Strictly Business Magazine April 2019

LINCOLN • APRIL 2019 TM

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

CONSTANTINE SYNIY PRESIDENT

SERVING LINCOLN

FOR OVER 10 YEARS! • GRADUATION PARTIES • SPRING LANDSCAPING • STARTING A BUSINESS • UNPLANNED LIFE CHANGES • SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • GP CUSTOMS • MOONLIGHT CUSTOM SCREENPRINT & EMBROIDERY • BURTON & TYRRELL’S FLOWERS

Jenny Leidy

Jerry Pape

Matt Swanson

Jonathan Curtis

Jake Peterson

Brett Harris

North Risk Partners

Jonathan Curtis Design

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Z.A.A. Inc. LINCOLN, NE PERMIT 1328

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Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers

Engineered Controls Inc.

West Gate Bank

Greenleaf Properties

APRIL 2019 Strictly Business

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Z.A.A. Inc./Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397 Lincoln, NE 68505

Help provide shoes for people who need them by participating in One Day Without Shoes.

Drop Off Dates – April 1st through April 12th, 2019 Bring your new or used shoe donations to any Cornhusker Bank location or any business participating in the shoe drive April 1st through April 12th.

One Day Without Shoes Walk for Awareness – April 9th, 2019 Please join us for a walk from the Cornhusker Bank Center at 84th & O to People’s City Mission Help Center at 68th & P at 11 a.m. We’ll even provide a free lunch for you!

Visit CornhuskerBank.com/Day-Without-Shoes.aspx for a list of all partner collection sites and to learn more about this important event.

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Strictly Business APRIL 2019

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#PrintProudDigitalSmart APRIL 2019withStrictly Business Speedtest Intelligence® data average download speeds in Nebraska and Lincoln for Q4 2018. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted permission.

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

The Foundation Of Your Success Is Built On Your Unique Selling Proposition - What is Yours?

Something that Strictly Business has always focused on, especially when discussing our marketing/sales strategy, is our Unique Selling Proposition (USP). We believe that there is very little that’s more critical than defining your company’s unique selling position in the marketplace and setting yourself apart from your competition with a USP. That is why I am taking this month to ask our readers who are a part of a business or organization, what is your USP? This is the first part of a four-part USP series we have planned.

If the USP concept is new to you, then we’ll start by breaking it down.

To help us do this, we referenced Micheal Senoff’s USP Magic System Tools transcript.

According to Senoff, “in order to create a powerful USP, you have to know what one looks like first. You might even need to change the way you think about marketing because Unique Selling Propositions have nothing to do with advertising. They’re not branding or finding a slogan either. They involve uncovering the hidden assets a business has in order to highlight what makes them different from their competition.”

William Bodri, author of How to Write A Million Dollar USP, agrees that one must create a USP for their business, products, and services.

Creating a USP is fundamental to a solid marketing plan. It should be part of your overall company’s business plan and strategy. I know how sometimes strategic plans can get put to the wayside as we are always pulled into the trenches of the work we do, but your USP is the words you use to connect with your client most directly. It is your five-second elevator pitch on what makes you different and why someone would want to do business with you.

In order to create yours, ask yourself the basic questions, like: What products or services am I selling? Who is my target audience? What does my business do well?

According to Bodri, “simply put, a USP is a: (1) unique claim or promise of benefits about your product or service,

CONTENTS NEWS 4 Business 27 Personnel

36 Non-Profit 47 Health

SPOTLIGHTS 20 Star City Six

50 Client Spotlight: GP Customs 52 Client Spotlight: Moonlight Custom Screenprint & Embroidery

80 Client Spotlight: Burton & Tyrrell’s Flowers

FEATURE STORIES 55 Graduation Parties 59 64 70 79 4

Spring Landscaping Starting A Business Unplanned Life Changes Summer Activities for Kids Strictly Business APRIL 2019

(2) that’s distinctly different “We believe that there is from your competitors, and very little that’s more critical (3) is so strong and attractive than defining your company’s that it motivates them to do unique selling position in business with you rather than the marketplace and setting all the other alternatives yourself apart from your available. competition with a USP.” Basically, your USP is a distinct, compelling difference that separates you from all your competitors and answers the question, ‘Why should I do business with you rather than your competitors...or rather than doing nothing at all?’

Rosser Reeves, who originally formulated the concept of the USP when the philosophical basis behind advertising wasn’t as clearly defined as it is today, said that an advertising USP has three distinct parts: 1. Each advertisement must make a proposition to the consumer. Not just words, not just product puffery, not just show-window advertising. Each advertisement must say to each reader: “Buy this product, and you will get this specific benefit.”

2. The proposition must be one that the competitor either cannot, or does not offer. It must be unique—either a uniqueness of the brand or a claim not otherwise made in that particular field of advertising.

3. The proposition must be so strong that it can move the mass millions, i.e. pull over new customers to your product.”

So, after reading this, what is your business/organization’s USP? If you need help developing yours, you can access over 297 hours of FREE downloadable mp3 audio interviews on sales, marketing and business success experts online at www.hardtofindseminars.com. Michael Senoff has spent over a decade of his life creating fascinating streaming audio interviews with big-name marketers and getting them to spill the beans on how they got rich and famous and he’s offering his life’s work at www.hardtofindseminars.com.

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

ASK THE EXPERT 26 ComPro COLUMNS 46 Parkinson’s Awareness Month 49 51 53 54

Friends4Lunch Downtown Lincoln Association Lincoln Independent Business Association Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505 P 402.466.3330 • F 402.466.3476 STRICTLY BUSINESS is not responsible for unsolicited material. All rights to submission, including letters, will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to our unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially or creatively, unless otherwise negotiated with the author. Nothing may be printed in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. The publication of any advertisement in STRICTLY BUSINESS is not an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

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SERVING LINCOLN

ABOUT THE COVER LINCOLN • APRIL 2019 TM

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

CONSTANTINE SYNIY PRESIDENT

FOR OVER 10 YEARS! My name is Constantine Syniy.

SERVING LINCOLN

FOR OVER 10 YEARS! • GRADUATION PARTIES • SPRING LANDSCAPING • STARTING A BUSINESS • UNPLANNED LIFE CHANGES • SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • GP CUSTOMS • MOONLIGHT CUSTOM SCREENPRINT & EMBROIDERY • BURTON & TYRRELL’S FLOWERS

Jenny Leidy

North Risk Partners

Jerry Pape

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers

Matt Swanson West Gate Bank

Eighteen years ago, my family and I moved to Lincoln. I knew right away that Nebraska was going to be a great place to live and work.

About 16 years ago, I fell in love with the HVAC industry. I know that sounds crazy to some people. I get asked all the time, “What is so exiting about your furnaces and A/C units?” I know it doesn’t sound fancy, but the HVAC industry fascinates me for two reasons: the technical side and the business side. I remember years ago, I went to Branson, MO to watch a magic show. As I enjoyed the show, I thought it would be nice to see what was going on behind the scenes. This is why the technical side of my business has always fascinated me. I love maintaining the comfort of a home from “behind the scenes.” It is a lot of fun for me.

Jonathan Curtis

Jonathan Curtis Design

Jake Peterson

Engineered Controls Inc.

Brett Harris

Greenleaf Properties

Z.A.A. Inc./Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397 Lincoln, NE 68505

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The business side is rewarding as well. I have been in business for more than a decade. It is very easy to be successful. I mean it. All you need to do is follow a couple basic steps: be nice, show up on time, do what you say you are going to do, and if you mess up, admit it and fix it as soon as possible. Most people are very forgiving. They typically want to help you succeed. This is why American author Zig Zigler said, “You will get all you want in life, if you help enough other people get what they want.” In my case, I give people comfort in their homes, and this principle has worked for me.

My excitement about business has lead me to start my own podcast.

It’s called Zeal2Success. I really want to give back to my community and help other people to start their own business. It’s hard to have your own business, but it’s doable. On my podcast, which launches in May, I am interviewing other businessmen and women, asking them how to be successful. This has become an exciting hobby of mine. Again, it’s like watching a magic show from back stage. I’ve learned that the most successful people have a big desire to help others be successful. I am so happy and privileged to be, not only a service provider, but also a source for inspiration, advice, and encouragement.

Employment is a big part of my business. Sometimes, it feels like a high school and I am a principal. I strongly believe that the millennial generation is our bright future. I observe a lot of young people who want to change the world. It is a good thing. I try to help them to understand that it is not a good idea to enter the professional world and try to change others. Instead, they need to start by adapting and learning from those who have been there longer. My advice to any employee is to watch whom you hang out with, and watch how you spend your time and energy. As you strive to grow as a person and a professional, remember that discomfort is your friend; it is how you grow.

CA LL TODAY FOR MORE INFOR MAT I ON! (4 0 2) 405-2959 | ALLPROLINCOLN .C OM

PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor Hannah E. Hundley - Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Holly Ryan - Design@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern - Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Executive Assistant Sarah Young - Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern - SZutavern@Yahoo.com

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APRIL 2019 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS SCC Switches to Semester Calendar, Opens Fall Class Registration

MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante Celebrates 5-Year Anniversary

Taking effect this fall, Southeast Community College (SCC) will change from a quarter academic calendar to a semester calendar.

The switch will provide many advantages to students, including more time to focus on each class and an easier transition when transferring to a four-year college or university. The conversion will align better with SCC’s partner high schools, where dual-credit courses are offered on a semester calendar.

April 8 is the first day students can register for the first fall semester in a new academic calendar. The fall semester begins August 26.

“With more than 90% of colleges and universities in the United States operating on a semester calendar, SCC will align with its many four-year college and university partners including the University of Nebraska– Lincoln, Peru State College, University of Nebraska–Omaha, Doane University, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Bellevue University, Concordia University, and many others,” said Dr. Paul Illich, SCC president. “SCC is committed to embracing an operational pace that enhances its collaborative and innovative partnerships and promotes SCC’s mission to empower and transform its students and the communities it serves.”

Southeast Community College fulfills its mission by offering more than 50 programs of study on campuses in Beatrice, Lincoln, and Milford.

For more information on SCC’s quarter-to-semester transition, go to www.southeast.edu/Q2S or contact the Lincoln campus office at (402) 471-3333.

Since opening its doors in March of 2014, MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante has been a trademark in the Lincoln community. Known for its Neapolitan-style pizza and signature cocktails, MōMō gives Lincoln-goers a place where they can indulge in the best without the gimmicks. “Not everyone will get MōMō but for those who do, it will be extraordinary!” said Anthony Bonelli, owner.

MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante celebrated its fifth year of business after opening its doors off 77th and Pioneers Blvd. The week-long celebration, held March 18–23, featured specialty items such as the Pasta Flambé, a delectable spaghetti dish set aflame with grappa and rum inside a gigantic Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese wheel—hence the name, Pasta Flambé! MōMō also celebrated its 260th “Pie of the Week,” a crowd favorite that changes weekly to serve only the freshest ingredients and gives inspiration for patrons to try something different.

“We wanted to thank and give our appreciation to all of those who have helped create the MōMō tribe,” said Eric Bevans, general manager. “We are extremely humbled by the guests who make MōMō one of Lincoln’s best places to eat and drink—so thank you!”

MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante’s hours are Monday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. (closed on Sundays). No reservations or to-go food; dinein only. For more information, go online to www.momospizzeria.com.

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Trust UNICO to connect you to a full suite of insurance solutions. unicogroup.com 402.434.7200(o) 6

Strictly Business APRIL 2019

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BUSINESS NEWS Luxury Landscape: Ugliest Landscape Contest This year, Luxury Landscape is presenting their first-ever Ugliest Landscape Contest! One winner will be chosen for a $500 landscape makeover. Owners Ken Svoboda and Jackie Lienemann are looking for the ugliest landscape in Lincoln.

Do you only come out at night because you’re too embarrassed to be seen in your yard? If so, this contest is designed just for you.

The contest will run through May 5 at midnight and a winner will be chosen May 11. To enter the contest, submit a photo of your “ugly” landscape, along with a short summary (500 words max) explaining why you deserve the $500 landscape makeover. Photos and summaries are to be submitted via email to luxurylandscape.ne@gmail.com. Refer to www.luxurylandscape-llc.com to find full contest rules and details for Luxury Landscape’s Ugliest Landscape Contest. Call (402) 430-9430 or (402) 640-6034 to talk to Ken or Jackie.

Firehouse Subs Offers New Firehouse Pairs

Coffee is just the beginning Breakfast/Lunch | Wine Tasting Room | Meeting Space | Live Music | Craft Beer 5025 Lindberg Street, Lincoln, NE | (531) 500-4684 | @RnJLincoln

ART DIRECTOR Are you a freelancer looking for something full-time? Are you an experienced graphic designer looking to take the next step? Do you want a fun, flexible environment?

Strictly Business is just what you’re looking for!

Firehouse Subs, located at 200 N. 66th St. in East Park Call Paige today to learn more! (402) 466-3330 Plaza, is excited to announce Firehouse Pairs! This new combination offering includes a small sub and your choice of Five-Cheese Mac & Cheese, Firehouse Chili, Loaded Potato Soup, or a side salad. This is the perfect opportunity to pair your favorite sandwich with a side that matches your mood.

Firehouse Subs is a brand built on decades of fire and police service, hot subs, steamed and piled high with the highest quality meats and cheeses, and its commitment to saving lives through the establishment of the non-profit Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation®. In 2018, Members of Right Foot Forward Firehouse Subs was namedAtNo. Fireh2ouin se“America’s Subs, we likeFavorite to think iFast t just Casual takes one Fitness took part in the annual mouIgnite. thwateLocal ring sufranchise b to makeowner, any day feelMejstrik, like a party. Trek Up the Tower fundraiser on Chain” rankings by Technomic Tom Well now , youmission can feed evereputation rybody at yoin urLincoln. next party February 16. Participants raced is proud to uphold the Firehouse Subs and with Firehouse Subs catering. Now that's called being to the top of First National a gracious host. Learor n hcall ow ythe our restaurant purchase heat l ps Learn more online at www.firehousesubs.com Tower in downtown Omaha p r o v i d e l i f e s a v i n g e q u i p m e n t t o fi r s t r e s p o n d e r s .

V i s i t (402) 904-4886. in this competitive, yet fun FirehouseSubs.com/Foundation.

WE DELIVER event. A good time was had by all as Right Foot Forward Fitness owner, Jeff Madsen, and L-R: Will Stahn, Katie Aldag, members of his fitness family Pictured Tina Booton, Tracy Madsen, and Jeff challenged themselves to climb Madsen. Not pictured: James Keyes.

AnyWare Security has announced the 40 stories as fast as possible! expansion of its unarmed security guard Afterwards, they hit up a local coffee shop and told tall tales of service to Florida. Since its launch in their exploits.

May 2018, AnyWare Security has been partnering with businesses to ensure safety Trek Up the Tower is the region’s leading vertical stair climb and is put and protection in the Lincoln and Omaha on every year to raise money for WELLCOM’s mission of elevating community and beyond. Owner Spenser worksite wellness programs. This event is ideal for all fitness levels Ware moved to Lincoln from Florida six and attracts everyone from elite athletes who race to the top, to years ago. His familiarity with the Florida participants who are looking to accomplish a personal goal as they market made the expansion an easy one. climb the stairs slow and steady.

Firehouse Subs Catering.

200 N. 66th Street Li n olnFoot , Ne . 685Fitness 05 Members ofcRight Forward Participate Ph:in4Trek 02Up -9the 04Tower -48Fundraiser 86 East Park Plaza

AnyWare Security Expands to Florida Market

Spenser has over five collective years of experience in the security and bodyguard services field. He has managed security teams for Universities, large club events, and concerts, along with apartments and construction sites.

His inspiration for starting AnyWare Security was to meet a need for a reliable, top-notch security service company—one that knows what it’s doing. Spenser is very confident that the business will continue to grow and earn a positive reputation. To learn more, go online to anywaresecurity.business.site or call Spenser at (531) 333-0321. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Right Foot Forward Fitness is the premier provider of boot camps and focused, individualized personal training in Lincoln, NE. Whether you are an athlete, a masters athlete (40+ years of age), seeking to lose weight or looking to gain muscle and size, Right Foot Forward Fitness can help you achieve those goals! Jeff wants to help you achieve the best version of you possible so that you can live the active, engaged life you want to. Learn more online at www. rightfootforwardfitness.com or contact Jeff at (402) 202-4555 / Jeff@rightfootforwardfitness.com.

APRIL 2019 Strictly Business 7

BUSINESS NEWS Hyatt Place Celebrates 5-Year Anniversary Hyatt Place Lincoln/DowntownHaymarket is proud to be celebrating its five-year anniversary. The hotel officially opened its doors on February 27 in 2014 and has been a staple in the downtown Haymarket Entertainment District ever since. To mark this milestone, Hyatt Place hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on February 21. The event was complete with food, beverages, and giveaways for attendees.

As one of the newest hotels in The Railyard, Hyatt Place is a hot spot for travelers and locals alike. The hotel is steps away from dozens of restaurants, theaters, art galleries, shops, and live music venues, ensuring a good time for any guest. Hyatt Place features amenities including free internet access, a 24/7 fitness center, indoor pool, restaurant on site, free breakfast for members, and meeting facilities. Plus, it’s pet friendly! The hotel has 111 sleeping rooms and offers 1,789 square feet of meeting space, complete with catering services, event-planning assistance, and modern AV equipment. It also has three meeting rooms that can be reserved separately or together to host events with anywhere from 12–130 guests.

Over the years, Hyatt Place Lincoln/Downtown-Haymarket has earned a positive reputation for its clean rooms and accommodating staff. Learn more about the hotel by going online to www.hyattplacelincoln.com, or contact Ally Vrbas at (402) 475-5945 / ally.vrbas@hyatt.com if you are interested in hosting your next event at Hyatt Place!

Hands-on PLC training Basic RS LOGIX 500, Allen-Bradley PLCs

Prerequisite: Knowledge of industrial machine controls.

This 3-day session will provide general background theory, applications information and programming practice for mechanics, technicians and engineers who specify or maintain PLC-based systems using RS Logix 500.

April 9-11 T, W, Th 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $659 Keyword: PLCs

Advanced AutomationDirect PLC Programming

Prerequisite: Basic AutomationDirect PLC This 3-day class is an extension of the AutomationDirect DS-5 programming class. It starts with a review of the software package, then gets more involved.

April 23-25 T, W, Th 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $689 Keyword: PLC Both classes held at 285 S. 68th St. Place, Lincoln.

To register, go to http://bit.ly/RegisterCE and enter keyword.

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Strictly Business APRIL 2019

Vanderford Law, PC LLO Moves to New Location, Introduces New Logo and Tagline Vanderford Law, PC LLO is excited to announce some new developments in their businesses journey. In recent months, the firm has moved to a new location and introduced a new logo and tagline! Previously located on south 48th Street, Vanderford Law can now be found in the Williamsburg Village at 6030 Village Dr., STE 101.

As a part of the business rebrand, they’ve updated their logo, tagline and are redoing their website. While the website is currently under construction, Vanderford Law encourages you to watch their Facebook page (@VanderfordandAssociates) for updates and information regarding an open house announcement over the next few months.

The mission of Vanderford Law, PC LLO, led by managing partner Christine Vanderford, is to take a personal approach to your life plan through comprehensive legal services in the areas of estate planning, elder care, family law, and business development. The new tagline reflects this: Your Life. Your Legacy. Your Way. To get in touch with the office of Vanderford Law, PC LLO, give them a call at (402) 421-4646 or email Christine.nannen@vanderfordlaw. com. Once the website is up and running, you’ll be able to learn more about the firm at www.vanderfordlaw.com.

Roper & Sons Funeral Home Announces April Events This month’s Roper & Sons Topic Breakfast, held at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 18, features Beth Friesen, owner of Oasis Senior Advisors. Beth, a certified dementia specialist, will provide timely and important insight into helping our elder family members in making retirement living choices.

Topic Breakfast, held on the third Thursday of each month, is free and open to the public. To reserve your seat, call (402) 476-1225 or email info@roperandsons.com.

Roper & Sons’ Grief Program meets weekly on Sundays. Grief Programs are open to the public, regardless of whether services were facilitated

by Roper & Sons.

1st Sundays: Guided Group with Facilitator Melissa Thorne, open to anyone who is facing grief from the loss of a spouse and would like support of like-minded individuals. Meets from 2 to 3 p.m. at The Mill – Telegraph District (331 S. 21st St.).

3rd Sundays: Guided Group with Facilitator Melissa Thorne, open to anyone grieving the loss of a loved one, but particularly parents, children, or friends. Meets from 2 to 3 p.m. at The Mill—Telegraph District.

3rd Sundays: Substance Use Loss Group with Facilitators Brenda Moes and Melissa Thorne. Designed for those whose loved one died as a result of drug or alcohol use. Meets 3 to 4 p.m. at The Mill—Telegraph District.

2nd and 4th Sundays: Structured Group with Facilitator Tiffany Eisenbraun, designed for those whose loss is more recent than 18 months, who may be addressing some more pressing first-time needs. Meets from 2 to 3 p.m. Meets at the Roper & Sons Chapel Reception Facility (4300 O St.).

5th Sundays: Specialty programs, each month will differ slightly and be held in different locations.

Contact Jodi at jodi@roperandsons.com for details monthly. Please visit www.roperandsons.com to learn more. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS inMOTION Auto Care Receives 2019 Best Website of the Year Award inMOTION Auto Care is excited to announce that they were presented the 2019 Best Website of the Year award at the VISION HiTech Training & Expo held in Kansas City, February 28 through March 3. Websites were judged on the following criteria: content, structure and navigation, visual design, functionality, interactivity, and overall customer experience. Websites of all Mechanical and Collision Repair Shops in attendance were eligible.

CLEAR VISION EYE CARE

Dr. Andrew Bateman •Dr. Kyle Peter • Fallbrook Town Center

Stop by to see our expanded space!

VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo provides the opportunity for industry professionals to expand their knowledge and gain new skills, while networking with leading shop owners, managers, and technicians.

The 2019 conference hosted over 3,500 attendees. inMOTION Auto Care believes in education and transparency during the vehicle repair process. In order for consumers to make educated, informed decisions about repairs and maintenance, they must be provided up to date, factual information. This is why, when designing and updating their website, inMOTION focuses on providing quality information in a way that is convenient to the user.

To find out more about inMOTION Auto Care, visit inmotionautocare. com or call (402) 486-9880. Stay connected with the inMOTION team on Facebook (@inMOTIONAutoCare) as well.

Lied Center for Performing Arts Ranks in Top 100 Worldwide Theatre Venues

Save the date: 05.10.19 for our annual frame & style show!

expanded selection • specials • door prizes • refreshments

Pollstar Magazine’s 2018 Year End Report announced the rankings of the top venues in the world based on annual ticket sales. Among the world’s Top 100 Theatre Venues, the Lied Center for Performing Arts is ranked at #85 based on tickets sold between November 23, 2017 and November 21, 2018.

“This past year was one of the greatest seasons in our history with Misty Copeland performing in American Ballet Theater’s Firebird, Broadway’s Jersey Boys, Kinky Boots, Color Purple, Audra McDonald, Snarky Puppy and the Mariinsky Orchestra,” said Lied Center of Performing Arts Executive Director Bill Stephan. “The Lied Center commissioned works and hosted world premieres by Philip Glass and Danny Elfman. The growth of the Lied Center’s attendance is due to the exceptionally talented artists performing on our stage, and the generous support of the people of Nebraska who make these performances possible.”

The Book of Mormon’s record-breaking attendance of 15,000 in December of 2018 is not included in the 2018 Pollstar ranking.

The strong attendance at Book of Mormon was a great success for our city and demonstrates that the greater Lincoln area is a strong, independent market for Broadway’s top shows.

Lincoln’s Pinnacle Bank Arena was also recognized as #119 among Pollstar’s Top 200 Arena Venues based on tickets sold during the same time period.

The Lied Center for Performing Arts is “Nebraska’s Home for the Arts.” As part of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Lied presents the world’s most iconic artists and offers major regional, national, and international performances designed to educate, inspire, and entertain audiences. For more information, visit LiedCenter.org or call (402) 472-4700 (admin office). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

48th & R | 28th & Cornhusker 14th & P | 58th & Old Cheney APRIL 2019 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS Do More Good Conference Brings Business Leaders to Nebraska

Care Consultants Reveals New Features of 2019 ElderCare Resource Handbook

Global thought leaders from Disney, B Labs, Conscious Capitalism, and others are converging in the middle of America to attend the Do More Good conference. This first of its kind event has made Lincoln, Nebraska its home and will be held on May 16–17 at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Innovation Campus. This conference will signify the first time the major impact-focused organizations—B Labs, 1% for the Planet, and Conscious Capitalism—will be at the same event.

Attendees will not only learn how putting purpose behind profit will create growth in the communities in which companies reside, attract top talent, and lead to new revenue streams previously unavailable, but will also walk away with a roadmap featuring tangible next steps for their organization or business.

“The Do More Good conference will bring corporate leaders to the heartland to learn how putting people before profits is a sustainable business model,” said Firespring CEO and Do More Good conference speaker, Jay Wilkinson.

Conference registration is open to any business or business leader who is interested in joining the conversation on how to leverage a more impactful and meaningful bottom line. Tickets for the conference are available at DoMoreGoodConference.com through Friday, April 26.

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development are proud to support the Do More Good Conference and to help bring such an exciting and impactful event to Lincoln. Learn more online at DoMoreGoodConference.com.

Care Consultants for the Aging is working hard on the new 2019 Lincoln ElderCare Resource Handbook. This handbook has been around for many years, serving as an all-inclusive listing of services, programs, and other resources available for the aging in each area. This year, Care Consultants is excited to release some great new features, including an easy-to-remember web domain (LincolnHandbook. com), hyperlinked company logos featured throughout website, full-color advertisements, ad design assistance, and a pre-order option.

Care Consultants is currently taking ad reservations for the 11th edition of their Lincoln ElderCare Resource Handbook. Full-page, half-page, and 1/3-page ads are available in full-color and B&W. Any company that has been in business for a minimum of 12 months can also be listed in the appropriate category at no charge. The printed version of this new edition will be available later this summer.

ElderCare Resource Handbooks will be distributed to hospitals, physician’s offices, social workers, case managers, discharge planners, attorneys, financial planners, home health agencies, senior living communities, churches, and many more over the next two years. This is the best opportunity around to have your company recognized to thousands throughout Lincoln and surrounding areas.

Learn more about Care Consultants for the Aging online at CareConsultants.com. Information for the Lincoln ElderCare Resource Handbook can be accessed at LincolnHandbook.com. Direct questions to Kyle Johnson at (402) 398-1848 / Info@LincolnHandbook.com.

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Graceful In Home Healthcare, a top finalist for 2018 KFOR Best of Lincoln and 2018 BBB Integrity Award recipient, has earned a reputation for having a skilled and compassionate team of professionals. Types of care that Graceful In Home Healthcare offers include senior care, personal care, companion care, disability care, maternity care, and Alzheimer’s/Dementia care. Services are provided on an hourly basis all the way up to 24-hour care seven days a week. Private pay, long-term insurance, and Medicaid are accepted.

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6th Annual Sip Nebraska Festival Highlights Nebraska Wines, Craft Beer, and Spirits Sip Nebraska returns to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park (SP) May 10–11. The festival highlights Nebraska-produced wines, craft beers, and distilled spirits!

Guests are invited to taste 120+ types of Nebraska wines, craft beers, and distilled spirits from 26 Nebraska-based beverage vendors. The two days include local bands, shopping at 20+ artisan and food vendors, blind tasting competitions, salsa and line dancing lessons, educational sessions, lawn games, fire pits, trolley tours, and more.

New this year, Sip Nebraska is honored to announce A Warmer Day (www.awarmerday.org) will be joining in the festivities! A Warmer Day’s mission is to help spread love and warmth in the Nebraska community by providing coats and winter apparel to underprivileged children and families. The team from A Warmer Day will be accepting gently used winter apparel on-site at the event. To add to the excitement, guests will receive one raffle ticket per item donated for a chance to win one of many fun giveaways they will be holding each day.

Featured musicians, food vendors, artists, and more are posted on the Sip Nebraska Facebook at www.facebook.com/sipnebraska and on the event website at www.sipnebraska.com.

Tickets range from $25 to $70; the tasting and limited edition tickets include commemorative items, along with wine, hard cider, craft beer, and distilled spirits tastings. A limited number of lodge rooms are still available at the park for guests of the festival. Tickets and more information is available at www.sipnebraska.com. For lodging, call (402) 882-2448.

Volunteer and sponsor opportunities for Sip Nebraska are still available as well. Call (402) 882-2448 or email stacy@blurparties.com at Blur Parties, Inc. for more information. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Sadoff E-Recycling & Data Destruction Obtains R2 Certification Locally operated Sadoff E-Recycling & Data Destruction announced in February that they have achieved certification to the R2 Responsible Recycling international standard for Electronics Recyclers. R2 is the leading standard for electronics repair and recycling. The R2 standard provides a common sense set of processes, safety measures, and documentation requirements for businesses that repair and recycle used electronics. R2 is rigorously and independently audited, emphasizing quality, safety, and transparency. Sadoff is now one of only three certified companies operating in the state of Nebraska.

“We consider ourselves in an elite class that has proven our security, processes, environmental commitment, and safety standards, allowing us to operate as an internationally recognized recycling solution for businesses located in the State of Nebraska and beyond,” stated Jason Lasky, executive vice president of Sadoff.

Sadoff E-Recycling & Data Destruction, a Sadoff Iron & Metal Company, began in 1947 as a provider of ferrous and nonferrous metal recycling services for manufacturers and industry. Sadoff has been assisting companies and individuals with their sustainability efforts for over 70 years. The move to include electronics recycling and provide secure data destruction services was a natural addition to their scope of services. Their certification to the R2 standard is in addition to their other internationally recognized certifications; ISO 9001 for quality, ISO 14001 for environmental responsibility, and OSHAS 18001 for Health and Safety. In addition to their Wisconsin-based recycling centers, they have recycling facilities located in Lincoln, Omaha, and La Vista, NE. More information about can be found online at www.sadoffecycle.com.

APRIL 2019 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS Berry Law Awarded 2019 Criminal Defense The Nebraska Repertory Theatre Presents Law Firm of the Year in Nebraska “Spirit of 68” for 50th Anniversary Berry Law was recently selected as “Criminal Defense Law Firm of the Year in Nebraska – 2019”

by Global Law Experts for the second consecutive year. The team is honored to have been chosen as the best criminal defense law firm by the award committee, and they are committed to continuing to provide high quality legal representation to clients facing criminal charges in Nebraska. Since 2010, the Global Law Experts annual awards have been celebrating excellence, innovation, and performance in legal communities from around the world.

Global Law Experts is one of the leading online resources for locating legal services, both for business and individual needs. The awards are given to law firms who display merit, sheer determination, and hard work. In this year’s 10th Annual GLE Awards, over 120,000 Firms were considered during the initial recommendations process. After the recommendations step, Global Law Experts performs in-house research to gather supporting evidence and choose the outright winners. The awards are broken down by region first and then into separate categories to fully evaluate the nominees.

In addition to having practice areas that extend beyond criminal defense, Berry Law Firm also has a larger geographic reach than just Nebraska. While their Omaha and Lincoln criminal Defense Lawyers are the focus of the award, Berry Law actually represents clients across the entire United States in Federal Criminal Cases, Civil Rights, and Veterans Disability Claims. Learn more at jsberrylaw.com or call (402) 466-8444.

The Nebraska Repertory Theatre celebrates its 50th Anniversary year with a special presentation, Spirit of 68. This one-night-only event is Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres beginning at 6:30 p.m. The show will feature a tribute to 50 years of theatre with live music, large-scale puppetry, and stilt dancing.

This special celebration takes place at the Temple Building, located off of 12th and R St. on the edge of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln campus.

Tickets are $19.68, available at the Lied Center Ticket Office (301 N. 12th St.).

In 1968, Dallas S. Williams, in concert with the rest of the Theatre Arts faculty at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, decided to take the first step toward establishing a resident professional theatre in Lincoln by founding the Nebraska Repertory Theatre. This trend of producing plays “a cut above” the university’s academic season continued until 1988, when Executive Director Tice L. Miller and Artistic Director Robert Hall envisioned the development of a fully professional theatre.

They subsequently forged a relationship with Actors’ Equity Association, the professional actors’ union.

Over the years, the Nebraska Rep has developed and taken the theater in bold, new directions that expand the theatre’s reach and serve the community in exciting new ways. After a national search, current Artistic Director, Andy Park, was hired, beginning his tenure in January 2017.

In September 2017, the Nebraska Rep relaunched as a year-round regional professional Equity theatre company. Learn more online at nebraskarep.org or contact the ticket office at (402) 472-4747 / (800) 432-3231 / info@nebraskarep.org.

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Learn more at 1-877-445-9462 or windstream.com/Lincoln Visit our retail store located at 1440 M Street in Lincoln Kinetic by Windstream: Speeds and solutions may vary and are not guaranteed. Many factors can affect actual speeds, and certain geographic and service restrictions may apply to One Gig Fiber Internet services. © 2019 Windstream Services, LLC. All rights reserved. Kinetic and Windstream are registered service marks or trademarks of Windstream Services, LLC. and/or its affiliates. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

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BUSINESS NEWS BBB Tracker Finds Riskiest Employment Scams in 2018

Bruce Cannon Purchases Second Lincoln Godfather’s Pizza Location

Employment scams were the riskiest scams in 2018, according to the latest report from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Tech-Savvy Scammers Work to Con More Victims: 2018 BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report (BBB.org/RiskReport). Employment scams had more instances and higher losses than in previous years when it ranked the third riskiest.

The report is based on data supplied by consumers to BBB Scam TrackerSM (BBB.org/ScamTracker) and is based on the BBB Risk Index—a unique algorithm that calculates exposure, susceptibility, and monetary loss to offer a more accurate assessment of scam risk.

It’s the first time in the three years this report has been issued that one scam dominated across so many demographic subgroups. It was the riskiest scam in three of the six age groups, and for both men and women. It was also the riskiest scam for military families, veterans, and students.

The Risk Report indicates one possible reason: Amazon was in the news a lot in 2018 with its high profile search for a second headquarters.

It was also the 6th most impersonated organization mentioned in BBB Scam Tracker reports, after not even making the top 15 in previous years. In 2017, only 24 BBB Scam Tracker reports were employment scams that mentioned Amazon. In 2018, that jumped to 564.

Better Business Bureau has been serving the local communities since 1936. The mission of BBB is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. Learn more online at bbb.org/nebraska or call (800) 649-6814.

Franc hise owner of the 33rd and O St. Godfather’s Pizza location, Bruce Cannon, has announced the purc hase of the South 48th St. restaurant from the parent company. The transaction became effective on April 1. This purchase will give Bruce 100% control of the Lincoln market, which opens the door for growth and expansion without any constraints!

Bruce has hired a new manager who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position. He is very excited to be introducing her and her management team to community.

This expansion makes April an extra special month for Bruce, as this month also marks the one-year anniversary of his first Godfather’s location. To celebrate, The Godfather himself is coming to Godfather’s Pizza (3301 O St.) on Saturday, April 27. Godfather’s Pizza is known for its commercials featuring The Godfather, a parody of Marlon Brando’s character, Don Vito Corleone, from the 1972 film, The Godfather. Parents are encouraged to bring their kids in so they don’t miss this awesome photo opt! There isn’t anything cooler than eating a slice of Godfather’s Pizza with The Godfather himself.

To learn more about Godfather’s Pizza in Lincoln, go to godfathers.com or call (402) 475-3333. Bruce Cannon can be contacted at 1stcourseinc@gmail.com with questions.

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Lincoln Cabinet Designers Earn Certification On February 12, Sarah Kmitta, Katie Little, and Shari Lewis of Lincoln Cabinet attended the Midwest Training Institute’s Initial Lead Renovator class in cooperation with the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL).

As a result, each of them received their EPA certification, allowing them to administer the lead testing required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for homes built before 1978. The Lead Renovator (RRP) Initial Certification course is an eight-hour training session in lead safety. The RRP Rule requires firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, or pre-schools built before 1978 to be certified by EPA (or an EPA authorized state). Not only are all of Lincoln Cabinets designers EPA Lead-Paint Certified Renovators, Lincoln Cabinet is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm.

Located at 624 K St., Lincoln Cabinet specializes in custom cabinetry and interiors, providing the highest standard of workmanship. To learn more, visit www.lincolncabinet.com or call (402) 475-0650.

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Lincoln Rock ‘n’ Joe Selected as Test Location for Soup Menu The Lincoln Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar has been announced as a test location for having soups on the menu. There will be a variety of soups that will be on rotation throughout the week. Some of these soups will include lasagna, baja enchilada, and potato bacon.

This test period is limited in time and will wrap up during the first week of May, so make sure you stop by while you can to try out these delicious soups!

Rock ‘n’ Joe is a national franchise, but is locally owned by Dennis and Jayna Nienhueser and managed by their daughter Tara Ihde. It is a cool place for folks who love exceptional coffee, premium food, and quality rock ‘n’ roll music in a relaxing environment. Located at 5025 Lindberg St., Rock ‘n’ Joe is open Monday–Saturday, 6 a.m.–9 p.m. and Sundays, 7 a.m.–8 p.m. Find them on Facebook (@RnJLincoln) to stay up to date with their fun happenings! You can also reach them via phone at (531) 500-4684. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Financial services firm Edward Jones ranks No. 7 on the 2019 Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work For” list, according to global research and consulting firm Great Place to Work and Fortune magazine. This year marks the firm’s 20th year on the list. The 100 best companies is one of a series of rankings by Great Place to Work and Fortune, based on employee feedback from Great Place to Work-Certified® organizations. Edward Jones also was ranked as a Best Workplace for women, parents, millenials, and those in the financial-services industry in 2018.

Edward Jones uses an established process to find out what’s important to their clients and focus on where their clients are today, where they want to be, and how to help them get there. Bethany Arnold, local Edward Jones advisor, and branch office administrator Molly Guenther, can be reached at (402) 421-7418. You may also visit Bethany Arnold’s website at www.edwardjones.com/bethany-arnold.

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BUSINESS NEWS ALLO Named the Fastest Internet Service Provider in Nebraska by Ookla

Legacy Retirement Communities Installs HUR Senso in Fitness Center

Allo Communications (ALLO), a Nebraskabased telecommunications company, has been recognized as Nebraska’s fastest internet service provider according to the 2018 Speedtest® U.S. Fixed Broadband Performance Report by Ookla, the global leader in internet network testing, data, and analysis. The report also showed that residents in Lincoln enjoy the 6th fastest download speeds in the United States.

“It’s exciting to receive recognition for the consistently fast speeds that our 100% fiber network provides,” said Brad Moline, ALLO President.

“This news underlines our core values of honest and exceptional and reinforces the power of our technology and our word. We like to say, ‘You get more with ALLO,’ and this proves it.”

Speedtest Intelligence data from Ookla confirms that ALLO’s average download speed in Nebraska is 195 megabits per second (Mbps), exceeding the top providers’ speed by more than 50%. ALLO’s upload speed average at 199 Mbps, which is more than twice as fast as any other provider. The data also revealed that ALLO customers experience the least amount of network latency or delay.

ALLO specializes in fiber broadband services with residential internet speeds up to one gigabit per second and provides a direct connection to Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure for business customers in nine communities across the Midwest. ALLO has also been part of a Lincoln-wide project to develop access to next-generation gigabit applications, which contributed to the city’s designation as a Smart Gigabit Community, of which there are less than 25 nationwide.

To learn more about ALLO’s recent accolade, visit AlloFiber.com/Fastest.

The Legacy Retirement Communities wellness team has recently installed the HUR Senso (hurusa.com) platform in the Legacy Estates fitness center.

The HUR Senso is a scientificallybased, dual-tasking fall reduction and cognitive training platform designed to support independence.

The think-and-move integrated equipment simultaneously improves physical and cognitive function through interactive motor training activities and virtual gaming.

The platform sensors dynamically capture all of the vital data with easy to understand results that ensure improved cognitive and activity levels for all users.

Wellness Director Katie Johnson feels this resource allows both the fitness team and nurses to be proactive in the care they provide to residents through the HUR Senso assessments. Assessments will ideally identify fall risks early on in so that both teams can work together to provide individualized care for any resident who has identified the areas of improvement, ultimately decreasing the number of falls and injury over time.

Legacy Retirement Communities offers independent 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. They also offer memory care at Legacy Arbors, 3777 N. 58th St. Learn more at www.legacyretirement.com or call (402) 436-3000.

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BUSINESS NEWS First National Bank Provides Military Free Tickets to Husker Spring Game In appreciation of those who have served in America’s Armed Forces, First National Bank and Nebraska Athletics proudly par tnered together to provide a total of 3,000 tickets to active military, veterans, and their families to the 2019 Red-White Husker Spring Football Game on Saturday, April 13. First National Bank is the Official Bank of Husker Nation and the official Presenting Sponsor of the Red-White Husker Spring Game.

For the third year in a row, tickets were available at select First National Bank locations across the region in February. Due to continued high interest in the Red-White Husker Spring Game, all of the 3,000 tickets have been distributed.

“All of us at First National Bank are honored to be able to provide tickets to the Red-White Husker Spring Game to our active military service members and veterans,” said Jack Weeks, market president.

First National Bank (www.fnbo.com) is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $23 billion in assets and 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas.

Community Action Seeks Local Contractors Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties is seeking independent contractors that are interested in helping the community by improving low-income housing stock. These contractors will complete fulfilling work alongside a dedicated team of professionals serving Saunders and Rural Lancaster Counties’ most vulnerable residents.

Thanks to a $750,000 grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka, and a $10,000 contribution by Horizon Bank, Community Action’s Weatherization Program is expanding. This means Community Action needs more help than ever from local contractors! Last year, 51% of those who applied to receive weatherization services through Community Action were deferred, meaning their homes did not pass inspection due to a disqualifying factor (e.g. mold, asbestos, structural difficulties, etc.). This grant will change that.

Contractors interested in working with Community Action will become part of the agency’s bid pool and have the opportunity to bid on jobs year-round, as often as they’d like – always at pre-screened households.

Community Action is specifically looking for contractors with the following expertise: HVAC, plumbing, electrical, handypersons, foundation repair, insulation installation, and remodel and renovation. However, contractors of all types are encouraged to inquire!

Community Action’s Weatherization Program provides services to increase homes’ energy efficiency, and therefore decrease those homes’ utility burdens. A decrease in utility burdens means an increase in financial well-being, which directly reflects Community Action’s mission to empower people living in poverty to reach economic stability.

Visit www.communityactionatwork.org/help/contracting.html to learn more about becoming a contractor in Community Action Partnership’s bid pool and fill out an interest form. If you have any questions, contact Amy Jeanneret, weatherization and facilities administrator, at (402) 875-9322 or ajeanneret@communityactionatwork.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Capital Cigar Welcomes Founder of Alec Bradley Cigars to Lincoln Capital Cigar Lounge is thrilled to welcome Alan Rubin, founder of the esteemed Alec Bradley Cigar Co., to Lincoln for the very first time. Lounge owners, Anthony (Tony) Goins and Austin Hillis, have arranged for a private dinner with Alan and their private members on Thursday, April 11. The following evening, on Friday, April 12, Alan will be at the lounge for a public meet and greet event. Guests will have the chance to hear Alan speak about his love for the industry and what it took to build the Alec Bradley empire. The public event on April 12 will be a ticketed event with limited spots available. To inquire about tickets for you and yours, reach out to Tony or Austin.

Only select locations carry Alec Bradley cigars, and Capital Cigar Lounge just so happens to be Alec Bradley’s first partnered lounge in North America. Tony and Austin approached Alec Bradley at the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Association’s annual tradeshow in 2018. Shortly after, Tony and Austin hopped on a plane to visit the Alec Bradley headquarters in Florida. Ultimately, it was this level of professionalism, passion, and dedication that moved Alan to welcome Capital Cigar into the Alec Bradley family—and being a part of a family is truly what it means to be an Alec Bradley partnered or sponsored lounge.

Capital Cigar Lounge allows its guests to experience mini-vacations with every visit. The ambiance of the lounge is better experienced than explained, so swing by for a delicious cocktail or high-quality cigar and good conversation. Keep up with Capital Cigar Lounge, “Where Friends Enjoy Friends,” online at capitalcigar.com and follow the lounge on Facebook (@capitalcigarco) as well. Call the lounge at (402) 4309109 to speak with one of their friendly staff members.

APRIL 2019 Strictly Business 17

BUSINESS NEWS Kingery Construction Purchases Christiansen Construction Co.

ATL DEN ORD MSP

That’s just blue-sky thinking.

Rod Berens and Rick Wintermute, owners of Kingery Construction Co., are pleased to announce that, on January 1, they purchased Christiansen Construction Co. in Pender, NE. Christiansen Construction Co. is a longstanding, deep-rooted family construction company founded in 1942, specializing in municipal swimming pools, water treatment facilities, and general commercial conduction projects.

This year, Kingery Construction Co. in Lincoln is celebrating 95 years of dedication to quality and integrity while providing services to schools, universities, hospitals, churches, commercial, government, industrial, and private projects. The company has developed relationships with owners and architects that span decades. Further inquiries can be directed to Rod Berens at (402) 465-4400 / rodb@kccobuilders.com. Learn more online at www.kccobuilders.com.

EventLNK to Host April Meeting at Virtual C

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EventLNK, Lincoln’s event connection group, has announced that this month’s meeting will be Friday, April 26 at Virtual C (1701 Windhoek Dr.), a new business technology company in Lincoln. The program will run from 9 to 10 a.m., followed by a tour of their new Virtual C Collaboration Center, which features multiple meeting rooms and flex spaces to cultivate innovation, strategy, and collaboration. This month’s EventLNK meeting will cover everything you need to know to get the right catering company for your event! Eric Pomajzl is the events and community manager for Venue Catering & Events, a division of Pillar Restaurant Group. Venue provides full-service and high quality catering for any occasion. Eric will be covering all of the details you need to consider when booking a catering company.

EventLNK brings together Lincoln’s event professionals by providing education and resources to enhance and support professional growth.

To register for the meeting, visit www.eventlnk.org/meetings. To find out more information about EventLNK, visit their website at www.eventlnk. org or email Jill Mlinar at info@eventlnk.org.

LHRMA to Hold Workshop April 9 Lincoln Human Resource Management Association (LHRMA) will hold this m o n t h ’s m e e t i n g o n Tuesday, April 9, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Del Ray Ballroom. Attendees will hear from Clover Frederick about the impact of a socio-economically diverse workplace on turnover and identify ways to support employees so they stay and thrive. Clover is a certified trainer in Bridges Out of Poverty Workforce Stability, a research-based philosophy to help businesses retain their lower-wage employees. He also serves as vice president for marketing at the Lincoln Community Foundation and freelances as a consultant specializing in nonprofit fundraising, marketing, and board development.

Lunch program registration fee is $15 for LHRMA members; $25 for non-members. Workshop registration fee is $35 for all attendees. This program and workshop is valid for three (3) PDCs toward SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP recertification.

The mission of LHRMA is to provide for the interchange of ideas, experiences, and methods concerning the relationships between management and employees, and to provide professional ethics and acquaintanceship among those involved in professional human resource management. Register for this month’s event online at lincolnhr.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Branched Oak Observatory to Host NE SciFest Star Party April 6

BNI® National Conference Held First Week of April in Dallas

In celebration of NE SciFest, Branched Oak Observatory, located just outside of Lincoln, will be hosting a star party for all lovers of space, science, and astronomy on Saturday, April 6. The observatory will be open between 2 and 4 p.m. for a free and safe viewing of our closest star, the Sun, with very special telescopes. See such solar phenomena as granulation, sun-spots, prominences, flares, and filaments! These results depend on the solar activity at the time. That same evening, between the hours of 8 p.m. and midnight, explore the wonders of the night sky through a variety of telescopes. See galaxies, nebulae, star-clusters, and the red planet Mars. The rain-date for this kid-friendly event is April 27.

Branched Oak Observatory, located at 14300 NW. 98th St., is supported by science education professionals and astronomy enthusiasts who give of their valuable time and expertise to the growing facility.

Learn how to become a member to check out other events at the observatory by visiting branchedoakobservatory.com.

Every year, the BNI ® Heartland directors dedicate five days to continuing education at the BNI National Conference. Directors from across the country will convene in Dallas on April 1 to kick of the week. After learning and collaborating with the greatest networkers in the United States and around the world, BNI members will join the action on April 4–6 for days packed with breakout and general sessions and dynamic keynote speakers. All the information is then shared to members locally to help them continue to grow their business through the power of referrals. Learn more about the conference online at www. eiseverywhere.com/ehome/bniusevents/schedule.

Community Celebrates New Chick-fil-A Chick-fil-A opened Lincoln’s second standalone restaurant on February 21, bringing with it its handcrafted food and award-winning customer service. The grand opening celebration featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. It also included a children’s book drive benefitting the Boys & Girls Club of Lincoln/ Lancaster County, reflecting local franchise owner and operator, Dustin Andrews, desire to support his local community.

Andrews’ new 4,000-square-foot restaurant is located at one of the city’s busiest intersections at 4770 O St., and is designed to enhance all aspects of a guest’s experience from the drive-thru to the counter to inrestaurant dining. For more information about Lincoln’s newest Chick-fil-A restaurant, visit Facebook at www.facebook.com/ChickfilA48thandO.

Midtown Body & Paint Welcomes Team Member, Earns Platinum Shop Certification Midtown Body & Paint, Lincoln’s trusted collision repair center since 1950, welcomed Christian Frerking to its staff in December. He is a current graduate for SCC Milford and has been a great asset to Midtown thus far. In addition, Christian, along with Owner Dan Pape and technicians Mark Moore, Michael Renaud, and Dave Helms all completed their I-Car Platinum training in January, making Midtown Body & Paint an official platinum-certified shop. Each team member also holds additional certifications. Mark is a heavy collision and steel structural certified technician, Michael has earned the status of a paint-certified technician, Dave is a heavy collision and non-structural technician, Christian is certified as a paint and non-structural technician, and Dan is a heavy collision, steel structural, and non-structural technician and a certified estimator.

Midtown Body & Paint provides quality auto body repair for all makes and models of vehicles. The shop is located at 332 S. Antelope Valley Pkwy. Call (402) 474-4818 or visit www.midtownbodyandpaint.com to learn more. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

One of BNI’s core values is lifelong learning, and they know that it is just as important to work on your business as well as in your business in order to succeed. In other words, if you’re not moving forward, you’re going backward. BNI looks forward to bringing the knowledge and power of the global network to their members, and to continue to help the local economy and businesses grow through referral-giving in the spirit of Givers Gain.​ BNI® is the world’s leading referral organization, with over 245,000 members in 70+ countries. Members generate word-of-mouth business for each other through structured, results-driven groups around the world. In 2018 alone, BNI members generated over $15 billion (USD) in revenue for member-businesses. For more information on becoming a BNI® member, visit bniheartland.com or contact (402) 880-6311 / info@bniheartland.com.

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Strictly Business APRIL 2019

BUSINESS NEWS Nebraska Safety Council Offers Beginner Motorcycle Training Opportunities The Nebraska Safety Council invites you to join them at one of their upcoming Basic Rider Motor Cycle Training courses.

Starting in April and going through October, the classes will be held on weekends: Friday evening, full day on Saturday, and a half day on Sunday.

Classes will take place at the Safety Council's building, located at 3270 Folkways Blvd.

The Safety Council will provide the motorcycle, but students should bring various safety gear needed to ride safe! Make sure to register as soon as possible for the weekend that fits your schedule as there are only six spots are available in each class. The available weekends are as follows: April 5–7, April 12–14, April 26–28, May 3–5, May 10–12, May 17–19, May 24–26, May 31–June 2, June 7–9, June 14–16, June 21–23, June 28–30, July 5–7, July 12–14, July 19–21, August 2–4, August 9–11, August 16–18, August 23–25, September 6–8, September 13–15, September 20–22, September 27–29, October 4–6, and October 11–13.

The Nebraska Safety Council is a non-profit organization headquartered in Lincoln that provides education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy. They service the state of Nebraska and surrounding areas through trainings, services, events, and membership. To learn more, visit www.nesafetycouncil. org. Feel free to also contact Laurie Klosterboer at (402) 483-2511 / kloster@nesafetycouncil.org for additional information.

Home Builders Association of Lincoln Promotes 2019 Tour of Remodeled Homes The Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) is excited to promote the 2019 Tour of Remodeled Homes on April 27 and 28 from noon to 5 p.m. each day. Every spring, the Remodelers Council of Lincoln sponsors the annual Tour of Remodeled Homes. For 30 years, the public has toured everything from basic updates to incredible transformations of some of Lincoln’s finest homes. This year’s tour will include kitchens, bathrooms, closets, pantries, laundry rooms, basement finishes, and garage additions.

The Remodelers Council of Lincoln was started in 1986 and today includes approximately 100 members. The Remodelers Council provides an array of activities for its members to promote their business and network with others in the residential construction industry. In February, the Council collected over 3,500 pounds of food with their Food Bank House at the Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show. Since starting this project in 2003, they have collected over 78,000 pounds of food for the Food Bank of Lincoln. At their annual Christmas lunch, the group collects hats, mittens, and other warm clothing for local elementary schools to give to students who don’t have cold weather gear. They also have an aluminum ramp that can be installed for individuals in temporary need of wheelchair access to their home.

Admission for the 2019 Tour of Remodeled Homes is $5 and admits adults to all homes. (Children 12 years and under are free.) You may purchase tickets and pick up a Guidebook at any Tour home.

For a complete list of entries, please visit www.hbal.org/events/ tour-of-remodeled-homes. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum Presents Spring Fling Event On April 20, the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum will hold a “Spring Fling,” an event that will prove to be fun for the entire family. The Spring Fling begins at 10 a.m. with an egg hunt in the front grassy area of the museum for youth ages 10 and under.

The hunt will be separated into multiple age groups. The museum will also offer hands-on activities indoors until noon. Activities include a picture with the Easter Bunny, face painting, coloring contest raffle, decorating Eater cookies, and kite making.

For a special prize giveaway, there will be an Easter basket given to one participant in the coloring contest raffle!

The outdoor egg hunt is free and general admission applies to those entering the museum. The Spring Fling event, Children’s Learning Center activities, and Robot Zoo exhibit are included with general admission. General admission is $12 adults, $11 military and seniors, $6 youth three to 12, and free for youth under age three. To learn more about displays, education programs, events, and exhibits at the museum go to www.SACMuseum.org.

Lancaster Rehabilitation Center Receives 2019 Customer Experience Award Lancaster Rehabilitation Center is proud to announce that they are the recipient of Pinnacle Quality Insight’s 2019 Customer Experience Award. Qualifying for the award in the category of Professional Therapy Services, Lancaster displays a continued dedication to providing Best in Class senior healthcare services.

Amy Fish, administrator of Lancaster Rehabilitation Center, describes receiving the award as an honor, stating: “Under the leadership of Chad Schlueter, director of therapy services, our team of therapists and assistants provide outstanding care and service every day. I am proud to be a part of a team that works diligently together with our team of clinicians and support staff to meet and exceed the needs of those entrusted in our care. This award is truly a reflection of the best in class service provided every day at Lancaster Rehab Center.”

Throughout its storied history of serving the community, Lancaster Rehabilitation Center has placed a strong emphasis on ensuring that the individual needs of every patient and resident are met. Over the course of 2018, a sampling of Lancaster’s customers and their families have participated in monthly telephone interviews that include open-ended questions, as well as the opportunity to rate Lancaster Rehabilitation in specific categories. Every month, Lancaster has gathered its real-time survey results to gain a better understanding of the patients and residents needs and make improvements when necessary.

By qualifying for the Pinnacle Customer Experience Award, Lancaster Rehabilitation has satisfied the rigorous demand of scoring in the top 15% of the nation across a 12-month average. Clients have the opportunity to achieve this Best in Class distinction on a monthly basis in many categories designed to accurately reflect each patient and resident’s experience.

Lancaster Rehabilitation Center is Nebraska’s largest skilled nursing facility, where care, comfort, and compassion are all critical to the services they provide. They specialize in short-term rehabilitation, traditional long-term care, and memory care. For more information, call (402) 441-7101 or visit www.lancasterrc.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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North Risk Partners provides businesses with solutions for group health, life, and disability insurance needs, as well as support to navigate all of the healthcare changes happening today. Jenny Leidy is senior account manager of employee benefits at North Risk Partners.

Tell us a little about your business. - When I first started at North Risk Partners 13 years ago, we were just a local group insurance brokerage of about eight people. Now we have over 250 employees in Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska. We are committed to helping clients face risk head-on with right-fit insurance coverage and attention to opportunities for preventing avoidable losses.

How did you get started in the business? - It was by accident really.

I’ve worked for companies over the years doing different jobs in human resources and benefits administration. At one company in particular, I developed a friendship with our agent. When it came time for me to leave said company, she offered me a job. I’ve been on the broker side of the benefits business ever since.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - All of the changes in health insurance over the past few years. It seems as though there’s something new every day.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have two daughters who are the best things that have ever happened to me. One is getting ready to graduate from high school, and the other is following her dream of becoming a tattoo artist.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Being diagnosed with breast cancer. It really makes you take a look at your life and re-evaluate your priorities. I’m a five-year cancer survivor!

Who inspires you? - My daughters. It seems so hard to be a teenager these days. Having dealt with divorce at a young age and watching me battle cancer, they’ve both survived adversity with such grace and strength. I couldn’t be any prouder of each of them.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Time travel.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - My baking skills, I think.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would love to own a cupcake bakery.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - The American Cancer Society. While cancer is hard for anyone dealing with it, it’s especially hard for children who have to go through the chemotherapy and radiation at such a young age. As a parent, I can’t imagine trying to explain chemotherapy and its side effects to a small child.

What is your favorite movie? - I tried to decide which movie would be the most appropriate, but I’m just going to be honest and say Deadpool.

I’ve never laughed so hard. That’s what I look for in a movie.

What is your favorite TV show? - Outlander.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Although he is not famous, I would love to have dinner with my Grandpa Wayne. I was never able to meet him because he died from cancer at the age of 46, but the way my dad reminisces about him, I know he must have been a great man.

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

- Phone: (402) 905-9065; Email: jenny.leidy@northriskpartners.com; Website: www.northriskpartners.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

JERRY

Jerry Pape

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RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN FINGERS Raising Cane’s has ONE LOVE—quality chicken finger meals. The restaurant prides itself on exceptionally high-quality food, served quickly and conveniently. Jerry Pape is the chief financial officer at Southern Hospitality Ventures, Inc., the local franchisee of Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers.

Tell us a little about your business. - As the franchisee for Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers in Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota, we currently operate 11 restaurants, six of which have been opened in the past 18 months, with many more new openings in the coming years How did you get started in the business? - I was introduced to the owner through a mutual friend. As we got to know each other better, I began to better understand the culture and plans of the company, and I knew it would be somewhere I would enjoy working and could make a difference.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? With the help of my coworkers, I have successfully led several companies through growth and difficult times, instilling a culture of compassion, teamwork, and high ethics.

Tell us a little about your family. - Happily married for 35 years this summer and we have three fantastic kids, two in Omaha and the oldest at Ft. Bragg, NC. My family is a blessing. I brag about them all.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Personally, meeting my wife, growing together, and adopting and raising our beautiful kids. Professionally, gaining exposure to the power of strategic planning and leadership very early in my career, and utilizing this knowledge throughout the years.

Who inspires you? - I’ve had many great mentors, each contributing to the type of leader I am today. Together they taught me humility, team work, risk taking, perseverance, and many other leadership attributes.

On a daily basis, however, I am most inspired by my wife, kids, and Jesus.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - I have two favorite quotes. The first is by Cheshire Cat: “If you don’t know where you are going, any road will lead you there.”

The second is from John Lennon: “Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.”

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Amazing Grace.”

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Eat everything and never gain an ounce.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Engineer or architect.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - The Food Bank of Lincoln and my church. I’m passionate about homeless outreach.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Old Jules by Mari Sandoz is my favorite book. The last good book I read was The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan, which is about the dust bowl.

What is your favorite movie? - It’s a Wonderful Life with Jimmy Stewart.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Raising Cane’s of course!

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

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Email: jerrypape@shv-inc.com; Website: raisingcanes.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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STAR CITY SIX

MATT

Matt Swanson

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West Gate Bank is a family-owned and operated, full-service community bank with 10 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. Matt Swanson is a mortgage lender at West Gate Bank.

Tell us a little about your business. - What is special about West Gate Bank is that we are large enough to serve all your personal or commercial banking needs, yet small enough to provide the outstanding personal service that only a community bank can deliver. I am here to help people understand and navigate the home buying process.

Whether I am educating a first-time homebuyer or discussing leverage and opportunity cost with an investor who has bought and sold multiple properties, my goal is to add value to all my customers.

How did you get started in the business? - My “foot in the door” with mortgage lending was becoming a mortgage processor. That, coupled with my credit background, gave me a great boost of knowledge prior to stepping into a very competitive industry.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest challenge I have faced, and continue to face, is self-promotion/ self-marketing. I’ve always been a very humble and quiet person, so it is not natural for me to talk about or promote myself.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have two labs, Denali and Shadow.

We’re frequent visitors to the dog park and the lake!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spend a little extra time in the gym and work on projects around the house.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I grew a beard a couple of years ago.

Something along the lines of ZZ Top. Who inspires you? - I would say that my dad has been one of my greatest inspirations. He’s been running a family business in a small town for almost 35 years, served over 25 years on the volunteer fire department and rescue squad, and overcame a battle with cancer this past year. His continued drive and desire to give back to the community, despite his own life challenges, make the day-to-day challenges most people face and stress about seem easy.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Pin and wiggle. I do a lot of back country snowmobiling in the winter and when you’re in deep powder on the side of a mountain or up in the trees, you better not stop. When you feel yourself slowing down and nearly stuck, you pin the throttle and start “wiggling” the sled back and forth; literally doing everything in your power to keep moving forward. Now imagine that mountain is your life, work, etc., and you start getting bogged down by everything that it can throw at you... give it everything you’ve got and keep moving.

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

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Hands down, my ability to sing in the car/shower.

Which talent would you most like to have? - The ability to sing well in the car/shower.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I’ve always been passionate about animals—adopt, don’t shop! Both of my dogs are adopted and they are truly wonderful.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Lazzari’s Pizza.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? You can find me online at westgate.bank or on Facebook. Email me at mswanson@westgate.bank or call me at (531) 289-3835. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

JONATHAN

Jonathan Curtis

JONATHAN CURTIS DESIGN Jonathan Curtis Design (JCD) is a unique company that specializes in a variety of interior and exterior areas, including: additions, sunrooms, decks, pergolas, and kitchen/baths. Jonathan Curtis is the owner of Jonathan Curtis Design.

Tell us a little about your business. - Craftsmanship and integrity are incredibly important to us. Designing a space or piece of furniture that is cohesive with your home and lifestyle is what we strive for as well. We are family owned and believe in glorifying God and taking care of others.

How did you get started in the business? - Since childhood, I have enjoyed creating something from nothing. Being able to build something beautiful from something as simple as wood is so satisfying. I also started from nothing, financially speaking and experience wise, but over the years, I’ve learned how to improve my skills while surrounding myself with guys who could teach me.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - With my first business, I lost my focus and my company suffered because of it. I had to eventually let my employees go and sell everything for pennies on the dollar. I have vowed to never let that happen again.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- This business is to glorify God and take care of people. When I see a customer elated from our services, that is success to me. We did land an account with Cirque du Soleil, in which we build all of their teeterboards—that is pretty cool!

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife is the administrator for our company. She’s my best friend. We have five children, ranging in age from three to 14 years old. They all have their own unique personalities.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Realizing the difference between religion and a relationship with Jesus— to be able to know what real joy is and have clarity about my purpose on this earth; to know that no matter what I’ve done I can be forgiven.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Improve my own home, golf, travel, and hang out with friends and family.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was born on a U.S. Navy base in Okinawa, Japan. I’ve also moved 33 times in my life.

Who inspires you? - I like following designers and architects who think outside of the box.

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Learning to Fly” by Tom Petty.

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

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Counseling.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Lincoln Berean Church has many service projects that we try to help with. It is enjoyable using what we have to help others.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan.

What is your favorite TV show? - The Fresh Prince of Bel Air. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do? - Phone: (402) 570-1136; Email: implementjonathan@gmail.com; Instagram/ Facebook: @jonathancurtisdesign. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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STAR CITY SIX

JAKE

Jake Peterson

ENGINEERED CONTROLS INC. Engineered Controls Inc. is a locally owned and operated business specializing in building automation, access, and security control solutions. Headquartered in Omaha, Engineered Controls also has full-service branch offices in Lincoln and Des Moines, IA, providing sales, consulting, construction, and 24/7 support services. Jake Peterson is a security sales engineer for Engineered Controls Inc.

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Tell us a little about your business. - Engineered Controls is a building technology company. Our goal is to make buildings more efficient, comfortable, secure, and convenient for its occupants. We like to make buildings better and people happier and safer!

How did you get started in the business? - I served six years in the Navy and did two deployments. My job included a ton of electronics troubleshooting and I had a real love for figuring out and fixing our gear. That experience translated into my first job in this industry as a field service technician.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Making a shift from a technician position to my current sales and engineering role, and having to wear both hats at times through that transition. A lot of the fundamentals have remained the same, though: meet folks, help folks...rinse, wash, and repeat!

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Brittany and I are raising our two amazing daughters, Alexis and Sawyer. We also have a twoyear-old pup named Gryffindor. As a family, we love to camp, travel anywhere new, and have family movie nights!

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was a foreign exchange student to Argentina when I was 15. I caught the “travel bug” pretty bad, which led me to joining in the Navy at 17 and experiencing lots of new things and places that I might not have gotten to experience otherwise.

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If you could have a super power, what would it be? - This one is a little “out there” and hard to explain, but I’ll be bold and say it! I wish I had the super power to enforce the Golden Rule. For example, if you intentionally caused grief, fear, or harm to somebody, you’d feel the same pain or fear that they felt. I feel like there’d be an immediate halt to bullying, crime, and hate. On the positive side, though, if you caused someone to laugh, feel joy, or feel love, you’d feel those same feelings in return. Imagine what the world might look like if that ever happened!

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Motivational speaking or any role in which I could help a lot of people in an impactful way.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - From the fiction shelf, I really loved The Warded Man series by Peter V. Brett.

I’m also a pretty big Harry Potter nerd. In the personal development section, I’ve recently been reading The 10X Rule by Grant Cardone, which is really powerful!

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - There was an amazing entrepreneur and motivational speaker named Jim Rohn who passed away before I got a chance to meet him, but I’ve spent 100s of hours listening to his audio books in the car. I wish I had the chance to sit down with him and say thanks for inspiring me and helping so many others.

KoenLincoln.com| 2601 Jamie Ln 402.480.6116 If our readers would like to contact you, how should they KoenLincoln.com so? - Phone: (402) 434-2110 Ext. 409; Email: jpeterson@ 2601 Jamie Ln. | 402-480-6116 do KoenJapaneseBbqAndSushi engineeredcontrols.com; Website: www.engineeredcontrols.com.

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STAR CITY SIX

BRETT

Brett Harris

GREENLEAF PROPERTIES Greenleaf Properties is a full-service commercial real estate company located in Lincoln. Brett Harris is the director of brokerage services for Greenleaf Properties.

Tell us a little about your business. - I joined Greenleaf Properties as managing broker in January of this year and I have been busy adjusting to my new position. We work with buyers, sellers, landlords, tenants, and investors to help them achieve their real estate objectives.

How did you get started in the business? - My first couple jobs after college included some real estate activities and I had an interest in learning more about commercial real estate. In 2004, I had a chance to join Speedway Properties and I worked there for 14 years until joining Greenleaf recently.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Following the sale of a family-owned business, I had to make a decision about staying at it under different ownership or pursuing other interests. After staying with the company for a few years, ultimately, it was not the right fit for me long term and so I chose to go in a different direction.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - In 2011, I earned the Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation, which required core class work, a comprehensive exam, and the submittal of a portfolio of qualifying experience.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Jan works at Bryan Health as an occupational therapist. We have four kids, ages 15, 14, 11, and eight. This June will be our 20-year wedding anniversary! We spend much of our free time attending our kids’ sporting events and driving them around to various activities.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Ha-ha, not sure there is such a thing as a day off when you have four kids. I enjoy playing golf and boating, both of which can be enjoyed with family.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I can waterski barefoot!

If you would have a super power, what would it be? - Endless energy with little need for sleep. I could be more productive and might have a chance of keeping up at work and at home!

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Golf course design. As a golfer, I’ve always been interested in this. I love the idea of using the natural landscape to create a great golf course.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I’ve been lucky to be involved with a variety of local non-profits, including Lincoln Literacy, the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, and the local Boy Scouts.

The organization that I’ve had the longest relationship with is Junior Achievement (JA), which teaches youth about free enterprise and economics. Our family business supported JA programs and I became involved with JA while working there. I’ve served on the JA board of directors for many years and have volunteered to teach JA classes at the grade school, middle school, and high school level.

What is your favorite movie? - Either Sideways or a 1980’s classic like Raising Arizona. I obviously haven’t been to the movies for a while.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante.

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

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

- Phone: (402) 467-2525; Email: brett@greenleafproperties.com; Website: www.greenleafproperties.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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You can have a Health Savings Account if you have a health insurance policy that qualifies. These policies are identified as high deductible health plans that do not offer copay benefits to pay for doctor visits or prescriptions.

An account can be opened at a local bank or with organizations that have established partnerships with your insurance company. Financial institutions are responsible for the tax reporting that notifies the IRS what the total contributions and distributions are. HSA owners receive tax form 1099-SA showing total contributions and 5498-SA for distributions.

If you make contributions to your HSA in 2019 but want it applied to tax year 2018, be certain to make that clear at the bank so that the tax reporting will be correct.

The maximum contribution for 2018 is $3,450 when one person is insured under a high deductible health plan or $6,900 when there are two or more family members. An additional $1,000 contribution can be made by anyone that is age 55 or older.

If your Federal tax rate is 20% and you deposited $6,900, your federal income tax bill will be reduced by $1,380.

Anyone that has enrolled in a HSA plan through healthcare.gov and is receiving a Premium Tax Credit should definitely use this important deduction as a strategy to keep their Adjusted Gross Income within eligibility guidelines.

The money put into a HSA provides a tax benefit and a method of setting aside funds to pay for medical, dental, and vision expenses. The IRS determines what expenses can be paid from a HSA. Medical costs that are covered by your health insurance plan are eligible, however there are many other items that can be paid from a HSA even if it is not covered by an insurance plan. Dental exams, repairs, orthodontia, and artificial teeth are eligible. Vision care, glasses, and contacts can be paid from a HSA. Other HSA qualified expenses include acupuncture, chiropractic, fertility treatment, guide dogs, and hearing aids. Some over the counter medications are eligible if prescribed by a doctor.

IRS publication 969 provides the complete list of eligible expenses. Learn more at www.irs.gov/publications/p969.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Wayne Kubert Joins Kubert Appraisal Group, P.C. Kubert Appraisal Group, P.C. is pleased to announce the addition of Wayne Kubert, MAI to the team as a senior appraiser. In his new role, Kubert will continue serving clients with quality appraisal services related to commercial property, litigation support, and consulting.

“I am fortunate to again be able to work with my father. Wayne’s knowledge and experience are a benefit to our new firm and we are excited for the future,” said owner, Thomas W. Kubert, MAI, CCIM. Kubert Appraisal Group proudly serves Lincoln, Lancaster County, and Greater Nebraska region. For more information, contact Tom Kubert at (531) 500-0890 or email tkubert@kubertappraisal. com. To learn more about Kubert Appraisal Group, visit www. kubertappraisal.com.

HoriSun Hospice Hires Michelle Sarafian and Paul Jensen HoriSun Hospice is pleased to announce the addition of Michelle Sarafian, LCSW as bereavement coordinator and Paul Jensen, MSW as hospice social worker to its team.

Paul received his Masters in social work from the University of Nebraska–Omaha in 1981 and Bachelor of Science in counseling from Wayne State College in 1976. He worked as a caseworker for Child Protective Services in Lancaster County and as director of case management at Bryan Medical Center. He also worked in private practice at Lincoln Psychotherapy Services, and most recently at the Beatrice Community Hospital Hospice as manager of the hospice program.

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Wayne Kubert brings over 50 years of experience in appraising commercial, industrial, and special-use properties.

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Michelle received her Master of Science in community counseling from St. Cloud State University and her Bachelor of Science in youth ministry from North Central University in Minnesota. She has extensive work experience in medical and mental health case management and familybased community mental health work.

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HoriSun Hospice, located at 2200 S. 40th St., STE 101, believes that hospice care affirms life. It’s mission and promise to our community is simple: to provide the best care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for all whose lives are affected by a life limiting illness or condition. Comfort, compassion, and caring are its guiding principles. For more information, contact Becca Henry at (402) 484-6444 or go online to www.horisunhospice.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

SOUTH 7575 So. 57th St. Lincoln, NE 68516 402-434-2222

NORTH Cornhusker Bank Building 1101 Cornhusker Hwy., Ste 200 Lincoln, NE 68521 402-434-8688

WILLIAMSBURG 5701 So. 34TH St., Ste 101 Lincoln, NE 68516 402-434-6786

www.LincolnFirstRealty.com APRIL 2019 Strictly Business

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PERSONNEL NEWS

McGill Restoration Welcomes Derek Landis and Jennifer Baldwin to Team

Cornhusker Bank Promotes Sherla Post and Lynda McGill

McGill Restoration, a Nebraska-based contractor specializing in concrete and masonry repair, is excited to welcome Derek Landis and Jennifer Baldwin to the team!

Derek started in February with Mcgill as project manager/estimator, coming from the home improvement industry. He is excited about starting with a company that really goes out of their way for their clients in order to deliver the highest quality of work possible.

Cornhusker Bank is pleased to announce the promotions of Sherla Post to executive vice president/human resources and talent development and Lynda McGill to vice president, audit manager. “Both of these associates continue to develop themselves and their departments and take on added responsibilities in their areas as the bank continues to grow. They serve the bank with excellence, a high attention to detail, and commitment,” noted president/CEO, Barry Lockard.

Sherla Post Ms. Post develops and leads all human resource functions, as well as the human resource staff for the bank, including all talent development based efforts. Sherla collaborates with management to develop a talent based organization, which cultivates the bank’s culture and operating model.

Ms. McGill leads the bank’s internal audit function and supervises internal audit staff.

Her responsibilities include conducting internal audit risk assessment, determining the annual audit schedule, and coordinating Lynda McGill the department’s activities with applicable regulatory agencies and examiners.

Cornhusker Bank remains the oldest locally-owned bank, demonstrating stability, soundness, and investing in the future growth of the community, its valued customers, and associates throughout its 115-year history.

Learn more online at www.CornhuskerBank.com or call (402) 434-2265.

Jennifer was brought on to McGill in December of 2018 as a project manager/ estimator as well. She enjoys working at McGill because of the culture. McGill Restoration gives their employees every opportunity to better themselves through education and on-the-job training. This investment in continuing education is vital in restoration as techniques and tools are ever evolving. They focus on the community by restoring vital infrastructure (highways, bridges, and parking decks) and historical buildings, improving our modern city while revitalizing our living history.

Derek Landis

Jennifer Baldwin

Founded in 1984, McGill Restoration is trained and certified in a majority of techniques of the restoration business. There is no other need to sub out, they do it all and they do it the right way. To get in touch with McGill Restoration about your project needs, visit mcgillrestoration.com or contact the office at (402) 558-7989.

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PERSONNEL NEWS

East Lincoln Business Association Announces 2019 Board of Directors The East Lincoln Business Association (ELBA) is excited to present their 2019 board of directors: Laurie Fraser, president; Kerry Butzke, vice president; Holly Beeman, treasurer; Darren Lichty, treasurer; Andrew Hartley, secretary; Sara Mach, secretary; Sara Boardman, website; Cory Hoagstrom, membership; Tim Kirkpatrick, speaker line-up; Jen Wolf-Wubbels and Natalie Leon, social media; and Craig Kerr, networking/socials.

There is a special opportunity to join ELBA now and get one month free!

Initial annual membership cost is $50 with a renewal of $40 per year.

A luncheon in hosted at Hillcrest Country Club at 11 a.m. on the third Thursday of each month and prospective members are invited to attend any upcoming luncheon to learn more about the group. The next event will be on April 18. For more information, visit elbalincoln.com.

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Lincoln First Realty Recognizes Agents at Annual Awards Banquet Lincoln First Realty held their annual awards banquet on February 27, at which the following agents were recognized for their 2018 achievements: Top Producing Agent– Gary Goranson; Most Closed Gary Goranson Cindy Foster Transactions–Gary Goranson; Most Improved Closed Vo l u m e – C i n d y Foster; Highest Average Closed Transaction–Steve Taylor; and Top Producing New Agent of the Year– Todd Knorr.

In addition, Steve Taylor Todd Knorr Lincoln First Realty presented the 3rd annual Founders Award of Excellence to Valerie Hervert. This honor, awarded by a vote of her peers, goes to the Lincoln First Realty agent who displays a high level of professionalism, positively interacts with fellow Realtors®, is involved with real estate related and community activities, and meets production standards. Out of the now 50 agents that are affiliated with Lincoln First Realty, several agents also had their best year in real estate of their careers.

Valerie Hervert Lincoln First Realty, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cornhusker Bank and full-service professional real estate company, has three offices located at 7575 S. 57th; 5701 S. 34th, STE 101; and 1101 Cornhusker Hwy., STE 200. For more information, please call (402) 434-2222. Find Lincoln First Realty on Facebook (@lincoln1st) and Twitter (@LNKFirstRealty) or visit www.LincolnFirstRealty.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS Visiting Angels Welcomes Kimberly Hopkins to Team

K.C. Belitz Joins Nebraska Community Foundation as COO

Visiting Angels, America’s Choice in Homecare, is happy to announce an added team member to the office staff. Kimberly Hopkins was delighted to accept the position and assist Natalie Leon with her ever growing business. Professionally, Kimberly started her career with Visiting Angels in Springfield, MO in 2016. She joined Visiting Angels in Lincoln in February of 2019. Kimberly is hopeful that, with her prior experience, she can help continue the growth of Visiting Angels.

Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) proudly welcomes K.C. Belitz of Columbus to assume a new position, created to address the growing demand for NCF’s services throughout Greater Nebraska.

As chief operating officer, Belitz will head up a team of fund and community development, marketing, and gift planning professionals working to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.

In this new position, Belitz will work to advance three key goals critical to the success of 250 communities across the state that benefit from NCF affiliated funds and donors. These include using unrestricted endowments to create positive change that may otherwise not occur, researching and promoting effective practices to attract people to Nebraska hometowns, and ensuring that the NCF network is increasingly diverse and inclusive.

For nearly two decades, Belitz worked for the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, doing business and community development for 800 members and the Columbus region. He said he is eager to apply the skills learned in that position in a statewide context. Belitz will be based in Columbus but will also office in Lincoln.

Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. For more information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.

Personally, Kimberly has been a caregiver throughout her life. She grew up with her grandparents, who cared for her as their own, and as she aged, the roles began to change.

Kimberly has helped provide end-of-life care for two of her maternal great grandmothers and, most recently, her paternal grandfather.

She continues to look after her maternal grandparents, who helped raise her.

At Visiting Angels in Lincoln, they offer a free care consultation to help you decide if their services are a right fit for your loved one. They’ll meet in the comfort of home to discuss your loved one’s care needs and how their services can help. If you think the home care services from Visiting Angels Lincoln are right for your loved one, they’ll get started by creating a care plan that’s right for them. For more information about Visiting Angels, please visit www.visitingangels.com/lincoln or contact Natalie Leon at (402) 735-0999 / nleon@visitingangels.com.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Kimberly Rath Recognized for “Innovation

by All” Contributions to Talent Plus Kimberly Rath, Talent Plus® chairman and co-founder, received the Leadership award at the 2nd Annual Great Place to Work® For All Leadership Awards – Igniting Innovation

by All Gala in San Francisco.

Honorees were nominated by their companies, all of which appear on Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For, 100 Best Workplaces for Women, 150 Best Small and Medium Businesses, 100 Best Workplaces for Diversity, or the 25 World’s Best Workplaces Lists.

Rath’s philosophy of embracing change and talent has impacted Talent Plus. This July, the company will be celebrating 30 years of growth, innovation and inclusion that has resulted in numerous awards in workplace culture—including several Great Place to Work nods.

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Talent Plus, Inc. is the Leading Talent Assessment Partner® in the industry and an internationally recognized management consulting firm with over 400 clients in 20 countries delivering interviews in more than 20 languages. Headquartered in Lincoln, Talent Plus also has an office in Singapore. For more information, please visit www.talentplus.com.

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NAI FMA Realty Adds Joel McGill and Justine Petsch NAI FMA Realty is pleased to announce two new additions to its team. Joel McGill has joined the firm as its project coordinator and Justine Petsch has been brought on as a licensed commercial real estate agent.

In his new role, McGill will be responsible for preparing estimates and proposals, coordinating bidding of construction projects, and corresponding tenant improvements.

He will also actively participate in the representing the owner on a broad range of projects. Prior to joining NAI FMA, McGill Joel McGill worked as the building engineer under two national commercial real estate firms. Born and raised in Waverly, McGill graduated from Southeast Community College with an associate degree in applied science for building construction technology.

Petsch will provide a full-range of sales and leasing services. Before joining NAI FMA, Petsch worked as the public policy specialist for an area business association and began her career as the southeast regional director of membership for the Nebraska Farm Bureau Justine Petsch Federation. She graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan with a Bachelor of Science in international business. Petsch can be reached at (402) 441-5830.

NAI FMA Realty has been providing commercial real estate solutions to landlords and occupiers in southeastern and central Nebraska for more than 50 years. NAI FMA manages more than 4 million square feet and is experienced with all product types and in all life cycles of commercial real estate. For more information, visit www.naifmarealty.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS TruBlue Total House Care Welcomes David Davidson to Team

Craig Willeke Named Member of Million Dollar Round Table

TruBlue Total House Care recently welcomed the newest member of their outstanding team, David Davidson! David is a family man from the Lincoln area who has a wide range of talents and experiences in many fields—flooring, bathroom remodels, kitchen backsplashes, and masonry are just a few!

He is a true artist and anybody can see the deep dedication he has in his work.

Craig Willeke, an agent for New York Life in Lincoln, has earned membership in the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) for 2019. Achieving membership in MDRT is a distinguishing life insurance career milestone, attained only by those who have demonstrated superior professional knowledge, experience, sales excellence, and client service. MDRT membership represents the top life insurance and financial service professionals worldwide.

MDRT is an international, independent association of the world’s best life insurance and financial services professionals. In addition, this is the 64th consecutive year that New York Life has dominated the MDRT in the United States.

Updating the interior or exterior look of your home are great ways to dramatically change the curb appeal or the charm inside your home, and you, your friends, and your family will love it. Working with David, you will find that he will bring your vision to life while having a reassuring and positive relationship throughout the entire process.

Go to TruBlue’s Facebook page (/TruBlueofLincoln) to see examples of his work.

TruBlue Total House Care is busy with bathroom remodels and even window replacement on the warmer days, but their team is looking forward to spring decks, fences, painting, and more exterior projects.

TruBlue finds solutions for your property care! Call/text (402) 4386776 or email LincolnOffice@TruBluehouscare.com for a full list of services. TruBlue is available evenings and weekends to discuss your next project. Learn more online at www.TruBlueLincoln.com.

Willeke has been a New York Life agent since 2003 and is associated with New York Life’s Nebraska General Office in Omaha. Craig Willeke has a B.S. in psychology from Nebraska Wesleyan University and an M.O.T. in occupational therapy from Rockhurst University. He has also received his LUTCF designation from the American College and CLTC designation from the corporation for long term care certification.

Willeke Financial Group, LLC is located at 1221 N. St., STE 800 and Craig can be contacted at (402) 483-6656 / Craig@WillekeFinancialGroup. com. Please visit www.willekefinancialgroup.com to learn more.

Friday, May 10 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Jack J. Huck Continuing Education Center, 301 S. 68th St. Place, Lincoln

Speakers: Juliet Funt, Ginger Hardage, Carla Harris, Gayle King, Patrick Lencioni, Dr. Caroline Leaf, Marcus Samuelsson, Craig Springer, Andy Stanley, Tripp Crosby, Host.

Early Bird Rate (on/before April 19): $99 per person or $410 for table of five.

Regular Rate (after April 19): $118 per person or $550 for table of five.

Go to leadercastscclincoln2019.eventbrite.com for more information and to register.

34 Strictly Business APRIL 2019 #PrintProudDigitalSmart

PERSONNEL NEWS Lincoln Community Foundation Welcomes Rich Herink and New Board Members The Lincoln Community Foundation is pleased to announce that Rich Herink will lead the foundation’s strategic partnerships.

Herink will help build relationships and identify opportunities for collaboration with key constituencies, specifically around economic development, impact investing, and affordable housing.

In addition, the foundation also welcomes six new members to its board of directors: Preeta D. Bansal, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Ryan D. Beckman, Olsson; Jennifer J. Brinkman, Lancaster County Board of Commissioners; Miki Esposito, City of Lincoln; Dr. Michael Ferris, retired physician; and Meg Lauerman, Lauerman Consulting.

The Lincoln Community Foundation, established in 1955, strives to continually enrich the Lincoln community by promoting and achieving perpetual philanthropic support. The foundation currently manages $127 million in assets and has distributed more than $130 million in grants to non-profit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. Learn more about LCF online at www.lcf.org or call (402) 474-2345.

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SP Group Introduces 2019 Tax Season Interns S P G ro u p, P. C . , a g row i n g entrepreneurial accounting firm, is pleased to introduce its tax season interns: Ben Danielson, Harrison Martin, and Tracy Chvala, currently attending the University of NebraskaLincoln, and Mikayla Fredrickson, currently attending Nebraska Wesleyan University. Each intern is Pictured L-R: Ben Danielson, currently majoring in accounting.

Mikayla Fredrickson, Tracy Chvala, Harrison Martin.

Danielson, a second-year intern, will graduate in May and start the Master’s Program of Professional Accountancy next fall at the University of Texas at Austin. His interests include intramurals, golf, skiing, and watching Husker athletics.

Martin, a first year intern and a Lincoln native, is the head middle school track coach at Lincoln Lutheran working with more than 50 middle school students. His other interests include woodworking and playing golf with his dad.

Chvala, a first year intern and from O’Neill, NE, is active in many academic clubs including Beta Alpha Psi, Undergraduate Women in Business, the College of Business Advisory Board, and a student ambassador for the Nebraska Women’s Leadership Network. Her other interests include her two Goldendoodles.

Fredrickson, a first year intern from Raymond, NE and Academic Honors Student, is a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Alpha Mu Gamma, and Cardinal Key Honor Societies. Her interests include the Teammates mentoring program, intramural sand volleyball, going to Husker Athletics, and cheering on the Wesleyan men’s defending national champions basketball team.

SP Group, PC welcomes Ben, Harrison, Tracy, and Mikayla to their team! For more information, call (402) 420-7758, visit www.spgrouppc. com, or follow SP Group on Facebook (/SPGroup,P.C.) and Twitter (@ SPGroupPC). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

301 S 70th St., Suite 200 | Lincoln, NE 68510

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COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL EXTERIORS

PERSONNEL NEWS Union Bank & Trust Promotes Seth Davison, Nora Turner, and Andrea Howard Union Bank & Trust (UBT) recently promoted both Seth Davison and Nora Turner to vice president of Agricultural Lending and Andrea Howard to business development officer in Health Benefit Solutions.

A DIVISION OF NEEMANN & SONS

DID THE HARSH WINTER DAMAGE YOUR ROOF? CALL NOW TO GET YOUR EXTERIOR PROJECTS DONE IN THE SPRING! 402-423-4853 RESIDENTIAL ROOFING ROOF INSPECTIONS ROOF REPAIRS SEAMLESS GUTTERS SIDING FASCIA/SOFFIT WINDOWS INSULATION

Davison works to gain an in-depth understanding of his customers’ financial position in order to provide innovative and workable solutions for their farming operations. He began with UBT in 2009 as a part-time teller, and has also served in the college savings and credit administration departments. He holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Nebraska– Lincoln, and is a graduate of the Nebraska Bankers Association (NBA) intermediate and advanced agricultural lending schools.

He also serves as a member on UBT’s Agricultural Loan Committee.

As vice president of Agricultural Loans, Turner oversees agricultural loan operations and manages business development efforts across the state. She has over 32 years of experience and has spent all of those with UBT. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, and is a graduate of NBA’s agricultural banking program.

Seth Davison

Nora Turner

In her new role as business development officer, Howard will work to identify business opportunities for the Health Benefit Solutions department. She will educate employers on the products and services available to them, provide customized education solutions, and build lasting relationships with current Andrea Howard and prospective clients. Howard has over 20 years of financial industry experience, serving most recently as an education program manager within Health Benefit Solutions. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business marketing from Doane University.

Union Bank & Trust is a privately owned, Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services. The bank has thirty-eight full service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately-owned bank in Nebraska with bank assets of $4.0 billion and trust assets of $23.3 billion as of June 30, 2018. Learn more online at www.ubt.com.

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Strictly Business APRIL 2019

It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You! At Strictly Business Magazine we strive to recognize local businessmen and women 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 or submit your news via our website at www. strictly-business.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Hunt Is Over!

Now Is The Best Time To Sign Up For A Service Maintenance Plan On Your Heating & Cooling System!

Some benefits of a Service Maintenance Plan are: • Extends life of equipment when properly maintained • Customized plans to fit your equipment with discounts on multiple systems • Lower fuel bills because your system is running at top efficiency • We get a hold of you to schedule service to take pressure off of you • Potential problems are spotted before major expenses occur • Discounts on breakdowns • Peace of mind with service experts you can trust

Contact us today! 402-435-5555 • www.jhlincoln.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NON-PROFIT NEWS Angels Among Us Announces Two Signature REALTORS® Association of Lincoln to Raise Event Dates for 2019 Money for BackPack Program Angels Among Us is excited to announce its two signature event dates for 2019! On July 8, Angels Among Us is partnering with Bland & Associates for its annual Bland Cares golf outing at Champions Run. Registration for this golf outing is open online.

In addition, the 2019 Artists and Angels Gala will take place on September 20 at A View on State.

This event will include many new features this year and the live auction will include a piece of art from Jeff Hanson Art. Jeff Hanson, a visually impaired childhood cancer survivor, creates brilliant acrylic on-canvas works and has generated over $5 million for various causes with his art. Registration for the Artists and Angels Gala will open late spring.

Angels Among Us is a Nebraska non-profit that provides financial and emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living-in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply for financial support. In 2018, Angels Among Us provided financial support to 99 families, giving over $355,000, so they were able to remain stable during their pediatric cancer journey.

Please contact Alyssa Theilen, director of community relations/ development, at alyssa@myangelsamongus.org for any further questions, or go online to www.MyAngelsAmongUs.org to learn more.

On April 20, the REALTORS ® Association of Lincoln’s YPN Committee is hosting a Family Skate Night fundraising event for the Food Bank of Lincoln’s BackPack Program! The event sponsor, John Breslow Ice Hockey Center, is providing free ice time, skates, and the use of their facility for this family-fun event.

The fundraiser will run from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m. Cost is $5 per person with a maximum of $20 per family. Price includes food, skates, ice time, and kids’ activities. Everyone is welcome to join in this effort to raise money for this valuable community resource.

An estimated 18,940 children, ages 18 and younger, who live in Southeast Nebraska are considered food insecure. The Food Bank of Lincoln and its partners bring hope and nutritious food to an estimated 5,000 students and families each month. The program serves Lincoln-area schools, as well as 28 rural communities in the 16-county service area.

The REALTORS® Association of Lincoln is a local trade association, representing 900 members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. Learn more online at www.

LincolnREALTORS.com or contact Kyle Fischer, executive vice president, at (402) 441-3622 / Kyle@LincolnREALTORS.com.

Mark Your Calendars: Give to Lincoln Day Scheduled for May 30

Friends and Flowers WITH GARY THARNISH AT BURTON & TYRRELL'S FLOWERS

Enjoy time with friends learning tips and tricks on flower arranging and then create your own to take home. Check out our web page at btflowers.com and click on the Friends and Flowers Tab for details and pricing. Fresh, silk, or wedding themes available!

Call today!

402-421-2613 btflowers.com 38

Strictly Business APRIL 2019

Give To Lincoln Day returns on Thursday, May 30! For 24 hours, on Give to Lincoln Day, every donation given to local non-profits is made bigger by matching funds. It is one special day when everyone in Lincoln is asked to make a donation showing their support for the organizations that contribute so much to our great city.

Every donation given makes a bigger impact because non-profits also get a proportional share of a $400,000 challenge match fund provided

by Lincoln Community Foundation and their sponsors. For example, if a non-profit received 1% of the total donations raised during Give to Lincoln Day, they will get an additional $4,000 from the challenge match fund. Gifts can be made to participating non-profits online at GiveToLincoln.com from midnight to 11:59 p.m., or in person at one of the donation stations (find one at GiveToLincoln.com/about). Minimum donation is $10.

Donations can be given online in advance, starting May 1. Gifts made between May 1 and May 30 will be counted in the dollars raised on Give to Lincoln Day and qualify for matching funds. Go to the website to see dollars raised in real time.

Give to Lincoln Day’s purpose is to raise awareness of current philanthropic needs and opportunities in our community. All nonprofits recognized as 501(c)(3) public charities, which have an office in and serve the people of Lincoln/Lancaster County, are welcome to participate by registering at GiveToLincoln.com. Houses of worship and their foundations are excluded from participating. Give to Lincoln Day efforts are designed to help increase public awareness of local nonprofits, build their capacity and inspire donors to support the causes they love. Visit www.givetolincoln.com to make a donation or to view live results as the day progresses! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NON-PROFIT NEWS Bright Lights Opens Registrations for 2019 Summer Camps and Classes Bright Lights still has great summer classes and camps available! The program weeks for Summer 2019 are June 3–7, June 10–14, June 17–21, June 24–28, and July 15–19. Bright Lights classes are an ideal way for elementary and middle school students to maximize the fun of summer vacation while allowing parents to know their children are avoiding “the summer slide” learning loss.

Bright Lights follows this simple formula: A half-day morning class + lunch care + a half-day afternoon class = a whole day of fun!

Your student will have a full day of learning and hanging out with new friends, and you won’t have to pick them up until 4 p.m.

In addition, supervised Before Care is available beginning at 7:30 a.m. To add on Lunch Care or Before Care, simply choose it during the online registration process.

To see what camps and classes are available this summer, simply go to BrightLights.org and click on the registration link. You can filter the class results by grade so you can see the list of half-day classes/full-day camps your student can choose from. Remember to register for our classes based on the grade your student is in on March 24, 2019.

If anyone is interested in being a volunteer, Bright Lights has also class assistant spots open for students in eighth grade and older. Find out more and register at BrightLights.org or call (402) 420-1115.

CEF of Nebraska Offers Summer 5-Day Club® CEF of Nebraska will be providing kids with 5-Day Club® this summer at their homes. It will be like having a Vacation Bible School (VBS) at your house. That might sound overwhelming, but it is not.

5-Day Club is a free, exciting, funfilled, 90-minute Bible program held each day for five consecutive days for children between the ages of five and 12, regardless of religious background. Parents are welcome to attend with their child.

The 5-Day Club includes dynamic Bible lessons creative learning activities, an inspiring missionary story, meaningful songs, and life-changing Scripture memorization. Children learn biblical principles, moral values, character qualities, and respect for authority.

A 5-Day Club is held anywhere children are: daycares, apartment complexes, community centers, homes, churches, and parks. The club is led and conducted by students ages 13 through college who have attended Christian Youth in Action® (CYIA TM).

If you’re interested in hosting a club, or know of someone who might, contact us soon. Clubs will begin the week of June 17 and run weekly through August 2. All that is required of a host family is to invite the children in your neighborhood to your home (or neighborhood park) and provide a small snack for the children.

The CYIA teens do the rest of the work.

To host a 5-Day Club or help sponsor a club, contact CEF of Nebraska at (402) 484-7877 / office@ceflincoln.org. Learn more online at www.cefnebraska.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

DESIGN. BUILD. REMODEL. Kitchens • Baths • Sunrooms • Additions • Decks • Pergolas • Fine Furniture JONATHAN CURTIS DESIGN (402) 570-1136 | @JonathanCurtisDesign

Visit our website to find the perfect massage for you!

Spring Ahead For A Little Me Time Services Include: • Prenatal • Hot Stone • Heated Bamboo • Deep Tissue • Swedish • Sugar/Salt Scrubs • Aromatherapy • Reflexology • & more!

Book yours today! (402)617-7992 | vagaro.com/5elementsmassage

Deb Wagner of Woods Bros Realty Supports LLS Man & Woman of the Year Deb Wagner, local real estate agent for Woods Bros Realty, is proud to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Man & Woman of the Year campaign. Man & Woman of the Year is a 10-week philanthropic competition for nominated leaders in local communities across the United States. The 2019 candidates and their teammates are currently raising funds for LLS in honor of local blood cancer survivors. This year, Deb is a part of Jill Sands’ team. Jill is the first ever Man & Woman of the Year candidate from Lincoln!

The campaign kicked off on February 28 and Jill has until May 11 to raise funds to go towards hitting Nebraska’s 2019 goal of $500,000 to find a cure. The Grand Finale Celebration on the 11th will be held at Embassy Suites–La Vista, featuring dinner, a live and silent auction, and the announcement of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society 2019 Man & Women of the Year.

Deb lost a son to Leukemia 32 years ago, so this is a very meaningful cause to her. This opportunity is also special to Jill, as she will be raising money in honor of Garrett, a sixth grader from her hometown of Bertrand, NE. To join Deb’s team in support of Jill and donate, go to pages.mwoy.org/ne/omaha19/dwagner.

To contact Deb Wagner with Woods Bros Realty (HomeSalesByDeb. com), email Deb.Wagner@woodsbrosrealty.com or call (402) 4401314 (cell).

APRIL 2019 Strictly Business 39

NON-PROFIT NEWS Food Fort Hosts Valentine’s Day Dinner Fundraiser

Camp Sonshine to Host Arbor Day Tree Planting Fundraiser on April 27

Food Fort of Lincoln recently enjoyed hosting a Valentine’s Day dinner fundraising event on February 16. Donors were invited to enjoy a three-course steak dinner which was fully run by the youth that attend and utilize Food Fort sites around the Lincoln community. This event allowed a portion of Food Fort’s donor base an opportunity to meet and mingle with some of the youth benefiting from the Food Fort organization. This event additionally allowed the youth an opportunity to give back and serve in another way. The Food Fort was very pleased with how the event went and they raised a total of $1,700. A fun evening was had by all.

Camp Sonshine will host an Arbor Day tree planting fundraiser on Saturday, April 27. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Families and businesses are encouraged to sponsor one or more trees for the fundraiser. Trees can be purchased through the Camp Sonshine office. This specific event is a part of a larger strategic plan that is in place to efficiently and effectively create and beautify spaces for the growing number of campers hosted during the summer.

Food Fort is a non-profit that is dedicated to serving children in under resourced neighborhoods. In addition to providing food for those children in need, their mission is to provide more than just a meal. They seek to provide respect, love, build relationships, and a constant support system in children’s lives. Feeding, loving, and growing the future is their goal.

Food Fort of Lincoln is located at 2124 Y St., Flat 130. You can visit their website for more information at www.lincolnfoodfort. com. Follow along with their exciting news and events on Facebook (@lincolnfoodfort) as well.

Camp Sonshine, a non-profit camp and conference center with locations in Roca and Firth, both which offer a unique environment for families to experience the love of God through innovative programs, fun activities, and genuine relationships. Camp Sonshine was established in 2007 and served about 100 children during its first summer of day camps. Camp Sonshine recently experienced a major enrollment milestone by surpassing the 2,300-camper mark during the 2018 summer. Camp Sonshine’s second location in Firth, Camp Solaris, was gifted to them more recently. It is home to two dorm-style buildings for housing, one large multi-purpose building and 40 acres of land to explore. For more information about the camp, visit www.CampSonshineMemories.org or reach out to Trisha Keiser at (402) 423-8746 / info@campsonshinememories.org.

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Strictly Business APRIL 2019

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NON-PROFIT NEWS Fresh Start to Host Mini-Golf Tournament Fundraiser

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln Raises $19K at Community Builders Breakfast

On Saturday April 27, Fresh Start will be holding a mini-golf tournament at Adventure Golf Center at 56th and Old Cheney. This event will raise funds to support their mission of empowering women who are experiencing homelessness to change their lives. Participation is $20 per person and teams of four are encouraged.

Register soon to reserve your spot before this event sells out!

Activities will take place from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., and “putt-off” is at 9 a.m. The event includes a crêpe breakfast and mini golf. There will be a celebrity team challenge with KX 96.9 and 10/11 news in a tiebreaker match for their third year of participation!

Want an extra challenge? Teams are also encouraged to raise $180 to benefit homeless women in Lincoln ($10 per hole). Fresh Start is happy to announce Sid Dillon has partnered with them to help end homelessness by sponsoring this family-friendly event.

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, over 1,600 women have called Fresh Start home. For more information, including team registrations and sponsorships, visit www.FreshStartHome.org, call Audrey at (402) 4757777 or find Fresh Start on Facebook.

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln held its first-annual Community Builders Breakfast on Wednesday, February 13, at the Lincoln Station Grand Hall. During the brief, one-hour event, more than 200 attendees enjoyed a light breakfast while hearing first-hand accounts from Habitat homeowners and their children, the impact of Habitat Lincoln’s affordable homeownership program.

Community Builders Breakfast gave Habitat Lincoln an opportunity to share with its attendees their impact over the last 30 years, but more importantly how that impact has helped more than 170 families move from renting unaffordable and crowded apartments and mobile homes, to realizing their dream of owning their own home.

This new, one-hour fundraising event helped raise $19,000 toward Habitat Lincoln’s 2019-20 homebuyer and construction program.

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln is part of a global, non-profit housing organization that brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Alongside future homeowners, volunteers, and supporters, Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln helps Habitat homeowners achieve the strength, stability, and independence they need to build a better life for themselves and their families. To date, Habitat Lincoln has built or repaired more than 170 homes; serving more than 700 local individuals and 125 families globally in need of decent shelter. Habitat Lincoln has served Lancaster County community for more than 30 years. More information can be found at www.lincolnhabitat.org.

NCBB Recognizes Duncan Aviation as Corporate Blood Drive Sponsor of the Year Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB) recognizes Duncan Aviation as its Corporate Sponsor of the Year, honoring Duncan employees for donating more blood than any other corporate partner in 2018.

Duncan beat out its blood collection challenger, Zoetis, by just 10 units.

Both organizations host blood drives every other month with NCBB, and together generously donated nearly 1,000 units of blood in 2018.

“We are so thankful for our corporate sponsors who make blood donation part of their mission,” said Jami Kassebaum, NCBB donor recruitment assistant manager. “Nearly half of the blood we collect comes from blood drives held by volunteer sponsors. These partnerships are vital to ensuring we have a stable blood supply for our Nebraska hospitals.”

NCBB needs about 1,000 blood donors every week to meet the needs of patients at the 19 hospitals and medical facilities we serve. For many donors, it’s the convenience of on-site blood drives that gets them in the donation chair for the very first time.

“When businesses and organizations sponsor blood drives they are providing a convenient donation experience for the employees. This keeps them donating time after time,” Kassebaum said. “We need more organizations and businesses to host blood drives to grow our donor base and continue to provide blood to the people we live and work with.”

If you’re interested in hosting a blood drive or want to join the friendly competition, call Nebraska Community Blood Bank at (402) 486-9427 or email blooddrives@NCBB.org. For more information, call 1-877486-9414 or visit NCBB.org. Connect with NCBB on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

from

EH? 1968

Spirit of ‘68 Anniversary Celebration

Temple Building 12th & R Streets

nebraskarep.org 402.472.4747

Professionals in Residence at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln

April 20

to HAIR

March 27April 7 2019

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Design Your Dream Door Today!

NON-PROFIT NEWS HopeSpoke Presents 70th Anniversary Gourmet Comfort Classic April 26

Raynor Doors of Nebraska, Inc. is a garage door company specializing in many different types of garage door sales, service, and installation. We can customize an order to find the perfect door and operating system to best fit your needs.

Commercial • Residential • Industrial Call or stop by today! 402.477.5504 RaynorDoorsOfNebraska.com | 1634 S. 3rd St.

HopeSpoke’s 70th Anniversary Gourmet Comfort Classic event will be held on Friday, April 26, 6–9 p.m. at the Scottish Rite Ballroom.

The theme for this year is The Best Comfort Food Since 1949! This year’s Benefactor and Visionary sponsors are Chateau Development, ABC Electric, and Union Bank & Trust.

The Gourmet Comfort Classic is a chef ’s competition featuring the area’s top chefs who donate food and time as they compete to create the finest gourmet version of a classic comfort food. HopeSpoke is excited to have the following compete this year: Billy’s, Cactus, Chez Hay, Nebraska Club, Mary Ellen’s, Stur 22, and Venue Restaurant & Lounge. The event includes a program, silent auction, live music, and more!

If you would like to purchase individual tickets for $75 each or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, go online to hopespoke.ticket. qtego.net. New this year, April 1–15, you will be able to bid on three ticket packages for Cirque De Soleil Crystal set for Wednesday, April 24, 7:30 p.m. at CHI Health Center in Omaha.

All proceeds go to support HopeSpoke’s mission. For questions, contact Jenny Cardwell, CFRE, development director, at jcardwell@ hopespoke.org / (402) 475-7666. Learn more online at www. hopespoke.org.

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Strictly Business APRIL 2019

Community Health Charities Awards Curt Gordon Memorial Foundation Grants Community Health Charities of Nebraska, soon to be CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive), announced the 2019 Curt Gordon Memorial Foundation grant recipients. Distributions made from the endowment fund are generated by funds from donors above and beyond the annual workplace campaigns across the state. Six of the organization’s 22 member charities received programming grants this year: • Autism Action Partnership: $3,000 to fund the Circle of Friends program in 10 schools.

• Arthritis Foundation Nebraska: $2,000 to send two kids to JA summer camp and a $500 sponsorship for JA Family Day. • Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska: $1,500 to fund outreach to one organization to train employees to screen, identify, and manage brain injury.

• Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, Nebraska/Iowa Chapter: $2,500 to fund two scholarships for Camp Oasis.

• JDRF International – Heartland Chapter, Lincoln and Greater Nebraska: $3,250 to fund two family movie days in greater Nebraska.

• Kidney: $3,850 to provide approximately 230 detection screenings in conjunction with CHAD workplace giving campaigns in 2019.

• UCP: $5,500 to fully fund the expansion of the Go Baby Go program to greater Nebraska.

Community Health Charities of Nebraska also announced the winner of the first-ever Community Choice grant on its website: www.chcne.org.

The $1,000 grant recipient was chosen by community vote. Learn more by calling (402) 614-8500 (state office). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NON-PROFIT NEWS Jersey Mike’s Sponsors Day of Giving for TeamMates of Lincoln

CBMC Presents 18th Annual Golf Classic, Announces Roy Helu as Guest Speaker

On March 27, TeamMates of Lincoln was thrilled to be a designated Jersey Mike’s Day of Giving par tner.

Throughout the month of March, Jersey Mike’s Sub shops invited customers to support community partners through their Month of Giving campaign. Days of Giving were organized by Jersey Mike’s owners and operators throughout the country to donate their sales to youth organizations, food banks, and other non-profits.

Annually, over 100 golfers attend CBMC’s Golf Classic and luncheon at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course. Golfers will enjoy a great luncheon with a guest speaker, a premier golf course, auction items, raffle prizes, and multiple team and pin prizes.

Every dollar that came into Lincoln-area Jersey Mike’s on March 27 went directly to TeamMates of Lincoln to support their mission to positively impact the world by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring. The funds raised through the campaign will help the Lincoln TeamMates chapter recruit, screen, train, and support more than 1,200 mentors who meet with area students in over 70 public and parochial schools.

If you would like to partner with TeamMates for an event, please contact their office at (402) 436-1990. Learn more about the organization online at teammates.org.

Tabitha to Offer Support Groups, Volunteer Training, and Remembrance Service Tabitha, Nebraska’s industryleading senior care provider, offers support groups and individual hospice volunteer training in April, along with a remembrance service in May. Grief and support groups are open to anyone in the community experiencing loss or needing support.

Please call (402) 486-8506 for confirmation of dates.

• Loss of a Loved One Drop-in Grief Group, every Monday, 10–11:30 a.m., at the Front Porch Coffee Shop, 5925 Adams St. • Loss of a Loved One Drop-in Grief Group, every Wednesday, 1:30–3 p.m., at The Harbor Coffeehouse, 1265 S. Cotner Blvd.

• Men’s Drop-in Grief Group, every other Friday, April 12 and 26, 1:30–3 p.m., at Hy-Vee deli, 7151 Stacy Ln. • Growing through Grief, a six-week support group, Wednesdays, April 3–May 8, 10–11:30 a.m., at Tabitha, 4720 Randolph St. For questions, please contact Pastor Ray Boeche, Tabitha Hospice bereavement coordinator, at (402) 486-8546.

Tabitha also invites you to join the Tabitha Hospice team for a Remembrance Service to celebrate the life of your loved one and share in the support of our community. This service will include a special tribute to fallen veterans and their families. It will be held on Thursday, May 23, 6 p.m., at Tabitha Chapel, 4720 Randolph St. Tabitha offers individual hospice volunteer training throughout Lancaster County as well. Hospice volunteering is a rewarding opportunity that provides companionship, pet therapy, bereavement support, respite care, light housekeeping, office, and clerical support, while providing comfort and joy to Tabitha clients. For questions or to learn more about hospice volunteering, contact Tabitha Hospice at (402) 486-8506 / Hospice.Volunteer@Tabitha.org. Tabitha is Your Answer for Senior Care, learn more at Tabitha.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

This year’s guest speaker is Roy Helu, a standout running back with the Nebraska Cornhuskers from 2007 to 2010. By the time he graduated in 2011, he was 4th on the Huskers all-time rushing list and broke Nebraska’s single-game rushing record by rushing for 307 yards, scoring three touchdowns vs. Missouri in 2010.

He was drafted by the Washington Redskins and played from 2011 to 2014 and then was with the Oakland Raiders, concluding his career in 2016. He will talk about his life experiences, football, and the impact his Christian faith has had on his life. A limited number of tickets for the luncheon only are also available.

For more info, to register a team or become a sponsor, go to Lincoln. cbmc.com/golf-classic or contact CBMC at (402) 204-1997.

CBMC Lincoln is a ministry to business and professional individuals, encouraging them toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others. For information about Lincoln CBMC, visit Lincoln.cbmc.com or call (402) 204-1997.

You can also find them on Facebook at CBMC Lincoln.

High Visibility

Pad Sites High Visibility on High Traffic Corner Plaza Court Office Park 84th & Hwy 2 We are looking for the following businesses: • Medical • Office • Personal Services AND MORE!

Pad Sites Available!

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL

402-610-0523

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NON-PROFIT NEWS Nonprofit Association of the Midlands to Release Economic Impact Report Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) is excited to announce that it will be releasing its 2019 Economic Impact Report this month. This report was last completed in 2012, so it was time for updated report. The report includes important information about the non-profit workforce and volunteering in Nebraska, as well as the overall impact the non-profit sector makes on state economy.

NAM helps non-profits help their communities. There are thousands of non-profits in the local community—each trying to make a difference on its own. NAM brings them together so that each non-profit member can benefit from the collective strength of the organization. NAM is committed to the following goals: • Enhance public recognition of the importance and role of the nonprofit sector to the people of Nebraska.

• Provide access to high quality assistance and information on effective non-profit management and practices.

• Advocate on issues that affect the capacity of all non-profits to address their communities’ needs.

• Foster communication and cooperation among non-profits.

For more information, visit www.nonprofitam.org. Questions can be directed to Hannah Young at (402) 827-3065 or hannah@ nonprofitam.org.

YO UR L OC A L S O U RC E F OR

PLUMBING

Hy-Vee Collects Donations for CEDARS Hy-Vee is known for having a helpful smile in every aisle.

Now, shoppers have one more reason to smile. During the month of April, local Hy-Vee locations are getting into the philanthropic spirit by collecting monetary donations for CEDARS. Collection boxes will be displayed in checkout lanes. Individuals interested in helping children and their families are encouraged to donate their spare change.

Every day CEDARS works to build stronger families in our community, which ensures that the vulnerable children receive the safety and stability they need to thrive and reach their full potential. For over 70 years, support from caring individuals, families, and like-minded organizations have allowed this work to continue. This past year, CEDARS served 194 families and 2,441 children. To learn how CEDARS supports families in the community visit cedarskids.org or call (402) 434-5437.

City Impact to Host Ribbon Cutting for New Scheels Gym & Fitness Center Through the generosity of the Scheels Foundation and Lincoln’s Scheels All Sports store, the dream of having a gym at City Impact to serve neighborhood families is now a reality. Children and families involved with City Impact will be able to use the gym for fitness classes, basketball leagues, and so much more. To celebrate this new aspect of City Impact, they will host a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, April 9 from 4–8 p.m. at City Impact (1035 N 33rd St.). This event will include family-friendly activities, giveaways from local businesses, and a chance for the community to view the new facility.

City Impact is a non-profit organization whose mission is to transform vulnerable communities through holistic youth, family, and neighborhood development. For more information or to make a donation, visit their website at cityimpact.org or Facebook page (@CityImpactLincoln).

Questions about the event can be directed to Lisa Guill at (402) 4778080 or by email at lguill@cityimpact.org.

Stuff the Bus for Friendship Home April 6–7

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Friendship Home has once again partnered with StarTran, Alpha Media radio stations, Walmart and Sam’s Club stores for the 20th annual Stuff the Bus event. Stuff the Bus asks the Lincoln community to help stuff four StarTran buses full of new items needed by the families staying at Friendship Home. The items donated will stock shelter shelves for the coming year.

Friendship Home volunteers will be at all Lincoln Walmart and Sam’s Club stores on April 6 and 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., handing out needs lists to shoppers. Anyone is welcome to pick up a list, choose some items to purchase and help “stuff the bus” parked outside the store. Cash donations and gift cards are also accepted. To learn more about this event, please visit www.friendshiphome.org.

Friendship Home is Lincoln’s only safe, confidential emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and their children. Services include emergency and transitional shelter, as well as supportive services, through safety planning, crisis intervention, support groups, and mental health counseling. To access safe shelter and services, call (402) 437-9302. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NON-PROFIT NEWS The Set Me Free Project Celebrates Success of 2019 Comedy for Change Event The Set Me Free Project team is so grateful for everyone that braved the weather to join them for a fun night of laughter, an auction, dinner, and drinks at 2019’s Comedy for Change event on March 7! The event was a night that gave everyone permission to laugh. Sex trafficking is a very heavy topic, and the Set Me Free team wants to make sure that they and their supporters take a break and encourage everyone to enjoy themselves. This annual event brings a majority of necessary funds to The Set Me Free Project for the whole year. If you were not able to attend, but would still like to contribute a donation, please do so at setmefreeproject.net.

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Additionally, The Set Me Free Project has recently posted job opportunities. The positions they’re looking to fill are: part-time educator; Americorps VISTA volunteer; data analyst/donor relations; and volunteer/outreach coordinator. All of the descriptions for these positions, as well as details to apply, are available on the website under the “connect” tab.

The Set Me Free Project’s goal is to stop trafficking before it starts.

Everyone can have a part in this, #traffickingstopswithme. Educate yourself, encourage others to be educated. Awareness is only one step; prevention is a crucial element to ending human trafficking. For more, visit setmefreeproject.net or contact the organization at info@ setmefreeproject.net / (402) 521-3080.

BROKERAGE FIRMS FIRMS THAT THAT SOLD SOLD MORE MORE BROKERAGE HOMES IN IN LINCOLN LINCOLN THAN THAN HOME HOME REAL REAL HOMES ESTATE IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS: ESTATE IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS:

Mourning Hope to Host Annual Fundraiser, Announces National Speaker The Mourning Hope Grief Center will host the 14th annual Hope in the Morning fundraiser on Thursday, May 2, from 7:30 to 9a.m., at the Country Club of Lincoln, with special guest speaker Vicki Jay. As Mourning Hope celebrates 25 years of bringing hope and healing to the Lincoln community, Vicki will share insight and trends from the childhood bereavement field across the nation.

The invitation-only Hope in the Morning event brings together business and philanthropic leaders, elected officials, corporate partners, community members, and grief professionals for an educational and motivational breakfast.

Vicki serves as CEO for the National Alliance for Grieving Children (NAGC). Her 19-year hospice career included end-offife community education director and 10 years as founder and executive director of Rays of Hope Children’s Grief Center in Midland, TX. She is recognized for her role in children’s advocacy and for her strengths in public speaking and community education.

Mourning Hope Grief Center exists because every child deserves the opportunity to grieve in a supportive and understanding environment. Their services are available at no cost to participants, and no family is ever turned away. Receiving no government funding or insurance reimbursement, Mourning Hope relies solely on private donations from individuals, businesses, service clubs, and foundations. For information about the organization or being a table captain or event sponsor for Hope in the Morning, please visit mourninghope.org or call (402) 488-8989. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

#1 IN LINCOLN 22 AVERAGE DAYS ON THE MARKET $232,970 AVERAGE SALES PRICE

HOMEREALESTATE.COM

Source: Midlands MLS, 1-1-18 to 12-31-18 as of 1-29-19 This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by Midlands MLS Inc. The Midlands MLS Inc. does not guarantee or marked responsible for accuracy.

Data maintained by Midlands MLS Inc. may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. These statistics include single family homes only and may not represent all real estate information in our market. All averages are for HOME Real Estate only over all price ranges.

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NON-PROFIT NEWS Nebraska Recycling Council to Host Earth Day Collection Event April 27 The Nebraska Recycling Council is hosting a Collection for Hard-toRecycle Materials (CHaRM) on Saturday, April 27 from 9 a.m. to noon at Nebraska Innovation Campus (NIC) in conjunction with Lincoln Earth Day. Vehicles will enter NIC from the eastern-most entrance off Salt Creek Roadway.

Electronics, including CRT monitors, will be collected free of charge (TVs will be an additional charge; no microwaves will be accepted).

A document shredding truck will be present to shred personal documents. Rechargeable batteries and many household goods, including furniture, small appliances, shoes and clothing will also be accepted. Volunteers will be present to unload vehicles. For a comprehensive list of materials that will be accepted, visit www. nrcne.org.

Sponsors of this community event are: Valmont Industries, Nebraska Innovation Campus, Tetrad Property Group, Sadoff E-Recycling & Data Destruction (R2 Certified), Goodwill Industries of Southeast Nebraska, Interstate All Battery, Security Shredding Services, and The Mill Coffee and Bistro. ALLO Communications employees will also be volunteering to unload vehicles.

Nebraska Recycling Council is a statewide, member-based, organization, headquartered in Lincoln. For more information, visit www.nrcne.org or call (402) 436-2384.

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach Celebrates Over 3K Volunteers During National Volunteer Appreciation Month, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is celebrating the more than 3,000 volunteers of all ages who give their time, talent, and treasure to assist with agency operations. For 26 years and counting, compassionate volunteers have come to Matt Talbot to provide, prepare and serve hot nutritious meals to the working poor and homeless in Lincoln. Many volunteers also assist with administrative tasks and outreach programs such as laundry and shower services. These volunteers, some of whom have been around for all 26 years, are tireless in their efforts to provide nourishment for the body and spirit.

Last year, volunteers provided more than 35,000 hours of labor (valued at $572,965) and $245,725 in food donations for meals.

With over 900 volunteers helping each month, Matt Talbot coordinates one of the largest volunteer efforts in the Lincoln community.

“Matt Talbot exists because of the compassion and vision of volunteers who saw an unmet need in our community in 1992”, said Susanne Blue, executive director. “Our volunteers are awesome and continue to make a substantial investment in Matt Talbot. We simply couldn’t provide the services we do without their help.”

To learn more about volunteering at Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach, visit mtko.org/volunteer.

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ADVANCED MEDICAL IMAGING: PARKINSON’S AWARENESS MONTH (402) 484-6677

www.AMImaging.com

New Parkinson’s Scan Helps Give Patients Answers April is Parkinson’s Awareness month and thanks to one Lincolnite, Linda Schmechel, Lincoln’s Parkinson’s Desease (PD) testing has significantly improved in the past year. On October 25, 2018 Linda Schmechel was the first person to receive a DaTscan in Lincoln. DaTscan is a drug that is administered prior to a SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) scan to help a radiologist see whether or not there is degeneration of dopamine transporters in the brain. Studying this degeneration along with a patient’s changes in functioning helps physicians to determine if a patient’s symptoms may be related to Parkinson’s Disease. In Schmechel’s case, her scan was read by a radiologist who found it positive for parkinsonian syndromes (PSs).

Parkinson’s Disease is a disease widely known and typically associated with tremors and shuffling. Schmechel was experiencing the lesser known symptoms of the disease such as coordination and balance issues when she visited with her primary care provider in 2016. Her doctor was the first to suggest the chance of PD to Schmechel. Looking for answers, she attended a medical conference on Parkinson’s Disease and learned that there is much debate on the best way to diagnose. She heard that DaTscan is now commonly used to help differentiate between parkinsonian syndrome (PS) and essential tremor (ET). She then met with a Las Vegas neurologist who diagnosed her with left hemiparesis movement disorder.

He stated that only with a positive DaTscan would he be willing to confirm a diagnosis of PD. As a past patient of Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI), Schmechel reached out to the imaging center to see if they offered the scan in the spring of 2018. AMI told her they didn’t currently offer DaTscan but were very interested in helping local patients get the answers they need. In October of 2018, Schmechel became the first patient to receive a DaTscan in Lincoln. Since then AMI has continued to see patients for this test and

April is

has helped answer their questions. The supply of this radiopharmaceutical is very limited and must be secured in advance to perform a scan. Currently, Advanced Medical Imaging is the only location in the state, west of Omaha, to offer this test.

After receiving the test results, Schmechel recalled, “I was disappointed and stunned. I cried and retreated for a couple of days. People who knew I was having the test would call, but I didn’t feel like talking.” A stroke and stage-four cancer survivor, she remembers telling herself it was time to “face it and handle it.”

When asked what advice she has for other people going through a PD diagnosis Schmechel says “first, learn all you can about it and then get second opinions. Good healthcare providers welcome that. It helps to get a more specific diagnosis.” Because there is so much to remember at these appointments she strongly recommends that people “take a family member or friend into your appointment. Anyone you trust. Have them take notes. Sometimes they will have good questions or remind the physician of something that you did that you forgot or were too embarrassed to mention.” As far as resources go, Schmechel recommends the Michael J. Fox foundation’s website because of the clinical trials they have coordinated and their online resources. “Parkinson’s research is in the place where cancer was 20 years ago,” says Schmechel. “It has gotten better. Much more than ten years ago.”

Patients interested in finding out if the DaTscan could give them the answers they are looking for should talk to their neurologist or primary care provider. More information is also available at AMImaging.com/DaTscan.

Parkinson’s Awareness Month

Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms

• Tremors • Instability and walking issues • Muscle stiffness • Slowed or loss of voluntary movement • Cognitive impairment • Speech changes • Trouble writing

New Parkinson’s Test Available in Lincoln

Advanced Medical Imaging is the first and only office in Lincoln offering DaTscan, a test used by physicians to help diagnose parkinsonian syndromes. This test allows radiologists to observe degeneration of dopamine transporters in the brain, a possible sign of Parkinson’s Disease. If you or your loved one is suffering from Parkinson’s symptoms, talk to a primary care provider or neurologist to find out if DaTscan could give you answers.

402-464-6677

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AMImaging.com

7601 Pioneers Blvd.

Not affiliated with Advanced Radiology of Grand Island, P.C.

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HEALTH NEWS American Heart Association’s Heart Walk Celebrates National 25th Anniversary

Husker Rehab Celebrates 20 Years, Joins Bryan Health Connect

For 25 years, the American Heart Association (AHA) has motivated thousands of Americans to take steps to reduce cardiovascular disease and stroke through the Heart Walk. Locally, AHA is celebrating 20 years of Heart Walk celebrations with the Lincoln Heart Walk on Saturday, May 4.

Husker Rehabilitation & Wellness Centers, PC is celebrating its 20-year anniversary.

With six locations spanning southeast Nebraska, Husker Rehab continues to help patients stay healthy and meet the needs of those in the communities it serves.

In addition, Husker Rehab is excited to announce that it joined the Bryan Health Connect in February.

Bryan Health Connect works closely with physician practices, facilities, and hospitals to help maintain independence in a changing health care environment. It offers a broad, clinically and financially integrated, high-quality, cost-effective network of providers. As a member, Husker Rehab will have access to physician support and resources that improve practice efficiency and enhance quality of care. Along with its partnership with Midwest Sports Performance, Husker Rehab is truly able provide cost-effective holistic rehabilitation and occupational health services which exceed their patients’ expectations and maximize functional outcomes.

Serving three locations in Lincoln (345 Speedway Cir., STE 3; 4911 N. 26th St., STE 100; and 6940 Van Dorn St., STE 202), Husker Rehab is looking for quality clients that are in need of physical rehabilitation that takes a unique look at postural influences of your everyday life activity so a specialized exercise program can be prescribed and return to full functional activity can be achieved.

Learn more about Husker Rehabilitation & Wellness Centers at huskerrehab.com or contact Jacob McColloch at the Speedway Village Clinic at (402) 904-6419 / jmccolloch@huskerrehab.com.

The American Heart Association has worked to improve cardiovascular health by introducing Hands-Only CPR, implementing the Heart-Check Food Certification Program, and encouraging people to make one small change to improve their health. Heart Walks are now part of the Healthy For Good initiative, which is the AHA’s initiative to inspire all Americans to live healthier lives and create lasting change. For more information about registering for the Lincoln Heart Walk, visit LincolnHeartWalk.com.

American Cancer Society Promotes Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention The American Cancer Society stated that, for Americans who do not use tobacco, the most important cancer risk factors that can be changed are body weight, diet, and physical activity. The World Cancer Research Fund estimates that about 20% of all cancers diagnosed in the U.S. are related to body fatness, physical inactivity, excess alcohol consumption, and/or poor nutrition, and thus could be prevented. Although our genes influence our risk of cancer, most of the difference in cancer risk between people is due to factors that are not inherited. Avoiding tobacco products, staying at a healthy weight, staying active throughout life, and eating a healthy diet may greatly reduce a person’s lifetime risk of developing or dying from cancer. Community efforts are needed to create an environment that makes it easier for us to make healthy choices when it comes to diet and physical activity. Get the facts at cancer.org/healthy.

LMEP’s Stepping Stones Program Updates Look, Name, and Services Lincoln Medical Education Partnership (LMEP) has recently revamped its Stepping Stones for Families program by giving it a new name, a new look, and adding expanded services and insurance plans. Stepping Stones is an outpatient substance abuse treatment center, providing alcohol and drug assessments and counseling services. Stepping Stones accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield, Midlands Choice, Nebraska Total Care, Wellcare of Nebraska, United Healthcare Community Plan, and Medica.

Stepping Stones now offers Safety Sensitive Education and counseling for those in Safety Sensitive positions under the Department of Transportation (DOT) covered entities. To participate in Safety Sensitive Education, an individual must have completed a Substance Use Evaluation with a DOT qualified Substance Abuse Professional and have a recommendation for drug and/or alcohol education. Sessions can be held individually or in a group setting.

At one convenient site (4600 Valley Rd.), LMEP is able to offer families the tools to achieve good health and to become self-sufficient. To make an appointment or learn more, contact Shannon Miller at (402) 4886511 / kmadcharo@lmep.com, or visit Stepping Stones’ website at www.steppingstoneslincoln.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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FRIENDS4LUNCH Last Month - Venue Restaurant & Lounge Thank you to all who joined us for a delicious meal at Venue Restaurant & Lounge on Tuesday, March 5. This was not the first time that Venue Restaurant & Lounge has hosted our group for Friends4Lunch, as it is definitely a crowd-pleaser!

The cuisine is made from scratch with the freshest ingredients and farm-to-table products from Nebraska farms and exquisite seafood from all around the world. They take pride in being Gluten-Free Certified. Our group’s select menu included the pecan bleu salad, chicken salad sandwich, NY strip pastrami Reuben, quiche of the day, and the grilled salmon.

Venue is located at 4111 Pioneer Woods Dr., STE 100. Find them online at www.yourvenue.net or on Facebook (@VenueLNK).

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This Month - Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar Our Strictly Business team would like to invite you to our upcoming Friends4Lunch event at Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar on Wednesday, April 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Rock ‘n’ Joe is a national franchise, but is locally owned by Dennis and Jayna Nienhueser and managed by their daughter Tara Ihde. Rock ‘n’ Joe is all about creative excellence. It is a cool place for folks who love exceptional coffee, premium food, and quality rock ‘n’ roll music in a trendy and relaxing environment. Their full menu will be open to our group, which includes a variety of sandwiches, soups, salads, and pastries. A majority of the pastries and breads are sourced from local bakery, Le Quartier. Attendees will also be able to enjoy Rock ‘n’ Joe’s range of coffee and espresso beverages for an afternoon boost! Rock ‘n’ Joe is located at 5025 Lindberg St. Please RSVP to office@strictlybusinessomaha.com or call the Strictly Business office at (402) 466-3330. You can also find the event on our Facebook page (@strictlybusinessmagazine).

Friends4Lunch is one of our continued monthly networking events held at one of our favorite local restaurants. The tradition was established in the hopes of offering a casual way to make valuable connections with friends and strangers alike in the area over lunch while supporting our clients and enjoying their amazing cuisine. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT TH E O NLY A UTH OR IZ E D DEALE R/ I NSTALLE R O F

Ceramic PRO in Nebraska!

GP Customs, your source for the latest automobile technology and highest quality workmanship from industry-certified technicians, is proud to be the only authorized Ceramic Pro Paint Protection Dealer in Nebraska. Ceramic Pro is the world’s leading manufacturer of multi-layerable, clear, liquid nano-ceramic coatings. It has revolutionized the automotive, marine, aeronautics, and heavy machine industries through the most technologically-advanced protective system available today. When applied professionally, it creates a permanent glossy, slick, and self-cleaning surface that preserves finish and paint luster.

AB O UT GP CUS TO MS

“The term ‘ceramic coating’ is familiar to most car buyers today. Even before delivery, some take their new car for applying ceramic coating. Ceramic coating is a clear coat which includes a liquid polymer. When ceramic coating is applied on a car’s body, the polymer forms a chemical bonding with the factory paint. Once coated, it can only be removed by abrasion and not by any chemicals. If done correctly, ceramic coating can even last the lifetime of the car.

GP Customs is the premier leader in car audio, automotive accessories, and window tinting. Founded in 2006 and based out of Lincoln, GP Customs’ main objective was to create a window tinting business with an emphasis on customer service, professionalism, and 100% satisfaction for each and every customer. Soon after, GP Customs integrated car audio and mobile video products and services into the business, offering the highest quality audio and video products around.

When ceramic coating is applied on a car’s body, the polymer forms a In recent years, GP Customs has evolved by foreseeing a need for a “one chemical bonding with the factory paint. Once coated, it can only be removed stop shop.” The management at GP Customs is proud to hire the most by abrasion and not by any chemicals. If done correctly, ceramic coating can knowledgeable industry professionals that can offer a wide range of services even last the lifetime of the car. under one roof. With an emphasis on customer service, GP Customs strives Ceramic coating offers good protection to the car’s surface. The nano-coating to work with their customers to give them the best possible options to fit their can protect the car from most scratches, dirt, and chemical contaminants. budget and accessory needs.

Ceramic coating also doesn’t have any side-effects to the original paint.

Ceramic coating also lasts longer than regular paint. Since the coating is infused with the stock paint due to strong chemical bonding, the protection stays put even under heavy shocks and vibrations. A car with ceramic coating is also easier to clean. The body panels of a ceramic coated car will be smooth and free of abrasions. Such a surface offers no place for dirt to stick on to. Even if it does, a simple swipe with a clean cloth brings the car back to its radiant finish.” - Robert Peinado, GP Customs

Contact us today! 1501 Cushman Dr., Lincoln, NE 68512 | 402.421.0888 | www.gp-customs.com 52

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

by Terry Uland, President

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

A Year In Review - Lincoln’s First Bike Share Program

28,000 trips. Eight and a half months of operation. Four years of planning. 2018 was a big first year for Lincoln’s downtown bike share program! In fact, Bike LNK saw more trips in 2018 than much larger cities’ bike share programs, like Kansas City and Memphis.

“It’s those things that make you realize why Lincoln is such a great place to be,” Bike LNK manager Jamie Granquist said. “And it’s only getting better.”

The idea for a downtown bike share program for Lincoln began in 2014 and was a student-led push from the Association of Students of the University of Nebraska (ASUN). ASUN pitched the program to the city planning department, was approved for funding from the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program, got a nod from city council, and Bike LNK was on its way to fruition. In September 2017, orders were placed for bikes and kiosks through the BCycle bike share company.

Granquist was hired in February 2018 and hit the ground running with a small team planning the Bike LNK launch, working on building bikes, and getting 19 kiosks on the ground in downtown Lincoln and the UNL campus. The team shared a round table in a small office and built bikes in the basement of the municipal building at the Lincoln airport—100 bikes in one room take up a lot of space.

April 20, 2018 marked the official launch of Bike LNK with a ribbon cutting and celebration in the Railyard. The following two weeks saw 1,500 bike trips. In September, Bike LNK had a high of 5,300 trips.

“Everybody was pleasantly surprised about how well it did,” Granquist said.

At a company-wide convention that invited all cities using BCycle bike share systems, the Bike LNK team also was surprised to find that Lincoln’s daily traffic patterns were unusual. Unlike other cities, Lincoln’s bike share experiences a fourth “bump” in numbers following the usual spikes in usage in the morning, at lunchtime, and for the commute home from work.

“That’s because our downtown is so vibrant with the restaurants that we have, the music venues that we have, movie theaters, and bars,” Granquist said. “And so we see a fourth rise in our trips between 8 and 10 p.m. that other cities frankly don’t see. It just really speaks to the great place that we live.” Granquist’s advice to people who are wanting to use the bike share program but are unsure of where to begin is to start small and make small goals.

“Maybe on a Thursday, just decide you’re going to park by the ball diamonds at Lincoln High, check out a bike from the kiosks at Nelnet, and ride the rest of the way to work,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be these huge steps. It’s small changes that add up to huge things.”

Bike LNK’s top user, Joe Huffman, started by simply checking out a bike to ride around during his lunch hour.

In 2019, Granquist said she hopes to see expansion to neighborhoods outside of downtown where people live, and improving the service in general based on feedback.

She’s proud to say that Bike LNK’s inaugural success in 2018 was a collaborative effort from a lot of passionate people.

“I think that really reflects the place that Lincoln is,” she said. “We just really work together, everybody’s a friend—you give the finger wave off the steering wheel as you pass people. We just don’t ever lose 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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Contact us today! 402-466-0555 | DPCUnlimitedLLC.com

402-603-0304 VIPServiceInc.com @VIPServiceInc APRIL 2019 Strictly Business

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT About Moonlight Custom Screenprint & Embroidery We are pioneers in the screenprinting industry because we think outside of the box when others say it can’t be done. Moonlight takes care of everything, from design to delivery. We choose to offer the highest end inks as our standard way of printing. We are passionate about what we do and with passion comes dedication.

We are dedicated to our clients and their projects and it shows through in our work. Since 1999, we have been perfecting the craft of ing. We are known for our quick turnaround time, but we are remembered for our attention to detail, high quality prints, and passionate team. At Moonlight, we strive to deliver the highest quality prints as the result of our accelerated printing specialties. We have set forth high core values to be instilled in our team. These values are practiced and applied daily within our team as well as with customer interaction.

WORKFLOW AUTOMATION We handle everything from design, ordering, setup, and fundraising all for you.

BUDGET ACCOUNTING

While the company is based out of Kearney, Moonlight Custom Screenprint & Embroidery moved into Lincoln in 2017.

Providing you with the apparel you want while remaining in budget.

What is screenprinting? - Screenprinting is a technique that uses a woven mesh to support an ink-blocking stencil. The attached stencil forms open areas of mesh that transfer ink as a sharp-edged image onto a substrate.

FLEXIBLE TURNAROUND

What is embroidery? - Embroidery is the stitching a decorative design on fabric with needle and thread of various colors.

What kind of items can you ? - T-shirts, sweatshirts, polos, jackets, team uniforms, hats, posters, bumper stickers, window lettering, vehicle lettering, and more. If you’re not sure if we can help you with your item, please contact us.

Whether it’s in one day or one week, we work hard to meet your deadlines on time.

Do you have a minimum order requirement? - Minimum order of 12 pieces.

Do you offer design services? - Yes, pricing will vary depending on project details.

How long does an order typically take? - 10–14 business days.

How many colors can you ? - Up to 8 colors for any project.

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SOLUTION DEFINING Getting you one-of-a-kind personalized apparel for school, work, or personal events.

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Hassle-free ordering & setup. Quotes, artwork, design, setup, ordering —we take care of everything else to make getting customized apparel even easier. Let’s work together!

moonlightcustom.ink | Lincoln Office: (402) 937-7014 | orders@moonlightemb.com 54

Strictly Business APRIL 2019

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

by Coby Mach, President & CEO

(402) 466-3419 • www.liba.org

LIBA Opposes Increasing State Sales Tax Collections The Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) opposes LB507. We do not believe imposing new sales taxes and eliminating sales tax exemptions will provide the meaningful property tax relief that Nebraskans are seeking.

We are most concerned that this bill will impose sales taxes on a number of service industries that are predominantly comprised of small businesses. These include small businesses that provide moving and storage services, lawn care, transportation services, personal care services, home repair, parking services, and music and dance lessons for children, among others. Every customer of these businesses will have to pay more for these services, which may cause some customers to cut back or eliminate these services altogether as they become more costly.

Many recognize that small businesses are the driving force of local economies. In Nebraska, more than 400,000 employees are employed by small businesses. However, the success of small businesses can often be fleeting. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 20% of small businesses fail by the end of their first year. By the end of their fifth year, 50% go under; and by the tenth year, the number of failures rises to 80%.

We need to be looking into policies that encourage the growth of small businesses and make it easier for them to remain open, instead of making the goods and services they provide costlier for consumers. A thriving small business community will generate higher levels of revenue in local property taxes and lower the property tax burden on the rest of the community.

This bill also singles out non-profits that provide vital community services, including charitable and religious organizations. For example, LB507 imposes sales taxes on legal and accounting services provided to nonprofits, and removes the tax exemption on fees that non-profits charge to cover the costs of youth development, healthy living, and athletic programs.

Under LB507, even school lunches are not spared. This bill would remove the sales tax exemption for prepared food served by public or private schools, which will directly increase the costs of school lunches for children.

LB507 also picks winners and losers by arbitrarily deciding which industries and services get to keep their sales tax exemptions, and which do not. For example, newspaper deliveries are spared, but flower deliveries are not. Food for hospital patients remain exempt, but not food for students.

Most importantly, LB507 fails to provide a lasting solution for property tax relief. This bill does not take any steps to control escalating property taxes or control spending at the local level by the political subdivisions that levy property taxes.

Another bill, LB710 would raise the tax on cigars from the current 20% to a new high of 65%. If you take a $5 cigar purchased from a wholesaler and add a 65% tobacco tax, that cigar is now $8.25. And that is before any retail mark-up or the 7% sales tax is added.

And of course there is LB314 that would raise the tax on beer from .31 cents to $1.38 per gallon. LB314 makes Nebraska #1 in a way we don’t want—we would have the highest beer tax in the United States.

I encourage you to contact your State Senator and ask them to oppose the new ½ cent sales tax that is being discussed as part of the Property Tax relief plan and all these other tax increases too. You don’t lower taxes by increasing taxes.

LIBA studies and promotes these types of issues that are important to businesses and our community. If you have an interest in joining LIBA, please call me 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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LIBA NEW MEMBERS

Adorned Bridal Adorned Bridal is a local boutique, offering bridal, bridesmaid, and prom gowns. Additionally, they offer handmade hair pieces and veils, and flower girl attire. Cheryl Thompson, owner of Adorned Bridal, has over 20 years of bridal experience in Lincoln and she has owned her boutique for seven years. Formally Elegant Occasions Gowns, Adorned Bridal has grown into a new location and gained couture designers, private labels, and very exclusive pieces. The boutique offers a variety of styles and sizes, and they extend the option to special order if they do not have what you’re looking for in the store. Adorned Bridal is located at 1265 S. Cotner Blvd., STE 27. For more information on Adorned Bridal, call (402) 937-7900 or read their blog at adornedbridalne.com. Follow the boutique’s Facebook and Instagram page (@adornedbridalne) for an extensive photo gallery and to keep up with their happenings as well!

Ascend Chiropractic Dr. Brian Bayer, owner of Ascend Chiropractic, is now serving Lincoln and the surrounding area. Brian, along with the rest of the team at Ascend Chiropractic, is committed to providing chiropractic solutions towards optimal health. Ascend Chiropractic is an evidence based clinic that combines traditional chiropractic adjustments with the most up to date soft tissue and rehabilitation exercises. Dr. Brian is full body certified in Active Release Techniques(ART), which is a method of evaluating and treating muscles, ligaments, tendons and other soft tissue structures around the spine. The goal of Ascend Chiropractic is to either help patients get back to doing activities they’ve been missing out on or to help them discover a new level of health. Ascend Chiropractic provides individualized care with the primary focus of helping patients move well and move often. Ascend Chiropractic is located in the Highlands at 5611 NW. 1st St., STE 105. For more information, visit www.ascendchiropracticne.com or call (402) 480-6680.

Avalon Hospice Avalon Hospice works with local healthcare providers to develop a personalized hospice care plan that delivers the superior service that their patients and their families deserve. Their team of experienced hospice professionals will implement a holistic approach to the physical, spiritual, and emotional care their patients have come to expect and appreciate. Avalon Hospice has developed and partnered with a robust network of local community resources, specifically arranged to provide comfort, reduce anxiety, and facilitate quality time between the patients and their loved ones.

Patients will be accepted for care without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, mental disability, physical disability, communicable disease, or place of national origin.

For more information Avalon Hospice, located at 1600 S 70th St., STE 101, visit www.avalon-hospice.com, like their Facebook page (@AvalonHospiceServices), or give the Avalon team a call at (402) 261-2522.

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

by Wendy Birdsall, President

(402) 436-2350 • www.lcoc.com

Nebraska and Lincoln Roll On as Economic Development Leaders Nebraska officially has a quart of cup awards to show for our economic development efforts.

For the third consecutive year, Nebraska has been awarded one of the 2018 Site Selection Governor’s Cups. This is the sixth year Site Selection recognizes the state with the most qualifying new and expanded facilities per capita, which Nebraska claims for its capital investment activity in 2018.

Texas was also a winner for having the most qualified projects of any state.

Lincoln also placed fourth in the 2018 rankings for metros with a population between 200,000 to 1,000,000. Lincoln’s ranking is up from ninth in 2017, with 29 projects in total. The Omaha Metro area was once again at the top of the rankings for the same population class, with our neighbors in Des Moines coming in second place in the same tier. When you group Lincoln, Omaha, Des Moines, and the Sioux City areas together, you won’t find a bigger regional powerhouse in terms of economic development projects in the entire country.

The 65-year-old Atlanta-based magazine has awarded the Governor’s Cup annually since 1988, based on new and expanded corporate facilities as tracked by the proprietary Conway Projects Database.

Site Selection’s yearly analyses are regarded by corporate real estate analysts as “the industry scoreboard.”

In the per capita contest, Nebraska’s tally of 118 projects was eight higher than the year before, which in turn was nine higher than the year before that. This is the fourth time that Nebraska has won the per capita contest for the Governor’s Cup, with the first honor coming in 2013.

We could not be any prouder to be part of this Governor’s Cup. Third party validation such as this is invaluable to us, as it goes a long way for us in trying to recruit others to our state. We’ve been inundated with third-party validations, but this one is the cherry on top. This award is due to the partnerships formed within the business community and with state and local governments that allow us all to succeed.

The criteria for a project to “count” in Site Selections rankings must meet one of three different thresholds—it must either involve a capital investment of at least $1 million, create at least 20 new jobs or add at least 20,000 square feet of new floor area at a business.

I can tell you that 2018 saw immense growth in Lincoln to satisfy these criteria, especially toward the end of the year. The expansions at Kawasaki, SCHEELS, Nature’s Variety, and Monolith Materials helped put Lincoln in a strong position to close out the year in the fourth spot as a city and Nebraska to the top spot in the Site Selection standings.

Ultimately, it’s the people that help make Lincoln and Nebraska so attractive to companies that are looking to expand to our state and those already here looking to do the same. I can say with full Pictured L-R: Pat Haverty, vice confidence that we won’t be resting president for economic development, on our accomplishments—there’s a LPED; Governor Pete Ricketts; Wendy lot more work to do for 2019 and Birdsall, president, Lincoln Chamber beyond. Let’s make it a four-peat of Commerce; Luke Peltz, director of business development, LPED. for Nebraska.

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, please contact Jaime Henning at jaimehenning@lcoc.com.

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GRADUATION PARTIES Graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter, whether that means moving on to pursue a higher level of education or entering the workforce and embarking on a chosen career path. So, as our soon-to-be high school and college graduates prepare to answer the daunting question of “What’s next?”, we get to start preparing for their celebration.

As the friends and/or family of graduating students, we want to make this day special for them and everyone in attendance. From unique decorations that celebrate your accomplishments to delicious graduation party food, there are tons of fun ways to make your party stand out without breaking your budget!

Inez Retnosari, general manager of Koen Japanese BBQ & Sushi, took some time to share a few tips with us for planning a great graduation party.

1. PHOTOS—One way to make your Inez Retnosari graduation party memorable is to have a Koen Japanese photo station! Find a blank wall and grab BBQ & Sushi some hats, feather boas, glasses, and other props from a party store. You can also use items that represent your specific school. Get friends and family together and start snapping!

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2. A SOCIAL MEDIA HASHTAG—Make a great #hashtag to share with your guests when they upload pictures to social media. That way, you can find all of the photos from your party later!

3. A LOCAL CATERER OR RESTAURANT WITH GOOD FOOD—Whether it’s a high school or college graduation, choosing delicious graduation party food will help make your event memorable. Keep it local with a Lincoln caterer or restaurant that has cuisine and unique dishes your guests will love.

“Koen Japanese BBQ & Sushi restaurant offers different experience where you can grill your own foods on your own personal table,” Inez noted. “You can reserve a space at Koen Japanese BBQ & Sushi Restaurant! Enjoy your favorite BBQ items and discover authentic Japanese cuisine with our fantastic sushi rolls options. Koen also has many varieties of vegetarian and gluten free menu. We will guarantee to create a memorable experience on your graduation day! Call us to arrange which section you would like to reserve. We have two different sections: the sushi and the grill area. For both grill and sushi options, the grill would best fit. Knowing what section your group prefers helps our team accommodate you better.”

Another expert we heard from was Jayme Lowell with Venue Restaurant & Events. When we asked her what advice she had for someone planning a graduation party, her first response was to start thinking about it early! “May is an extremely busy month for catering and the rooms go very quickly for the dates surrounding the Lincoln high school and college graduations,” Jayme explained. “I would recommend nine months in advance to start looking at possible spaces. If you happen to be someone who calls too late and we are all booked up, we can always offer off-site catering options as well!” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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“Venue makes it very easy to have an open house style graduation party in one of our private rooms,” Jayme continued on to say.

“We take care of all the setup and tear down of the room. In addition, we also provide the tables, chairs, linens, and staff to serve you.

All you have to do is show up and bring some decorations if you choose!”

Jayme also informed us that it has become very popular for people to want platters and light hours d’ oeuvres for graduation parties.

“This works great as long as you order enough Jayme Lowell Venue Restaurant & Events quantity!” Jayme warned. “We frequently hear that the client will not need much food because it is a come and go type of event. They assume the guests are attending multiple graduation parties that day, so their guests won’t eat very much at each party. Unfortunately, this assumption can result

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in disappointment when the food runs out quickly. I highly recommend ordering enough food for each person to fill their plate. Our sales staff can help you with ordering the appropriate quantities. A great alternative to light hors d’oeuvres is to serve a lunch buffet with wraps, sandwiches, pork sliders, or tacos. These options are less formal, but they still ensure everyone gets enough to eat! Lastly, don’t forget that you can order your cake or desserts through us too. We have an extremely talented pastry chef that can personalize cookies, cupcakes, or a cake to make your graduate feel special!”

Speaking of desserts and pastries, another local favorite source for sweets is Butterfly Bakery. We had the chance to talk to Katie O’Connor, cake designer and executive decorator for Butterfly Bakery. She talked to us about how people are starting to shift away from large sheet cakes that are intended to feed everyone. Instead, people are picking out really neat centerpiece cakes to display, while serving their guests supplemental desserts like cupcakes, brownies, truffles, cheesecake bites, etc.

Katie O’Connor “What makes our bakery special is that we Butterfly Bakery can customize anything,” stated Katie. “I’ve worked with a lot of people who want me to create a centerpiece cake that represents the field of study they are graduating in or that illustrates their academic journey. For example, I make cakes for a lot of nursing school students that are 3D and have the white doctor’s coat, a stethoscope, and everything! We can even do the school crest or mascot on the cake. These cakes aren’t meant to feed everyone in attendance. They are more for show. That is why supplemental treats are popular—they are good portion sizes and offering a variety of different little desserts gives people more options. Graduation parties are about celebrating a life achievement so have fun with it!”

Having the option to customize an order is appreciated by almost everyone. People usually like having the flexibility to plan a party based on their specific wants and needs.

We were happy to learn that Godfather’s Pizza in Lincoln can customize their product offerings to maximize any budget for the anticipated number of guests. Bruce Cannon, franchise owner of Godfather’s Pizza, noted that they will even delivery orders at the agreed upon time and place.

Bruce’s advice for planning a graduation Bruce Cannon party is to plan well in advance—establish Godfather’s Pizza a budget and stick to what has been preapproved.

“Believe me, whoever is paying the tab doesn’t want a surprise,” Bruce commented. He also added that some of the more common requests people have for party planning are for very simple things that can make or break an event, such as plates, napkins, and utensils. “Who really wants to go shop for these items when they are included from Godfather’s Pizza?” Bruce questioned.

As we mentioned, there isn’t a “cookie cutter” formula for a graduation party...they come in different shapes and sizes. Your graduation party could even be at a bowling alley! This is not an uncommon route to take.

Jennifer Davis-Korn with 48 Bowl, Inc. informed us that she has family rent out their facilities a lot for these type of events.

“If you’re planning a graduation party and want an activity that everyone can participate in and won’t get rained out, bowling is a great option,” Jennifer pointed out. “48 Bowl, Inc. centers, Parkway Lanes and Hollywood Bowl, offer two multi-use venues. Besides the lanes, we have event rooms that can be rent out to handle your displays and food and beverage service on-site. We have rates for groups large and small and can work within your budget to provide your group what it needs to make the celebration a success.”

Raising Cane’s also offers its own unique spin on grad parties. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“Graduations are something to celebrate, and nothing says celebration like a tailgate from Raising Cane’s!” exclaimed Jennifer Jones with Raising Cane’s in Lincoln. “Whether you’re hosting a few people or the entire graduating class, Raising Cane’s is the perfect partner when deciding how you’re going to feed your guests. It’s also the best way to ensure you are spending time celebrating instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Our tailgates are a great option for any size graduation party. You can choose between Jennifer Jones 25, 50, 75, and 100 chicken finger tailgates, Raising Cane’s in Lincoln and can add on additional items from there.

The good news is that each tailgate comes with our famous Cane’s Sauce, and sides such as our lightly buttered Texas Toast and creamy coleslaw.

Freshly-squeezed lemonade and freshly-brewed sweet or unsweet tea can also be added to perfect any order.”

“Many people aren’t aware that we have a mobile food trailer that we can bring and set up on site,” Jennifer added. “So, if you’re hosting a party with several other families and you’re expecting hundreds of guests, our mobile food trailer may be the perfect option. It’s equipped with a full kitchen and crew members, and all your food will be cooked hot and fresh on site as needed throughout your event. If you’re not quite expecting hundreds, but want to keep food fresh, we can also divide up your order and set up different pick-up times throughout the day. It’s important to us that your guests have a great experience, and we’re happy to work with you on setting up different pick-up times so your chicken fingers stay hot and fresh for your guests. Outside of our tailgates, our other most popular item is our gift cards. Nothing says love like food, and giving your graduating senior a gift card from Raising Cane’s is the perfect way to show just how proud of them you are.”

There truly is nothing more important than having an adequate amount of good food for your guests. Christina LeFevre with MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante emphasized this when we spoke to her. Christina is the events coordinator for MōMō and it’s her job to work with you one-on-one to take any stress off your shoulders so that you can relax and enjoy the party with your loved ones.“MōMō is truly unique because our food is made by hand, with love, and catered specifically to our guests’ needs and wants,” Christina Christina LeFevre remarked. “At MōMō, we honor the heart of MōMō Pizzeria the Italian spirit: family. For special parties & Ristorante such as graduations, birthdays, and receptions, we recommend a family-style dinner where guests can enjoy a plate overflowing with our delicious handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza.

Appetizer buffets are also a popular option. Chef Jonah King makes stunning charcuterie boards and our crunchy, sweet and sour Brussel sprouts are out of this world! Don’t forget to save room for tiramisu! Plus, our private dining room is an intimate space with a beautiful ambiance...a perfect place to host a celebration with close family and friends.”

Christina brought up a good point...the venue.

Where is the best place to hold the graduation party you are envisioning? Matthew Rogge, owner of Talon Room, talked to us about how planning a graduation party is accompanied by many decisions. Besides figuring out where the party should be hosted, Matthew listed off a few other good questions to ask. These included: • Who is invited?

• What food should we serve?

• Should there be alcohol?

Matthew Rogge • Do we want to split the cost with another Talon Room family or even multiple families?

According to Matthew, all of these questions can be solved with one simple strategy: Plan a budget and stick to it! “If you have a budget, #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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the planning process becomes a lot easier,” Matthew noted.

“If your budget is smaller, plan it at your home or another graduate’s home if you are doing a joint party. A larger budget will allow you to host the party at a venue such as the Talon Room. Weekend dates tend to be more expensive and less likely to be available, so plan accordingly.

As for the rest of the decisions, those will be made a lot easier if you pick the right venue. Our in-house event coordination and catering can help plan the party from start to finish. Save yourselves a headache and enjoy your happy moment with family and friends! The Talon Room can provide all necessary provisions for any style of party. Whether you host the party at the Talon Room or your home, our staff can provide food and beverage services to host the perfect graduation party.”

We asked Matthew what he finds to be the most common requests or most popular items during graduation season for receptions/parties/etc., and if there is anything that he’d recommend. He told us that questions about discounts are common.

“Unfortunately, graduation is a busy time of year for every business,” addressed Matthew. “If the first request you have is to have a service discounted, you should ask yourself if you are looking for services that over your budget. The best thing to do is to have a spending plan in place. This will help cut through the services that are over your budget.

If you request a service without a listed price and say how much you are wanting to spend, the service provider will do a better job of guiding you in the proper direction without ever having to ask for a dreaded discount. Happy hunting!”

On the topic of venues for graduation parties, it wouldn’t feel right not to mention the Graduate Lincoln hotel located in the downtown Haymarket District. Not only is its name fitting, but since it is located near campus, it is an ideal destination for UNL grads to host their graduation party. Named with Husker pride, Graduate Lincoln’s Scarlet Ballroom is designed to host medium to large size groups. Boasting 3,000 square feet of space, this room can accommodate up to 210 people when rented fully and can also be divided into smaller rooms to create a more intimate environment for groups of 90 or less. This isn’t the only event space the hotel has, APRIL 2019 Strictly Business 59

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though. There are many options just like the ballroom, each one offering the perfect balance of cool, classy, and casual. Your guests will have fun just by being inside the Graduate Lincoln—the lively decor around every corner sparks attention and good vibes.

When we talked to Michelle Williams, the SouthPointe store manager for Sartor Hamann, she encouraged people to gear the party towards the graduate’s accomplishments and interests, rather than just doing school colors, mascots, etc. “Just because the person is graduating from a certain high school or college, it doesn’t mean you have to do everything in the school’s colors,” Michelle pointed out. “For example, if your student is big into nature or the outdoors, have an outdoor reception using natural Michelle Williams colors and elements for the decorations.”

Sartor Hamann Michelle also noted that if you start planning months in advance for food, decorations, invitations, etc., you’ll have more time to research and come up with some really creative ideas.

“Don’t be afraid to call on your friends and loved ones for help, either!” Michelle added.

Knowing what an impressive collection of jewelry and accessory pieces Sartor Hamann has to offer, we had to ask Michelle what kind of gifts she’d recommend for graduates. “A sentimental gift that will last forever (especially when given by a parent or grandparent) are my favorite,” Michelle told us. “A nice watch that can be engraved with the graduation date is a good gift idea for both men and women too.

Or a timeless piece like diamond earrings or a diamond pendant... something that in 20 years from now, the graduate can still enjoy, and every time they wear it, they will remember that they were given it by mom and dad or grandma and grandpa. Sartor Hamann has wide variety of such gifts.”

“I think that part of what makes Sartor Hamann unique is the fact that we are family owned and have been in business for over 114 years,” Michelle concluded. “We take great pride in serving several generations of clients. It is quite possible that your grandmother’s graduation gift was purchased from us and now you are the one coming to our store to buy a graduation gift for your son or daughter.

There have even been times when we have taken Grandma’s heirloom stone and custom designed it into a new yet incredibly sentimental piece for the soon-to-be graduate. Our award-winning custom design studio is amazing!”

Day-of style is important to consider, too.

“Over the past ten years, we have seen a great deal of graduates (men) dressing up a little more than before,” revealed Gary Novotny with Gary Michaels Clothiers.

“Young men have been choosing a nice pair of casual slacks and a sport shirt instead of a polo shirt and pair of walk shorts or denims. There has been an increase of sport coats, dress shirts, and neckwear seen at the commencement and graduation ceremonies.

Keep in mind that this is a life time event Gary Novotny and the photos taken will be looked at quite frequently, so dress up for the occasion. I have Gary Michaels Clothiers found that the college graduate has more concern about his attire than one graduating from high school. Those extra four years they...get it figured out and realize that job interviews are upon them and they need a suit. This is a way to ‘kill two birds with one stone,’ so too speak. That is also the case for a young man entering a fraternity who needs a suit for Monday night dinners. They purchase a suit early and also wear it for the graduation. We call this cost effective purchasing, buying for multiple events.”

We want to congratulate all our of readers who will be graduating in the year ahead, along with the friends and families of these graduates who have shown their support throughout the years. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Spring Landscaping Keeping Your Yard Beautiful and Healthy this Spring While there are many overlapping factors, landscaping and lawn care are distinct from one another. Landscaping includes both plant care and construction features such as fences, paths, and decks. In contrast, lawn care focuses on the planting, fertilization, and maintenance of the landscape’s turf. Both are affected by the weather, and both are taken into consideration when constructing a beautiful, functional outdoor space for any type of property.

LANDSCAPING As a designer for Eagle Nursery, Doug Miller is experienced with the visual aspect of designing a landscape. He explains that spring is the best time of the year to design a new landscape or redesign elements of an existing one. “This is the time of year when we would send someone from our team to analyze how we can revitalize your yard for you,” Doug noted. “It’s basically a matter of looking through your landscape and seeing what made it through the winter.”

Doug meets with clients to determine what their preferences and goals are. He explained that making a space beautiful involves a combination of hardscapes and softscapes. If you are looking for a deck or pergola, Eagle Nursery works with those elements as well. Retaining walls, pavement, patios, fire pits—they take all the materials into consideration in the design process to ensure all the colors and textures work together.

Doug mentioned that he has noticed outdoor fire features becoming increasingly popular as they allow for backyard barbeques and pleasant campfire Doug Miller experiences. He also recommended finding Eagle Nursery durable materials that can survive a dry summer. “I call it bulletproof grass,” Doug joked. “It’s the stuff that’s tried and true—drought tolerant plant material that will support the landscape and minimize the maintenance end of it, while also giving you more color throughout the year.”

Doug added that he is proud to work with Eagle Nursery because of their customer service reputation. “Our team really strives to help the customers the best we possibly can...I try and get the designs out in a timely fashion and we all try to accommodate special requests as quickly as possible,” Doug said.

For the better part of a decade, the trend has increasingly moved towards creating an outdoor family room with all the amenities of your indoor family room. Manufacturers of indoor furniture have been venturing into the outdoor furniture market more every year, which has made the more traditional outdoor manufactures step up their game. There are not only exciting new options for furniture, but also materials available for permanent outdoor features. Your outdoor living space can be enhanced with an outdoor fireplace, a decorative pond, colorful boulders, pottery and outdoor art, and grills and other built-in outdoor kitchen components!

All these things and much more can be found at Outdoor Solutions, located near Saltillo Rd. and 14th St. For those who are planning to be in their home long-term, it’s nice to have a great space outside to entertain and spend time with friends when the weather is nice. This space could be on a patio, a deck, or both! Decks, in particular, are fairly standard feature of newer homes, but as for older ones, it’s never late to add it on. If you are starting from scratch, you’ll want to be intentional with the material you select.

“I strongly recommend going with composite, especially if you’re planning on living in your house for longer than 10 years,” advises Dan Waters with Decks Unlimited. “Wood decks are beautiful, but maintenance to make a CONTACT US TODAY! wood deck last 30 years will far outweigh the initial cost of a composite 402.476.8614 deck. Even if you’re planning on selling in the near future and need to www.rayslawn.com replace your deck, composite is still the way to go. As a buyer, it is very

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comforting to know that the deck will not be an issue for a long time to come. There are many brands of composite out there and choosing a quality product is very important. I recommend TimberTech out of all the brands available; the 30-year warranty speaks pretty loudly. They are a very environmentally conscious company, and their product is made of 70% recycled materials. For railing, I have found powdercoated aluminum is the way to go. I prefer Westbury aluminum railings, as they provide an impressive lifetime warranty. Altogether, Dan Waters when thinking of adding or upgrading a deck, Decks Unlimited there are many options and colors. Pick what you love; it’s going to be there for a while. Using quality products and quality installers is very important. If you’re planning to build your own deck, Decks Unlimited is here to offer materials, and answer any questions you have throughout the installation process.”

Another yard consideration this spring is, of course, plants and flowers! There is nothing like beautiful flowers blooming in the spring time.

Plus, as Jessica Jasnoch with Earl May told us, all the snow we had this winter is great for the plants in our landscapes. “The snow helped to keep them insulated over the winter and protect them from the cold,” explained Jessica.

“It is important to wait to do any digging or tilling of the garden until the ground has dried out. Digging while the soil is still wet will result in the forming of clods of dirt that will take Jessica Jasnoch a long time to remove or break back down.

Earl May Homeowners also should watch for where the water pools in the yard because after the water dries the soil will be compacted in those areas. It will be a good idea to have those areas aerated and to apply a soil conditioner to help loosen the soil. Earl May can help find the soil conditioner to work best for your area.”

Jessica also recommended adding perennial blooming plants with staggering bloom times so that there is color all season long. “It is important, when planning a landscape, to use a variety plants,” Jessica instructed. “This will increase diversity and prevent total loss in disease or insect issues. Earl May has introduced many new and interesting plants to encourage plant diversity.” She also pointed out that, though many families avoid planting “messy” plants, incorporating plants with berries and seeds encourages our children to appreciate nature. Inviting birds and pollinators to our backyards will improve the environment for generations to come.

Continuing on the topic of landscape esthetics, co-owners of Luxury Landscape, Ken Svoboda and Jackie Lienemann, talked to us about what kind of things need to be considered to properly enhance how a space looks overall. For example, the plants might be healthy, but are they neatly trimmed and arranged beautifully? Or is plant life growing all over the place randomly?

Jackie acknowledged that we all want our property’s landscape to be aesthetically pleasing to the eye, not just for curb appeal but because it’s something we can be proud of. “Oftentimes, this can be done simply by trimming the shrubbery and pruning the trees giving the landscape a well maintained and manicured look,” explained Jackie Lienemann. “With an older landscape, you may need to safely trim the shrubbery deeper and thinning out the trees that might be hiding the front of the house. Of course, there’s also Jackie Lienemann the option of bringing new life to a tired Luxury Landscape landscape by adding colorful perennials or blooming shrubbery. Regardless of what groundcover your landscape has, a simple and mostly inexpensive ‘freshening up’ would include spreading a dyed mulch or adding new rock. Luxury Landscape specializes in providing that personal touch to every landscape project.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Ken and Jackie have experience working with families with children, dogs, cats, etc., and they have found that planning for the future can be a good way to protect your investment in a property. “Unlike most of the investments we make, landscaping shouldn’t be considered disposable,” Jackie stated. “When done properly by experts, a home’s landscape should grow with the family. For example, plan the backyard space while looking fifteen years to the future...maybe that means planning to have enough room for that spontaneous soccer or football game that breaks out during special occasions with friends and extended family. We also like the idea of planting a tree for each child so he or she can watch it grow just as they do.”

LAWN CARE Even though Luxury Landscape only offers landscaping services, Ken Svoboda still took this chance to urge Nebraskans to prepare themselves for the likelihood of a drought in the upcoming seasons. “This spring is going to yield lawn care problems for landscapes that Lincoln property owners haven’t seen for over a decade,” warned Ken. “In the last several years, drought has been a very real problem.

Aside from the occasional few inches of snowmelt, the landscape is starved for moisture as trees, shrubs, and perennials attempt their Ken Svoboda return from dormancy. This year, however, the Luxury Landscape snow melt could cause water to be trapped at the roots of these plants if planted in heavy clay soil or poor drainage areas. This excessive moisture may cause some root rot and damage, or eventually kill the plant. We suggest that property owners monitor the amount of moisture going to their plants, especially those who have an automatic drip irrigation system.”

As the founder of Hunt Irrigation, Jeremy Hunt recommends installing an automatic sprinkler system as an efficient and convenient method of lawn and garden watering in time for the summer. “Just a few simple steps will go a long way towards saving water, money and preventing a mid-summer landscape catastrophe at home,” Jeremy advised.

Jeremy shared the following seven personal checklist items to ensure you start the summer off right in regards to your yard: Jeremy Hunt 1. Inspect your backflow device for any Hunt Irrigation possible damage, prior to pressurizing the system.

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

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

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

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

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

7. Lastly, check the programming in the controller and make sure that you are watering at the proper times of the day and that the run times for each zone do not exceed the absorption rate of the soil.

For homeowners with less experience in irrigation, Hunt Irrigation offers trained technicians to perform these full services.

Jeremy also discussed recent technological improvements to irrigation systems. “Some of the upgrades that are available are mechanical and others are technological,” he noted. “For example, a mechanical upgrade includes reducing water waste through water pressure. The optimum water pressure for a fixed spray is 30psi. Once the pressure exceeds 30psi, the race to waste is on. A fixed spray at 30psi will consume on average about 1.5 gallons per minute and deliver about 1.75 inches of water per hour. A fixed spray operating a 70psi will consume approximately

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3 gallons a minute, but only apply about .7 inches per hour. This is all due to the vaporization of the water and the water droplets become lighter than air, which in turn leads to greater evaporation. Upgrading to the pressure regulated fixed sprays will save approximately 20,000 to 50,000 gallons of water per year per residence. This equates to about $300 per year. On commercial properties, the savings could be in the hundreds of thousands of gallons of water saved. By upgrading, you can expect to see a ROI in just two years.”

Another mechanical option to consider is drip systems. “Drip is a point source irrigation and therefore is much more accurate than aerial deliveries,” Jeremy explained. “Installing drip in your landscape can reduce water use by 50% and also slow the growth of weeds within the landscaped areas. Drip irrigation can include sub-surface irrigation for turf. There are times when the name truly describes the concept. A 17mm pipe is installed approximately 5 inches deep and on one foot centers.

This pipe then releases water underground at the depth of the turf’s root system. This eliminates both run-off and reduces evaporation. This form of irrigation is a great fit for the parkway area in residential applications and can be very cost effective if installed during new construction on both residential and commercial construction.”

Jeremy believes that some of the most interesting innovations in technology are the ones that rapidly reducing waste, which include sensors that account for weather and temperature. “Gone are the days of programming your sprinkler system to run three days a week, rain or shine...” Jeremy remarked. “People are now opting for a rain sensor system, which is very reliable and shuts off your irrigation system when it rains. However, the newest technology to hit the shelves are climate sensors, which are quickly replacing traditional rain sensors. A climate sensor uses evapotranspiration calculations to adjust the run time of each individual zone on a day-to-day basis.”

As president of TDK Lawn Care, Lee Schumacher is passionate about helping homeowners keep their lawn healthy and avoid common lawn care mistakes. “This spring, the biggest thing we have to worry about is snow mold because of the record-setting snowfall we had this winter,” Lee informed us. “Snow mold is when grass lays over itself and becomes gooey. This can be remedied by lightly raking the grass. The other issue with all the snow is the depletion of nutrients in the soil. This is why people need to speak with a Lee Schumacher lawn care professional to make sure they are TDK Lawn Care applying the correct amount of nutrients in the spring to offset what was lost in winter.”

Here are five key steps anyone can take to maintain a healthy lawn: 1. Water at the correct times with the correct amount of water for your grass type. (Bluegrass requires .25 inches every other day. Tall fine fescue requires about 1 inch per week.)

2. Adjust the height of your mower to coincide with the variety of climates here in Nebraska. (During the warmest months, the mower height should be between 3 and 3.75 inches above the ground.)

3. Aerate your lawn once to twice per year. (Aerating is usually done in the fall and spring when the grass is growing rapidly and repairs itself easily.)

4. Overseeding should be done with drought and fungus resistant seed.

(Tall fescue works well for this and it is usually done in the spring or mid-August to mid-September.)

5. Keep a consistent fertilizing schedule. (Usually involves a six-step program for an average lawn, using pre-emergent, weed and grub control, along with a Winterizer.)

Lee emphasized that aerating is one of the most important steps to take in promoting a healthy, beautiful lawn. He explained that aerating helps loosen compacted soil and allows nutrients to reach the roots. This can also help plants survive more adverse weather conditions.

Between caring for the health and longevity of your lawn and designing beautiful outdoor spaces for entertaining guests, spring is the time of year to take on these lawn care and landscaping projects. If you don’t feel like you can do it yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts right here in Lincoln, especially the trusted ones we heard from above! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Starting a business has its fair share of risks and rewards. For some, the risks are great and the rewards don’t seem to balance the scale. This is frustrating for some, but a true entrepreneur knows that overcoming the risks in order to start a business of their own is a reward in itself.

Jethro Hopkins, the managing partner at No Coast Business Advisors, believes that starting a business is the most challenging and potentially rewarding things anyone can do in their life. According to Jethro, the starting point for any entrepreneur looking to start their own business is to have a good dose of common sense. Do you have any experience in the industry? Have you done some work there? These are the types of questions Jethro asks his clients when they come to him with a business idea. “If you’ve Jethro Hopkins never worked in retail, don’t start a retail No Coast Business business. If you’ve never worked on cars, don’t Advisors start a car mechanic business.” Jethro stated.

“It seems like common sense, but I’ve seen so many people mess this up.”

A specific advantage Jethro sees in the Lincoln area is the ability to network. “Lincoln is a big, small town, and networking is critical,” Jethro commented. “Since people do business with other people, not businesses, every business owner should look into networking groups like Center Sphere or BNI. Your family and friends will not be able to support you the way your network will.”

At No Coast Business Advisors, they specialize in educating new businesses. “There is a lot of information that people don’t know... and don’t even know that they need to know this information.” Jethro revealed. “Information about taxes, corporations, different legal entities...we can educate you on these topics. Depending on budgets, we can also provide things like lead generation, advertising, and exit planning.”

Jethro admitted that he has seen new businesses make a few common mistakes, including not having enough liquidity and not being prepared for the time commitment.

“Being a business owner is the only profession in which you have to work 80 hours in order to not have to work 40 hours for someone else.

It’s going to become the most important part of your life. Make sure your family is on board. If you are going to get into the market, you are going to have to understand both the business and local market in general. People will not just come to you just because you opened your doors. If you can’t get out there and sell it constantly, it’s not going to work. If you can’t sell, you’re going to fail.”

Jethro went on to say that you should always go into a business with an end in mind. “If you’re in your late 20s, you shouldn’t go into the business thinking, ‘This is going to be what I will do for the next 40 years.’ You should have an end point in mind,” Jethro advised.

We heard similar counsel from Max Larsen with Max D. Larsen and Associates. If anyone knows anything about starting a business, it’s

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he. You may have heard his name before, as he was one of the key people involved in developing Gallup. He helped with building its infrastructure, staffing, and even created Gallup’s government services division from scratch. He then went on to manage the Gallup office in Washington D.C., consulting government agencies to improve performance. Prior to Gallup, Max was a math professor at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln before becoming the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Max Larsen His experience and knowledge makes him a Max D. Larsen valuable resource for business owners who and Associates are looking for direction. When we talked to Max, he shared two crucial pieces of advice.

The first was getting the right people in the right place in the company.

“Whoever you hire will likely be there in 3–5 years...at least, that is the hope,” Max said. “Business owners need to hire people with the skills and knowledge to grow with the company. Some things are hard to train later. Turnover can be crippling to a new business. With the University here in Lincoln, we have a lot of talent in our community and a lot of them are under employed. There are some concerning stereotypes associated with hiring millennials, specifically that they tend to hop from job to job quickly, but I’m a believer in the philosophy that if you give someone the space to use their talents while challenging them to reach their full potential, they will stay.”

Max went on to say that his second piece of advice is to have a plan for success. “This is where I come in,” he exclaimed. “I can help businesses plan for their future, creating specific goals, strategies, and tools to measure success. Furthermore, I will help the business hold itself accountable. Every business owner should have a five-year plan. If you don’t know where you want to go tomorrow, you won’t be able to make the best decisions today.”

A part of coming up with a plan for your business is researching the market beforehand. First, ask yourself what product or service you plan to provide. Then, ask if there is a demand for it in the marketplace you are looking to enter. Marc Hausmann, an associate broker for NAI FMA Realty, believes that the most vital step is: research, research, research.

“Know your target market, main competitors, and master your business,” Marc said. “Make sure there is room for your business in the Marc Hausmann market. If any competition is present, be NAI FMA Realty prepared to provide a superior service or product.”

In addition to identifying good sites for business locations, entrepreneurs also have to weigh the pros and cons of leasing vs. owning, hopefully with the help of their realtor. “While most entrepreneurs want to own, the investment needed for purchase could be used elsewhere,” Marc noted. “The entrepreneur also needs to take the possibility of expansion into consideration. Is there space to expand if needed? We can help with these questions,” Marc assured us.

While it’s easy to assume that any and all growth is good, Marc pointed out that growth alone can’t protect a business from the consequences of poor long-term decisions. “If you are not prepared, quick growth can be worse than no growth,” Marc noted. “Rapid growth can lead to quick, unprepared decisions. These preparations, along with a knowledgeable real estate agent, can be the key to success. Proper negotiations, site selection, and general understanding are key elements that we can help with,” he offers.

When looking into what commercial space is available, John Linscott with Greenleaf Properties suggested that one of the most important services a real estate agent can provide a client is representing the tenant’s interests during lease negotiations. “Because of the intricacies of leasing a space, you certainly have to understand what you are

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getting into,” John cautioned. “A commercial real estate agent will represent the tenant and help them with site selection and lease negotiation.”

Real estate agents can help locate the best options available on the market, and by comparing properties, they can ensure they are being leased at a fair market rate.

“One of the most important things is the details of the lease concerning maintenance and repairs,” John informed us. “This is the kind of thing, unless you deal with leases all John Linscott the time, you might not pay attention to. For Greenleaf Properties example, you may not realize when you sign up that you are responsible for equipment replacement, which can be a $5,000 to $6,000 bill.”

After narrowing down the best options available, agents will often perform site visits, help their client write a letter of intent, and enter lease negotiations. A lot of people don’t negotiate leases, so they don’t know what to look out for or what’s a good deal and what’s a bad deal. For most business owners, unknown expenses are something to be wary of.

Because researching the market is a crucial pillar for new businesses, Matthew Biggs, vice president and relationship manager for Cornhusker Bank, advises entrepreneurs to explore institutions that provide networking opportunities and business resources.

“Surrounding yourself with a team of professionals and listening to their advice can help you avoid some of the common pitfalls of starting a new business,” Matthew told us. “There are several sources of information available to startup businesses Matthew Biggs and many of them are free! The Nebraska Cornhusker Bank Business Development Center (NBDC) and SCC Entrepreneurship Center are great resources, and sba.gov has several articles and templates available as well. The ultimate goal of this research is to formulate a business strategy. Take advantage of any training or counseling services that can help you understand your market, both customers and competitors. Use this information to formulate a comprehensive business plan and include two to three years of financial projections.”

When a bank or loan agency lends money to a business, the bank then becomes invested in that business’ success. Matthew explained that different options are available for startup companies, including small businesses. “Cornhusker Bank offers a wide range of business loan products and will analyze each startup company independently to determine which solution best meets the owner’s goals and maximizes the financial relationship,” Matthew stated. “Oftentimes, a startup company will not have access to the equity required for conventional loan options, in which case SBA (Small Business Administration) Loans are an excellent option. The bank will make a loan to the business using guidelines set by SBA, and, in return, the bank receives a partial guarantee on monies lent to the business. SBA Loans benefit business owners as they require lower down payments and provide longer financing terms than other conventional loan options. SBA Loans typically require additional paperwork and have a longer approval process, yet because they reduce the risk to the Bank, the likelihood of the startup receiving financing is historically increased.”

Matthew went on to explain what he considers to be the four key mistakes for new businesses, and he offered suggestions to avoid these problems: • Maintain cash reserves. Whether unexpected expenses occur or projected sales aren’t met, there often comes a time where cash outflows exceed cash inflows. Keep cash available in reserve in order to make necessary monthly and fixed cost obligations.

• Manage receivables. Establish procedures for getting billings out quickly and follow up with your customers to ensure timely payment.

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• Manage payables. Take advantage of payment terms offered by creditors. If a payment is due in 30 days, consider managing cash flow by utilizing those terms when needed.

• Anticipate future needs. Prepare financial projections on a regular basis as they can alert you of potential shortages before they occur.

One mistake potential businesses owners might make is only approaching one or two banks for information on a business loan. As the Lincoln market president of First National Bank, Jack Weeks firmly advises exploring all the options. “First off, do not be shy,” Jack encouraged. “Do not rely on or consider only one financing option...seek them all out. This will help you understand more and make a better long-term decision for you and your startup. The easy money is not always the best money. To help facilitate this process, Jack Weeks network and network again. Talk to anyone First National Bank who will listen. Do not be afraid to ask for advice, comments, or concerns. For those who will listen, ask them who they know that you should talk to and if they would make an introduction. Next, be prepared! Do your homework, as nothing will shut down a deal faster than lack of information. Finally, you are probably going to hear a lot of ‘no’s,’ so keep your pride in check—learn from it and stay after it.”

Jack also explained that their services focus on helping new business owner with keeping the books. “One service in particular that First National Bank offers is Treasury Management Services, which can help you do payroll, collect credit payments, and even help with accounts receivable and payable,” Jack said.

A costly mistake to avoid is going into business with the wrong people.

Take the time to find good partners, whether they are business, financial, or even technology partners. Asking questions and doing research is free upfront, and not doing it could be very costly in the end.

As a financial advisor for Edward Jones, Bethany Arnold can attest to the importance of asking questions and having a thought out plan from the get-go. The planning stage is a crucial point where success or failure of a future business can be determined. “Have a plan and have a support system,” Bethany advised. “Make sure you don’t have a plan B because when the going gets tough, that will be very easy to fall back onto...and the ‘going’ is going to get tough. Get out and meet people, tell them who you are and what Bethany Arnold you are doing! You can’t be afraid to meet Edward Jones people and ‘ask for the order.’ Many people have started businesses before you and have great ideas, so listen and always take something from it that you can use.”

Bethany’s goal as a financial advisor is to work through the practical problems associated with funding a new business. “Here at Edward Jones, we will sit down with you and find out what’s important to you in order to help you reach your goals, whether it be cash flow, taking advantage of the gifts and opportunities the government has to offer you for being a business owner, or simply being a sounding board for you,” explained Bethany. “We want to help you achieve those goals, watch you grow, and celebrate when you succeed!”

When preparing to enter business, having a good product/service and a clear vision are important, but they can’t always make up for failing to be prepared for the unexpected. “I often see people who don’t have a plan,” Bethany shared. “They have great ideas and great products, but no plan. It’s important to know that you will hit hurdles and there will be days you don’t want to move forward, but if you have a plan and stick with it, you will prosper and you will make it to your goal.

One piece of advice I give to all entrepreneurs is: Some will, some won’t...who cares, who’s next?”

Small businesses will have different considerations than large businesses.

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Trust, Stephanie Dinger agrees that putting financial projections on paper is crucial, even for the smallest business venture. “Even if a new business is not in need of a loan to get started, I would encourage the owner to create a business plan to include revenue and expense projections,” Stephanie advised.

“Having these items on paper helps serve as a road map and can often hold someone more accountable to accomplish them if these items are not solely stored in the business owner’s head.”

Stephanie Dinger Along with her husband, Stephanie is a Union Bank & Trust business owner herself and she believes that Lincoln has a very supportive environment. According to her, there is a wonderful business community here in Lincoln, filled with people who will take time to meet with aspiring or new business owners, and share what worked for them and what they struggled with.”

Stephanie told us that one of Union Bank & Trust’s unique offerings, in addition to standard banking services, is their Catalyst program for businesses. “We offer speaker series on relevant and current topics, a free lab for customers to hold offsite meetings or presentations at, and a network of professionals to help support the business owner from day one,” Stephanie explained. “I believe all business owners should have, at minimum, an accountant, attorney, and banker on their team—ones who understand their goals and are committed to helping them get their business started off on the right foot.”

There were two pieces of advice that Stephanie gave us when we asked her about the common mistakes new business owners make: 1. It is important for business owners to pay personal creditors on time and utilize credit cautiously. Personal credit history plays into the loan decision when a business is working to obtain business credit.

Many business owners assume the business entity’s credit is all that is reviewed.

2. If you are requesting financial support from a bank or investor, generally speaking, it is good to have 20% or more of your personal money invested in getting the business up and running. Many business owners have not prepared for starting a business and look to a bank to take all of the risk.

Once the decision is made to enter into the business world, there are continual financial considerations beyond the initial loan. As a CPA for SP Group, P.C., Rachel Clymer specializes in proper financial management.

“You’ve found your passion, a unique idea, an interesting opportunity, and now it’s time to turn it into a fledgling business. It’s normal to get antsy and want to rush to the thrilling parts of owning a company. Take a minute to develop a plan and get a good idea of how you’re realistically going to execute this Rachel Clymer business. For some, that starts by surrounding SP Group, P.C. themselves with a trustworthy team of experts both internally and externally. Once you have your passion, a plan, and a team in place you can get to the thrilling parts of being a business owner.”

Lack of focus can be deadly for a young business. “A common mistake we see new business owners make is doing too much, specifically too much outside of their area of expertise,” Rachel noted. “Don’t force yourself to reconcile your bank accounts if it gives you a headache before you even start.”

At SP Group, they work to support business at both the beginning of their life and during their best years. “When you’re in the exciting phase of entity creation, we can help you beyond the traditional accounting you might envision,” said Rachel. “The first item we can consult on is the selection of the right business entity type depending on your overall goals and our combined goal of minimizing your tax liability. If you need bank financing, we can prepare financial statements or complete a business evaluation of any companies you’re interested in purchasing.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

For businesses that are up and running, SP Group can also assist with payroll management. “For most, payroll can be a daunting task, but turning that over to a professional has real benefits associated with it, as the penalties for non-compliance or errors can be significant,” warned Rachel. “Of course, as accountants, we specialize in handling taxes for business. With constantly changing regulations, having a CPA in your back pocket is a smart choice to set your business up for success.”

A few other things to consider when starting a business are staffing and marketing. No matter how big your team grows to be, finding the right people for the tasks at hand can be a challenge. Even with unemployment at one of the best rates it’s been at in the past decade, every time you hire a new person, you’re making a bet that this person will drive the growth of your company. That is why Talent Plus® offers scientifically validated assessments that substantially improve your odds of getting it right when it comes to hiring, and they provide the insights necessary to engage and develop that person. Once you’ve got your team assembled, make sure you are leading them in a way that creates a positive work culture.

A fun way to do this is by getting each team member a t-shirt with your company logo on it. This is a great way to market your brand in the community as well. At Moonlight Custom Screenprint & Embroidery, you can get great deals on a large quantity order of shirts. They have more than just shirts though! You can purchase sweatshirts, polos, jackets, team uniforms, hats, posters, bumper stickers, window lettering, vehicle lettering, and other swag with your logo on it. Moonlight takes care of everything, from design to delivery. The best way to check out all they offer is by visiting their website. Plus, it’s always nice to support another local business through your efforts to grow your own.

Another thing for new business owners to consider, especially small business owners, is healthcare. Small businesses (like us!) need ways to provide affordable healthcare for their employees in order to help current employees stay healthy and to compete with larger organizations looking to attract new employees. That’s why we go to Access Family Medicine. As a direct primary care physician, they offer membership-based healthcare plans, forgoing the insurance payments in order to save their patients from the arbitrary, intrusive decisions that inevitably follow with third-party payers. Access Family Medicine works with the industry leaders in health insurance who build custom plans that remove much of the waste and inefficiency from a typical, bloated policy. They’ve been able to save many businesses up to 50%, while still providing a higher level of personal care.

Finally, one of the best investments a business can make is in their community and their Chamber of Commerce. According to Jaime Henning, senior director of membership at the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Chamber membership helps your business gain new clients and referrals, provides networking and advocacy opportunities and lends credibility to your business. Henning notes that according to the Shapiro study, consumers are 80% more likely to purchase goods or services from a company that is a Jaime Henning Chamber member.

Lincoln Chamber “We want to help you thrive and provide of Commerce networking opportunities with connections that count,” Henning added. “With over 1,700 businesses as Chamber members, we will go to work to help you grow your business!

Winston Churchill said it best: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.” Every business owner has had to overcome challenges to get their business to where it is today. Similarly, there isn’t a single business owner who would have been able to turn their business plan into a reality without a little help along the way.

Whether it was in the form of financing, staffing, marketing, securing a commercial property, getting insured, etc... Starting a business is not something you can do alone. Don’t be afraid to turn to the trusted professionals in these areas. They are right here in Lincoln to help you!

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In 1789, Benjamin Franklin wrote a letter that said, in part: “Our new Constitution is now established, and has an appearance that promises permanency; but in this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Franklin’s wry words have become a popular idiom, especially, around tax season, because he recognized that the future will always bring trouble. We all have to consider what kinds of difficulties and unplanned circumstances could arise in the future. Some of these unplanned circumstances are caused by accidents or illness, others by old age, but preparation can help families navigate difficult circumstances.

While some things are unavoidable, there are ways to prevent illnesses or injuries by living healthy and taking care of your body. Poor posture and physical strain on the muscles can cause discomfort and even lead to more serious health concerns. This is why Dr. Troy Hayes with Express Life Chiropractic says their vision is to make Lincoln one of the healthiest communities by preventing health problems created by different types of stress. “One of the most common ways physical stress plays a roll on our bodies is through poor posture,” Dr. Troy added. “This leads to stress on your tissues, leading to a decreased cervical curve, which creates more stress and pressure on your nervous system.” In contrast, emotional stress can lead to health problems like ulcers. “Our society, as a whole, falls into a reactive care mindset, instead of a proactive mindset. We love to see when people are proactive with their health and aches and pain, because the greatest gift that you can give your family and your community is your health,” said Dr. Troy.

When someone young or old experiences an injury, Rehabilitation care focuses on providing temporary help to recover. Kelli Reilly, MS, PT, ATC at Husker Rehabilitation and Wellness Centers pointed out that young athletes and everyday drivers can have accidents that require physical rehabilitation. “Husker Rehab provides physical therapy for a wide array of injuries including motor vehicle accidents, workers compensation, and unexpected injuries from falls, sports, and everyday life,” Kelli said.

With years of experience in sports medicine Kelli Reilly and helping orthopedic patients after surgery, Husker Rehabilitation Kelli has been employed as a contract physical and Wellness Centers therapist since moving to Lincoln in 2009. At Husker Rehabilitation Center, therapists emphasize these important values: • The body is holistic, meaning that overall posture is an important first step to recovery along with individual therapies for a specific injury.

• The customer’s goals and needs are central to creating a recovery program.

• A fun, polite environment for residents that promotes their recovery and health.

Another option, one that is practical for families who prefer independent care, is in-home care. It has become popular for those who wishing to remain in their own home but still require some additional help. As the owner of Graceful In Home Healthcare, Grace Kats, RN/BSNCHH, mentioned that an unplanned event or accident is often a strong motivating factor for families to reach out to care services, for seniors #PrintProudDigitalSmart

and young people. “They are searching for answers to the many questions of how to navigate their way through healthcare and finding answers to the many questions of how and where do they find the help and resources they need for themselves or loved ones,” Grace said.

As Nebraska has earned a reputation for being a welcoming home for immigrants, Grace acknowledged that language and cultural differences can be a factor for some families when deciding on care options. “At Grace Kats Graceful, we help navigate those who are Graceful In Home not familiar with in-home health care navigate Healthcare through the process. We also offer French, Spanish, and Kurdistan speaking staff,” Grace informed us.

What may surprise most people who are considering in home care is how common it is becoming for the senior population. As Kimberly Hopkins with Visiting Angels pointed out, one in four Americans, ages 65 and over, fall each year. Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall. Every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall. Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. Kimberly hasn’t just experienced Kimberly Hopkins these tragedies in her line of work, it is also Visiting Angels something that has affected her own family.

“Last summer, my 77-year-old Grandpa fell in his hallway in the middle of the night,” Kimberly shared. “He suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), stage 4, and had been declining in his health prior to this fall. Our family had decided months prior that, for our peace of mind, we would have him wear a Life Alert necklace. He was able to use his Life Alert and family was able to respond quickly to his home and help him off the floor. This fall started many falls over the next week, as his strength and health declined rapidly. Hospice was brought in seven days a week. They provided him with a hospital bed and kept him comfortable. Up to this point, he lived on his own, he now needed around-the-clock care. Our family was able to step in to provide this care. Though, many families find this challenging, as they have families of their own to care for, along with jobs and other daily responsibilities.”

Unlike other care options, hospice care is specialized for individuals facing a serious illness, including end of life care. However, many residents of hospice care continue to live long and fulfilling lives. As Tasha Schueth, a nurse at Hospice Community Care of Nebraska, explained it, “The most important thing we can do is offer unbiased supports by meeting people where they are at physically, emotionally, and spiritually. With the vast knowledge and experience of our team, we are able to offer a wide range of resources, Tasha Schueth not only through our organization, but also Hospice Community community wide such as guidance for financial Care of Nebraska assistance, grief support groups, and 24-hour access to medical expertise.”

As a wife and mother, in addition to being a nurse with eight years of experience, Tasha has seen how unplanned life events can greatly affect daily life. “As I look back, I realize every individual story is different. I have learned through my experiences how important it is to show empathy, compassion, understanding, and adaptability. With these experiences, I have learned to help individuals navigate through their personal hardship and find comfort in the uniqueness of their own experience,” explained Tasha.

If someone waits for an accident or an illness to affect their family, this can limit their options to address problems quickly. Beth Friesen, RN, CCM,

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CSA and owner of Oasis Senior Advisors in Lincoln, explained that unplanned life events often force unprepared families into a stressful decision making process. “These events are typically what propel a senior and/or their family to determine that a move to a senior living community needs to happen,” Beth addressed. “However, a serious injury, illness, or diagnosis can send people scurrying to find something for their loved one. This is when their lives and Oasis Senior Advisors often intersect.

It doesn’t offend me, but people seldom reach Beth Friesen out to us because they are having a good day.”

Oasis Senior Advisors Beth believes that, by offering complimentary services, they can help families be more prepared. “My best advice is to be proactive when planning for senior living,” added Beth. “The best time to move is before one of these events occur. Wait too long and you may miss your window of opportunity (W.O.O.) for independent or even assisted living, and sometimes the only alternative is skilled nursing care.”

During her time providing complimentary services to seniors, Beth has observed that moving into a senior living community can be a hopeful time. “Everything is new and people often wonder if they will fit in,” noted Beth. “Will I like it there? Will I make new friends? What will the food be like? These are all very normal things to be concerned about,” she added.

“Having your loved one in a safe, secure, and nurturing environment will bring peace to everyone, even if this unplanned life event was a little bumpy for a time.”

During the early days following a significant life change, many families experience stress.

When we talked to Virginia Cole at Fallbrook Assisted Living and Memory Care, she talked about how she has observed how a lot of people don’t know where to begin to find answers. “We spend a great deal of time learning the senior’s story and helping them identify what the needs are for themselves or their loved one,” explained Virginia. She advises families to look for a care provider who is concerned for the emotional and social Virginia Cole needs of their residents.

Fallbrook Assisted Living As an example, Virginia told us about how a and Memory Care cancer diagnosis affected the family of one of their residents. “Our community recently had the honor of caring for someone with dementia who was also given a life limiting diagnosis of cancer,” shared Virginia. “We were able to support the family with both memory care and physical and clinical care to remedy the terminal diagnostic. We did this by partnering with hospice to aid in the comfort and dignity at the end of life. Our staff provided care and compassion to the family as well as our resident. Our community was able to care for the resident’s changing needs so the family could experience the gift of quality time with their loved one. While these times are not easy for the resident, family, or community staff, they are a mission of heart.”

For families navigating health problems that their senior loved ones face, knowledge is one of the most precious things to have. There are many resources that exist to help families navigate these problems. Kyle Johnson, owner of Care Consultants for the Aging, talked to us about their ElderCare Resource Handbook for families researching their options. The online edition of their Lincoln handbook is available for free and physical editions can be ordered for just a few dollars.

“Our mission is to provide the elderly and their Kyle Johnson adult children with assistance in achieving Care Consultants a continued independent living style,” Kyle for the Aging noted. “We seek to find and refer caregivers and other professionals that provide support services. To help families walk through each aspect, Care Consultants has designed a free, simple, one-page task sheet to lay out key considerations.

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These include a handy list of services from medical care, food and nutrition, companionship, and mobility assistance to help families identify their priorities. As a free service, Care Consultants hopes to refer families to professionals who can meet their individual needs,” explained Kyle.

As the average American lifespan has gradually increased over the decades, addressing illnesses caused by old age has become a more important part of family life. For example, families with loved ones experiencing Alzheimer’s or dementia often consider memory care.

“Dementia is a true passion of mine and it affects so many individuals and families in different ways,” Jolee Urbanovsky, Transition Consultant for Bridge to Better Living (BBL), told us. “There have been many stories and journeys I have been blessed to walk alongside. Although dementia is a cruel and evil disease, BBL is here to relieve some of the stress by offering a shoulder to cry on—someone to sit and listen to the concerns, confusion, and frustration families go through on a day to day basis.”

Jolee Urbanovsky Bridge to Better Living Seniors are often affected more profoundly by an accident than a younger person would be. This means the need for care may arise unexpectedly in later life.

“Unfortunately, unexpected and difficult situations or a crisis may happen at any moment’s notice,” noted Jolee. When considering options, Jolee advises families to look for teams who understand the healthcare industry and provide a variety of strengths. “We have an amazing team at Bridge to Better Living and have a combined total of over 140 years of working passionately with seniors and the healthcare industry….The other huge advantage of working with Bridge to Better Living is having us at the family’s or senior’s side every step of the journey. We are not a one-phone-call kind of business. Bridge to Better Living values people,” assured Jolee.

Not only has the average life expectancy for Americans increased, other factors are also affecting the senior care industry. As Karla Frese, co-owner of Homecare Partners of Nebraska pointed out, there will be more people over 65 than under 18 by 2033. “By 2029, all of the Baby Boomers will be 65 and older!” Karla pointed out. “Our role is to take responsibility for our own aging process and realize that aging is not a disease, but instead a process...one to embrace and prepare for.”

As a volunteer instructor partnering with Karla Frese AARP, Karla has given educational seminars Homecare Partners titled, “Prepare to Care.” She informed us of Nebraska that because people can now expect to live 20 to 30 years beyond the traditional retirement age of 65, creating a framework for the future has become vital. “Many people wait until a crisis occurs before they talk about their values and preferences, wishes for health care, or details about their finances. It’s never easy to bring up what you think will be an uncomfortable topic. However, a lot of uncertainty can be avoided if you talk with your loved one before a crisis occurs,” Karla said. To avoid burnout, she advises working with a team, assessing the goals and needs of a care giving plan, and delegating responsibilities. “Realize your plans may change,” she added.

When it comes to retirement, it’s important to find a place where you or your loved one can feel comfortable. That is why Carriage Glen’s is proud to have a staff of caring people committed to providing a warm, friendly environment. Carriage Glen, an Essex Community, is designed for those age 55+ who wish to enjoy an independent lifestyle. What does this lifestyle include? At Carriage Glen it includes dining, transportation, a fitness and wellness area, coffee shop, library, and even guest rooms for visitors! Even if an individual decides to move into another living situation on their own, it can still come as a shock. Change is difficult. It will take some time to settle in, but at the right place, it’ll feel like home in no time.

As the owner of the The Nebraska Hearing Center in Lincoln, audiologist Dr. Leslie Frank, M.S., CCC-A noted that a common life change she sees

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in their office is senior adults transitioning from their homes to assisted living. From a hearing perspective, this can be quite a change. Often, when seniors transition to the assisted living centers, dining rooms are busier and noisier than they are accustomed to. Additionally, there are group activities that place different demands on their hearing.

“This is one of the many reasons why we offer no-charge comprehensive hearing evaluations and demonstrations of digital technology,” Leslie stated. “It is important for people to have Dr. Leslie Frank access to this type of information about their The Nebraska hearing, completed by audiologists. We offer Hearing Center a no pressure approach to hearing healthcare and believe that a baseline hearing evaluation is a great way to start.

Just like any other routine medical exam, it is important to obtain baseline hearing information and re-evaluate annually to monitor any changes.”

In the process of moving to a new home or recovering from an injury or illness, many people experience a period of adjustment and relearning things that used to be second nature. It can be easy to forget, while caring for another, to attend to your own needs. As a retirement living advisor for The Legacy Retirement Communities, Kayla Schaf recalled the example of her dear friend Debbie. “I first met Debbie when she was helping her parent research retirement options,” Kayla noted. “Debbie was the Kayla Schaf adult child of aging parents. She was the The Legacy Retirement real example of the sandwich generation.

Communities Navigating the responsibilities of being a superhero in caring for her own children, husband, job, and her aging parents. The stress of being a caregiver is real.”

“Debbie and I had a special relationship,” shared Kayla. “We shared over a decade of life together while her parents were at the Legacy. We went through the loss of her dad, the daunting diagnosis of memory loss with her mom, and navigating various life challenges. She had the comfort of knowing that, as her parents aged, they were receiving adequate care, and she also knew she had people in her corner for support—people who really knew her and her parents,” she added.

One aspect of a new living arrangement to consider is environment and social opportunities. The Waterford Communities are locally owned and operated, with two assisted living locations. For Christy Merritt, executive director of their Lincoln facilities, family experiences were an important factor in her choosing assisted living and memory care as her career. “I was blessed with the ability to care for my parents and grandmother,” Christy told us. “Through a combined family effort, they were able to spend their final days Christy Merritt at home. Taking care of them was a privilege.

The Waterford After that, I felt a desire to do more and to be Communities a part of something that made a difference.

I had a relative already in the industry who gave me great guidance and inspiration. Through her connections and some divine intervention, doors were opened that brought me to The Waterford at Williamsburg.”

When it comes to care for adults with Alzheimer’s and memory issues, Christy encourages families to look for options that offer social engagement to seniors and spaces that are designed to reduce frustrations caused by the disease. For example, their memory care facility includes sensory stimulation activities, personalized one-on-one activities, a tranquility sensory room, a therapeutic whirlpool bath and spa, and an open air patio space with a serene walking path.

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ordinary facility or be pressured into a resort-style locale that pushes irrelevant bells and whistles. Instead, seek out a community that feels like home—familiar, comfortable, and with friendly faces at every turn.

This is especially comforting for seniors during the holidays when all they want is to be home with their family.

Orchard Park Assisted Living has more registered nurses on staff than any other assisted living facility in town. The result is more thorough, thoughtful care for residents across a wide range of aging-related health issues.

The community is nestled off of 48th and Van Dorn, right in the heart of south Lincoln. This makes it easy to visit your loved one during your lunch break or sometime over the weekend if you live on this side of town.

One of the most difficult topics for any family to broach is death, but like accidents and illness, preparation can save a family from additional stress and confusion during a time of grief. As a family service manager for Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home, Bryan Block has seen how families must cope with grief and how being prepared can affect their whole situation.

He shared personal experience with us about how death has affected a family close to his own. “A few years back, I had an experience Bryan Block with an older couple from out of town that Butherus, Maser & was very close to my family for years,” Bryan Love Funeral Home shared. “They had been like second parents to my wife and I since before we were married. As she was experiencing some health challenges, her husband was her caregiver and she was able to remain in her home. Over the 4th of July weekend the children came to town to find their mom wandering aimlessly upstairs, and their father had passed away in a recliner in the basement in front of a baseball game. They had never had any discussion of funeral planning, they had never had any discussion about long-term care. They just assumed Dad would always be the caregiver. So in an instant, they had to make funeral arrangements for Dad, determine what to do with the house and all their lifelong belongings, and find housing and care for their mother. All on a holiday weekend….Please, have these discussions with your family! They may not be easy, but if the caregiver dies first it would be a tremendous help to the survivors if there was a plan in place.”

Procrastinating on preparing for end-of-life can be a costly decision for an entire family.

As a funeral director for the historic Wyuka Funeral Home and Cemetery, Joshua Vossler noted that when a family has made no preparations such as purchasing a plot or making pre-arrangements with a funeral home, this makes an at-need service necessary.

“For those, we kind of start from scratch, as opposed to something that has been prearranged,” Joshua explained. “The difficulty of an at-need service is the family may have Joshua Vossler to assume what their loved one wanted, even their disposition. They’ll have to ask themselves Wyuka Funeral Home and Cemetery if their loved one wanted to be cremated or have a traditional service.”

Wykua works closely with local grief counselors, community groups, and institutions who specialize in grief counseling and will often make recommendations during this process. In contrast to at-need, pre-need involves making these plans ahead of time, and Joshua sees two key benefits to this approach. 1) It lets the family know what to expect and what their loved one wanted at the time of passing—pastors, songs, style and location of service. 2) It is more efficient and it can be significantly less costly. “We guarantee our service and offerings at today’s prices, which means that at the time of passing, you can save up to a few thousand dollars depending on the policy,” added Joshua. Nothing can fix the pain of grief, but Joshua believes that making a sensible plan can save a family from additional stress and confusion, allowing them to focus on remembering their loved one.

The importance of preparation is illustrated by the sheer number of considerations end of life involves. According to Jodi Freeman, outreach #PrintProudDigitalSmart

coordinator for Roper & Sons, “there are up A Culture Of Caring to 150 pieces of information a family needs to know, usually within 72 hours or less, upon the We provide caregiving services death of a loved one.” Jodi explained to us that improve quality of life and that preparing for end of life is a very similar provide peace of mind. process to other kinds of preparations to the future, like retirement. “While many people think of a funeral home being available to Dr. Ashley and assist only at the time of death, in reality, Dr. Troy specialize planning ahead saves everyone a lot of time, in Neurologically energy, and resources….Most people in their Based Chiropractic 40s and 50s are beginning to think about Jodi Freeman retirement, and many in their 30s are even Corrective Care for Roper & Sons starting to plan ahead. One big piece of those the Entire Family. plans should be to have your funeral arrangements in place, and a plan Call today! 402.318.5797 for pre-paying the expenses.”

Call today! 402.780.1211 ExpressLifeChiropractic.com Jodi has seen the value of this preparation in her own personal life HomeCarePartnersofNebraska.com experience. “My own daughter and I had a conversation about planning ahead for my eventual passing when she was about 18 or 19 and working part time at the funeral home. She witnessed a very difficult situation in which a husband, father, son, and brother had passed away somewhat unexpectedly. There was a lot of bickering among family members about who should plan the service, who knew how this gentleman wanted to be remembered, and how much the family could and would spend on the funeral service. So, my daughter and I sat down later that day and went over my personal funeral plan.” Jodi joked that although she has no plans to die anytime soon, this plan has offered her family clarity and peace of mind. Roper & Sons also hosts free topic breakfasts, which allow the Lincoln community to hear perspectives from local professionals with experience caring for families and seniors.

It is important to emphasize that the elderly are not the only group who can face difficult circumstances, and in fact, younger adults often have the most important financial decisions to make for their future. No matter what happens in life, a proactive approach can help individuals and families better cope World’s first hearing aid with with future difficulties. As owner of Branched Oak Insurance, Shane Jensen has counseled fall detection and alerts families as they seek to financially prepare for uncertainty. “Every scenario is different,” Introducing Via® AI hearing aids with stated Shane. “We would want to work integrated sensors 1 tost detect falls and Shane Jensen 5611 NW , Ste. 102 with each individual client to make sure the send alerts to selected loved ones.

Branched Oak Insurance advice we give them is based on their unique Lincoln, NE 68521 experience. If someone is going through a divorce, we would talk to them about the assets that they have and the steps they would need to take 402-318-5221 to plan their future.” ChFC®, CLU®, CPCU® Shane M.financial Jensen, shane@boifs.com For example, some accidents can lead to costly medical bills or even Owner/Financial Advisor www.boifs.com lawsuits. “Oftentimes, those are some of the most difficult times people pair off ANY face. Our job as an agent is to offer them advice and importantfacebook.com/branchedoakifs legal of digital counsel,” Shane told us.

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In addition to insurance, financial planning is also a way for families and Expires: 4/30/19 economy line. small businesses to prepare for their financial future. “On the financial side, we are always protecting our people so we can help them meet S Schedule an appointment and receive: their financial goals,” Shane informed us. “One example would be when • FREE clean and check of current • FREE hearing evaluation we had someone who came in seeking financial planning assistance hearing aids • FREE otoscopic exam of your ears and we identified an issue in the way their assets were being given • FREE digital demonstration to beneficiaries. There were some issues © 2019 Audibel. All Rights Reserved. 3/19 which would have had some severe legal implications. Within 10 minutes, we were able to identify some important adjustments that could have cost millions of dollars.”

While health insurance can help families 333 S. 70th Street • Ste. 101 afford medical bills, these are just one of Lincoln, NE 68510 the expenses that can be added to a family Leslie M. Frank Dr. Jessica Hart Call today (402) 475-6354 M.S., CCC-A, Au.D., CCC-A, budget thanks to a health issue. As a benefits Audiologist, Owner Audiologist Satellite Offices Located In: advisor for Aflac, Kerry Butzke specializes in Find out more about us on: supplemental insurance intended to help with SEWARD: BEATRICE: www.NebraskaHearingCenter.com unforeseen injuries and illnesses. “With Aflac, Lied Senior Center 301 S. 6th Street FINANCING Kerry Butzke our goal is to give individuals, businesses, and 1010 Manor Drive AVAILABLE

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families peace of mind,” explained Kerry. We are not health insurance.

We are supplemental insurance, which pays you cash benefits in the time of an unforeseen injury or illness. You can’t swipe your health insurance card at the gas station, meaning your health insurance doesn’t cover your daily living or give you paycheck protection when you cannot work or are sick and have to drive to appointments and take time off of work for yourself or your loved ones.”

In the American healthcare marketplace, employers tend to be the main provider of health insurance options to their employees. However, individuals with regular health insurance might be able to increase their security just by speaking to their employer. As a specialist in supplemental benefits, Kris Loberg from UNICO offered this advice to employees: “I would first ask your employer if supplemental insurance is available. It might be and they are not aware of it. Sometimes we have employers who will decide to add supplemental products to their benefits package if they realize employees are interested. Also, when an employer understands

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supplemental benefits can be added at no cost to the company, they are more inclined to add that benefit.”

Because many Americans live paycheck to paycheck, Kris noted that supplemental insurance can be a tremendous blessing to cope with the additional financial costs associated with an accident or illness. “Even with good health insurance and disability benefits insurance, there is are still out of pocket expenses,” she said. Unplanned life events also account for most home foreclosures.

Kris Loberg “The number one reason for foreclosures is UNICO accidents and sickness. What we are trying to focus on is financial well being. It helps someone to sleep at night. For example, my brother was diagnosed with cancer at age 27. It hits very close to home for me as a single mother of two. What would I do if that had been me? If you think of that type of situation, in which you might be out of work and you want to focus on recovery, how do you pay the bills? I have close experience with people who have had these types of life impacting events.”

Unfortunately, there are situations where it can become difficult to recover financially at all. As Executive Director Chris Lamberty revealed, the Lincoln Housing Authority (LHA) currently assists approximately 3,000 households in Lincoln through the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program. “This includes seniors and individuals who are permanently disabled,” explained Chris, who has worked for over 20 years with LHA to provide affordable housing options. “I’ve learned it’s a real struggle for people in low income brackets to afford Chris Lamberty housing. There are some people who need some short-term assistance and others, who Lincoln Housing Authority due to some disability or long-term health problems, need more long-term assistance. One of the biggest challenges is there is not a lot of emergency housing resources. Everything we have has waiting lists,” explains Chris. To address this, the LHS works in close partnership with local organizations and institutions for emergency housing situations, such as assistance for those fleeing domestic abuse.

Understanding the resources available in the local community can help at-risk families develop their financial independence and support their children. “I think something I would like more people to know is beyond our immediate housing services, we also offer some wrap-around services, such as our children’s reading program,” said Chirs.

If someone hasn’t put their effects in order prior to having an accident or illness, a family may have to begin the difficult process of setting a house in order themselves, and may consider self storage. As Rod Berens, co-owner of Store-It-All put it, “Your property can be one of the greatest blessings you pass onto your family, or it can be a headache. If there is an immediate need to move, self-storage is an economical option because it won’t require you to make hundreds of decisions about your various effects right away. We have the boxes Rod Berens and supplies for you, along with on-site security Store-It-All and video surveillance so you can have the peace of mind of knowing your property is safe while you attend to more important matters.”

Whether an accident, an illness, or a sudden death, unforeseen life events can affect the young and the old. Rather than procrastinate on these problems, young people have an opportunity to take proactive steps to prevent being blindsided by unplanned events, and the elderly have an opportunity to be active in making decisions for their livelihoods. Many free resources and services exist to allow families to gather information on the options they have available to them to prepare for the future. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Summer

Activities For Kids It feels a little crazy to be talking about Summer, but it will be here before we know it! Between activities, camps, and summer classes, there is a lot to plan ahead for. Kids benefit from maintaining some form of structure in their lives. Also, since we live in a time when it’s all too common for kids to have a screen in front of their face, we want to encourage parents to take advantage of the summer time to unplug and experience a life of adventure and exploration.

There are a lot of opportunities out there for kids to stay active and continue some type of routine. No matter what it may be, make sure to get them involved in something. Sports, in particular, can be so important for kids’ overall health, providing them with physical challenges and helping with mental acuity, all while they’re developing positive social skills. Play It Again Sports offers everything you should need to keep your kids active this summer. Whether it’s for baseball, softball, football, soccer, golf, or another sport or fitness-related activity, they’ve got a great selection of items for affordable prices. Plus, they have a knowledgeable staff that truly enjoys applying their knowledge to help customers find the right items and the right fit.

Regular activity keeps those brains working and bodies moving, but it is also good to mix it up and engage in some different activities from time to time. Bowling is one of these activities we recommend. Sun Valley Lanes has open bowling everyday from 11 a.m. to 11: 30 p.m.

They even offer a special deal in which you can bowl for two hours for only $10.95/person—shoe rental is even included! This offer is valid Sunday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can make this deal even better with the Lunch-n-Bowl option, which runs Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Anyone who does the two-hour bowling for $10.95 during these times will receive a $2 off coupon to be used for food or drink purchase.

Plus, have you ever heard of HyperBowling?

“It’ll make your head spin!” Brian Kleinknecht with Sun Valley Lanes exclaimed. “Kids and adults alike will enjoy HyperBowling. There is no need for a fancy approach or perfect curveball, just hit the colorful targets and level up. HyperBowling combines the fun of bowling with video game-like play to create an actionpacked and fun new way to bowl.”

Unfortunately, though, just because our kids are on summer vacation, doesn’t mean we are. That is why we also want to highlight Brian Kleinknecht World of Knowledge Child Development Sun Valley Lanes Center and Preschool. Their childcare for toddlers in Lincoln provides a safe and supportive learning environment.

Their activities are structured to both enrich your children’s minds and to encourage fun social play. For a taste of their summer programming, ask them about their schools out and summer day camp for school age children. This way, you will have a chance to have an adventure, but under the supervision of friendly and energetic counselors.

It’s time to start thinking about what your kids will be doing this summer, either with you or while you are at work. There are so many awesome activities available here in Lincoln! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

9 am - 12:30 pm |Follows LPS Calendar Participating in Step up to Quality Nebraska, Creative Curriculum, and ASQ – 3 assessments.

Call us today!

8310 Wendell Way (402) 483-4769 Hrs: Mon. - Fri., 6:30 am - 6:00 pm WorldOfKnowledge@neb.rr.com

We Buy, Sell, Trade Quality New & Used Sports & Fitness Equipment Baseball • Football • Golf • Skates Exercise Equipment & more!

Locally Owned & Operated Mon-Thurs 10-8 • Fri-Sat 10-6 • Sun 12-5 48th & Vine • PlayItAgainSportsLincoln.com • 402.483.7447

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

“We Turn Your Feelings Into Flowers!”

Studies have shown that a surprise gift of flowers can provide a “pick me up” that lasts for days, and now that it’s officially spring...it’s the time to fill your world with daffodils, tulips, daises, carnations, and all the other colorful flora that shine bright this season. Burton & Tyrrell’s Flowers offers a lovely variety of fresh flowers and creative gift ideas to suit any style or budget. Plus, there are so many holidays and special occasions right around the corner, so let Burton & Tyrrell’s create a custom flower arrangement that fits your occasion perfectly!

Flowers for Every Occasion EASTER - What better way to celebrate Easter than with the candy-colors of springtime? Think you’re too old for an Easter basket? Think again! Order a lush basket of Easter flowers for yourself or any “bunny” who needs a reason to smile! Whether your style is bright and cheery gerbera daisies, or powdery pastel lilies, this Lincoln florist has you covered.

GRADUATION - Are you looking to send your favorite student flowers for graduation? Why not send the class flower or a dozen roses to show your pride? Honoring someone’s hard work with flowers is a long-standing tradition. Burton & Tyrrell’s Flowers can help you choose the perfect arrangement for any deserving student.

MOTHER’S DAY - Send mom your love this year through a beautiful bouquet of her favorite flowers. Mother’s Day is your time to show mom just how much you appreciate her and everything she has done. Whether it’s here in Lincoln or across the country flowers are the perfect way to say, “Thinking of You” and “I Love You” this mother’s day.

WEDDINGS - Premium, fresh flowers and upscale floral artistry are sure to leave a lasting impression on your wedding day. Special care is taken to ensure the bouquets and on-site floral décor reflect your individual style and budget. Whether you prefer timeless or a sleek, contemporary look your special day is sure to come to life with the help of the talented and experienced experts at Burton & Tyrrell’s Flowers.

BIRTHDAYS - Whether you’re looking for a gift or party decor, floral arrangements are a great way to make a statement. Out of town on their birthday? Don’t let that stop you from helping them celebrate. A vase filled with roses, tulips, or daisies (just to name a few) delivered to their work or home will leave them grinning from ear to ear!

ANNIVERSARIES - Burton & Tyrrell’s Flowers in Lincoln has gifts and flowers perfect for any anniversary, whether it’s your first or your 50th.

Anniversary flowers are always a great way to remind that special someone how much you care. Roses are a classic way to say “I Love You” on your anniversary, while a custom floral arrangement always makes a perfect surprise. Top off your unique anniversary gift with a balloon bouquet that is sure to add a smile.

JUST BECAUSE - Sometimes, you don’t need a reason to remind someone you care...That’s why “just because” is one of the best reasons to say “Thank you,” “I’m sorry,” “I love you,” “I hope you’re having a good day,” “Good luck,” “Congratulations,” “I miss you,” or “I wish I could be there.”

About Burton & Tyrrell’s Flowers Burton & Tyrrell’s is owned by Gary Tharnish, a local florist with nearly 40 years of experience in floral arrangement and member of the Nebraska Florist Society.

Burton & Tyrrell’s offers a user-friendly online shopping experience with secure 24-hour ordering right at your fingertips. The store will assist you with any local or worldwide deliveries, and corporate accounts are welcome as well. For your convenience, Burton & Tyrrell’s offers daily floral delivery to local funeral homes and hospitals.

“When words escape, flowers speak.”

3601 CALVERT SUITE 12 LINCOLN, NE 68506 | (402) 421-2613 | www.btflowers.com 82

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