Nebraska football and volleyball home schedules in the fall.

We invite you to join us in celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week and to continue that spirit through the rest of 2021 as we focus on helping our city recover and remain not only an exceptional place to visit, but also the best place to call home.

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

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13.4% of women ages 18 and older are in fair or poor health. National Women’s Health Week begins each Mother’s Day, with the 21st annual event this year running May 9-15. The week is focused on encouraging women to consider all of the factors that affect their physical, emotional, and mental health, understand the importance of each and every one, and remind them to make their health a priority in their lives. Some of the crucial pieces of women’s healthcare include staying active, eating healthy, paying attention to mental health, getting enough sleep, managing stress, avoiding unhealthy behaviors, getting regular mammograms, physicals, and vision and dental care. The list goes on, and it is a long list of things to fit into women’s already-busy schedules.

But the consequences of NOT fitting them in can be pernicious to their long-term comfort and very life expectancy.

Women have unique health needs, for sure, and Women’s Clinic of Lincoln is a great place to meet them. With a focus on the overall goal of improving healthcare for women, Women’s Clinic of Lincoln has been serving the community of Lincoln since 1973. They are a leader in quality, personalized healthcare to generation after generation.

Their large, diverse staff allows them to offer comprehensive women’s healthcare all at one location.

“Routine gynecological exams are a key part of a woman’s total healthcare, and at Women’s Clinic, we also offer gynecological in-office procedures, GYN surgery including robotic-assisted, as well as infertility care, clinical research, comprehensive breast-care procedures, mammography, digital 3D ultrasound, bone density testing (DEXA), and in-office laboratory services,” said Dr. James Maly.

These services help to manage the full spectrum of gynecological conditions, including Dr. James Maly everything from uterine fibroids to abnormal Women’s Clinic of Lincoln bleeding, endometriosis, painful intercourse, chronic pelvic pain, incontinence, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and more.

They also provide the full range of services for maturing women in the years after they stop having periods, and they work to make your life better during those last 30 years or so. They guide you through safe treatments with estrogen, as women’s hormones are critical to how their bodies function. Proper hormone balance can help preserve your bone strength and help you avoid osteoporosis, help avoid urinary leakage, and so much more. Women’s Clinic of Lincoln can help you through all of your unique women’s health need.

Your Sight is Foresight Sometimes vision doesn’t make the top of women’s lists of things that protect their overall health—but it should. Caring for your sight amounts to foresight in protecting your overall health. Your eyes are, in a sense, the lens to potential health issues, and caring for them amounts to caring for yourself.

“You and I know the beautiful graces of compassion and dedication women offer to others,” said Dr. Carla Ericksen of Beyond Vision #PrintProudDigitalSmart

LNK. “As a woman, you also need to know how important optimal health care is for you to maintain your highly active commitment to your family and the community around yourself. Vision problems for women can be gradual and often are quietly tolerated, but your eyes make up 90% of your day and can cause headaches, light sensitivity, anxiety, and disrupted sleep if you do not take care of them.”

Dr. Ericksen says women are more likely than men to have thyroid eye disease, eye infections Dr. Carla Ericksen Beyond Vision LNK due to makeup use, blur due to hormone shifts (ex. pregnancy, menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome), vision-related problems from concussion, dry eye, and even vision loss. Dr. Ericksen provides active care by giving women knowledge of their eye health and assessing their risk BEFORE they develop chronic inflammation, discomfort, or sight-threatening problems.

For example, it might be easy to consider dry eye as just an annoyance, but it is actually a disorder that can cause extreme damage if left unchecked. Women are twice as likely to have dry eye than men. Dry Eye is a chronic disorder and can cause ocular surface damage, corneal nerve damage, decreased vision, and extreme pain. Beyond Vision LNK’s “Works Plan” allows Dr. Ericksen to work with you individually to test your tears, evaluate meibomian gland function and structure, and create an individual plan for you.

“My advice for your eyes and whole-body health as a woman is to take care of you!” Dr. Ericksen said. “Regular outdoor exercise 30 minutes a day, 64 ounces of water a day, and shutting down digital devices two hours before bed so you can get restful sleep is greatly needed for overall cell health in your eyes and all other parts of your body. Beyond Vision LNK is here to help you see well into the future!”

Run for Your Life!

If you’re looking to improve your overall health, consider taking up running. According to Women’s Running, research has shown that it can provide you with a longer life, better sleep, improved cognitive function, weight loss, reduced risk of many cancers, reduced depressed, lowered risk of diabetes, pre-diabetes, and blood pressure, improved immunity, mood, and self-esteem, and more. In Lincoln, we are blessed to have access to the expertise and products that make running work for you, thanks to Lincoln Running Co. They know what they’re talking about when it comes to running, and they walk the walk—or run the run, if you will! They’ll help you get geared up and pumped up to help you enjoy running and all of the positive health effects it delivers. Start with what you wear.

“Being comfortable is part of this equation— comfortable with your apparel and your footwear,” said Lincoln Running Co. Owner Ann Ringlein. “When you walk and run, you land with anywhere from two to four times your body weight, and you take about 1,500 steps a minute. That is a lot of pounding— even for tiny people. At Lincoln Running Company, we pride ourselves on getting you in footwear that you will love to wear and Ann Ringlein apparel that will perform how you need it to Lincoln Running Co. in all weather.”

Absorbing it All In! A crucial part of women’s health—or anyone’s, for that matter, is their mental state of mind. A healthy state of mind can lead to improved focus, better sleep, more energy, and improved brain clarity—in addition to comfort and physical health. If you want to come about that kind of health naturally, CBD American Shaman has what you need! In fact, they have CBD products that may help with relief, wellness, beauty, and more. What’s more, CBD American Shaman products are far superior to those of any other competitor because their proprietary, patent-pending nanotechnology, which means #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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that 90% to 100% of the CBD actually is absorbed by your body to do its thing!

“We have achieved nanotechnology to perfection,” said Lincoln CBD American Shaman Owner Lance Schroeder. “For the body’s absorption rate, perfection is between 50 and 60 nanometers, and we are there. The thing a lot of people don’t understand is you can’t compare our products to others on the shelves for maybe less money, and that’s not because our products are more expensive for what they accomplish—in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Our Lance Schroeder CBD American Shaman proprietary nanotechnology features faster absorption, lasts longer in your body.”

When it comes to meeting your health goals with CBD products, it’s clear that CBD American Shaman is the way to go. Among some of their leading products now are CBGo, CBNight, and CBD Nanotechnology Gummies.

“CBGo has been shown to give you a lot of clarity, focus, and energy,” Lance said. “Take it in the morning and it will give you a big boost for those long days, without all the negative effects of caffeine. It’s watersoluble with nanotechnology so your body absorbs it, and it has CBD and CBG in it. The CBG gummies have apple-cider vinegar in them. CBNight is a fabulous natural sleep aid. As long as you don’t take CBD or drink alcohol for four hours before you take it, it will help you regenerate your sleep pattern. Take it about 30 minutes before bed, close your eyes, and drift away—and when you wake up, you’ll be refreshed and have zero sleep hangover!”

Medication Care When we deal with injury or illness throughout our lives, we inevitably deal with the need for medications, which can become a huge hassle, and finding a pharmacy you can count on can be a challenge. That’s why we recommend Nebraska LTC Pharmacy, which recently expanded

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into a new location, just off 40th and Normal Blvd. LTC Pharmacy was founded by Fairbury native Shannon Schultz-Hammerschmidt in 2011, when she recognized a need in the community for a pharmacy that did more than just count pills and slap on labels. With that in mind, the goal of Nebraska LTC Pharmacy is to continue to offer the “small-town” level of service while providing the highest level of care for their patients.

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

Healing Hands It might surprise you, but chiropractic care can help people of all ages with a variety of health concerns. Healing Hands Chiropractic’s Dr. Kimberly Hoffa is renowned for freeing people from their pain. She operates this family-oriented practice and takes pride in delivering outstanding chiropractic care in a warm and friendly environment. Dr. Kim is known and respected by patients, chiropractors, and other doctors throughout the Lincoln area, so if you are looking to reduce pain or improve your quality of life, you need look no further.

Dr. Kim uses chiropractic care to improve health and wellness in all areas of patients’ lives, whether they are having problems with back or neck pain, or just want to start feeling better when they wake up in the morning. She takes a ‘whole-person’ approach to care, which means looking for the underlying causes of disease, discomfort, and pain, as opposed to just treating symptoms.

Women have unique health needs, and it is important to stay in tune with your body’s needs and changes throughout your life. In addition to the importance of regular exercise and a healthy diet, we recommend contacting the specialists featured here to help you pave the way to a long and healthy life.

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While some companies are still working from home, many are welcoming their employees back into the office space. To do so smoothly and effectively, there are some new trends to consider this year. Obviously, there are social-distancing trends associated with COVID-19, but there are other driving forces, such as younger generations entering the workforce and the rising use of technology. Trend forecasters project that "resimercial" design, videoconferencing, and workstation neighborhoods will play a key role in the office efficiency of 2021.

Office Efficiency.

According to an article published by All Work (allwork.space) titled 5 Office Design Trends for 2021, resimercial design mixes residential and commercial features to make employees feel at home in the workspace: "The trend emerged when Millennials and Gen Z—the people who grew up with technology and are familiar with the notion of working any time, any place—started to form the majority of the workforce. In 2021, expect to see decorative touches associated with the home environment and comfortable furnishings, particularly in breakout spaces." A positive of taking office design in this direction is how it promotes wellness and mental health. When employees feel comfortable and safer at work, they are going to be more loyal to the company and produce better results.

In addition, technology in the workplace is a reality that cannot be overlooked or pushed to the side. Businesses have to be technologically equipped. This is especially true as remote work becomes more common. According to research by PwC, over half of executives expect to offer remote working in the near future and the majority of employees want to work from home at least parttime. This means that videoconferencing and associated equipment will play a critical role in maintaining connection and facilitating collaboration among teams.

Another major trend in 2021 and beyond for office efficiency is giving a new spin to the typical open-plan workstations. Office architects have introduced functional, movable furniture that can be reconfigured with ease when privacy is needed for videoconferencing.

Desks can also be grouped together in "workspace neighborhoods" when teams need to collaborate. A local office furniture supplier that has already introduced these types of furniture pieces and layout designs to Lincoln is AOI Corporation.

"One of the best efficiencies is the ability to be adaptable and flexible," said Penny Johnston, general manager at AOI Corporation. "The easier it is to quickly change the use of a space with little effort and interruption, the better. As businesses are returning employees to the office, they are allowing many to have the option to work from home in some capacity—a distributed work model. With that, they need to start looking at their space in terms of how it fosters desired outcomes Penny Johnston for collaboration, productivity, culture, and AOI Corporation the work experience. What can be done to attract employees back to the office where the best collaboration happens? What furniture and technology are needed to allow for this collaboration? The answers to these questions may change as employees return. Having furniture that is adaptable and flexible is key. As a Herman Miller Certified Dealer, we have access to a wealth of resources to help clients determine the best use for their space.

As your furniture provider, we are in it with you long-term. We help ensure that your workplace evolves over time and stays effective, so you won’t have to face a major capital event every 7–10 years."

If you're wanting to improve the efficiency of your office to make your team feel more comfortable and improve overall production, reach out to the experts at AOI! They've helped many clients stay focused on their business by building and furnishing an environment where their employees and clients will thrive. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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E R E SE V R E H T W EA

From Richardson to Sioux counties and Dixon to Dundy, Nebraska weather serves up a little bit of everything, and it can change in an instant. Even as I write this, we are working through a day when we woke up to three inches of snow and finished the afternoon sweating in the sunshine, no snow in sight. If you live in Nebraska, it is important that you are always prepared for severe weather, too, as we are subject to intense storms during a significant part of the year. Severe storms strike quickly, and thunderstorms produce heavy rain, strong winds, lightning, hail, flooding, and tornados. If you talk to a meteorologist in Nebraska, they will likely tell you to follow the Boy Scouts creed: Be Prepared.

While tornados can occur at any time of the year, they are most prevalent in Nebraska during spring and early summer. Most tornados in the state occur in the afternoon or early evening, as these dry lines head east.

All thunderstorms can produce violently rotating columns of air that can reach the ground, but tornados usually develop within supercells.

Although there is virtually nothing we can do to effect a change in severe weather patterns in Nebraska, what we can do is educate ourselves about our options in preparation for and response to such events. That way, when a storm hits, you know who to call straightaway!

Know Your Insurance!

One of the biggest problems for residents is being certain about what

their insurance covers and what it does not. Matt Moorhead of Shelter Insurance offers various products to protect you and your family from the ravages of Nebraska’s severe weather, including homeowners, auto, motorcycle, inland marine, business owners, crop, farm, and flood insurance. Matt can walk you through the coverages available and help you determine what is most important for you, your property, and your possessions, to be sure that you are covered when severe weather strikes.

Matt Moorhead “Homeowner coverage is meant to be Shelter Insurance comprehensive, but there are always exclusions to certain perils and special limits on certain kinds of property, Matt said. “Most policies can fill these holes for additional cost. The better your agent knows you and your situation, the better he or she can put together the best products and coverages that are unique to you and your family.”

With insurance policies personalized and in placed, you are better prepared to respond to a severe weather event. Start by contacting your insurance agent to report the damage. Once you have turned in the claim, you as a consumer will have a little work to do, including contacting

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companies to complete the repairs on your home or other possessions.

This is when things can get a little overwhelming for some people.

“Every serve weather event brings in dozens of fly-by-night companies offering up their service to complete your repairs,” Matt warned. “These companies have a tendency of promising the moon but follow-through is suspect at best. I always suggest using an established local company for the best results. At Shelter, we give the customers up to 24 months to complete repairs, so there should be ample time to get a good local professional to complete your work within that timeframe.”

If you are not properly insured when severe weather causes damage, you may not be able to keep your home in good repair, and repair needs can multiply as quickly as the weather can change. Replacing lost items and repairing damage to your home without proper insurance can be extremely expensive. Your problems are compounded when your insurance is canceled due to leaving your home in disrepair, and it becomes extremely difficult to get a new policy in place. Then the next storm hits… You get the picture.

“Shelter Insurance has a local claims office here in Lincoln,” Matt said.

“Even when we call in back-up help for catastrophes, we use all Sheltertrained and employed claims adjustors. We do not subcontract out work to independent adjustors. We have local agents that have the knowledge to take you through the process.”

Emergency Services When storms hit in Nebraska, they very often involve water damage, which can be devastating to homes and businesses. It’s crucial that you have a reputable company to help you repair and recover from the damage. 1-800-WATER-DAMAGE (formerly Delta Restoration) is a great place to start.

“Our industry is weather-driven,” said Owner Jeff Carstens. “What we provide are emergency services for when you have any water damage, storm, wind, hail, sewage backup, and the like. When strong weather events hit, we go into action quickly, and the calls just keep coming. When we get a lot of rain quickly, we see lots of flooding into basements. We still have broken dishwasher lines, toilet overflows, and sewage backups, but we deal with rain immediately and get people dried back out. If there’s an Jeff Carstens emergency, we’ve got you covered!”

1-800-WATER-DAMAGE If you get water in your home or business, Jeff advises, shut the main water off as quickly as possible. If it is from a storm, go out and reinforce that water is flowing away from your house, that your sump pump is working, and try to contain the damage as much as you can. But if it’s coming down behind the walls or through the floors, get ahold of 1-800-WATER-DAMAGE as quickly as possible to limit the amount of damage that occurs.

“Moisture can enter your home in large amounts that affect everything,” Jeff said. “Damage can spread, and contents, walls, ceilings, trim, and flooring can be ruined if not acted on immediately. Solid wood, carpet, and stone usually are salvageable, but the rest generally will have to be torn out and redone if action is delayed. If you don’t take precautions— or if you notice water and don’t do anything—your price tag can change from a couple thousand dollars to $30,000 in claims quickly.”

Repairing Your Home Severe wind and weather in Nebraska are also famous for demolishing or damaging roofs, pulling siding off the side of homes and businesses, and more. That’s where HomeShield Roofing & Exteriors comes in. They are available to inspect damage on your roof after a storm and provide you with a free, full exterior, professional storm-damage assessment for your insurance agent prior to you filing a claim—to ensure that it is the best route to take.

“But we take that one step further,” said Kristina Hill, who owns HomeShield Roofing & Exteriors with her husband “We understand that storms don’t just impact your roof but your entire home. Our storm-damage assessment includes a full exterior inspection with photo #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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documentation that we provide to you for your records. We also keep these photos in our records so they can be referenced or supplied to the insurance company during the claim filing process. We will meet with your insurance company’s adjuster when they come out to inspect the property, walk through the inspection with them, and make sure every issue of damage has been addressed and captured. And if your home doesn’t qualify for an insurance claim, we can reference those photos at your next inspection down the road Kristina Hill and compare the two.”

HomeShield Roofing & Exteriors HomeShield Roofing & Exteriors also takes the weight of the claims process off of your shoulders. They walk customers through the entire insurance process— from the claims side—from filing to completion. HomeShield has experience working with virtually every insurance company and uses the same estimating software that the insurance companies use to help create clearer communication for everyone involved. The kind folks at HomeShield will work with you and your insurance company to ensure that your home is brought back to pre-storm condition!

When it comes to the Boy Scout creed, HomeShield offers some advice to help promote the best possible outcome from severe weather damage to your property and buildings.

“We suggest having your home or property looked at every 24 months to ensure that everything is functioning as it should be,” Kristina said.

“You want to be sure your home is able to withstand the Nebraska storm season, prior to the storm season starting. We also suggest looking into installing the Class 4, impact-rated shingles (often referred to as “IR” shingles) on your home or property. IR shingles are designed to help minimize roof damage during a severe weather event and can potentially extend the life of your roof.”

Your roof is the home’s first line of defense against the elements, and that’s why any form of damage should never go ignored. Ignoring the damage can create more costly issues down the road ranging from leaks, interior damage & mold issues. As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to maintain your roof and to make any repairs or file a claim as soon as you see the damage. Failing to address the issues as they occur could lead to your next claim being denied.

Handle with Care When you hire someone to work on your home or business after a storm, you want to know that they will treat you and your property fairly and with the respect you deserve in already-stressful situations.

Attic Energy Efficiency will do just that.

“I treat every client’s home like it is my own,” said Owner Rex Schroder. “I provide a free Attic Ventilation Analysis on every roof, and I upgrade roof ventilation at no additional cost to the homeowner. I am an attic insulation and ventilation expert who achieves above and beyond the code results after a storm—and any time, for that matter.”

By not keeping your roof, attic, and gutters maintained properly year-round, Rex said, you run the risk of getting leaks, which can translate to major expenses you could Rex Schroder otherwise forego. In a similar vein, if you hire Attic Energy Efficiency one of many out-of-state “storm chasers” who show up right after damaging storms, you run the risk of both getting ripped off and getting sub-par or no repair work completed.

“I adhere to a high standard of integrity and honesty and will never sell anything to a customer that I does not absolutely believe they need,” Rex said. “We guarantee to fix your home correctly and do it right the first time, no matter how small or big the job!”

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severe weather in the Lincoln area is a highly respected local company, Neemann & Sons. They have been replacing and repairing damaged roofs, windows, gutters, and siding for 40 years. Locally known as being honest, hardworking, and reliable, this team of dedicated professionals ensures that each customer gets a personalized solution to their roofing needs. As a family-owned and -operated business, Neemann & Sons takes enormous pride in their work and guarantees their customers’ satisfaction every time. They recognize your home is personal and deserves a personal touch—and when it comes to repairing your home after a storm, it’s important to know exactly who you’re going to hire to do the work.

“Hire local, reputable contractors to do your repairs,” said Travis Neemann. “Ask your neighbors, friends, and family who they would recommend so you are prepared. Ask good questions: Is the contractor established in your city? Do they have good credit with a local shingle distribution company? This kind of thoroughness is essential because if they don’t pay for your materials, a lien can be placed on your property.”

Travis Neemann Hiring a reputable contractor is important Neemann & Sons enough that it’s worth waiting for, too.

Unless you have hail damage large enough to put holes in your roof or sections of your roof pulled from the house, Neemann recommends getting on the waiting list for a good contractor after a storm.

“Remember,” Travis said, “if you think it is expensive to hire a good contractor, try hiring a bad one!”

Keeping You Safe When you consider the health and safety of your family in the wake of a storm, experiencing only damage to the exterior of your home or business becomes kind of a bestcase scenario. A common problem people experience after a storm is scattered debris and obstructions on their property, such as trees that have fallen during the storm. Blue Ox Tree Service can remove dead trees or other obstructions caused by a storm.

“When people find their property torn up after a storm, they usually aren’t prepared to clean it all up themselves,” said Owner Ed Lankas. “We have the equipment, manpower, and experience to take care of this for you. When you work with Blue Ox, Ed Lankas Blue Ox Tree Service you are in good hands.”

If you’ve lived in Lincoln for long, you know that severe weather isn’t an ‘if’ but a ‘when’. We recommend that you decide in advance of the next storm who you’ll turn to when you need help with repairs at your home or business after the storm.

We recommend talking to the companies featured here.

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Your home is far more than a compilation of bricks and mortar. It’s the place where you build your family and memories, a place that delivers a sense of peace and celebration, a gathering place for family and friends, a place for thoughtful solitude, and a place that gives you a sense of accomplishment. G.K. Chesterton put it well: “The truth is that the home is the only place of liberty, the only spot on earth where a man can alter arrangements suddenly, make an experiment on indulging in a whim. The home is not the one tame place in a world of adventure; it is the one wild place in a world of rules and set tasks.”

When you get the opportunity to build your dream home, you have a monumental task in front of you. The good news, though, is that you don’t have to go it alone. Lincoln is home to experts in the entire process, starting with finding the right spot to build to putting together an accurate budget of costs and financing to mapping out just the right size, layout, materials, and technologies, to designing and furnishing the insides, and then settling into your dream in real time. A good place to start is with project planning and financing, so you know just what you can afford to invest for construction, long-term maintenance, and your mortgage.

Keep in mind, too, that materials costs have increased dramatically since COVID began, so you’ll have to plan for a little sticker shock on that front.

Protecting Your Investment Simply put, the housing market in Lincoln right now is on fire, with 2020 recording the most single-family construction permits filed in more than a decade. When you’re ready to get started on your homebuilding project, West Gate Bank is a premier option in Lincoln for home-construction financing, including construction loans and mortgages. They’ll walk you through the entire process and make it as painless as possible for you. You don’t have to be an expert in construction planning and finance, either, because they have all the expertise you’ll need and will share it with you in terms that you can understand.

“When you choose West Gate Bank for home construction financing, our team of experienced lenders will help you through every step in the construction project, helping to protect you and your investment,” said Senior Vice President, Manager of Residential Construction Lending Taylor Ashburn. “We pride ourselves on meticulous and thorough management of your project from start to finish. By having a dedicated Construction Loan Department, your project is in good hands as we monitor Taylor Ashburn the monthly construction draws, conduct West Gate Bank on-site inspections, track lien waivers, and reconcile your project budget against the actual spend. If something doesn’t look right, we will let you know.”

Once your build is complete, West Gate has a team of mortgage lenders ready to assist you with the permanent financing of your new home. They are proud to service mortgage loans locally, which means they won’t sell #PrintProudDigitalSmart

off the servicing of your home loan to another bank. They also have an option for customers to lock in their mortgage interest rate up to nine months in advance of the completion of a new home. Taylor recommends getting pre-approved for your home construction as early in the process as possible, so they can tailor it to your specific situation—and include every possible cost in your budget, including anything that is attached to the house, as well as exterior items such as a fence, landscaping, or pool.

“Get pre-approved as soon as you can, so you know what you can afford,” he said. “Sometimes your financial situation might be as unique as the home you are planning to build. This is where working with a local bank is crucial. We are not a “one-size-fits-all” bank and can tailor your loan to your specific needs or financial situation, both for your construction loan and your mortgage.”

Comprehensive Construction Loans First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) is another fabulous option for financing construction of your dream home. They offer construction loans for up to 90% of the cost to build, plus the lot, and to cover the builder’s contract—including everything from appliances to sod to sprinklers, but not including new furniture. Generally, construction loans come with 12-month terms, with interest-only payments, and FNBO will make sure you can feel secure about the interest rate on your loan.

“We offer Extended Rate Lock options for permanent financing so that the borrower can build with the peace of mind that they are safe should rates increase while they are in the middle of construction,” said FNBO Senior Mor tgage Sales Manager Noelle Jacquot. “I would suggest looking into financing options prior to contacting a builder. In doing this, we can make sure that the borrower is aware of their budget and deal with any potential Noelle Jacquot issues up-front.”

First National FNBO has seen an increase in inquiries for Bank of Omaha construction financing in recent months. With such a low number of existing homes on the market, it makes sense that people are looking into building. During the beginning of the COVID-19 restrictions, they saw a steep increase in home improvement and remodel projects. Lately, however, that has shifted toward both new purchases and building. This means that builders are busy, so you should try to get on their schedule as soon as possible if you plan on building a home in the next year.

“If you are looking into building a new home, I wouldn’t wait too long,” Noelle said. “I know a lot of the quality builders in our area have been extremely busy. But also be aware that the cost of materials has increased substantially in the last year and those costs don’t show signs of declining.”

Don’t Forget the Reserves With the Lincoln housing market booming big-time in 2021, there are very few existing homes on the market, so it is a good time to consider remodeling your existing home or building your own from the ground up. Union Bank & Trust has all of the expertise and financing products available to walk you through the planning and funding stages.

“We offer lot loans, construction loans, and a full line of home-improvement loans, including Home Equity Lines of Credit,” said Union Bank & Trust Vice President – Residential Construction Jason Firestone. “It is always recommended to contact the bank first before starting the process of building to ensure that you have proper financing in place and to know what you would qualify for on both the construction loan and the mortgage loan. It is always important to keep in mind that, inevitably, you will run into unexpected costs and overage while Jason Firestone Union Bank & Trust building, so it is very important to have cash #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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reserves, if possible, to make sure the project can be completed and still be able to quality for mortgage financing in the end.”

Union Bank & Trust can provide financing that includes any costs associated with the land and building the home. Typically, the bank will only finance up to 80% of the total cost or appraised value, whichever is less—and they won’t let you get in over your head.

“At Union Bank, we pride ourselves on being honest with our customers so they understand what they can and cannot afford, so they are not setting themselves up for potential issues in the long term,” Jason said.

A Unique Hybrid When you get your construction and mortgage financing in place, it’s time to design and build! Oftentimes, that means hiring a variety of contractors who have to work together, and it can get difficult to manage at times. That’s one reason that we recommend Jonathan Curtis Design. They do it all!

“We are the general contractor, the builder, and the designer,” said Owner Jonathan Curtis. “We’re a pretty unique company doing what we do. Over the years, I’ve become well-rounded—from fine cabinetry to building a deck, addition, roofing, the whole thing, and I’ve been able to acquire incredibly talented artisans to join the team. We’re not an ordinary contractor. We have the ability to talk to a client with real-world experience, knowing Jonathan Curtis how to build for them, having an eye for Jonathan Curtis detail, keeping up with design trends, and Design coming up with some of my own. It makes for a unique hybrid.”

Design services by Jonathan Curtis Design include the exterior of the home, as well as the interior, but not necessarily furnishings.

They have expertise in color and texture pairing, material selection, scaling to size and fit, and maximizing use of space. In short, they provide cohesive thinking to create the character of the home you want.

“We can build any size house you want, but what we are trying to do is fill the void between the trendy tiny houses and average, larger-build homes,” Jonathan said. “We build small homes that are very well-constructed with well-thought-out use of space, and ones that don’t look like most homes that are being built today.

Keeping quality and unique design high on our list of priorities helps ensure that your dream home will look different than the cookie-cutter homes that are out there. We’re looking more at the $300,000 range and less, though we have the ability to build multimillion-dollar homes, too. The end result is that we can build you a home that you will be proud to live in!”

Bringing Your Vision to Life Over the last 20 years, Tru-Built Construction has also grown to be a premier commercial and residential contractor for new construction and remodel projects with dedication to highquality work and making people’s visions come to life. During the design process, these can be useful for communicating your vision. As one of the co-founders of TruBuilt Construction, Bo Jones says that many Bo Jones people do not anticipate the time needed to develop, design, and plan a project Tru-Built Construction because they assume that the actual construction is the longest step.

“I always advise to start planning early,” Bo said. “Most people are surprised that the planning stage can actually take longer than the construction itself. During this phase, you’ll have to consider your site, your budget, the home’s design, and legal permits.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Not an Interior Designer? No Worries.

Even though the cost of your interior decorating may not be part of your construction loan, it’s crucial that you consider the cost of finishing off the inside of your dream home as you plan your budget.

Kay.Stock can help you get there. Owned and operated by Kayla Stock, Kay.Stock provides a range of services for both residential and commercial interior design.

“Space planning is one of the first services I can provide as a designer, helping my clients understand the function, flow, and dimensions Kayla Stock of their dream home,” Kayla said. “This can Kay.Stock also include 3D modeling, allowing the client to see their space come to life. From there, I help my clients create their dream palette, with assistance on material selection, cabinetry design, electrical and plumbing fixtures, and finishing touches. During this process, I can act as a project manager and source contractors to get the job done right. I also help my clients find the perfect furniture and décor to either compliment their existing pieces or completely create their space from scratch.”

Design trends come and go and then often come back. Kay.Stock will help you ensure that you create palettes that might include trendy concepts but won’t be dated in a year or two. That said, trends can be a great way to ramp up areas in your home, at the same time keeping them interchangeable by including the trends in things like artwork, furniture, and décor.

“One of my favorite trends right now is green kitchens,” Kayla said.

“If you haven’t explored this yet, hop on Pinterest and take a look.

Something about the soft, muted green cabinetry is so effortless to me and makes me feel so calm and relaxed.”

Whether it’s green kitchens or something else altogether, Kayla recommends that clients peruse the internet and other design sources and keep all of the great ideas that are running around in their heads.

This will help you narrow down your style, colors, finishes, and so much more. It will also provide you with a palette to give your designer or builder to help them find the perfect solutions that also fit your budget.

Focal Points that Wow! As you consider materials for the inside of your dream home and your outdoor living spaces, you’d be remiss not to check out the masterpieces that Zeng Granite, Inc. can create. For the inside, they provide highquality, beautiful quartz and granite countertops, large-slab wall features for floor-to-ceiling fireplaces, focal walls, and showers. For your exterior, Zeng create patio kitchens and barbecue countertops beside a grill or firepit that will wow the neighbors and your friends and family.

They are the ultimate professionals in creating their masterpieces, too.

“It takes a skilled stone fabricator to make the finishing touches of a home hide all the unsquared corners and uneven surfaces,” said Jennifer Haralson, integrator for Zeng Granite. “A true stone fabricator is necessary for quality granite and quartz installations.”

Some of the latest trends in stone surfaces in residential construction are amazingly thin and beautiful ultra-compact surfaces and porcelain tiles. The “tiles” for these products are sometimes as large as 10-feetby-6-feet slabs, but only 4 millimeters thick.

Jennifer Haralson Zeng Granite, Inc. They require a specialized fabrication and installation process, for which Zeng Granite is certified to complete. These huge tiles remove the undesirable and disjointed look that grout gives a fireplace or shower. Because of the complexity of installation, however, Jennifer recommends doing your homework before hiring someone for any job involving your dreamhome construction. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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“Get many references for your homebuilder and contractors,” she said. “A nice website and one interview is not enough to see if they will give you what they promise. Zeng Granite works with selected builders in Lincoln and Omaha who hold the same values as we do: Family. Education.

Safety. Longevity through Quality.”

A Class Act In searching for furniture for your dream home, your interior designer and/or you cannot miss the beautiful, classy choices you’ll find at Barnwood & Leather in Lincoln. Their furniture lines give them the ability to help you select and design unique pieces that will fit well in many different home styles—rustic design, transitional, eclectic, or modern farmhouse—customized to bring your dreams to life! Customer service and customization are important to them, too. They special-order many of their pieces so that customers have the right size and configurations, as well as fabrics, leathers, woods, and colors, to fit their space and their aesthetic desires for their home.

“Barnwood & Leather specializes in adding the finishing touches to your new home by providing custom-designed leather and fabric home furniture options, along with a wide variety of dining room, bar, bedroom, office, and accent pieces for your entire home,” said Co-owner Brenda Clark. “We love helping you create cozy spaces in your home, and our customers love the warm, inviting feel they create in their homes when they add furniture made Brenda Clark from repurposed, natural materials. Our Barnwood & Leather line of barnwood furniture is made from 100% reclaimed wood, hand-crafted one at a time, all made in the U.S.A. We also feature a growing selection of unique pieces built by Nebraska-based furniture craftsmen made from local, available resources.”

The Color of Dreams When you invest your heart, soul, and finances into building your dream home, one of the things that is crucial to tend to in the construction process is building your home’s curb appeal, as well as the appeal of your indoor paint. The unique build of your dream home and all of perfect interiors you pick out to match for your vision won’t mean a thing if you don’t choose a complimentary paint color—and a painting company upon which you can rely to do your space up right! We highly recommend Walter’s Painting for the Jeff Walters job. Walter’s offers first-rate exterior- and Walter’s Painting interior-painting services, in addition to power washing, refinishing of decks and other outdoor areas, staining, painting cabinets, and basically any coating application you can think of. Walter’s has been proudly offering painting and special-coatings services in the area for nearly 30 years. They offer efficient, reliable service with minimal disruption to your commercial activity—and their record for on-time and on-budget results is sterling.

“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 well-trained and experienced painters, we understand what homeowners expect from a painting company, and we are at the ready to deliver.”

No Such Thing as Too Much Storage When you plan the inside of your dream home, the cabinetry you choose can make or break the whole character you’re going for.

But Usher Custom Cabinets can help you design the perfect fit for your dream-home personality and the character you want it to exude. Usher Custom Cabinets has been around for more than 40 years and, from the start, build a reputation for excellence in

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cabinetry and craftsmanship, which is something the original owner, Dean Usher, instilled into the company for the long term.

“We specialize in residential custom cabinetry, and we tailor every job for the individual client,” said Owner Neal Chloupek. “We design, build, and install all of the cabinets we produce, and because we are a small shop, we are able to focus on the customer’s needs. I present them with 3D rendering and virtual walk-thrus so that we can really hone in on what they need.

Because we customize the cabinetry for any room you choose, we are able to build for your home’s specific design and use the wall Neal Chloupek space with the greatest efficiency. We are a Usher Custom no-pressure, old-school shop that takes pride Cabinets in all the jobs we do, no matter the size.”

Neal warns that people building new homes often underestimate the total costs for everything included in building a home, inside and out. But there are so many options for cabinetry in your home that you can peruse to choose a look or combination of looks that suit your taste to a tee.

“I always encourage all buyers to spend the time looking at the things they want and finding pictures of dream homes so that we can modify them to fit their budget,” Neal said. “Storage always seems to be the biggest issue when it comes to overlooked features. You can never have enough storage.”

Take Advantage of Technology When you are designing your new home, it’s important that you not wait until the end to think about technologies that you want. Including things like Wi-fi, security, and entertainment technologies in your plan from the beginning can make it far more effective and efficient than trying to squeeze it in after your home is built. For quality coverage, contact Simply Smart Homes.

“We provide Wi-fi to enable, security to protect, utilities to save, and entertainment to enjoy,” said Simply Smart Homes Owner Addison Collingsworth. “One of the biggest things people imagine for their dream home is how their entertainment is going to work. We can make sure that every inch has Wi-fi for your TVs, computers, and game consoles at fast speeds, so you’ll never have to worry about it. We can provide whole-room audio for your kitchen, family room, and theater sound systems, Addison plus accent lighting around your pool or bar Collingsworth to highlight them—and without breaking the Simply Smart Homes utilities bank. Just don’t forget to plan for it until it’s too late in the construction process. We can help you do the wiring and prep work before drywall goes up, so everything is out of sight and out of mind but always reliable.”

Simply Smart Homes provides wiring not only for your entertainment appliances but also for a security system that will keep all your new furniture, floors, appliances, and the like protected for your family. What’s even better is that you’ll be able to control all of it easily from apps on your phone and include things like locks that lock themselves or garage doors that will close themselves when you forget. In short, you will have the system to control your entire home in the palm of your hand.

“We consider ourselves the digital do-it-all contractor,” Addison said.

“We make sure everything sings the same song and tune and that homeowners don’t have to worry about what to buy. We make sure it all fits in its own very tightly-knit ecosystem.”

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Add safety, security, and privacy to your residential or commercial property!

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process is the electrical work—as it is literally in every corner and room in the house. Oak Electric Master Electrician Matt Collins has a couple of recommendations to help you contemplate your electricity design.

“First, I would like to encourage someone who is building their dream home is to close their eyes and ‘live’ in the home,” Matt said. “Think about how you would go about your daily life. What kind of lighting do you want? Do you want dimmers, can lights, mood lights?

Consider using LED lighting for both inside and Matt Collins outside your home. Where do you want your Oak Electric switches and outlets to be? Also, now is the time to contemplate where you might want or need data ports. As an electrician, we are frequently being asked to make changes after the fact. Thinking ahead will help save you money and time in the long run.”

Second, Matt strongly encourages including a security system in your new home. A home security camera system is an excellent tool for home protection; it can work both as a deterrent as well as a recovery tool.

“This is your dream home,” Matt said. “It’s an investment, so not only do you want to protect your property but, more importantly, you want to protect your loved ones inside.”

Tint Your Way to Comfort Like wired technologies, it’s important to consider your windows early in your planning and design process. Of course, you know that energyefficient windows can save energy and money, but did you know that tinting your home windows can add another layer of savings and comfort for your family? It’s true, and Pro-Tint is where you want to go to have it done in Lincoln. With more than 45 years of industry experience, you can count on them to install window tinting solutions with expertise and confidence, all toward protecting your investment and increasing your comfort, privacy, and safety.

“It might surprise you how many options are available for window tinting,” said Pro-Tint Owner Kristie Strahm. “They include sun control window films, which prevent fading and glare, block heat and harmful UV rays, add years to the life of your furniture, and extend the life of your cooling system. ProTint also offers Safety and Security Film tints to protect your home against flying glass shards, at the same time protecting you against break-ins and blasts.”

Yet another option is Dual Reflective (DR) Kristie Strahm Window Film, which is ideal for both commercial Pro-Tint and residential window applications, where reducing hotspots, increasing occupant comfort, and conserving energy are equally important. DR Interior Window Films deliver excellent solar performance and are the ticket for maintaining a great view to the outside. They provide more than 99% UV block to limit fading and sun damage; an excellent level of heat rejection to reduce energy required for cooling; and outstanding glare control for enhanced comfort for your family and guests.

Creating an Outdoor Oasis As we’ve heard, landscaping can be included in your construction loan, so it’s another thing you need on your planning list for budgeting—even though landscapers are among the last in on the building project. Luxury Landscape is a fabulous company to help you design and build your dream landscape and outdoor living areas.

“Outdoor living rooms are all the rage right now,” said Co-Owner Jackie Svoboda. “Homeowners love spending their time outdoors and enjoy a welcoming space to relax or entertain. This can include a well-constructed patio large enough for comfortable outdoor furniture, a fire feature for cool summer nights, a pergola overhead to provide shading during hot summer days, and a special place for a grill. Most customers love the idea of a water feature but feel they #PrintProudDigitalSmart

don’t have the space for it. This is where we really shine!”

Luxury Landscapes custom designs and constructs water features for smaller spaces, whether that be a bubbling boulder just off the patio or a water wall that is custom-designed to sit on the patio.

Other trends they see gaining popularity are outdoor landscape lighting and inclusion of a privacy screening.

“Our clients will share that they love their Jackie Svoboda neighbors but would enjoy a little privacy for their deck or patio,” Jackie said. “We totally Luxury Landscape get it! We have been having a lot of fun designing and constructing privacy panels, in all different designs, that don’t offend the neighbors.

In fact, these panels are so beautiful that they look like a special design feature or a focal point in an outdoor oasis.”

Luxury Landscape is known for being highly unique and creative in their designs and the options they offer their customers. They listen to your every want and need and learn how you plan to use the outdoor space.

What’s more, their customer service and crew are exceptional, from the first contact until well after they’ve completed a project. That’s why they have a high rate of repeat business and what makes them a perfect fit for helping you show off your dream home.

When it comes to planting trees at your new home, Eagle Nursery is another great option. They provide advantages including instant curb appeal, plus shad. When choosing which kind of tree to plant, an Eagle Nursery expert will help you choose a tree that will not only survive but thrive in Nebraska’s turbulent weather. Experts at Eagle Nursery have extensive knowledge about native Nebraska species of plants and trees that will help you build a flourishing ecosystem in your landscape.

In order to keep a landscape healthy, irrigation systems are used to keep yards watered throughout the spring and summer. In addition to

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offering services to install, inspect, and program sprinkler systems for your dream home Hunt Irrigation has seen innovations which can save homeowners from wasting hundreds of dollars on water each year. Now that is a dream come true!

In the last few years, sprinkler manufacturers have introduced pressure regulated rotors (oscillating) heads, for which the optimum pressure for a rotor is 45psi. Pressure regulating rotors offer the same savings as their counterpart—the fixed spray. By having Hunt install the regulated rotors, you can expect to see a return on your investment in just two years of operation.

One Final Look Even a new house can have issues, so it’s always a good idea to have an independent set of expert eyes inspect the house prior to you moving in. Things sometimes get overlooked, and pre-move-in is the time to find them. King’s Home Inspection can lend you their eyes for the job.

“New houses can have termites,” said Founder Randy King. “This is usually the farthest thing from everyone’s mind, which is exactly why it is a good idea to do a termite inspection, so that if the pests are present, they can be dealt with immediately, so there is no chance of damage.”

Another issue often overlooked is radon. radon is an odorless, colorless gas that causes lung cancer. While most houses are built with Radon Resistant New Construction, or RRNC techniques, that is no guarantee that your Randy King radon levels are low. Most new construction King’s Home houses are not measured upon completion to Inspection determine the actual radon levels, so it is wise to have a radon test done, to ensure your levels are low and safe. One of the reasons that checking radon levels is important is that while builders in this area are required to include certain features and techniques that pertain to radon, many are unsure of exactly how these radon-reducing measures should be implemented, and most do not actually test for radon prior to occupancy. It is important to have an independent inspection and radon measurement taken. Radon is prevalent in Southeast Nebraska, quite often in very high levels.

“I am a Certified Master Inspector—the highest designation of skills and proficiency in my field,” Randy explained. “I have over 20 years of experience in home inspection, radon measurement, and termite inspection. I have a background in electrical engineering from the University of Nebraska Lincoln, and thousands of hours of training and continuing education in my areas of expertise.”

Please Fence Me In! Fencing is a crucial part of your dream landscape and if it isn’t done as professionally as your landscape and home are, it can bring down your entire aesthetics. That’s where Empire Netting and Fence comes in. They provide safety and security to your home or business, and they create your fencing with materials that match your style and budget. Empire Netting and Fence also specializes in netting and construction of sports fields and sports complexes.

“From timeless classics to trendy new Rachel Kroese styles, we have what you’re looking for,” Empire Netting said Marketing Manager Rachel Kroese. and Fence “Your fence is an investment in your home, and we love to be involved with projects that will help better the lives of the people in our community.”

Building your dream home is a huge undertaking, and as you can see, there are a multitude of pieces to the puzzle. Fortunately, if you contact the experts featured here, you can make your build a lot less stressful—and your dream home the realization of your vision! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

At McGill Restoration (mcgillrestoration.com), they live by their culture!

Dedication, honesty, hard work, knowledge, and loyalty are what makes their teams succeed. McGill Restoration has been named one of Inc. 5000 fastest growing companies for four consecutive years. They plan to grow exponentially in the coming years, and they could not do it without their excellent employee base. Aside from their culture, they also value development and training. McGill Restoration offers in-house training to their employees continuously and pride themselves on promoting from within whenever possible. They are constantly on the lookout for driven individuals who align with their values and yearn to advance themselves along with the company. Benefits that they offer include 401K with match, health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as company-paid life insurance and disability plans. Check out open positions at mcgillrestoration.com/careers.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank, a leader in the local financial industry, is looking for motivated people to join our team! We are known for mortgage lending, community development, personal banking, and community outreach. Our customers and employees are treated as family and are delivered our promise of, “Personal Banking Like You Remember.”

Our current job openings include Accounting Clerk I, Commercial/Consumer Loan Processor, Credit Analyst, and Customer Service Representative positions. If you’ve been yearning for an upbeat and friendly atmosphere paired with great benefits like paid vacations, federal holidays, 401K matching, healthcare benefits, and a wellness plan, apply today! We would love to work with you.

Our workforce is rooted in Nebraska, with 13 locations across the state—five here in Lincoln. We are proud of our strong culture of hard work, customer service, and philanthropy. We pride ourselves in seeing the potential in one another and offering great opportunities to build a career. For open positions, visit lincolnfed.com/careers.

Serving Southeast Nebraska since 1995, the mission of Husker Rehabilitation is to provide costeffective holistic rehabilitation and occupational health services which exceed our customer’s expectations and maximize functional outcomes in an attractive and caring environment. This same mission is applied when it comes to the Husker Rehab team. We have great leadership and, as a result, great people who take pride in their work and service to others. We employ talented physical and occupational therapists at our five locations. There is longevity in both the professional staff and office support. Our environment is fun, energetic, and caring. Growth is essential and supported with continuing education and paid benefits.

Husker Rehab employs many students as part-time technician support. Many of our students use this experience as part of their internship hours leading to graduation and on to gaining acceptance into graduate programs.

Husker Rehabilitation provides wonderful benefits for the full-time employees, including health and dental insurance, 401K plans, and long- and short-term disability. Our team is also active with United Way, Teammates, LIBA, NLBA, Rotary, and many youth programs. To learn more about career opportunities with Husker Rehab, visit huskerrehab.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

When the first Agemark Senior Living community opened in the 1980s, the owners made one promise: to create a place where everyone felt like family. That’s still the promise today, for residents and employees. From chef-prepared meals at no cost each workday, great flexibility, and health, dental, and vision insurance to PTO (even for part-time employees), Agemark has amazing benefits for their staff! Whether you’re new to the field and wondering, “What is a CNA?” or a veteran in the field who loves what you do but asks yourself, “Are there better assisted living jobs near me?” reach out to Agemark where they’ve got some facts, figures, and encouragement for you. The future in senior care careers is going up, up, up!

From 2018 to 2021, Agemark Senior Living has been named one of the Great Places to Work in Aging Services by FORTUNE Magazine and the Great Place to Work Institute. Agemark has three CountryHouse communities in Lincoln, two in Omaha, and one in Council Bluffs. Another Agemark community is the The Meriwether in La Vista. To learn more about careers at Agemark, go to www.agemark.com/careers.

Hunt Irrigation, Inc. The Water Smart Company is looking to add a few new team members.

Experience is not required, we are happy to teach you the skills you will need to become an expert underground irrigation installer/ repair tech. If you have a great attitude, a willingness to learn, and the ability to follow directions, you can take an entry-level position and turn it into a profitable career at Hunt Irrigation. Other requirements include: 18+ years old, work 40+ hours/week outside, valid driver’s license, and good communication with both clients and team members.

Hunt Irrigation maintains and installs both commercial and residential underground irrigation systems. Our focus is water conservation. We install systems that use 30% less water and we improve existing irrigation systems to water more efficiently. We also install drainage systems and outdoor lighting.

If you have been looking for a career that will not only teach you a new skill but will also allow you to work with a great group of co-workers/ family, then you have come to the right place. Email your resume to applicants@huntirrigation.com or drop by the office at 2025 SW 5th St., STE A, to fill out an application. More information about the company can be found online at www.huntirrigation.com/application.

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Yo u r m o n e y h a s above-and-beyond people—Union Bank & Trust (UBT) is not only recognized locally for this catchy (and tr uthful) campaign that resonates with its customers and employees, but is also nationally recognized for both its customer service and great culture. With a family-first culture, community focus, and genuine interest in the well-being of its employees, UBT is comprised of authentic, talented people who really care. From salaries and benefits to time off and wellness initiatives, our work environment keeps our employees engaged, challenged, and rewarded. Are you ready to join the UBT family and see for yourself that you belong here? Visit the Careers page at www.ubt.com/careers or email careers@ubt.com. Equal Opportunity Employer. Member FDIC. Throughout a difficult year, Wireless World has continued to fight the trend, and they know they’re better together. They have confidently adapted in ways they never thought possible, bringing in curbside and touchless opportunities to keep their customers and employees safe— while also keeping them connected with their loved ones. Wireless World truly loves interacting with and fi nding solutions for their customers. For consumers and businesses, they’ve become highly sought after and are grateful for the positive (and negative) feedback. "We are a family, and we learn, grow, and develop together!"

Wireless World (wirelessworld.com) offers protection for you and your family with their employee medical, vision, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance options. They provide Paid Time Off and a 401K to prepare you for the unknown future.

Friendly competitions keep their team striving to be No. 1 while improving customer lives. Text “I’M IN” to (605) 627-8511 to start your application today!

Zeng Granite, Inc. is Lincoln's best-kept secret in stone fabrication. Our company is growing, which gives our team members incredible oppor tunities for advancement and skill acquisition. We have positioned ourselves as the friendliest partner of builders and remodelers in the Lincoln and Omaha areas. Zeng Granite provides granite and quartz countertops to builders, remodelers, and home owners. We believe having a slice of a mountain as the centerpiece of your home gives each family a unique and beautiful gathering space.

If you are friendly, willing to learn, and have a desire to work hands-on with mountains (slabs of granite) everyday, we have a spot for you! Zeng Granite lives and works by their values. We want team members who live these values also: Family, Safety, Education, Longevity through Quality, and Trust.

We are currently seeking individuals to work in our shop and learn the stone fabrication trade. We are also in search of individuals with experience in templating, CAD, and installation of countertops.

We offer competitive pay, paid holidays, paid time off, daytime working hours, weekends off, and other benefits to give harmony to your work and home life. We encourage everyone to fill out our application online at zenggranite.com/careers.

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Alivation offers extensive, cuttingedge services including behavioral health, neurology, primary care, an onsite pharmacy, research institute, and aesthetics. They strive to be the best they can be to their internal team and the patients who allow Alivation to take part in their care.

At Alivation, they like to try new things—be pioneers. They like to meet new people and make a difference. Success, for Alivation, is the opportunity to treat even more people than they could’ve before, and reaching populations previously thought unreachable.

Every team member works passionately to elevate and advance patient care by providing focused, individualized attention, and new possibilities. They always love the chance to help and to improve.

They love having a great team, and they live their values every day.

Alivation always welcome new people to join the team and help them improve even more. Next Level You starts with you. To learn more, visit alivation.com/careers.

UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance provider headquartered in Lincoln that takes pride in the vibrant culture we cultivate. From professionalism and trust to team players and positivity, our crew is fueled by these values.

We offer a wide range of services, which results in many types of positions available to make UNICO successful. Whether you have a passion for exceptional client service, a drive for fulfilling clients’ needs through strategy and sales, or you are keen on getting the administrative details just perfect, we have spots on the team where your interests and skills will be valued.

At UNICO, we talk a lot about the importance of continuous improvement. It’s our priority to stay on the leading edge by investing in our team members’ professional development through learning opportunities to boost knowledge and ignite career paths within our industry. Check out our opportunities by visiting unicogroup.com/careers!

Firehouse Subs, 200 N 66th St., is committed to providing hearty and flavorful food, heartfelt service, and supporting first responders through Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. This award-winning restaurant is celebrating the fifth anniversary of its Lincoln location in September under the ownership of Tom Mejstrik and his daughter Ashley, who plan to open a second location in Lincoln later this year. Firehouse Subs is looking for positive, energetic, and dedicated individuals to join the team and will be hiring for crew members, shift lead, and hourly managers for both locations.

Firehouse Subs Lincoln offers crew members: • Flexible schedules • Competitive pay • Reasonable hours • Paid time off • Half-priced meals while working Interested applicants can find Firehouse Subs on Indeed, call the restaurant at (402) 904-4742, or text “SUBS” to (402) 961-5333 for more information. While you’re at it, check out the menu and online ordering options at www.firehousesubs.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

When we talk about who we are as a company, we talk about our team. From the top-down, our team has a genuine passion for people. What you get with ALLO is a group of people who have been disrupting the old way of business for more than 15 years. Our teams are empowered to always do more for each other and our customers. Our upload speeds will blow your mind, but our people are the ones truly making the difference each day.

Team members receive ALLO fiber Internet, TV, and phone service for free. Work-life balance is important, at ALLO you earn about 176 hours of paid vacation each year. Plus, we offer 401K match, tuition assistance, student loan repayment assistance, wellness incentives, and the potential to earn free health premiums. Apply online today at www.allofiber.com/careers.

Star City Heating & Cooling has been tearing down blue-collar stereotypes through groundbreaking customer experiences since 1983. We are growing steadily and in search for individuals who have a genuine desire to develop into professional technicians.

Being a technician with Star City Heating & Cooling is about growing yourself professionally while impacting those around you.

What you may not understand about being a part of our all-star team, is how much we inspire ongoing training and education.

How it feels to have customers rave about you and demand that you’re the only technician that works in their home. How much you can earn when you truly are the best. How much you feel appreciated when you don’t cut corners. People often come to us looking for a job. They stay with us because they find a fulfilling career, room to grow, and opportunities to excel. Learn more about our multiple opportunities for entry-level and experienced technicians at starcityair.com.

H: 131 S: 63 B: 38

H: 299 S: 1 B: 29

R: 35 G: 97 B: 48

R: 74 G: 73 B: 74

C: 85 M: 36 Y: 100 K: 32

C: 66 M: 59 Y: 58 K: 40

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Do you enjoy being outside and active, having fun, and creating something with your hands that you can look back at and be proud of? Join the Luxury Landscape crew! Owners Ken and Jackie Svoboda have fostered a family-like atmosphere. They work hard and play hard. Luxury Landscape offers competitive pay; healthcare benefits; retirement plans; company attire such as shirts, sweatshirts, caps, and gloves; and Free Food Friday!

That’s right—Ken and Jackie let the crew decide on a place to eat lunch the last Friday of every month and they sit down as a group to eat! In addition, they enjoy treating the team and their families to fun outings such as baseball bowling INKgames, FREE FONT nights, holiday parties, zoo trips, and more.

Luxury Landscape makes each employee feel valued with spotlights on their website and consistent social media shout-outs.

Furthermore, Ken and Jackie want to make sure each employee feels comfortable giving input. They sit down with crew members individually and listen to their creative ideas and what they, as business owners, can do better and make their work environment more enjoyable. Luxury Landscape is currently looking to bring on about four more crew members, so call (402) 430-9430 (Ken) / (402) 640-6034 (Jackie) to learn more and visit www. luxurylandscape-llc.com to see they type of services they provide. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Ayars & Ayars, Inc has been building lasting relationships in the commercial construction industry since December 1985, and over the years their focus hasn’t changed. They continue to work with their customers to develop long-term rewarding relationships.

They not only take pride in what they do, but also who they work with.

Their employees are the core of their business. Ayars & Ayars, Inc. not only provides design and construction services, they perform much of the work themselves with well trained, highly skilled craftsmen. They utilize their team of craftsmen in the concrete, masonry, metals, and carpentry crews to deliver their clients with high quality, on-time, on-budget projects.

Ayars & Ayars offers a competitive pay and benefits package including paid holidays and vacation for full-time employees. Ayars & Ayars, Inc. is an equal opportunity and drug-free workplace. To learn more, visit ayarsayars.com and or call (402) 435-8600.

NAI FMA Realty is a recognized leader in the Lincoln commercial real estate market and is the area representative for NAI Global.

Since 1961, NAI FMA has played a significant role in shaping Lincoln’s real estate landscape by providing clients with a singlesource solution for every step of owning or occupying commercial real estate. Their experience and knowledge in sales and leasing, property management, maintenance, and accounting consistently generates success for their clients.

One benefit to employees working for a company like NAI FMA, is they gain exposure to different sides of the industry. Paired with other benefits like paid vacations and holidays, 401K, healthcare benefits, and tuition reimbursement, which sets them apart from other companies.

The firm is known for its dedicated active leaders and volunteers for 75+ professional and civic organizations in the community. NAI FMA is looking Font and Color Chart Luxury for Landscape great people to join our team as sales agents and maintenance techs. Learn more, visit www.naifmarealty.com or call (402) 441-5800.

A t K i n n ey M a n u f a c t u r i n g — divisions include IntoMetal, PreciseFab, and OmniRack—we create opportunities for talented individuals to make a difference.

We are always looking for talented individuals to join our team. We are currently looking for machine operators, welders, production staff, and more—but even if you don’t see a position for you, please apply anyway. Be assured that we will review every application, to be able to reach out as future opportunities become available. We offer competitive wages in addition to a benefits package including group health insurance, life insurance, company matching 401K, PTO, and flex time.

Kinney Manufacturing, owned by Debby and Randy Kinney, is a contract manufacturer that has locations in Lincoln and Beatrice, NE. We are ready and willing to invest and grow to support our customers. We have expanded our facility, invested in new equipment and processes, added internal resources, partnered with outside companies, all at the request of customers so we can continue to supply them materials or assemblies. To view our current job openings, go to intometal.talentplushire.com.

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At Pillar Restaurant Group, we know that our success begins with our people, and we build our teams with highly talented individuals who are passionate about great service. From the front of the house to the back of the house and everywhere in between, our employees are community focused, energetic and positive, passionate about hospitality, and dedicated to providing outstanding food, drink, and service to each of our loyal guests.

Our award-winning concepts are designed to fit every appetite: Venue Restaurant & Lounge, Piedmont Bistro, Cactus by Venue, Venue Catering & Events, and Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs.

We are excited to be selecting talented people for several positions at each of our Lincoln locations, and we look forward to welcoming our next team members at www.prgnebraska.com/apply.

A strong and thriving Lincoln business for more than 25 years, TELCOR i s a n i n n o va t i ve company providing healthcare software and service to more than 2,700 hospitals and laboratories across the United States and Canada. TELCOR offers a billing software and a billing service for laboratories as well as a point of care middleware for hospitals. As a healthcare vendor, TELCOR has been able to address several of the challenges its customers faced during the pandemic leading to significant growth over the last year. With more than 250 people working in the office and remote, TELCOR is proud of its strong culture. TELCOR is looking for dedicated, innovative people to join its team as it continues to grow. With a culture of integrity and acceptance, employees are part of something special that has a positive impact on people’s lives. For information on joining TELCOR, visit telcor.com or call (402) 489-1207.

Besides offering the best fence and netting design and installation services in town, Empire Netting and Fence is an amazing place to work. Matt Warner, owner of Empire, is committed to making the work experience an environment where each person can use their God-given talents and strengths to contribute to the team. Developing culture begins with building a strong company purpose, in which each member of team is valued and not limited to how far they move up within the company.

Empire Netting and Fence is always looking for individuals that are highly motivated. They require a positive attitude, and the ability to work well in a team environment. Offering competitive compensations plans including 401K, health, dental, and life insurance Empire has an entrepreneurial environment where hard work and ambition are rewarded with promotion and opportunities. Currently, Empire has opportunities in project management and entry-level field positions. Our installation team is the “Front Line” of our Mission to provide quality fence and netting installations and build relationships which last a lifetime.

Empire Netting and Fence has grown nationwide as a go-to company for sports netting and field construction. Whether it is baseball, softball, soccer, or golf; indoor or outdoor; little league or major league; Empire is the company for you!

Empire services the Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding areas in residential and commercial fence installations. Also servicing nationwide for commercial fencing, and netting. For questions about career opportunities, call (402) 682-7658 or email us at info@empire-fence.com.

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Legacy Retirement Communities is committed to improve the way we age and how we perceive aging.

Celebrating 25 years as a locally owned, family owned and operated company in Lincoln, the values of family, compassion, integrity, community, and quality remain at the center of everything we do.

As an employee, each day offers purpose and fulfillment as you walk life alongside those who call our communities home. You can discover where your purpose in life leads through a variety of career opportunities including nursing, culinary, fitness, enrichment, administrative, and more.

We believe our teams thrive by recognizing and learning from each other’s individual talents. We’re at our best when we can identify our personal values and goals, allowing for our careers and lifestyle to complement each other. If you share our commitment to honor aging and enrich the life of each person in our community, let’s connect.

Learn more at careers.legacyretirement.com or call (402) 417–7292.

With more than 1,000 employees in instructional, administrative, professional, and service positions, Southeast Community College (SCC) offers many employment opportunities in Southeast Nebraska. SCC has three Campuses in Beatrice, Lincoln, and Milford, in addition to the six Learning Centers in Falls City, Hebron, Nebraska City, Plattsmouth, Wahoo, and York.

“We actively recruit for the best, and our work environment, mission, and compensation attract a great quality of candidate,” said Bruce Tangeman, VP of human resources at SCC. “Although a large-scale organization, the variety of our campuses and geographic diversity allows for individuals to experience a more personal, albeit a smaller company environment.”

Southeast Community College is committed to maintaining a workplace culture focused on emotional intelligence, resiliency, and respect. College employees are part of a team valuing input and transparent communication in order to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all individuals. For employment opportunities at SCC, visit southeast.peopleadmin.com.

ServiceMaster Professional Building Maintenance employs professional cleaners, floor technicians, and sanitizing teams who are trained, certified, screened, and tested to ensure topquality service for their customers. They know that right now, times are hard for many. Fortunately, ServiceMaster has been at the front lines working diligently to ensure their customers and their employees are able to work safely in a professionally cleaned and sanitized environment.

As ServiceMaster is growing and expanding their services, they are always looking to add to their team! They have both fulltime and part-time positions available. The company can provide opportunities to those individuals looking to meet financial goals or making some extra money for upcoming holidays.

ServiceMaster offers great perks and benefits such as onsite training, multiple employee training and certification courses, employee bonuses, hiring bonuses, employee incentive, recognition, and referral programs. All ServiceMaster employees are eligible for bonuses, PTO, and paid holidays! Please call (402) 476-2194 or visit www.smpbm.com for more information on current employment opportunities available or for a free quote on janitorial or sanitizing service for your office! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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1401 W. Bond Circle, Lincoln NE

Lincoln, NE 68521

1-80 Exit 399 near the airport

402-474-0848 • www.a1cng.com

Strictly Business MAYOpen 2021

Monday-Saturday 8:30am-5:30pm

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