Strictly Business Lincoln April 2015

TM

Lincoln • April 2015 • Strictly-Business.com

WHY USE SIDES?

State Information Data Exchange System Laura Pavalis

Director of Human Relations Services for CFO Systems, LLC

IN THIS ISSUE: Celebrating Graduation Spring Landscaping Starting a Business Unplanned Life Changes Continuing Education CLIENT SPOTLIGHT: ComPro

Star City Six

Gill Peace

Jennifer Gibbons

Jim Graham

Barb Scott

Perry Haralson

Becky Lauk

Peace Studio Architects Elite Professionals Home Care

Legacy Retirement Communities

Cornhusker Bank

Nebraska Neon Sign Company

Wyuka Funeral Home & Cemetery APRIL 2015 Strictly Business 1

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

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

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Strictly Business APRIL 2015

APRIL 2015 Strictly Business

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APRIL 2015

NEWS 5 Business 29 Personnel

www.Strictly-Business.com 36 Non-Profit 47 Health

COLUMNS 17 24 25 26 27

FOCUSING ON YOUR BRAND

Ask the Expert: ComPro Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Downtown Lincoln Association LIBA Sandler Training

SPOTLIGHTS

18 Star City Six 52 Client Spotlight: ComPro 53 Travel Spotlight: Destination Las Vegas

FEATURE STORIES 54 61 70 74 76

Spring Landscaping Unplanned Life Changes Starting A Business Continuing Education Celebrating Graduation

Cover photo courtesy of Three Pillars Media.

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www.Strictly-Business.com/subscribe-strictly-business Info@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com 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.

Printed in the U.S.A Copyright ©2015 by ZAA, Inc. Third class postage paid at Lincoln, NE 68505.

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As I continue to present what I consider to be the essential guiding principles for business owners who want to market themselves effectively, based upon The 16 Monumental Secrets of Guerilla Marketing presented by Jay Conrad Levinson in his national bestseller Guerilla Marketing, the next principle is measurement.

This is a tricky one, primarily because of how the human mind gathers and stores information from external stimuli. The subjective nature of how we interpret and retain the messages we are bombarded with, let alone that of the prompts that would lead us to sharing this information with others or pinpointing exactly where we were exposed to the data we remember, leads to difficulty in tracking as inconsistencies are inevitable. We are constantly picking up information from our environment and storing it, even if we don’t know we are. Marketing harnesses the brain’s power of perception and utilizes this exact process to embed a message in the minds of consumers.

This may lie dormant until a prompt comes along and the information is recalled; you never know when you’ll need it or the opportunity will arise to pass your knowledge along.

Here are a couple examples of common measurement strategies and why they may not be as accurate as you’d hope: Tracking Phone Number – So you’ve added a special line just to use in your marketing. Now you’ll be able to tell if your marketing is effective by the amount of phone calls you receive, right? Wrong. You may get some direct response, but not many people will be calling you prior to doing a few minutes of easy online research first. So they go to your website or Facebook to check you out, and then…they see your business phone number and make contact. Your special number is long forgotten by this point.

Thanks to the power of smartphones we don’t need to write down a phone number, we just search for a business by name and the phone number pops right up. This very likely isn’t your designated marketing number either.

Surveying Your New Clients – When onboarding, many businesses measure the strength of their marketing efforts by asking their new clients how they were referred. Unfortunately for business owners, accuracy isn’t of the utmost importance to anyone else and many times people will unintentionally misdirect. Why? Most often it’s because they can’t pinpoint the one message that was the tipping point in their decision. Especially for those who are utilizing a healthy media mix where each different piece and platform for exposure reinforces their whole message.

The response you intend to generate needs to be clear before you even address how you will measure it (or if it can be measured). If a marketing campaign is effective it will be memorable, yes, but most of all it will create word of mouth. According to Nielsen, a leading global information and measurement company, 92% of consumers believe recommendations from friends and family over all forms of advertising. While it’s hard to believe that I’d trust my Uncle Ernie over a professional in the field when making a purchasing decision, here’s why I would: I already know he has my best interests at heart and has nothing to gain or lose from my ultimate decision, so I’d certainly be open to letting him steer me in the “right” direction. In general, we poll as many people in our family, workplace and group of friends/ acquaintances before we make any big decision with our hard earned dollars. These recommendations are heavily impacted by the marketing messages that the referring party has been exposed to. While a lot of word of mouth referrals do come from past jobs well done and experiences with a company, a healthy number still come from the credibility, branding, and top of mind recognition that exposure through marketing brings to the table. Your best bet with measurement is friendly conversation; you’ll be better able to discern what led the customer to you and 99% of the time you’ll find it’s not one simple answer but a complex network of prompts.

All things considered, people choose to do business with who they know, like and trust. You may not be able to put an exact number on it, but if you’re consistently branding yourself and breeding familiarity with your marketing efforts, you’ll be able to measure your results in the best area—profit!

Paige Zutavern

Lincoln/Omaha - President 402-730-0096 | Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

About the Cover TM

Lincoln • April 2015

• Strictly-Busines

s.com

WHY USE S I D Er mSa t i?o n

State Info ge System an Data Exch

Laura Pavalis

Relations Director of Human Systems, LLC Services for CFO

IN THIS ISSUE: ation Celebrating Gradu caping Spring Lands ess Starting a Busin Changes Unplanned Life tion Continuing Educa CLIENT SPOTLIGHT: ComPro

Star City Six

Jennifer Gibbons

Gill Peace

Elite Professionals Peace Studio Architects Home Care

Barb Scott

Perry Haralson t

Legacy Retiremen Communities

Cornhusker Bank

Jim Graham

Nebraska Neon Sign Company

Becky Lauk

Wyuka Funeral Home Cemetery

&

SIDES (State Information Data Exchange System) is a free, paperless method of receiving and responding to requests for employee separation information from the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL). These requests are sent after an employee files an unemployment insurance claim. SIDES E-Response allows employers to receive email requests for separation information instead of paper forms, and to respond electronically simply by clicking a link in their email.

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

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

What are employers and third party administrators saying about SIDES?

PRINT MAGAZINES ARE #1 in reaching influential consumers

“All employers at some point or another have to respond to an unemployment claim. The real beauty of it is now that the separation information requests come via email, so I can check my email and see that I have responses to complete and I can do that from my kitchen table, from my hotel room if I’m on the road, or from my office if I happen to be lucky enough to be in the office. Fortunately I have access to electronic employee files so I can attach documents that are pertinent to that separation and get them submitted quickly. But, if I find that I don’t have all of the information that I need, I can save it, I can stop, I can pause, I can check my records the next day or the day after that, and I can complete the claim without having to start all over again from the beginning or find the paper form I was working on two days ago.

The online form is actually a breeze to complete. It’s much easier than the paper form ever was. It has an orderly flow to it and you can move backwards and forwards while you’re in the form. It’s very quick and doesn’t take very long for each page to refresh so as you think of something that you want to add to your comments or a document that needs to be added to the claim, you can move backwards and forwards and save as you go along. It’s far easier than the manual system ever was--no more filling in the tiny little boxes.

Paper reporting of unemployment claims is inefficient; using the online system is efficient, it saves time, it saves money, and that is money that can be put to better purposes, whether you’re a non-profit and using that money to serve your clients or whether you’re a for profit and using that money to serve your shareholders.” – Laura Pavalis, Director of Human Resources Services for CFO Systems in Omaha, NE. Laura has more than 30 years of experience and works with small clients with several employees and large companies with over 1,200

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Number of times medium ranks #1 among influential consumers across 60 product categories

17

5 1 print magazines

internet

*

radio

tv

0

newspapers

*Includes internet magazine activity

Strictly Business Magazine has been helping clients generate a stronger brand awareness and greater profit for over 20 years.

To find out how we can help you too, call

402-466-3330 or visit

Strictly-Business.com

Note: Super influentials are defined as people who have great experience in this topic and whose advice on this topic is trusted by friends and family members Base: Top quintile of usage for each medium among adults with a HHI of $50K+ Source: GfK MRI, Fall 2013

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THURSDAY, MAY 7TH

Let us Pray for LINCOLN, for NEBRASKA & for our COUNTRY.

“Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness...”

Matthew 6:33 402.488.8934 www.hisautocare.com

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 402.417.2997 www.chefauchef.com

“Pray without ceasing.”

1 Thessalonians 5:17 402.434.3990 www.mittelstadtagency.com

“For He shall give His angels charge of thee, to guard thee in all thy ways.”

Psalm 91:11 402.474.4000 www.guardian-angels.us

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.

Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.“ Proverbs 3:5&6 402.890.0972 402.423.0000 www.thewaterford.net

Growing in Our Love for God and Others.

402.423.5511 www.southwoodlutheran.org

“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. 40 On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” - Matthew 22:36-40 36

www.imageinflators.com

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English Standard Version (ESV)

Business News Lincoln Airport Gains Additional Flights to Chicago and Denver Travelers who use the Lincoln Airport now have more options when flying east or west. United Airlines recently added an additional flight to Chicago O’Hare International Airport Sunday–Friday and another flight to Denver International Airport on every day but Tuesday. More improvements in air service are planned for May 6, 2015, when United Airlines will add one more flight to Chicago that will depart Lincoln at 5:10 a.m., making a total of five direct flights to Chicago on a normal business day.

United will also change its schedule of flights to Denver International Airport beginning May 6. The airline will make its final departure of the day at 4:49 p.m. rather than 7:35 p.m. United will continue early morning and midday flights to Denver, for a total of three daily flights Monday–Friday. The new schedule for United Airlines is expected to continue through October 31, 2015.

Passenger traffic on commercial airlines at the Lincoln Airport grew 12 percent in January 2015 compared to January 2014. Delta Air Lines increased 27 percent, and United Airlines was up 4 percent.

Travelers can find the latest updates on flight schedules, information on parking and airport services, and the LNK vs. OMA cost comparison tool at LincolnAirport.com.

Hospice Community Care of Nebraska Awarded Accreditation From The Joint Commission Hospice Community Care of Nebraska recently announced that it has once again earned The Joint Commission Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards.

The Gold Seal of Approval® is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and effective care.

Hospice Community Care of Nebraska underwent a rigorous on-site survey in December 2014. During the survey, compliance with hospice standards were evaluated including the provision of care, treatment and services, emergency management, human resources, individual rights and responsibilities, and leadership. On-site visits with patients receiving care and their staff members were also evaluated.

The Joint Commission (www.jointcommission.org) supports the efforts of its accredited organizations to help deliver safe, high quality care and services by holding them accountable to the highest standards. Hospice Community Care of Nebraska has maintained accreditation since 2012.

“Hospice Community Care of Nebraska is proud of our continued accreditation from The Joint Commission,” added Lisa Pham, RN, Executive Director. “Our organization strives to strengthen the continuum of care and deliver optimal hospice services to those in our community.

The Joint Commission has affirmed our efforts have been successful”.

Hospice Community Care of Nebraska is located at 5550 South 59th Street, Suite 12 in Lincoln and provides hospice services to Lincoln and surrounding communities in southeast Nebraska. For more information, call (402) 328-2350 or visit www.hospicecarenebraska.com.

Ginger Celebrates Grand Opening G i n g e r, a n e w restaurant in southeast Lincoln with a fresh, distinctive take on Asian fusion, celebrated its grand opening with a Lincoln Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting event held on January 23rd.

Ginger is the first restaurant concept of its kind in the area, offering a unique dining experience that includes a Mongolian grill, a sushi bar, and a relaxing lounge for guests to enjoy. In addition, Ginger’s menu offers a robust selection of pan-Asian cuisine that combines the flavors of the east with the influence of the west. Officially opened on January 7, the new $3 million restaurant is owned by Steve and Yvette Cordell of Omaha, Chuck Hill of Gretna and Joey Lin, Ginger’s sushi chef who recently moved to Lincoln from New York City.

Ginger not only combines different flavors, but also fuses casual with upscale for a modern yet comfortable atmosphere. With great lunch specials, a business happy hour, and excellent service to top it off, Ginger is a place where you can relax and enjoy authentic, fresh cuisine with good company. Ginger is located at 6055 Apples Way and is open from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. For more information, please call (402) 904-4642 or visit ginger-grill.com.

Nebraska Wesleyan University Launches Leadership Institute Do you find yourself spending too much time at work focusing on problems rather than solutions? Explore the Leadership Institute at Nebraska Wesleyan.

Through seminars, certificate and degree programs, NWU faculty will prepare you to think differently about the challenges you face every day.

Seminars for individuals or groups vary in length and leadership topics. NWU can customize these non-credit offerings for corporations, nonprofits and small businesses. Seminars are held at NWU facilities in Lincoln and Omaha, or at your workplace.

Certificates are designed to improve organizational and professional leadership skills. Certificate programs are offered throughout the year in eight-week sessions that meet one night per week. NWU offers four leadership certificates, with credit or non-credit options.

Earning a degree from Nebraska Wesleyan gives you the most indepth leadership training. Choose from: • Master of Business Administration • Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Nursing joint degree • Bachelor of Science in organizational leadership and communication • Bachelor of Science in business administration For more information on the Leadership Institute, and to explore upcoming seminars, go to nebrwesleyan.edu/leadership or contact Melissa McCoy at (402) 465-2330, mmccoy@nebrwesleyan.edu.

APRIL 2015 Strictly Business 7

Business News All About Family Marks Chamber Membership With Ribbon Cutting

LIBA PAC Endorses Andy Stebbing On Tuesday, April 7th, the citizens of Lincoln will have the opportunity to make their voices heard in the primary elections. Four years ago, the Lincoln Independent Business Association Political Action Committee (LIBA PAC) endorsed Chris Beutler for Mayor. Today, the LIBA PAC is announcing its endorsement for Andy Stebbing.

In making its decision, the PAC members felt that a set of fresh ideas would serve the community well. As County Treasurer, Stebbing has demonstrated a willingness to change government to better serve the citizens. As a Mayoral candidate Stebbing recognizes the need for more police officers to keep our city safe and to increase the “clearance rate” of burglaries that disrupt area businesses. Stebbing is also committed to holding the line on taxes. In fact, Stebbing has also promised to fix our streets while working toward a reasonable reduction in the Wheel Tax. LIBA vigorously fought the 37% increase in the current Wheel Tax and believes the tax is excessive.

The LIBA PAC thanks Mayor Beutler for his service to Lincoln. Now the LIBA PAC is asking its members to support Andy Stebbing for Mayor.

New Homes & Lots Now Available in The Woodlands at Yankee Hill Real Estate Avenues: The Brokerage, LLC is excited to announce that new homes by Third Generation Builder are now being offered in The Woodlands at Yankee Hill. Located just south of 70th and Yankee Hill, these prime lots can host a variety of styles of home and floor plans from ranches to two story homes. Both flat lots and walk-out lots are available with homes starting at $261,000 (lot included), or custom build to suite.

Third Generation Builder is quickly becoming a staple in South Lincoln for New Construction Homes. TGB owner Stephanie Krueger Ponce has been in business for 6 successful years. Born and raised in Lincoln, Stephanie feels “Having grown up in the building industry, it is rewarding as well as fun to help Lincoln grow; and building new homes for people is something I love doing. As President of TGB, I come from a family that has been involved in the building industry for years. My father and grandfather, Rick and Calvin Krueger, have influenced my decision to become a quality custom home builder – a Third Generation Builder” For additional information please call Derek J Kats, Brokerage Owner / Realtor of Real Estate Avenues: The Brokerage, LLC at (402) 770-5021 or email DerekJKats@REAtheBrokerage.com.

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All About Family recently hosted a ribbon cutting on March 17th to formally celebrate joining the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. The new Lincoln-based company offering non-medical in-home ser vices to residents in Lancaster, Otoe and Cass counties is locally owned and operated by registered nurse Stephanie Petersen.

All About Family was established to assist seniors in living at home for as long as possible through the delivery of necessary non-medical in-home services, which include personal cares and companionship, transportation for errands and special occasions, and general handyman tasks including maintenance and repairs. The company’s unique model allows clients to design their own needs during an initial assessment, followed by regular evaluation as needs increase.

Services may even be coordinated to start as soon as within 24 hours of the initial assessment visit. All About Family caregivers dedicated, loyal, family oriented, screened directly by Petersen and are matched with each client through a specialized assessment system.

For more information about All About Family and the services that the company has to offer, please contact owner Stephanie Petersen directly at (402) 269-8079 or via email at AllAboutFamily14@ gmail.com.

Union Bank Now the Exclusive Bank on UNL’s Campus As of March 1, Union Bank & Trust is the exclusive bank serving the University of Nebraska—Lincoln (UNL). A new Union Bank (UBT) branch opened inside the City Campus Union on Monday, March 2. The branch is located in a newly designed space on the north side of the Union. Union Bank replaces Wells Fargo as the exclusive bank on UNL’s City and East campuses.

The branch offers a casual, interactive design equipped with new technology to provide the UNL community choices in how they wish to conduct and manage their banking services. Bank customers may choose to work directly with a personal banker, use an interactive ATM for core transactions, or elect to open their account at the selfservice counter featuring electronic tablets.

In addition to the new branch, eight UBT ATMs are conveniently location across campus as well as a self-service center at the East Campus Union. The East Campus self-service center offers an interactive ATM that connects via video to personal bankers at the Bank’s Lincoln-based Call Center, a touch screen kiosk for account information and account opening, and message board.

The Bank is also offering the UNL community a Resource Bank to connect bank experts with faculty, classrooms and organizations and the UCrew team of employees providing financial literacy and money management tips. UBT is also funding $20,000 annually to support student organizations and activities. Coordinated with UNL’s Student Involvement Office, the Bank and the Office of Student Affairs will identify programs or events to fund.

For more information about Union Bank & Trust, visit ubt.com.

Business News U.S. Treasury Awards $4.4 Million to Support Nebraska’s Small Businesses The U.S. Treasury Department has announced that Nebraska has received $4,477,239 in State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funds to help small businesses access the capital they need to grow and create jobs. To date, $13,168,350 in SSBCI funds have been disbursed to the Nebraska Department of Economic Development to support businesses and the local economy.

Small businesses and entrepreneurs need access to capital to build their businesses, and SSBCI is designed to help spur new private sector lending or investment in small companies by leveraging private capital along with the federal support offered by the program. In the first three years of the program, SSBCI helped 8,500 businesses nationwide secure $4.1 billion in loans or investments, nearly $7 in private capital for every $1 of federal support. Each state designs its own small business programs, and Nebraska has implemented a Loan Participation Program and a Venture Capital Program.

To build on the momentum of the program’s success and capitalize on new working relationships among states and small business lenders and investors, President Obama recently proposed an extension of SSBCI in his 2016 Budget with an additional $1.5 billion in funding.

For more information on SSBCI and Treasury’s other small business programs, please visitwww.treasury.gov/smallbusiness. For more information on Nebraska’s SSBCI program, please visit http://www. neded.org/business/progress-loan-fund.

ABC Cornhusker Chapter Recognizes Best Projects of 2014 at 19th Annual Excellence in Construction Awards Ceremony The Cornhusker Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) held their 19th Annual Excellence in Construction Award ceremony on February 19, 2015 at The Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln. The awards competition is designed to publicly recognize the quality and distinction of merit shop construction projects built by Nebraska Contractors during 2014.

Eagle Award winners are now eligible to enter ABC’s National Excellence in Construction Awards program.

The 2014 Project of the Year award was presented to an Omaha firm, Lund-Ross Constructors for The Barn at Glacier Park in Bennington, NE which was entered in the Historic Restoration/ Renovation Less than $25 Million category. The 2014 Eagle Safety Award went to the winning project that demonstrated outstanding commitments toward safety. The winner of this award was Lincoln company General Excavating for Nebraska Innovation Campus Centralized Renewable Energy System entered in the Public Works / Environmental category. The following Lincoln ABC member companies received Excellence In Construction Eagle Awards at the ceremony: Willmar Electric Service Corp. for the Devaney Sports Center Improvements in the Electrical Commercial $2 Million to $10 Million; K2 Construction, for the CRES Pump Station in the Industrial Less than $5 Million category; General Excavating for Nebraska Innovation Campus Centralized Renewable Energy System in the Public Works/Environmental category; Cheever Construction for the IAC Acoustics GT Exhaust Manufacturing Facility in the Industrial $5 Million - $15 Million category. ABC represents over 100 merit shop contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, manufacturers and associate members throughout the state.

For more information, visit www.abcnebraska.org.

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Coping with Challenging Behaviors Presented by Teepa Snow, MS Dementia Care Education Specialist

Thursday, May 21st, 2015

Bryan Medical Center West Campus Conference Center, 2300 South 16th St, Lincoln

Session 1: For Health Care Professionals

8:30-Noon

Learn why the person you are helping exhibits difficult or challenging behaviors, and what you can do about it.

• Understand how the disease causes many of the common behaviors • Beyond Alzheimer’s, other factors that can contribute to challenging behaviors • Achieve better outcomes through problem-solving and coping strategies

Session 2: For Caregivers, Counselors & Professionals

1:30-5:00

A coaching class especially for families, counselors and other health care professionals. Learn how to help those who need help, but don’t want it.

• Discuss the causes for emotional distress among those with dementia and the people who care for them • How to use positive physical approach, supportive communication, meaningful activity and other techniques • Compare traditional responses to new approaches and interaction techniques

Sponsored by CountryHouse Residences, Bryan Medical Center, and the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter

APRIL 2015 Strictly Business

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Business News GP Customs Celebrates Grand Opening of New Shop GP Customs made the move from its longtime location at 14th and Yankee Hill Road to a brand n e w, l a r g e r location at 14th and Cushman Drive that has been fully operational since the first of the year. To culminate the celebration of the new shop’s grand opening, GP Customs hosted a ribbon cutting with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on February 25th.

Highlights of GP Customs’ new facility include a showroom/business center with internet access for customers to utilize, additional window tinting & paint protection space, exclusive stereo installation space, a truck bed liner bay, and a special workshop area for customization and fabrication of unique customer required items. GP Customs thanks its loyal customer base for their continued support, which has allowed the locally owned and operated business to flourish and to pursue new, innovative ways to serve its clientele.

GP Customs is your source for the latest technology, highest quality workmanship from industry certified technicians, and superior customer service—all for the best prices in town! For more information about GP Customs, please call (402) 421-0888 or visit their new website at www.gp-customs.com.

Cheever Construction Wins Excellence in Construction Award Cheever Construction was recognized for its work on the IAC Acoustics GT Exhaust Manufacturing Facility at the Associated Builders and Contractors 18th Annual Excellence in Construction Awards ceremony on February 19th. The Awards honor the region’s best construction projects and are hosted by the Cornhusker Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).

Cheever Construction won the ABC Excellence in Construction EAGLE Award in the Industrial $5 Million - $15 Million category. Completed in September 2014, this new 173,500 square foot manufacturing facility consolidated five other plants from around the United States to a central location in Nebraska. Over 100 new jobs were added to the existing workforce of GT-Lincoln. The scope of the project entailed a DesignBuild teamwork approach and efficient six month construction timeframe.

Cheever Construction is an established and recognized general contractor known for its honest professional builders who deliver good quality work time and time again. For over five decades, the company has been making good lasting impressions through skill, experience and dedication. In addition to building new projects on raw sites, Cheever is especially good at renovating and expanding existing locations while maintaining safe and functional use of the current facility or living space.

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For more information about Cheever Construction, visit www. cheeverconstruction.com or call (402) 477-6745.

Business News John Henry’s Celebrates Awards The John Henry’s team very excited to be celebrating several awards that they’ve won. The impressive line-up includes the Better Business Bureau’s Integrity Award twice (the only Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning company in Lincoln to ever win twice), the Better Business Bureau’s Ambassador of Integrity award twice, KFOR’s Best of Lincoln Award in the Plumbing category and the Heating and Air Conditioning category for two years in a row, and the Lincoln Journal Star’s Lincoln’s Choice Award for Plumbing and for Heating and Air Conditioning for two years in a row as well. Additionally, John Henry’s is a MAD DAD’s corporate sponsor and has received four Lennox Centurian Awards. Most recently the company received the Angie’s List Super Service Award for the fourth time running.

Being a locally owned, family business in Lincoln for almost 19 years, John Henry’s understands that it is their customers who keeps their business going strong and who make these awards possible. That is why John Henry’s works so hard to make sure customers are receiving only the best service by providing no overtime fees from 7am-7pm, 7 days a week, with 24-hour service available, 365 days a year.

Lincoln, the John Henry’s family humbly thanks you for your continued support and looks forward to continuing to serve the community and surrounding areas to the best of their ability. For more information, please call (402) 435-5555 or visit www.jrlincoln.com.

Legacy Homes Now Pre-Selling Homes in Charleston Heights and Garden Valley Developments Coming this spring -the latest additions of Charleston Heights and Garden Va l l ey ! L e g a c y Homes is excited to announce that they are now preselling homes in the latest additions of Charleston Heights and Garden Valley.

Located just west of N. 14th Street off of Humphrey Avenue, these newest additions to the existing developments offer a wide variety of lot sizes and configurations. Legacy Homes offers many styles and sizes of homes, ranch, 2-story and split or multi-level and all are fully customizable. This means you can make a Legacy house into a home that is uniquely yours.

Legacy has lots available in all quadrants of Lincoln and can help you create your Legacy today. It is easy to begin preparing to purchase your new home by calling Lisa White at Gateway Mortgage to prequalify for the right loan for you at (402) 333-4920. All are welcome to stop in and visit the model complex located at 1145 Humphrey Avenue where you can view three different styles of beautiful, fully furnished model homes. Model hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 1-6 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12-4 p.m. For more information, please call (402) 884-3202.

5th Annual Cornhusker Bank One Day Without Shoes Event Gears Up On April 14th, Cornhusker Bank will be celebrating One Day Without Shoes.

Cornhusker Bank and va r i o u s b u s i n e s s e s a n d o r ga n i z a t i o n s throughout town will have People’s City Mission collection barrels in place, with o ve r 9 0 l o c a t i o n s serving as collection sites throughout the area. New, used, and even unwearable shoes may be donated between April 6thand April 17th by dropping them in any of these barrels.

On Tuesday, April 14th the bank will host a walk from 1101 Cornhusker Highway to the People’s City Mission, starting at 11:00 a.m. A free light lunch will be served at the Cornhusker Highway bank location for those attending the event. The walk helps raise awareness of the need for footwear in our own community and the entire community is invited to participate, regardless of whether or not they can donate. Cornhusker Bank staff members will go shoeless at work on the 14th to help raise awareness as well.

In the first four years of this event, Cornhusker Bank collected over 30,000 pair of shoes and over $33,000 in cash donations for the benefit of the Mission. Please visit CornhuskerBank.com and click on the You Tube icon to view a video about the event which highlights how it impacts the people who receive the donated shoes.

DE Guns to Host GLOCK Sale and Education Event DE Guns has announced that it will host a GLOCK sale and education event beginning Friday, April 10th, including an appearance by a GLOCK representative and an instore giveaway where one lucky customer will win a GLOCK pistol on Saturday, April 11th. The sale prices will be applied for purchases in the store and online.

The continuous pursuit of perfection in every facet of design, engineering, and manufacturing, has firmly established GLOCK pistols as the standard by which all others are compared. Today, GLOCK is the leading global manufacturer of pistols precisely engineered to meet the demanding specifications of military and law enforcement agencies worldwide. That powerful validation, and the company’s reputation for safety, durability, reliability, and ease of use, has also driven consumer dedication further than ever anticipated. As a result, the complete line of GLOCK pistols has become the choice for millions who aspire to carry the perfect firearm for the mission at hand.

Located at 3101 O Street in Lincoln, NE and open Mon-Sat 10-7, DE Guns offers an extensive selection of firearms, ammunition, optics, and related products and supplies—along with the popular Deal of the Day. For more information, please call (402) 875-6500 or visit the mobile friendly websites at DEGuns.net OR DEGuns.biz.

APRIL 2015 Strictly Business 11

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Business News

Jersey Mike’s Opens Third Lincoln Location Jersey Mike’s Subs, known for its fresh sliced/fresh grilled subs, recently celebrated the grand opening of its newest Lincoln location at 2801 Pine Lake Road. This is the third location in Lincoln, with the other two locations at 5001 O Street and 210 N. 14th Street. In honor of the recent expansion to south Lincoln, a ribbon cutting event with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce was hosted by Jersey Mike’s at the new store location on February 18th.

Jeff Marcotte is the owner of all three local franchises, which serve up fresh made cold subs and fresh grilled hot subs as well as wraps and the option to make any sub or wrap into a salad. Jersey Mike’s is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m., and offers its customers a rewards program that can be managed directly from Jersey Mike’s mobile app, as well as an E-Mail Club for access to great offers and coupons. For more information about Jersey Mike’s, please call (402) 423-0060 or visit www.jerseymikes.com.

Calling All Industry Professionals! Strictly Business to Focus on Growing Your Business

Are you a business or organization whose main goal is to help other local businesses grow and thrive? Are your product and/or service offerings perfectly suited for those who are actively planning for the growth of their business in 2015? We’ve got a great opportunity coming up to showcase your business and what you have to offer!

Strictly Business has officially kicked off its newest series, designed specifically for business owners and entrepreneurs, with the Starting Your Business feature story in this month’s issue. The series will continue with the Growing Your Business feature story in the June issue followed

by Selling Your Business in the August issue. This is an excellent means of exposure for those who assist clients in the Lincoln business community that will cover a multitude of essentials that go into building a successful business.

All of our stories, including those in this series, are especially designed to assist our clients in getting the word out about their products, services and expertise. Contact Katie Danehey at (402) 466-3330 or via email at Katie@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com to find out more about how you can get involved!

Defy Gravity Celebrates Grand Opening

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Strictly Business APRIL 2015

Defy Gravity recently celebrated the grand opening of its 30,000 square foot facility in Lincoln on February 19, kicking off with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce at 10 a.m. The interactive family fun and trampoline park, located at 345 Sporting Village Drive, Suite 1, continued the celebration with activities and giveaways throughout the weekend.

Defy Gravity was founded by Nebraska natives Kyle and Brett Shunkwiler and Brandon Dallmann. The interactive family fun and trampoline park features dual-layer trampolines that provide a lowimpact jumping experience and allow jumpers to bounce off of the walls and floor. Additional activities include the Laser Maze, Prismatic Explosion, dodge ball, Freefall, Dunk City, birthday parties and more.

The Lincoln location is the second in Nebraska. Defy Gravity’s first location opened at 10421 Portal Road in LaVista in January 2012. For more information, visit defygravityusa.com, or connect with Defy Gravity on social media at Facebook.com/DefyGravityLincoln, Facebook.com/ DefyGravityUSA and @DefyGravityNE.

Business News

Sandler Sales Training Presents “Effective Communication That Wins Sales” Seminar Sandler Sales Training has announced an upcoming special educational event on May 13th. The half-day seminar will cover “Effective Communication That Wins Sales,” including strategies for success designed especially for sales professionals presented

by President Karl Schaphorst.

Sandler Sales Training principally offers boot camps for sales professionals, and the next training event is scheduled for April 14-15 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. This hands-on two-day course explores the 7-step Sandler Karl Schaphorst Selling System and teaches attendees how to maintain selling control while giving the buyer choices each step of the way. The boot camps are held at the Sandler Training Center, located at 3828 Dodge Street in Omaha.

To register for any upcoming event, visit www.karlschaphorst.sandler. com, click on the Calendar tab and find the registration link in the event listings under the corresponding month.

T 402.483.6656 C 402.610.0169 F 402.413.8320 1221 N Street • Suite 800 Lincoln, NE 68508 www.WillekeFinancialGroup.com

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The Sarpy Experience 2015 Set for June 2nd The Sarpy Expo is back and better than ever! The Sarpy Experience 2015 will be held on June 2nd from 12-6 p.m. at the La Vista Conference Center. The La Vista Conference Center is located at 12520 Westport Parkway near I-80 & Giles, and a new floorplan for this year’s event will maximize the space at the venue for the best show yet! There are several different booth and sponsorship options offered to exhibitors, and registration is open until May 15, 2015. The Sarpy Experience 2015 is proudly presented by the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce, and a special discount is offered to members who are interested in hosting a booth.

Registration is available online at www.sarpychamber.org. For more information about hosting a booth or attending The Sarpy Experience 2015, contact Annisa Visty at (402) 339-3050 or via email at chamber@sarpychamber.org.

Lincoln’s Fourth Dickey’s BBQ Pit Opens Dickey’s Barbecue P i t i s p ro u d t o announce the opening of its fourth location in northeast Lincoln at 8222 Holdrege Street, Suite 10. Owner Will Carter grew up in nearby Hickman and began looking for restaurant concept to develop that would make a great addition to the area. Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. is widely recognized as the nation’s largest barbecue chain, with almost 500 locations in 40 states. Due to Dickey’s Barbecue Pit’s growing popularity in Lincoln, Carter has grown the locally owned and operated chain to four restaurants across Lincoln. The other three locations are in southeast Lincoln on Apple’s Way, 27th & Cornhusker, and downtown at 12th and P. Open daily from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., Dickey’s Barbecue Pit prides itself in authenticity, innovation and fantastic barbecue sauce.

To celebrate the recent expansion, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit hosted a ribbon cutting with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce at its newest location on February 19th. This event kicked off a three day grand opening celebration which offered guest a chance to try out Dickey’s signature barbecue far while taking advantage of great specials.

For more information about Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, please call (402) 486-0048 or visit www.dickeys.com.

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inMOTION Auto Care Attends VISION Training, Introduces New Warranty Program inMOTION Auto C a r e ’ s ow n e r s along with their entire team attended the V I S I O N H i Te c h Training & Expo in Kansas City, March 5-8. VISION is an annual four day, power packed event put on by ASA Midwest to provide the independent repair industry with repair, diagnostic, sales and management training. VISION is a renowned training event with attendees coming from shops all over the world. The inMOTION team logged over 80 hours of training; technicians concentrated on advanced vehicle diagnostic skills and other team members attended marketing, communication, and business development courses. inMOTION Auto Care is also proud to announce the implementation of its 5 year / 50,000 mile parts and labor warranty. The new program gives inMOTION customers up to five times more warranty than other repair shops and new car dealerships. Most repairs performed by inMOTION Auto Care will be covered by the new warranty with the exception of maintenance/wear items, such as brakes, belts, hoses, lighting and filters, seals/gaskets and Value Line parts. Seals & Gaskets will have a 3 year / 30,000 mile warranty. Value Line parts will have a 1 year / 12,000 miles warranty. inMOTION Auto Care is always looking for ways to increase value, protect their customer’s vehicle investment in the most affordable way, and improve the customer’s overall car care experience. For more information about inMOTION Auto Care, please call (402) 486-9880 or visit www.inmotionautocare.com.

APRIL 2015 Strictly Business 13

Business News

Colea Alterations Hosts LCOC Ribbon Cutting Event

LNK

ATL

LINCOLN TO ATLANTA. NO LAYOVER REQUIRED.

Colea Alterations, located at 5500 Old Cheney Road, h o s t e d a r i bb o n cutting with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on March 12th celebrating 14+ years in alterations and 12 years s e l l i n g E t c e t e ra .

Colea Alterations has been specializing in adjusting ready-to-wear clothing to fit properly since 2001, and is locally owned and operated by Nicole Ruskamp.

Nicole and her staff of expert fitters specialize in assessing and adjusting their clients’ clothing for a perfect fit. Services also include zipper repair or replacement, leather alterations or minor repairs.

Colea Alterations also offers Etcetera trunk shows, featuring the exquisite women’s clothing line that’s best known as the sister company to the Carlisle Collection, four times a year. During the show Nicole provides personalized wardrobe services by appointment and she is passionate about creating looks that allow each person’s individual style to shine. With a wide range of couture, coordinated wardrobe pieces guests enjoy one-stop shopping, hassle free service, and working with an experienced tailor. Colea Alterations is open Tuesday-Friday from 10-6 and Saturday from 10-1.

For more information, please call (402) 421-2144 or visit www. coleaalterations.com.

Soul Experiences Tour & Travel Celebrates 1st Anniversary

Early departures, evening returns, and a direct link to an international airport that can take you anywhere. Our newest Delta flight means more convenience and connectivity for you.

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Strictly Business APRIL 2015

Lincoln’s first mother/ daughter owned, experiential ground t r a ve l c o m p a ny Soul Experiences recently celebrated its first anniversary!

Glatha and Kendra Rathjen hosted a Lincoln Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting on March 13th in honor of their company’s milestone, which is currently housed in Suite 308 of the Entrepreneurship Center at Southeast Community College.

Glatha is an ambitious entrepreneur who desired to extend her working life well into her retirement years, so Soul Experiences was a perfect fit. Kendra, a Lincoln native and travel enthusiast, made the decision to join her mother to help create a tour company that helps travelers make positive connections on a social, emotional, spiritual, intellectual and/or physical level. Soul Experiences specializes in tours that get clients “off the beaten path” so they can discover new places or new twists on old favorites and create memories that will last a lifetime. The staff takes care of all the planning so all their clients have to do is experience their own unique travel opportunities!

Come travel with Soul Experiences as they guide you on a soulful journey where clients are free to choose how involved they are with the group, which itinerary suits their needs, and the overall level of relaxation that they are seeking. “It’s the journey…not just the destination!” For more information, please contact Kendra at (402) 890-3569, via email at Kendra@soul-experiences.com, or visit www. soul-experiences.com.

Business News

Save The Date: Precast Products & Landscape Village Announces Spring Open House Precast Products and Landscape Village is celebrating spring with their annual Open House on Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th. Bulk landscape rock, flagstone and mulch will be featured at a 10% discount, and their amazing Maintenance-Free Furniture will be 10% off plus free shipping. Come in and register to win landscape material, outdoor furniture and much more!

Whether you’re thinking of a pond project, new retaining wall, or just a mulch touch-up, you’ll be pleased with all of the products available to suit your needs at Precast Products and Landscape Village. Saturday’s event will also feature a prize wheel, hot dogs and Prairieland Dairy milk, and Display Furniture will be promoted at a 20% discount! Don’t miss out on the savings and fun at 1010 S. Coddington Avenue. For more information, make sure to check out precastproducts.com or call (402) 477-2255.

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Reserve Your Spot Today for the Workplace Solutions Business Seminar on the Coast Strictly Business, in partnership with The Vacation Store, is excited to present a destination educational event on October 31 – November 4! This is an all-inclusive trip that includes selected business speakers and a seminar on small business tax strategies presented

by Matthew Westenburg, CPA, SP Group, PC. Guests will enjoy a five-day stay at the Riu Palace Peninsula resort in Cancun, Mexico for a special business education trip on the coast! Those who wish to book their reservation may do so with The Vacation Store by calling (402) 339-6800 or may sign up using the online booking form available at www.strictly-business.com. For more information about this opportunity, please contact Katie Danehey at (402) 4663330 or katie@strictlybusinessomaha.com.

Midwest Bank Rebuilding in Pilger Midwest Bank President & CEO Doug Johnson is pleased to announce that plans for a new facility in Pilger are in the wor ks and groundbreaking is planned to take place this summer. Midwest Bank also plans to keep a branch location in Wisner, where the Pilger branch has been temporarily relocated. Chris Alt has been named Chief Lending Officer for Midwest Bank and Gene Willers will serve as Senior Credit Advisor while primarily focusing on the redevelopment of the Pilger branch and the community. Willers currently serves as the Market President of the Pilger location and with the events that took place in June of 2014, he has dedicated his time and resources to the community as the redevelopment process continues to be ongoing.

As Chief Lending Officer, Alt will be responsible for managing the loan portfolio for all Midwest Bank locations, including the Lincoln branch located at 2655 Jamie Lane.

Midwest Bank, headquartered in Pierce, Nebraska and with assets of over $650 million, has ten bank locations in nine communities across Eastern Nebraska: Pierce, Pilger, Plainview, Creighton, Norfolk, York, Deshler, Lincoln and Wisner. Midwest Bank’s core mission is to build strong relationships with their clients through dedicated and trusted service. For more information about Midwest Bank, call (402) 4200560 or visit us at www.midwestbank.com.

APRIL 2015 Strictly Business

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Business News Legacy Retirement Communities Announces Upcoming Events Legacy Retirement Communities will again be offering its Legacy of Lear ning series in 2015, beginning with “Living A Healthy, Enriched Life” on April 21st and 28th. Along with that topic, their ex p e r t s w i l l a l s o guide you through the following senior living areas of interest: “Creative Dining Solutions – A Guide to Leftover Creations” on May 21st and 26th “Dementia with Dignity” on June 2th and 30th; “How To Be Your Best Own Healthcare Advocate” on July 23rd and 28th; and “Where Do I Begin? A guide to Senior Living” on August 20th and 25th. If you would like more information regarding any of these topics or about the communities, please contact Kayla at 402-436-3000 or visit www.legacyretirement.com Also, Lincoln’s number one choice in Memory care, The Arbors, A Legacy Memory Care Community is hosting a SpaTacular event for peers and professionals who work tirelessly serving the senior population. Join in the relaxation on Thursday, April 23rd 4:006:00 for Mini Spa treatments, food and beverages at The Arbors, 3777 North 58th Street. Please contact Kathy at (402) 466-3777 for more information.

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Strictly Business APRIL 2015

SuperGlass Expands Online Presence SuperGlass, Inc. recently registered the several websites connected with the SuperGlass Windshield Repair franchises in an effort to further promote the brand and educate the public about the host of proprietary services offered by the company. This includes rockdamagerepair. com, removescratchfromwindshield.com, fixstonedamage.com, glassdamagerepair.com, removescratchfromglass.com, and repairstonedamage.com. These websites will allow those searching for this information to directly connect to SuperGlass, as inquiries to those “satellite” websites are directed to the company’s main websites, superglass.com and glassscratchgone.com. The main goal in establishing these additional websites is to provide more ways for those searching online for solutions to get connected to the information they need.

Established in Nebraska in 2009, SuperGlass Windshield Repair is the largest “repair only” franchise worldwide and rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau. By utilizing their state-of-the-art repair process, they are able to avoid replacement of 98% of damaged windshields which are not biodegradable due to the laminate plastic in the middle, effectively saving their customers time, money and hassle while being environmentally friendly. Boyd Baillie is the owner of the local SuperGlass Windshield Repair franchise whose territory spans from Council Bluffs IA out to North Platte, which includes 43 counties in Nebraska and two in Iowa. For more information, please call (402) 486-0506 or visit www.superglass.com.

Business News Nebraska Outdoor Living Now an Authorized Dealer of Telescope Casual Furniture Nebraska Outdoor Living is proud to announce that they are now a factory authorized dealer for Telescope Casual Furniture. This high quality patio furniture has been made in the USA since 1903, and features marine grade polymer, widely considered the finest material on the market. Stop by and check out the new Spring 2015 line, which is now on display throughout the six showrooms at Nebraska Outdoor Living, located at 1742 N. 48th Street.

Nebraska Outdoor Living has been helping people transform their decks and patios into the coolest rooms of their homes for over 13 years. Their wide range of product offerings include quality outdoor furniture, gas fire pits and fireplaces, pergolas, gazebos, retractable awnings, solar screens plus an amazing fairy gardening department.

The local, family owned business has always operated based on the simple philosophy of treating every client like family and focuses on making Outdoor Living COMFORTABLE. For more information, please contact Bill Budler at (402) 474-7011, via email at Bill@NebraskaOutdoorLiving.com, or visit their website at www.NebraskaOutdoorLiving.com.

More Findings From Labor Availability Study Announced The February edition of Strictly Business featured findings from a labor availability sur vey commissioned by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development and analyzed by the Nebraska Department of Labor. Following are additional findings from the Omaha survey area:

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• More than half of potential job seekers said they had at least a bachelor’s degree.

• The median tenure of employed potential job seekers at their current job was five years.

• Of those potential seekers who answered questions about the more important factors they look for in a job, 89.4 percent said salary was either important or very important to them. Salary was the only factor that over half of respondents listed as very important.

• Of the potential job seekers who answered questions about employment obstacles, over 60 percent listed inadequate pay and lack of job opportunities as obstacles to changing jobs or reentering the workforce within the next year. Inadequate benefits and inadequate hours were also commonly cited by potential job seekers as obstacles to employment at 54 percent and 45.6 percent, respectively.

• Paid vacation, dental insurance and health insurance were far more important to potential job seekers making $100,000 and over per year than those making $25,000 or under annually.

The survey report is available in full at neworks.nebraska.gov under the Labor Market Information Publications link. Contact the Department of Labor at (402) 471-4189 or the Department of Economic Development at (402) 471-3749 for more information.

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APRIL 2015 Strictly Business

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Business News

Rogge General Contractors Celebrates 20th Anniversary

Lincoln First Realty Celebrates Grand Opening of Second Office

Rogge General Contractors is proud to announce a major company milestone, recently celebrating 20 years in business. With over 30 years of experience the pride of accomplishment has never faded over the years for local owners Randy and Darleen Rogge, who have also thoroughly enjoyed watching the changes to the construction industry.

Combined with the advances in technology Rogge General Contractors is able to make their client’s dreams come true more efficiently than ever in 2015.

Since 1995 Rogge General Contractors Inc. has been committed to providing quality products and services that exceed the expectations of the clients they serve. As an experienced commercial building contractor in Nebraska and western Iowa, the company’s projects include health care, educational (primary, secondary and universities), financial & government institutions, veterinary health, maintenance facilities, libraries, retail and assisted living.

Without question, talented craftsman are a must in commercial construction. Rogge General Contractors is proud to have a history of loyal employees that excel in this industry. The locally owned and operated company offers flexible end-to-end solutions to accomplish your objectives by building the highest quality structures and handling all the details from start to finish! For more information about Rogge General Contractors, please call (402) 441-3100 or visit www.roggeinc.com.

Lincoln First Realty hosted a ribbon cutting with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on March 6th to celebrate the grand opening of its new branch office located in the Cor nhusker Bank building at 5701 S. 34th Street, Williamsburg Village. This is the company’s second office in Lincoln, which was designed to accommodate up to 20 agents led by managing broker Brad Hulse and officially opened its doors on January 12th. Coupled with Lincoln First Realty’s established location at 7575 S. 57th Street, the new office will provide the space necessary to continue its trend as one of Lincoln’s fastest growing real estate companies.

Planning a Company Retreat in 2015?

Strictly Business Has it Covered!

Calling all industry professionals! Are you a local business who offers an ideal location, amenities, activities or programming for corporate retreats or team/skill building events? Each year Strictly Business includes a feature story in our June issue on Company Retreats that offers the opportunity to reach our readers who are actively looking for ideas on how to improve their business or organization. This story allows our readers to learn more about what is available so that they can plan unique, successful events that meet targeted objectives while providing the opportunity for valuable interaction and progress outside of the office or place of business.

Are you looking to increase your business and profits in 2015? Do you want to get the word out about your products, services and expertise?

Contact Katie Danehey at Strictly Business at (402) 466-3330 or via email at Katie@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com to find out more about how you can get involved!

Vision Planning Underway in South Downtown, New Initiative to Continue Downtown Lincoln Growth Announced Community leaders have announced a new initiative to continue the progress occurring in Lincoln’s downtown. Focused on the South Downtown district (SoDo), the new initiative blends community involvement and planning to develop the next chapter in the exciting story unfolding in and around Lincoln’s downtown. SoDo is located generally between A and M streets and from 9th to 17th streets and the new effort is attracting a wide variety of stakeholder interest.

The initial steering committee of more than 20 stakeholders from the SoDo area includes neighborhood leaders, business owners, the faith and education community, city and philanthropic leaders. Those spearheading the effort include Tom Smith, Smith Hayes Financial Services; Dave Schmidt, Concorde Management & Development; Jon Carlson, City of Lincoln; and Barbara Bartle, Lincoln Community Foundation. The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority also provided resources for the project.

The group has engaged consulting firm H3 Studio, in partnership with Sinclair Hille Architects, to facilitate the planning process. SoDo planning is expected to occur over the next six months and be a broad-reaching process of gathering community ideas both in person and online from those who live, work, attend school, and otherwise connect with the district.

18 Strictly Business APRIL 2015

Lincoln First Realty is a full service professional real estate company offering services ranging from representation of buyers and sellers in a real estate transaction to pricing opinions and marketing strategies that assist their clients in the decision making process. To reach the original office on S. 57th Street, please call (402) 434-6786, and to contact the new Williamsburg Village office, please call (402) 434-2222. For more information or to view Lincoln First Realty’s listings, please visit www.LincolnFirstRealty.com or contact Pat Elgert, President at the Williamsburg Village office or via email at Pat. Elgert@lincolnfirstrealty.com.

Source Hosts Grand Opening Event Source. Eat Fit recently celebrated its official g ra n d o p e n i n g o n March 21st, formally marking the exciting milestone for the new health conscious restaurant concept with a Lincoln Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony held on March 18th. Locally owned and operated, Source. Eat Fit was founded right here in Lincoln

by Matt Zimmerman and his sister, Dawn Steffen.

Source. Eat Fit was established in response to the demand for a healthy and convenient option for food that fits into busy lifestyles.

Source provides Fresh, Fast, Fit Foods for all meals of the day, every day. Customers are welcome to stop by and grab meals for the moment, the day, or the week with the added convenience of a drivethru and the options for online ordering and delivery as well. Source’s meals are prepared daily by a professional chef and culinary team in-house and are never frozen. Meals, snacks, desserts and drinks are portioned in individual size to-go containers and nutrition facts are readily available for customers.

Source. Eat Fit is located at 17th and Pine Lake Road and is open seven days a week. For more information, please call (402) 8054688 or visit www.sourceeatfit.com. You can also find Source on Facebook and Twitter!

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Networks and Formularies

by Chris McPike, Vice President

Your health insurance benefits, whether you have an employer group plan or a policy that you purchased yourself, have requirements concerning the doctors and hospitals that you use and the way that prescription drugs are covered. The NETWORK of providers and prescription drug FORMULARY are areas that insurance companies have changed as they look for ways to control medical costs.

Each insurance company has either developed their own network of doctors, hospitals, and ancillary providers or they contract with an existing network for these services. In some instances, an insurance company offers multiple networks based on location or based on the health insurance product that you purchased. The terms “limited network”, “narrow network”, or “skinny network”, are used to describe health plans that offer a limited number of doctors and hospitals that the policyholder can access; in exchange for a lower premium or higher level of benefit. An example of this is the health insurance offered by Coventry to individuals (not employer group plans) that live in Lancaster County. The 2015 benefits utilize the St Elizabeth Regional Medical Center hospital and the physician network that is associated with St Elizabeth Hospital. The Nebraska Heart Hospital is also included in the network. Policyholders must use the doctors and hospitals within the St Elizabeth network. Since St Elizabeth is affiliated with CHI, providers within the CHI network in other areas of Nebraska can also be used. There are no out-of-network benefits.

A formulary is a list of prescription drugs that identifies how each drug is covered under a policy. Typically, the drugs are categorized as Tier 1 through Tier 4 with Tier 1 being the lowest cost generic medications and Tier 4 being the highest cost name brand drugs. Health insurance policies are designed to encourage the use of generic drugs and minimize the use of high cost name brand drugs. Many plans offer very low co-pays for generics while penalizing the use of name brand drugs by requiring the payment of a deductible of $250 to $1000. Step therapy is also required on many medications. This means that the more expensive name brand drug will not be covered by the policy if there is a generic drug available. The name brand drug will be covered only if the policyholder can demonstrate that the generic medications are not satisfactory.

Even if you kept the same policy that you had in 2014, you need to be aware of any network or formulary changes that will impact your benefits. Do not assume that it is the same as last year. The website of your insurance company offers Provider Search and Formulary Search tools.

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Becky Lauk

WYUKA FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY

Located in the center of Nebraska’s capital city at 3600 O Street, Wyuka Funeral Home & Cemetery is a beautiful historic landmark as well as a restful place for so many of our loved ones who have passed on. With a state-of-the-art Funeral Home on-site, Wyuka offers the Lincoln community full service funeral care. Becky Lauk is a Funeral Director and Mortician at Wyuka.

Tell us a little about your business. - Many Lincolnites aren’t aware that we offer a beautiful, 9700 square foot funeral home in addition to our picturesque cemetery. We provide traditional services in our funeral home and in local churches, as well as memorial services for those who opt for cremation. Every family is special to us and is treated with honesty and dignity, whether their wish is a small graveside service or a large traditional ceremony.

How did you get started in the business? - I was a flight attendant for a charter company doing predominantly military flights for worldwide troop movement. After several layoffs and the instability of the flight industry I wanted to start a new career. I returned to school and graduated from Mortuary College, passed the national and state boards, finished an internship, and became licensed in three states plus attained my insurance license. This effort took four and a half years, a lot of heartfelt commitment; and I have been practicing in Lincoln, NE for one year.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Only about 30% of people who graduate from Mortuary College stay and practice in the field, so sticking with the profession despite all obstacles and demands has by far been the greatest challenge.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Being employed as a Funeral Director at Wyuka, working alongside established, honest and dedicated professionals in the field.

Tell us a little about your family. - My father is a retired Naval Officer and cattle man. My mother is a Navy wife who raised her children all over the world and is now taking care of my father. My parents are from Lincoln; my brother is a software engineer in Utah; my son is a Staff Sergeant in the Army and has been deployed to Korea, Iraq, and Afghanistan; my daughter lives in Seoul, Korea and teaches English; and I have a charming granddaughter and fantastic daughter-in-law.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy traveling and take small trips exploring the United States. I also love to snowmobile.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I would love to be a farmer and plant, combine, and harvest my own fields. If I wasn’t on my tractor or in the fields you’d find me at the local co-op drinking coffee, talking about the price of beans, and catching up on all of the good gossip with the boys.

What are you the most proud of? - Ask any mother this question and she will immediately say ‘My children!’ (Wesley and Gabrielle).

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - ‘Be Not Afraid’ from Saint John Paul II. Very good advice for someone who works with the dead!

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Little White Dog Rescue (littlewhitedogrescue.org) and those that support our military (lonesurvivorfoundation.org, woundedwarriorproject.org, warriorcanineconnection.org).

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Miller Time Pub at The Cornhusker.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Via email at brichards@wyuka.com or visit us online at www.wyuka.com.

JENNIFER

Jennifer Gibbons

You have a choice where to take your car after a collision.

So why not take it to the best?

ELITE PROFESSIONALS HOME CARE COMPANY

Elite Professionals Home Care Company provides a wide variety of services for clients of all ages, from pediatric to geriatric, with in-home care options from one hour a day up to the full 24-hours if needed. Jennifer Gibbons, RN is the Director of Nursing and owner of Elite Professionals Home Care Company.

Tell us a little about your business. - Elite Professionals Home Care Company was established in 2003 and blossomed as a Medicare/ Medicaid certified, State of Nebraska-licensed home care agency. In May of 2004 we began providing homemaker, bath aide, medication aide, licensed practical nursing, and registered nursing services as well as physical, occupational, and speech therapy in the Lincoln area and surrounding communities. Between 2011 and 2012, Elite Professionals began receiving multiple patient referrals from the Omaha metro area so I made the decision to purchase an Omaha-based non-medical home care agency in order to strengthen our presence in January of 2013.

How did you get started in the business? - I became a home health provider due to my strong belief that it is in people’s best interest to remain in their community and in their homes where they are happy and where they desire to live. I believe that people who remain in their homes are able to live a more fulfilling and quality life; being involved in society and in our community allows people to feel a sense of fulfillment, while being in their own home environment allows a person to feel complete and loved.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? Watching Elite Professionals grow into the company that it is today.

Having such hard working and caring people on staff who share my passion to keep all people in their own home and community despite handicaps, age, disabilities or injuries.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wonderful husband also works at Elite, and we have three beautiful daughters; Ella (10), Hope (8), and Abigail (5).

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

- I started my first healthcare business when I was 24. We provided RN staffing contracts for 13-week assignments to both Bryan and St. Elizabeth hospitals in Lincoln. It was at that point that I knew I wanted to build a great company for people to be able to work and yet feel fulfilled by giving back to the community at the same time.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Stay at home in my sweatpants, watch movies with my family and have dinner catered in!

What are you the most proud of? - Both my family and my business.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - It comes from my father: ‘Treat people how you want to be treated because you never know when it may be your turn to need something.’

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The ability to be in two places at once.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Honestly, I love healthcare and being a registered nurse.

I have no idea what I would do outside of nursing!

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Divergent Series.

What is your favorite movie? - The Fault in Our Stars.

What is your favorite TV show? - The Walking Dead.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Fireworks and Lazlo’s.

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

- Email me at: jgibbons@eliteprohomecare.com or visit our website at www.eliteprohomecare.com.

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Cornhusker Bank is a local community bank founded in 1903 with six current locations and a new Corporate Center to break ground in May. Cornhusker Bank has a strong culture of dedication and service to the community and is committed to the success of its staff, customers and the Lincoln community. Perry Haralson is the Chief Financial Officer for Cornhusker Bank.

Tell us a little about your role at Cornhusker Bank. - My job is to oversee the regulatory and financial reporting of the bank along with data analysis of the profitability, financial risk profile, accounts payable, and the overall financial performance of the bank.

How did you get started in the business? - I spent 11 years in the U.S. Marine Corps and earned by undergraduate and graduate degree in finance while serving. I met John Dittman, Chairman of the Board with Cornhusker Bank, through a family friend and he offered me a branch manager job. I’m truly thankful for that opportunity to become a banker.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - My biggest challenge was transitioning from the military into the business world because of the differences in culture, values, and goals.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- The opportunity to become Cornhusker Bank’s first Chief Financial Officer.

Tell us a little about your family. - I married to a wonderful woman, Jennifer who owns A Pause for Paws and the Cat’s Pajamas in Lincoln while also teaching blind and visually impaired children. I have two sons, Zacoben (11) and Niciaden (8).

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The opportunity to work at Cornhusker Bank and move back to Lincoln after getting out of the U.S. Marine Corps. It opened up a career that I never even thought about and has been a great place to grow a family.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - If the weather is good I love golfing or being outdoors with my family, finishing the day with a good Mexican dinner and a book or movie.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I had a near death experience with an explosive device while digging in a cave in Okinawa, Japan looking for World War II artifacts.

What are you the most proud of? - Personally, I’m proud of my two sons who are growing up to be fine young men. Professionally, it would be serving this great country in the military.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” -Philipians 4:13. You can push yourself to do more physically and mentally than you ever thought possible by just believing.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I competed with the U.S. Marine Corps West Coast Pistol and Rifle team while in the service and I’m a pretty good shot.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - The Home Builders Association of Lincoln because I believe home construction is key in the growth of a community. Also, Friendship Home because every man, woman and child deserve a safe place to call home.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Las Margaritas.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Via email at PHaralson@CornhuskerBank.com or visit www.

CornhuskerBank.com.

GILL

Gill Peace

PEACE STUDIO ARCHITECTS, INC.

Peace Studio Architects, Inc. is a group of dedicated professionals who are passionate about design and committed to excellent communication and client service. Awardwinning architect and designer Gill Peace is the co-owner of Peace Studio Architects, Inc. Tell us a little bit about your business. - ‘Because Design Matters’ is our mantra. We work on a diverse range of projects with a common focus; to improve the built environment and exceed expectations. Project types include commercial, cultural, hospitality, adaptive re-use interiors, tenant finish, landscape, master planning and more. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to design structures that unite communities and create strong bonds with the citizens who live and raise families in those communities, mine included.

A few of the diverse range of our projects include: Bubbles & Blocks Daycare; adaptive re-use of old Swanson Russell Building; Joysticks Arcade Bar; Kingery Construction’s new corporate site; the new PRI building; Century House Apartments remodel; Lead Designer of the Pinnacle Bank Arena Envelope; Frontier Bank; master planning and residential design at Village Gardens; Sterling Public Schools renovation; residential homes in Fallbrook.

How did you get started in the business? - Well, it all started with a Lego building set a long, long time ago. I have always known that architecture is my calling. I graduated from the University of NebraskaLincoln with an undergraduate and master’s degree in Architecture.

After working 23 years for other firms we decided it was time to hang out our shingle.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? Becoming an entrepreneur and running a successful firm with my partner and wife, Samantha Peace.

Tell us a little about your family. - Samantha and I met in college at the University of Nebraska. We have been married for 20 years. Together we have remodeled five homes and are currently updating our home in Woodsshire. We have three wonderful, spirited children. Our eldest, Guinn, is a senior at Pius X and on her way to college. Our son Joe is a sophomore at Pius X and learning to drive a car and ‘life.’ When not in school or studying for tests, Guinn and Joe take flying lessons.

Our youngest daughter Natalie is a 6th grader at Scott Middle and is learning how to navigate school, work, sports, and her active social scene.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy going on bike rides around Lincoln with my children and nephews. We stop at the Lincoln Children’s Museum, Sunken Gardens, then pedal over for a snack at the local Amigos, trek downtown for a granita at The Mill, and if we are early enough, the Farmers Market.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Question everything. Listen to what people say. You can learn just as much by what people don’t say.

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

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I grew up playing soccer. My parents, Dave and Theresa Peace, were active in coaching my soccer teams so coaching my children was a natural progression for me. I have been coaching soccer and basketball for all three of our children through YMCA youth sports since 2003.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - It’s a toss-up between Bread & Cup and Lazlo’s.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - By phone at (402) 217-1830, via email at gill@peacestudioarch.com, or visit peacestudioarch.com. You can also follow Peace Studio Architects, Inc. on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram.

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JIM

Jim Graham

NEBRASKA NEON SIGN COMPANY

Nebraska Neon Sign Company, DBA Nebraska Sign, is headquartered in Lincoln and has been fabricating and installing specialty signs throughout the Midwest since 1948. Jim Graham is the President and owner of Nebraska Neon Sign Company.

Tell us a little about your business. - We specialize in large and small sign production, large format banner printing, service and installation. Whether a new business starting from scratch or a current one wanting to rebrand or repair, we create, build and install signs of all sizes and types.

How did you get started in the business? - Prior to purchasing Nebraska Sign, I spent 20 years in the electronic sign manufacturing business. In 2012 the company was sold and I found myself faced with the opportunity of a career change. Due to my experience in the sign business, it seemed to be a natural fit and I always wanted to own my own business.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - After the booming economy in the 1990’s, it was tough to keep the business going when the economy turned. We had to creatively find new ways, and take calculated risks, to stay relevant and explore new opportunities.

It truly is during difficult times that you learn the most about yourself and your capabilities. I was proud that we were able to overcome these times and remain near the top of our industry.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- To start with a company of two employees and grow to almost 50 employees was a huge achievement. Over those two decades, I witnessed a crazy amount of change in technology and worked with a creative group of people that led the country in sports marketing signage.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife, Ami, is the General Manager of Broadcast House radio stations and we have two sons. Nolan is a freshman at the University of Nebraska and Cole is a sophomore at Norris High School.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? After the company I worked for was sold, I found myself in the position to either find a job working for someone else, or take some risks and follow my dream. I had talked for years about owning my own business. Had the company I worked for not sold, I may have still be talking about it.

As I look back, this truly is the biggest turning point for me professionally.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Weather permitting, I am on a golf course.

What are you the most proud of? - To have been able to experience all the milestones in my son’s lives so far. I am so proud of the young men they have become and am their biggest fan.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Don’t be afraid to take risks and have no regrets. You have to be okay with getting out of your comfort zone. That’s where progress lies.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Through my wife’s ten years on the Board, I have learned the importance of what Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters brings to our community. We continue to support their efforts in helping to mentor kids in our area. I have known Maggi Thorne for several years and also support her nonprofit organization, Soles for Souls, which helps get shoes on the feet of kids all over the world.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - By phone at (402) 476-6563, online at www.nebraskaneonsign.com or by email at jgraham@nebraskasign.com.

BARB

Barb Scott

THE LEGACY RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES

The Legacy Retirement Communities offers Independent and Assisted Living at three campuses in Lincoln: 56th and Pioneers; Legacy Terrace at 5700 Fremont; and Legacy Estates at 7200 Van Dorn. They also provide memory care at the Arbors Memory Care Community, which shares a campus with the Legacy Terrace. Barb Scott is the Director of Clinical Operations and oversees nursing management at all of The Legacy’s facilities.

How did you get started in the business? - I began my career at The Legacy Retirement Communities in May of 2014. I have a lengthy background in healthcare management and felt that this job was a great fit!

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I was in management for ten years and then made a change in my career path and went back to direct patient care. This was a big change for me and it required me to dig deep for my organizational skills as I cared for multiple patients while also supervising the nursing staff. This move was a big challenge but it also gave me fulfillment as I provided care to my patients.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Going back to school to earn my bachelor’s degree.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Mark and I have six children and seven grandchildren. Our children are all grown and away from the home so that leaves us able to spend time on the golf course and we also try to travel as much as possible. This sometimes consists of traveling to the homes of our grandchildren which is wonderful!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - I moved from Auburn where I had been employed at Nemaha County Hospital for 17 years. When we arrived in Lincoln I began employment at St. Elizabeth hospital. It was a great career move for me and allowed me to learn about myself as a nurse as well as allowing me to obtain my Bachelor of Science degree.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spend time with our kids/grandkids or spend time with my husband on the golf course What are you the most proud of? - My kids.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - My mom used to always say “This too shall pass” and I believe that.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - I would make sure that all kids in the world feel loved and secure.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I have always thought that I should have been a singer/entertainer but unfortunately I can’t sing!

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I’ve always wanted to be a teacher and a coach.

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

by Laura Hillenbrand.

What is your favorite movie? - American Sniper.

What is your favorite TV show? - Modern Family.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Henry’s on South.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Robin Roberts from Good Morning America because I feel she is very strong emotionally and spiritually.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Via email at barb@legacyretirement.com or you can contact me and get some insight into the “Legacy Way” at legacyretirement.com.

APRIL 2015 Strictly Business

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It’s been an incredible first quarter for the City of Lincoln and the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.

In February, the Chamber hosted more than 700 members for our Annual Lunch and keynote speaker Daymond John. His story of how he built the FUBU clothing empire was inspiring and his “selfie” with our audience generated thousands of “shares” on social media. I want to thank our 2015 Board Chair Angie Muhleisen and Union Bank for their help in producing the astounding promotional video for Lincoln that we debuted at the lunch. The video has been shared on YouTube and other social media platforms throughout the country and we’ve received more positive feedback than we could have imagined. Visit the Chamber’s website at www.lcoc.com and check it out when you get a chance.

Boosted by several Top 10 Rankings, Lincoln’s national presence and notoriety has also grown stronger over the first quarter of the year. Mayor Chris Beutler and several business leaders were featured in a nationwide National Public Radio segment by a reporter out of Chicago. The reporter said he was drawn to Lincoln’s story because of our prosperous economy during the recession. As the radio segment demonstrated and as you and I see every day, Lincoln is experiencing an unmatched era of growth. Public and private investments in new capital projects have spurred a dramatic change to the skyline of downtown Lincoln and our unemployment rate remains among the lowest in the country.

It is not just our downtown that is thriving. Several new industrial buildings are going up in the Lincoln Airport Industrial Air Park, new schools and new residential developments are coming to both south and north Lincoln.

With growth and momentum on Lincoln’s side, The Lincoln Chamber and the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development have embarked on a quest to unify public and private goals into a single vision by asking: “What’s next for Lincoln?”

Back in 2002, we hired Angelou Economics to study our community. We asked them what we could do ensure we are competitive in the global marketplace by the year 2015. Their study and consulting work laid the groundwork for many of the ideas that have brought Lincoln to the prosperity of today.

Now, we’ve asked them back to help Lincoln develop a community vision plan.

PARTIES AND INTIMATE

ENTERTAINMENT AND BUSINESS

Highlights Amazing Start to 2015 for Lincoln

The Angelou team made their first visit the last week in January and their second in late March. The consulting team is conducting interviews, surveys, and focus groups to hear what Lincoln residents think should be next on the list. They also conducted an on-line survey that received over 2,400 responses. The final report will be the feature of our Annual Economic Development Breakfast in June.

Stay tuned to see what comes from the study, the last time we undertook this process the results were amazing. I can’t wait to see where this new adventure takes us.

The Chamber’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together. Networking opportunities, business advocacy, and creating economic viability are critical to our success. We encourage you to become a member and help us achieve these goals for Lincoln. For more information, please contact our Membership Director, Kristin Holmes, kholmes@lcoc.com.

Downtown Lincoln Assoc.

402-434-6900

www.downtownlincoln.org

by Terry Uland, President Downtown Lincoln Association

Two New Retail Shops in the Haymarket Here To Inspire Downtown Lincoln loves new retail! We couldn’t be happier for the two newest additions to the Haymarket.

Mike Osborne began offering Husker merchandise and Nebraska football game videos as a catalog business in 1992. In 1998, Best of Big Red brought its unique product selection to Huskers worldwide via bestofbigred.com. His mission is to provide the best Husker products to Cornhusker fans around the world.

Their sister store, Forever Faithful, provides affordable fashion forward clothing, accessories, and more in an environment that is inviting, peaceful, and refreshing to the soul. Their motto “fashionable inspirations for women who move to inspire” was better explained through a quick Q & A with Kelsey Peterson, the Operations Manager.

Q: When exactly did Forever Faithful/Best of Big Red move into its downtown location and where is your store located?

A: We opened on August 2nd 2014. We are located at 321 N 8th St. Q: Why did you decide to start your business downtown and what do you enjoy most about having it located down here?

A: We chose this location because it is near the arena and stadium, hoping to reach Husker fans. The location stood out as far as the historic building and the traffic flow of people down here for farmers market, restaurants, and social events. We love the location because of the social traffic and the environment on game days can’t be beat!

Q: For those who have never heard of your stores, explain a little about the types of clothing/accessories you have to offer.

A: Best of Big Red offers anything and everything HUSKER! We have the best selection of clothing, car accessories, kitchen and home decor, tail-gating necessities, and we are set apart from all other Husker stores with our selection of autographed items, memorabilia, and DVD’s. Forever Faithful is different from most boutiques as we not only carry a large selection of trendy and affordable women’s clothing for all ages, but we also love our home accents and gifts that express our faith!

Q: What are some of the brands that you like to carry?

A: Best of Big Red carries a lot of adidas, obviously! We also offer many quality brands like Camp David, Touch, Retro Brand, and so many more.

At Forever Faithful we love BCBG, Jack, Lucky, Level 99, PP LA, Velvet Heart, Vintage Havana, just to name a few.

Q: Do you have any upcoming sales, events or promotions you’d like people to know about?

A: New arrivals for spring and summer are coming into the boutique daily, so we’re having a huge sale on all of our fall and winter apparel and shoes. Best of Big Red is also offering big discounts on apparel as we are making room for the 2015 season that will start shipping in June.

Q: Favorite Husker sport?

A: I don’t have a favorite, but I enjoy the volleyball games, both men’s and women’s basketball, baseball games are always fun and you can’t beat a good Husker football game.

Q: Husker Athlete?

A: Again, it is too hard to pick one favorite athlete, but anyone that displays hard work and good character!

More info: Forever Faithful | www.4everfaithful.com/ | www.facebook.com/ foreverfaithful • Best of Big Red | www.bestofbigred.com/ | www.facebook. com/BigRedStore.OsborneEnterprises 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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by Coby Mach, President & CEO Lincoln Independent Business Association

Keep More Businesses in Lincoln LIBA is supporting a bill in the Nebraska Legislature that would lower the state personal and corporate income tax. LB357 is an attempt to keep more businesses in Lincoln! Below are several excerpts from a letter submitted to our Senators from a Lincoln business owner who has moved his corporate operations from Lincoln to Florida. This letter from Paul Zoz, owner of Bizco Technologies, should be read by every Nebraskan: Years ago when the Nebraska enacted the state income tax, the state and the country were in a different place and time. Today we live in a new world, where many people can work from anywhere virtually, long distance phone calling is non-existent, and fellow employees and customers are a video phone call away. This change in our environment allows for a leveling of the competitive landscape between states at a rate never experienced before. People, particularly the young and capable entrepreneurs and executives that we so badly need to keep in this state, now have a broad choice of where to locate, work and raise their families.

In 2010, my wife and I had a small technology firm located in Lincoln. This particular business did almost all of its business outside of the state, and therefore was not subject to residing in any particular physical location. After careful consideration of the cost of remaining in Lincoln, we decided to relocate the business to Florida where there was a better tax environment, including no personal income tax. This environment since that time has proved very beneficial for our business when we recruit talent to join our team in Florida as most cases they can realize nearly a 7% “bump” in their personal take home pay due to no state income tax.

When families, particularly those that make a good income in excess of $300,000 annually, evaluate paying $21,000 each and every year to remain in Nebraska vs. keeping that money and investing in something to benefit their personal income, the choice becomes much less difficult. These are the very people that we should be seeking to retain here in Nebraska, but yet we essentially are asking them to pay a “penalty” for their success if they choose to remain here in Nebraska. Some may argue that this bill only helps the wealthy, and what about the guy that has a family making $70,000 a year. The fact is that by keeping these people in the state, and keeping their businesses in the state, the families making $70,000 a year will ultimately prosper and see their income increase. More businesses staying in the state means more competition for jobs, which leads to job competition, which leads to our workforce making more money. I would also point out that often the jobs that are “transportable” are higher than average paying jobs, which are the jobs we want and need in the State of Nebraska. This bill is a step in the right direction, increasing the “break point” in which people will be considering relocation vs. residency.

Although I might argue that this bill does not go far enough in reducing the top tax rates, LB357 will have a positive impact on Nebraska over time, and likely will keep some businesses from leaving the state. I encourage all Senators committed to keeping Nebraska’s future competitive to support this bill.

-Paul Zoz, Bizco Technologies, 7950 O St., Lincoln, NE 68510

Phone: 402-476-8132 Fax: 402-476-8129 www.leisurelimoservices.com

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5008 NW Cuming St Lincoln, NE 68521 ride@leisurelimoservices.com

Strictly Business APRIL 2015

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 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.

Sandler Training 402-403-4334

by Karl Schaphorst, President www.karlschaphorst.sandler.com

Professional Selling: Do You Have a Qualified Prospect?

Before we move on to the sixth step in the professional selling process, it is good to pause here and review what has been discussed with the prospect thus far. Here is what we have accomplished: Step 1: Get Up Off Your Knees – This is about mindset before going in to the sales call. The professional salesperson must behave like they don’t need the business. Know your rights and rules of engagement before you meet the prospect. If the prospect violates your rules, you get up and walk. It is acceptable and professional to fire prospects.

Step 2: No More Maybes – If you are tired of getting stalls from prospects then don’t give them the option. Set an Up-Front-Contract at the beginning of the call. Tell the prospect what you plan to do, get their buy-in, and then follow through. Tell them “No” is okay and that it won’t hurt your feelings, but a “Maybe” is unacceptable. Ask for clarity on the outcome of the sales call so that you avoid having to follow-up or chase when the call is done.

Step 3: It Has Got to Hurt – Buying decisions are emotional and the strongest emotion that motivates decisions is pain. Be prepared to ask the questions that will uncover real pain that you can fix. Keep your mouth shut during this phase. While it may be tempting to dump your features and benefits right here, you must instead allow the prospect to completely verbalize their pain and get emotional about it.

Step 4: Show Me the Money – It is not advisable to present solutions to prospects who are broke. I know your mother taught you that it is rude to talk about money, but that parental instruction that continues to spin in your head becomes a detriment in the sales call. You must ask the prospect for their budget and if they don’t have it or don’t tell you what it is, it is highly unlikely there is a sale at the end of the call.

Step 5: Who Signs the Check - It is not advisable to present solutions to prospects who can’t make the decision to buy it. You as the sales professional must understand the decision process of the prospect before you start sending out proposals. Who make the decisions? How does the prospect decide? When will a decision be made? Why would the prospect buy from you? What has to happen before you get a purchase order?

Did you get through all of the steps above with the prospect during the sales call? Did you set a contract for the meeting that the prospect agreed to? Did you find real pain in the prospect that your product and/or solution can address? Does the prospect have enough money to pay for your solution? Can the prospect make the decision to buy your solution? If the answer is “No” to any of these questions, what you have is an unqualified prospect. My suggestion here is that you tell the prospect that your solution is not a fit and end the sales call. What’s funny is that sometimes, right here, the prospects will qualify themselves because they want what you have and they don’t want you to leave.

What if the answers to the above questions are all “Yes”? Now what you have is a qualified prospect and the time you invest going forward with the prospect is more likely to produce income. Review everything you talked about in the sales call with the prospect: pain, money, and decision. Get validation that what you understand as the key qualifying elements are correct and there are no misunderstandings. Then set up another contract with the prospect about what happens next. What happens next is Step 6 which we will discuss next month. Keep in mind that this system works whether you are in a one call close business or a multiple call close business.

If the prospect fails to qualify through Steps 1-5 you are done. Save your time and move on to another prospect. If they do qualify, tune in next month to find out what to do next.

Sandler Training is a global training organization with over three decades of experience and proven results. Sandler provides sales and management training and consulting services for small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) as well as corporate training for Fortune 1000 companies. For more information, please contact Karl Schaphorst at (402) 403-4334 or by email at kschaphorst@sandler. com. You can also follow his blog at karlschaphorst.sandler.com

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Does Your Company’s 401(k) Program Need a Check-Up or Full-Blown Operation?

Jason Peplinski, Awarded

Four under Forty

by Advisory Today magazine 2014

Does your company retirement plan need a checkup or a full-blown operation?

Call Today!

402.817.4282

Contact Jason Peplinski for an examination of your employees’ 401K to see how a change will benefit your business.

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Personnel News Julia Yank Joins RE/MAX Real Estate Concepts RE/MAX Real Estate Concepts would like to welcome their newest agent, Julia Yank.

Julia joined the team in January and will be working from the Lincoln office.

A Lincoln native, Julia has been in the real estate industry for over 10 years.

She currently resides with her husband (of 30 years in July!) Scott and their two Goldendoodles, Desiree and Sophie.

Julia’s expertise in the local market allows her to be an asset to both buyers and sellers in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. For assistance with your real estate needs, please contact Julia Yank at (402) 450-2652 or via email at juliayank@remax.net.

For more information about RE/MAX Real Estate Concepts’ Lincoln office, visit www.myhomeinlincoln.com.

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Concordia Names Nancy Elwell Dean of College of Education, Health and Human Sciences Concordia University, Nebraska has announced a new alignment of academic programs to enhance its College of Education. The college will be named the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences, effective July 1, 2015. Concordia has named Dr. Nancy Elwell dean of the college.

The College of Education, Health and Human Sciences will include approximately 40 percent of the university’s students, who will be part of five academic departments: Department of Teacher Education, Department of Christian Educational Leadership, Department of Intercultural Studies and Modern Languages, Department of Human and Social Sciences and Department of Health and Human Performance.

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Elwell earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Chadron State College. She continued her education to earn a master’s degree in educational psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a doctorate in psychology from Capella University in Minnesota.

Elwell began her career at Concordia in 1997 as the director of student employment. She then transitioned into additional roles including director of the department of lifelong learning, director of the educational administration program at the graduate level and psychology instructor for nearly 15 years. Elwell has taught more than 30 classes at Concordia in the undergraduate, graduate and degree completion programs. She was awarded with Concordia’s Outstanding Teaching Award in 2009.

For more information about Concordia University, Nebraska, visit cune.edu.

It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know & 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.

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Personnel News

Dyer Law Appoints Two New Attorneys Dyer Law, Omaha and Lincoln based law firm, announces the hiring of Greg Thomas and Jennifer Turco Meyer.

Greg Thomas comes to Dyer Law with more than 33 years of experience in personal injury claims, and has an extensive background in medical malpractice cases. In his role at Dyer Law, Thomas will represent the victims of negligence and workplace accidents, including automobile accidents and medical malpractice claims. He is also licensed to serve clients in Iowa. Thomas received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Nebraska College of Law.

Greg Thomas

Jennifer Turco Meyer joins Dyer Law with eight years of experience in employment discrimination, personal injury and worker’s compensation claims. Her focus at Dyer Law is to help clients obtain compensation in state and federal courts. Turco Meyer is also licensed to serve clients in Missouri.

Turco Meyer received her Juris Doctorate from Creighton University School of Law. Established in 1992, Dyer Law is a client- Jennifer Turco Meyer centered law firm, specializing in personal injury, worker’s compensation, employee rights, product liability, vehicle accidents, medical negligence and wrongful death. For more information about Dyer Law, please visit www.dyerlaw.com.

HBE Wealth Management Welcomes New Financial Advisor Chris Bedient HBE Wealth Management LLC is pleased to welcome Chris Bedient as a financial advisor. Bedient has over 13 years of financial services experience with specialized knowledge in providing portfolio management services to a wide range of clients. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

As financial advisor, Bedient will join Scott Becker, Managing Partner, in working with clients to develop personalized, academically-based wealth management strategies. “I am very excited to welcome Chris to our firm. His local experience, partnered with his passion for our investment philosophy and commitment to putting clients first, will be remarkable assets to our firm as well as our clients as we continue to grow,” states Becker.

“HBE is recognized for their integrity, quality, and commitment to service excellence,” says Bedient. “I’m delighted to join their team and I look forward to building upon the strong relationships that have already been established to help clients reach their long-term financial goals.”

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For over 17 years, HBE Wealth Management has provided true wealth management services for individuals, businesses, and retirement plans throughout Lincoln and Southeast Nebraska.

As a member of the BAM Alliance, the firm offers a holistic, allencompassing investment approach that goes beyond basic advice and incorporates all facets of our clients’ financial lives, from tax and estate planning to risk management, retirement funding, charitable giving and beyond. For additional information, please visit www. hbecpa.com/wealth-management.

Personnel News

Ameer Abdullah Joins Gary Michaels Clothiers Gary Novotny, president of Gary Michaels Clothiers in Lincoln, recently announced that former Nebraska football star Ameer Abdullah has entered into a marketing and promotion agreement with the store. Abdullah will appear on various media resources across the state of Nebraska beginning in March of 2015.

He will join a number of other athletes that have had previous endorsements with Gary Michaels over the past 32 years--the most recent have been Alex Gordon, Joba Chamberlain, Ndamukong Suh, and Prince Amukamara.

During his football career at the University of Nebraska, Abdullah became the second all-time rusher in the storied school’s history. A finalist for the Doak Walker, Paul Horning, Pop Warner and Wuerfel Trophy awards, he earned Second Team All-American and Big Ten honors. Abdullah was a Nebraska’s team captain and 2014 MVP, as well as Lifter of the Year and Academic All-Big Ten. He was also selected the top Senior CLASS award winner in the country and ended up the MVP in this year’s Senior Bowl.

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For more information, please call (402) 423-7848 (toll-free at 1-800-556-SUIT) or visit www.garymichaels.com.

HOME Real Estate Honors Top Associates HOME Real Estate celebrated its top professionals at an awards banquet Feb. 5 at the Country Club of Lincoln.

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Leighun Brabec of the North office was named 2014 Realtor of the Year, and Jeni Eitzman Meyer of the North office was the Top Overall Residential Producing and Residential Selling Associate. Anita Rockenbach of the Pioneer Greens office was the recipient of the Steve Schleich Community Service Award. Abby Burmeister of the Pioneer Greens office was named Top Overall Residential Listing Associate, and Jeff Johnson of the Cotner office had the Most Closed Units by an Associate. Meyer also earned the Excellence in Outgoing Referrals Award.

Lydi & Vladimer Gorbun of the Pine Lake office won the top Couple Awards for residential listings, new construction, units and overall production, while Paul & Madonna Kardell of the Pioneer Greens office were the top couple for residential sales.The Top Overall Producing Team and Most Units Closed by a Team awards went to the Searcy Team of the Cotner office.

Each office recognized agents in four different categories. Top Producers in each office were: Jeff Johnson, Cotner office; Jeni Eitzman Meyer, North office; Doug Hanna, Pine Lake office; and Abby Burmeister, Pioneer Greens office. Newcomer of the Year awards went to Roger Berry at Cotner, John Crumrine at North, Jake Grasmick at Pine Lake, and Saul Bakewell of Pioneer Greens. The Top New Construction Associates in each office were Noel Herrington, Cotner; Katie Bugbee, North; Lydi & Vladimer Gorbun, Pine Lake; and Vern Sorensen, Pioneer Greens.

Finally, all the agents in each office voted for a fellow agent who best exemplifies the spirit of the office. Roger Berry won the Agent Choice award from Cotner, June Ring for North, Doug Hanna for Pine Lake and Myron Tremain for Pioneer Greens.

To see more of the sales awards, visit www.HomeRealEstate.com/Awards.

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Personnel News

Denise Hohensee Appointed to Lead Recruiting and Training for Elite Professionals Denise Hohensee, RN has added a new role to her extensive background in home health care. Denise is now functioning as the Recruiter/Educator for Elite Professionals Home Care Company. With this shift of responsibilities it has given the agency an edge in their recruitment efforts for Home Health Aide staff. The beauty of this arrangement is that Denise is recruiting the candidates, educating, training and orienting them in order for them to have successful futures in working for Elite Professionals!

Along with the Nurse Aide Class, Denise also coordinates and teaches all additional training and in-services for the agency for all levels of staff from Care Companions, Nurse Aides and Nurses. This includes High-Tech Ventilator, Tracheostomy training and End of Life and Palliative Care and Hospice training. This gives the referral source confidence that Elite’s staff is trained to meet their needs. It allows families the ability to relax and be a family member, versus needing to be a caregiver for their loved one during their journey.

Denise Hohensee has been a Registered Nurse for 32 years. She graduated from Bryan School of Nursing and has worked in Home Health Care in Lincoln her entire career. Denise has been married for 32 years and has raised three sons. She loves spending time with her family and travelling. For more information about Elite Professionals, visit www.eliteprohomecare.com.

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BancWise Realty Promotes Three BancWise Realty is pleased to officially announce the promotion of three individuals within the company.

During 2014, Doug Sparks, Tamera Toof and Amy Pfingsten successfully completed the Mentoring Program Doug Sparks Tamera Toof under Ashley Hustad, Joe Courtney and Sandra Larsen. These three valuable team members were promoted to Realty Specialists as a result. The BancWise Realty team is confident that their three newest Realty Specialists will continue forward in their careers and provide excellent assistance to their clients.

BancWise Realty, located at 6120 Apples’ Way #100, is your one-stop resource for saving time and money while minimizing stress during the process of buying or Amy Pfingsten selling your home. Their experienced agents provide all of the guidance a home buyer or seller needs with flexible fees, full service and proven results. The mission of BancWise Realty is to simplify the process, while making a positive difference in the lives of their clients and employees. For more information, please call (402) 323-6777 or visit www.bancwise.com.

Personnel News

Together + Clinic Names Todd Henkel as COO Together + Clinic, a Lincoln-based healthcare tec hnology company, is pleased to welcome Todd Henkel as chief operating officer. As COO, Henkel will be responsible for the strategic process of onboarding providers in hospitals, specialty care offices, private practices, and other healthcare systems to drive provider and patient enrollment in the Together + Clinic application.

Developed in 2013, the Together + Clinic application is a free technology designed to improve patient care while reducing costs to healthcare systems.

With a strong background in healthcare, sales and customer service, Henkel is positioned to excel in connecting with providers, patients, and influencers in the industry to impact the future of healthcare through real-time data monitoring.

A native of Nebraska, Henkel brings over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry as a pharmaceutical sales executive, working with both primary care and oncology healthcare professionals.

Henkel holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Nebraska Wesleyan, and a MBA from Concordia University in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Developed by physicians, Together + Clinic simplifies the connection between doctors and patients. To learn more about Together + Clinic, visit TogetherClinic.com.

Union Bank Promotes Kirkendall and Sweigard

Our mission is to make your life a little easier and convenient. Call Today!

strongboxstorage.com • 2701 West O St. • 402-476-9292

Union Bank & Trust recently promoted Lindsey Kirkendall to Officer and UNL Relationship Manager and Nicole Sweigard to Officer and Business Development Manager, both at the newly-opened branch in the University of Nebraska—Lincoln City Campus Union.

Kirkendall joined the bank in 2005 as a teller. She has since held several positions in customer service including Personal Banker and most recently Branch Manager.

She holds a Bachelor’s of Arts in Business Management from Doane College in Lincoln.

Kirkendall is responsible for leading the development and growth of Union Bank’s UNL Campus branch as well as overseeing all functions of the branch, including staff management and development, customer relations and consumer lending. She is a member of Lincoln’s Young Professionals Group, volunteers at the Center for People in Need, Cedars and Campbell Elementary.

Lindsey Kirkendall

With Union Bank since 2009, Sweigard has served as a Financial Wellness Educator in Nicole Sweigard the Retirement Plans Services Department.

She holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Education from Bemidji State University and is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance and Certified Fund Specialist. Sweigard’s responsibilities include providing assistance, information and resources to UNL’s faculty and staff. She is on the Executive Leadership Team for the American Heart Association Walk and volunteers at Saint Elizabeth, Mourning Hope, City Impact and as a TeamMate. For more information about Union Bank & Trust, visit www.ubt.com.

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Personnel News

Amie C. Martinez Named President of Nebraska State Bar Association Amie C. Martinez has begun her term as president of the Nebraska State Bar Association (NSBA). The NSBA is the largest professional organization of lawyers in Nebraska. Martinez, a shareholder with the law firm of Anderson, Creager & Wittstruck, P.C., L.L.O (www.acwlaw.com) in Lincoln, and a graduate of Nebraska Wesleyan University and University of Nebraska College of Law, practices in the areas of family law, juvenile law, criminal defense, civil litigation and appellate work. She has been involved on the local, state and national levels of bar leadership as well as actively engaging in public service within the local community and across the country.

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UNANIMOUS Welcomes Scott Elley UNANIMOUS is pleased to announce the addition of Scott Elley as director of business development.

With 26 years in sales and marketing roles, Elley will help develop business relationships and opportunities for UNANIMOUS to partner with clients on branding, marketing, and web development. While his career spans several industries, Elley most recently served in a similar role with a large general contractor.

Vice President Matt O’Gorman said Elley will bring a wealth of experience and success to UNANIMOUS, “Scott’s personal approach is a fit with our culture and values. He will be an asset to support our firm in developing and growing relationships.”

UNANIMOUS is a marketing agency that assists clients with branding, marketing, and web development. With over 350 active clients across 15 states, the agency is known for its collaborative style and prides itself on rhyme, reason, and results. Please call (402) 423-5447 or visit UnanimousAgency.com for more information.

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HOME Real Estate Promotes Nickie Casburn to Relocation Director HOME Real Estate has announced that Nickie Casburn will be the company’s full-time Relocation Director. Casburn has worked with the HOME Real Estate family of companies for more than 20 years, most recently as an executive assistant to the general manager.

In her new role, she will work with companies relocating people to and from the Lincoln area in addition to serving HOME Real Estate agents with their client relocation needs.

Casburn, a Lincoln native, holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska Lincoln in early childhood and elementary education. She and her husband, Paul, have three sons: two at UNL and one in high school. Casburn fills the position being vacated by Jennifer Lemke, who is leaving the corporate office to work as an agent alongside her husband, Eric, at the HOME Real Estate Pine Lake office.

HOME Real Estate, an affiliate of HomeServices of America, has been voted “Best of Lincoln” 16 years running and serves the Lincoln, Seward, and surrounding areas. The company’s agents are committed to providing clients with exceptional service in all stages of the building, buying, and selling process, including real estate, mortgage, title, and insurance. For more information about HOME Real Estate, visit www.

HomeRealEstate.com.

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Non-Profit News NeighborWorks Unveils New Office Space NeighborWorks Lincoln (NWL) has officially moved into its new permanent office space, located at 2530 Q Street. To celebrate this milestone in the organization’s history, NeighborWorks Lincoln hosted a ribbon cutting and open house event in conjunction with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on March 5. There were over 100 people in attendance at the event, and attendees were able to tour the historic house that NeighborWorks Lincoln now inhabits. The house was originally built in 1905, and was renovated

by NeighborWorks Lincoln as part of a capital campaign. Work on the house was completed in late 2014, and NWL officially opened its doors for business in the new location in January 2015. NWL is excited about this next chapter of their story, and believes that this new space will enable the organization to better serve the residents of Lincoln.

Established in 1986, Neighborhoods Inc. doing business as NeighborWorks Lincoln (NWL) is a 501 (c) (3) organization dedicated to keeping Lincoln a safe and prosperous community by revitalizing neighborhoods and promoting home ownership. NeighborWorks Lincoln aspires to make Lincoln a vibrant city with an exceptional quality of life for all. The organization fulfills their mission through an active partnership of resident leaders, private businesses, and the public sector. For more information, please contact Mike Renken at (402) 4777181, via email at mrenken@nwlincoln.org, or visit www.nwlincoln.org.

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Tabitha Celebrates Supporters at Annual Recognition Luncheon Tabitha, your answer for Elder Care, will host Into the Blue, a donor recognition luncheon, on Wednesday, April 8 at 11:30 a.m. at The Cornhusker hotel in Lincoln. At the celebration, Tabitha will honor those who have given extraordinarily in the pursuit of outstanding, compassionate care for southeast Nebraska Elders.

The luncheon will recognize several notable individuals and organizations, all of whom dedicate exceptional time and talent to Tabitha’s Christian mission of delivering innovative Elder Care services that promote the dignity, independence and well-being of older adults.

2015 honorees include Aloha Schmid (employee donor award), St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church (church partner award), Assurity Life Insurance Company (corporate donor award), Abel Foundation (corporate community partner award) and Carol Reed (individual community partner award).

Proceeds from the event help Tabitha continue its mission of non-profit service to Elders. More than 75 percent of those in Tabitha’s care rely on federal- and state-funded programs to pay for their services. With funding for these government programs in constant flux, the Tabitha Foundation works behind the scenes to ensure Elders continue to get the care they need and deserve. Donations help to make up part of the shortfall.

Contact the Tabitha Foundation at Tabitha.org/foundation or (402) 486-8509 for more information about Into the Blue and how you can help support our community’s Elders.

Non-Profit News Stuff the Bus for Friendship Home April 11-12 Friendship Home has once again partnered with StarTran, Digity, Walmart and Sam’s Club stores for their annual Stuff the Bus event. This event asks the Lincoln community to literally “stuff a bus” full of new items needed by families staying at Friendship Home. The items donated will stock the shelter shelves for the coming year.

Friendship Home volunteers will be at all Lincoln Walmart and Sam’s Club stores on April 11th and 12th from 10am to 5pm handing out needs lists for its shelters. Anyone who would like to donate as a part of this event is welcome to pick up a list, choose some items to purchase and help “stuff the bus” parked outside the store. Cash donations are also accepted. To learn more about this event, please call (402) 434-0167 or visit www.friendshiphome.org.

Friendship Home provides safe shelter, support and advocacy for those who fall victim to domestic abuse. Services include emergency shelter, transitional shelter, crisis intervention and referral to community services. To access safe shelter, call (402) 437-9302.

Save The Date: 3rd Annual “Be a FAN of Senior” Drive Set for May 20th The Coalition of Older Adult Health Promotion (COAHP) is pleased to announce that they will sponsoring the third annual “Be a Fan of Seniors” donation drive on May 20th. In addition to fans, the coalition will also be collecting personal care products for seniors. Donations will be given to Aging Partners for distribution to older adults in Lincoln and surrounding areas. Drop off donations from 3-5 p.m. at Piedmont Shopping Center, 1265 S. Cotner Blvd. For more information, contact Larry Gadeken at (402) 474-4000 or Larry@ guardian-angels.us. For more information about Lincoln COAHP, visit www.lincolncoahp.com.

Heartland Cancer Foundation Moves to the New Nonprofit Hub The Hear tland Cancer Foundation has moved its office to the new Nonprofit Hub in downtown Lincoln!

Dedicated to educating and empowering nonprofits, the Nonprofit Hub is a shared space above Raising Cane’s at 211 N. 14th Street. The Heartland Cancer Foundation is looking forward to meeting and collaborating with other local non-profit organizations!

In conjunction with its partners the Rebels Auto Club and the Paul Brown Memorial Rally, the Heartland Cancer Foundation invites you to attend and support its mission to connect local cancer patients to care and reduce the financial stress that often accompanies cancer treatment. There is still time to get tickets for the Kuck Motorsports Event on Saturday, April 18th from 2-5 p.m. This is a rare opportunity to see a remarkable, private collection of automobiles not open to the general public with over 100 exceptional cars including antiques, classic 60’s & 70’s muscle cars, race cars and more. All proceeds benefit cancer patients in our community. A big thank you to the Kucks for their generosity! Only a limited number of tickets are available via the website at www.HeartlandCancerFoundation.org or by phone at (402) 261-9974.

Stop by one of our three convenient locations today!

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Non-Profit News

Pregnancy Center to Host Fundraising Dinner Pregnancy Center is set to host its 2015 fundraising dinner on Tuesday, April 21st at Embassy Suites Downtown Lincoln. The dinner will feature keynote speaker Mike Huckabee, a former Arkansas governor and host of the number one rated weekend show HUCKABEE on the Fox News Channel as well as The Huckabee Report, which is syndicated to almost 600 stations nationwide. He is also a New York Times Bestselling author of 11 books, with his 12th released in January, and was the Mike Huckabee runner-up for the Republican nomination for President in 2008 to John McCain. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the dinner beginning at 6:30 p.m. followed by the program at 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale now ($50 per person, $500 for a table of 10) and can be purchased online at support. pregnancycenterlincoln.org. Proceeds from this event will provide the resources needed by the life-affirming Pregnancy Center to serve women with pregnancy-related concerns, promote the freedoms of abstinence for unmarried persons and care for those who have experienced the trauma of abortion.

Pregnancy Center is a non-profit, faith based organization that offers complete information about every option available to a woman facing an unintended pregnancy, as well as confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, parenting classes and character-based relationship education in schools all at no cost to clients or taxpayers.

Call (402) 483-4247 or visit www.support.pregnancycenterlincoln. org for more information.

LUX Center for the Arts Presents 7th Annual Juried Cup Show LUX Center for the Ar ts presents “Mug Shots: 7th Annual Juried Cup Show,” featuring the selections of juror Brian Harper, Associate Professor of Fine Art, Ceramics Area Coordinator at Indiana University Southeast, and Executive Director of Artaxis. org. Harper has made selections from some of the most intriguing and exceptional cups produced by contemporary ceramic artists in LUX Center for the Arts’ seventh annual nationwide juried cup exhibition.

The show opens Friday, April 3 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will be on view through May 30 in the Folsom Gallery.

Selected artists: Stuart Asprey, Ian Bassett, Joel Brown, Mariko Brown, Seth Charles, Ling Chun, Ben Dames, Sydney Ewerth, Deborah Heid, Kyle Johns, Ronald Koehn, Lucien Koonce, Chase Lilleholm, Samantha Mack, Matthew Mitros, Sarah Newberry, Max Seinfeld, Amy Smith, Collette Spears, Ryan Strobel, Katie Susko, Joy Tanner, David Tarullo, Kwok Pong Tso, Julia Walther, Anthoney Wise, Suzanne Wolfe, and Dallas Wooten.

The exhibition “Taught: Nebraska Wesleyan University Student | Teacher Pairings” continues on display in the LUX’s West Gallery through April 25. Featured artists include: David Gracie, Tim Brawner, Lisa Lockman, Michael Ian Larsen, Sarah Berkeley, Alison Evert, Josh Johnson, Caitlin Schroeder, Jess Starkel, Drew Curtright, Susan Horn, and Andrew Marinkovich For more information about the LUX Center for the Arts visit www. luxcenter.org.

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WISB to Host Monthly Luncheon on April 8th Join Women in Sales and Business on Wednesday, April 8th for an interactive session on Twitter presented by Dan Parsons. Dan has provided professional counsel to United States senators, governors, business executives, policy makers and opinion leaders on issues affecting our state and nation. Parsons Public Relations, Inc., based in Lincoln, Nebraska, was founded in 2003. The company’s consulting, public relations, and marketing services help businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies pinpoint and convey their core values.

WISB meets every second Wednesday of the month at the Knoll’s.

Lunch starts at 11:30 and the meeting begins at 11:55. Cost is only $16.50, which includes lunch—register online at www.wisblincoln.org.

You can also prepay online—just go to the WISB homepage, scroll down to Monthly Meeting and click register! Please bring your PayPal receipt to the meeting for expedited check-in. Contact membership chairwoman Stacey Sell at (402) 937-8872 or info@wisblincoln.org for more information.

WasteCap Nebraska Launches GoZERO, a Zero Waste Events Service WasteCap Nebraska has launched a new service to help event planners dramatically reduce waste, and increase recycling and composting at events. GoZERO is a service that provides supplies and logistics for medium to large-sized events.

The service provides compostable supplies for food vendors, signage and attractive zero waste tents for sorting waste into recycling, composting and landfill containers. Volunteer training and logistics are also provided, including arrangements with haulers of recyclable and compostable materials. GoZERO’s first event will be at Lincoln Earth Day on April 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To learn more about GoZero, visit www. wastecapne.org/zero-waste/events or contact program manager, Ilonka Zlatar-Ryan at izlatarryan@wastecapne.org or (402) 436-2384 x1005. WasteCap Nebraska encourages event planners to “GoZERO” to “Celebrate our Better Nature”.

2015 Small Business Workshops Focus on Start-Up Basics Lincoln SCORE is pleased to partner with Southeast Community College (SCC) to present the “What’s Involved in Starting a Small Business” Workshop.

Are you thinking of starting a business? Do you need a refresher on the basics of running a business? Lincoln’s SCORE Chapter is here to help with an information-packed workshop, led by experts in topics relating to starting and managing a small business. In cooperation with Southeast Community College and the Small Business Administration, this workshop covers: Business Planning • Financing • Sales/Marketing & Social Media Practical Accounting • Legal Structures • Insurance Needs Nebraska Sales & Use Tax • Federal IRS Taxes • Technology Usage Workshop Location: SCC Jack J. Huck Continuing Education Center (301 S. 68th Street Place).

2015 Workshop Dates and Times: April 20, 21, 22: 6:30 pm - 9:30 p.m.; May 16: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; June 20: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. To register or for more information, please call Southeast Community College at (402) 437-2700.

Non-Profit News

2015 Lincoln Wine and Food Experience Raises Nearly $40,000

Glen Campbell Film on Alzheimer’s Draws Crowds for Lincoln Premiere

The Lincoln Wine and Food Experience has now raised more than $250,000 for the Lincoln Community Playhouse during its seven years.

The quarter-of-a-million dollar milestone was reached after the 2015 event, presented by Russ’s Market, raised $38,164.30. Nearly 700 people attended this year’s event, held Feb. 27 at Embassy Suites. The fundraising total includes ticket sales and proceeds from a silent auction.

Tabitha, your answer for Elder Care, in partnership with LeadingAge Nebraska, proudly brought to Lincoln an exclusive premiere of the award-winning documentary, Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me. Welcoming nearly 1,500 patrons to two showings at the Rococo Theatre, audiences enjoyed an intimate and touching portrait of the country music superstar’s aging journey through dementia, including his courageous final tour that spanned more than 150 shows in 2012 and 2013.

Between the afternoon and evening screenings, Tabitha hosted a community forum on memory care, including national and regional dementia experts, film producer James Keach and Campbell’s wife, Kim. Collaboration from title sponsor Vetter Heath Services, along with silver sponsorships from the Alzheimer’s Association, Eastmont Towers and Rural Health Development, also helped make the event possible.

Campbell’s final anthem, I’m Not Gonna Miss You, an original composition from the movie soundtrack, won a 2015 Grammy award for Best Country Song and was nominated for an Academy Award. CNN purchased domestic broadcast rights to the film and has plans to air the documentary later this year.

As a nonprofit organization serving 28 Nebraska counties, Tabitha’s love embraces a society where everyone is valued and empowered to live life to the fullest, with compassionate at-home support, innovative living communities, exceptional rehabilitation, health care and hospice services. For more information about Tabitha, visit www.Tabitha.org.

“We’re gratified that the Lincoln Wine and Food Experience has reached such a significant fundraising milestone,” said Pat Raybould, president of B&R Stores, Inc. “Russ’s Market is thankful to the people of our community for once again supporting the Lincoln Community Playhouse.”

Raybould says they’ll continue to look for ways to improve the Lincoln Wine and Food Experience. The 2015 event featured a new booth arrangement which created a more open setting for guests. The event also included a Nebraska Room for local vineyards and food vendors and a Bubbly Room for sparkling wines.

B&R Stores, Inc., a Lincoln, Nebraska-based, employee-owned company, was founded in 1964 by Russ Raybould. Since then the company has grown to include four store concepts (Russ’s Market, Super Saver, Save Best Foods and Grand Central Apple Market) located in seven cities across Nebraska and Iowa. For more information, visit brstores.com.

6th Annual Soup/Chili Cook-Off for Cancer Raises Over $3,000 HOME Real Estate a n d Wo o d s B r o s Realty agents and staff helped to raise more than $3,000 for the American Cancer Society during the sixth annual Soup or Chili Cook-Off for Cancer. Staff from Nebraska Land Title and Abstract (NLTA), HomeServices Lending, HomeServices of Nebraska Insurance and Larabee School of Real Estate also participated as voters. The group has raised more than $13,000 at these events to date.

This year the Celebrity Judge Award went to John Janovy of the Woods Bros Realty Lincolnshire Square office for his T&T Chili. The People’s Choice Award went to Mary Ryan of the HOME Real Estate Cotner office for her Jalapeño Popper Turkey Chili. Celebrity judges also awarded a new prize for Best Cinnamon Rolls to Miranda Watson with the Woods Bros Lincolnshire Square office.

The 2015 participants from HOME Real Estate were: Mary Ryan, Cotner office; June Ring, North office; Eric Brown “and the Buffini Girls,” Pine Lake; and Steve Stueck “and the Pioneer Greens girls,” Pioneer Greens. The Woods Bros participants were: Megan Yank, Country Club Plaza office; John Janovy, Lincolnshire Square office; Jayne Debus, Wilderness Hills office. Kristin Boucher represented HomeServices Lending, Peggy Forcier cooked on behalf of NLTA, and Mike Hasemann souped up for the Support Services corporate team.

More photos from the event can be viewed at http://tinyurl. com/2015-hsne-chili-cookoff.

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Junior Achievement of Lincoln Accepts $25,000 State Farm® Grant Junior Achievement of Lincoln has b e e n a wa r d e d a $25,000 grant from State Farm to provide financial literacy education in Lincoln. This partnership will focus on seven Lincoln elementary schools by providing financial literacy education to more than 2,000 K-5th students. With this grant, JA will be able to offer financial literacy education taught by a community volunteer at no cost to the students.

The State Farm grant presentation took place at on Saturday, February 28 during the JA Bowl-a-thon at Parkway Lanes, 2555 S 48th Street. The participants began bowling at noon directly following the presentation. More than 1,500 participants bowled at the 2015 Junior Achievement Bowl-a-thon this year. This is JA of Lincoln’s largest fundraiser of the year and all proceeds will fund JA’s financial literacy programs in Lincoln’s schools at no cost to the schools.

Nearly 40 State Farm employees are among those who volunteer each year to help deliver the JA program to Lincoln schools. The JA curriculum helps students understand economics by focusing on the roles of earning and saving, working and careers, communities and business.

If you’d like more information about Junior Achievement of Lincoln, please visit jalincoln.org or contact Jessica States, Senior Director, at (402) 467-4479 or jstates@jalincoln.org.

WELLCOM Expands Service Area Throughout Midwest Region, Set to Host Wellness Symposium and Awards Luncheon Prices (per ton, does not include delivery)

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WELLCOM, a local non-profit organization that has served employers throughout Nebraska since 1982, has expanded its service area to include Iowa and the Midwest region. WELLCOM provides programs and resources to help employers deliver datadriven wellness programs that strengthen employee morale and positively impact business results. In fact, WELLCOM was the first nonprofit organization in the United States whose mission was entirely dedicated to worksite wellness initiatives.

The Institute for Health and Productivity Management, a WELLCOM partner, said although more employers are implementing wellness programs, many are unsuccessful because of inadequate funding, lack of strategic planning and ineffective design. WELLCOM works to change that trend by providing trainings and creating resources to help organizations develop and deliver effective programs.

WELLCOM has also announced its Pathways to Wellbeing Symposium and Excellence in Worksite Wellness Awards Luncheon will be held on Thursday, April 30th at Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center, 12520 Westport Parkway.

This regional event brings the latest research and best practices in worksite wellness, benefits and health management to our community and recognizes organizations which are making a difference in their employees’ lives. For more information, visit www. pathwaystowellbeingsymposium.org.

Non-Profit News

SCOYF to Host Pitch, Hit & Run Contests in April The Star City Optimist Youth Foundation (SCOYF) will host four local Pitch, Hit, and Run contests April 21 - 24 as part of the Major League Baseball national program. Boys and girls ages 7-14 will compete in separate gender divisions in 4 age categories. These free contests will all be held from 6 – 8 pm at: Tuesday April 21 – Kahoa Elementary, Wednesday April 22 – Humann Elementary, Thursday April 23 – Fredstrom Elementary, and Friday April 24 – Maxey Elementary.

The Star City Optimist Youth Foundation (SCOYF) helps coordinate the joint activities of Lincoln’s Optimist Clubs with the goal of providing opportunities for success to youth. For more information, visit www. starcityoptimists.org.

Six Concordia Alumni Earn Lutheran Educator Awards

Six Concordia alumni recently ear ned honors for their faithful service in Lutheran education. Five alumni ear ned awards from the Lutheran Education Association, and one earned an award from the National William E. Unverfehrt Cletus Pfeiffer Association of Directors of Christian Education.

Both associations honor Lutheran educators eac h ye a r w h o a r e n o m i n a t e d fo r their outstanding service to Lutheran churches and schools. This year, Concordia alumni were five of the Rebecca Bimler Benjamin Cooper eight educators honored by the LEA. The honored alumni include: Cletus Pfeiffer – Christus Magister Award; William E. Unverfehrt – Distinguished L u t h e r a n Elementary Administrator Amy Cooper Josh Heirigs Award; Rebecca B i m l e r – Distinguished Lutheran Early Childhood Administrator Award; Benjamin and Amy Cooper – Distinguished Lutheran Secondary Educator Awards; Josh Heirigs – Outstanding New Director of Christian Education Award.

Concordia University, Nebraska, founded in 1894, is a fully accredited, coeducational university located in Seward, Nebraska, that currently serves more than 2,300 students. Concordia offers more than 70 undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in an excellent academic and Christ-centered community that equips men and women for lives of learning, service and leadership in the church and world.

For more information, visit cune.edu.

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Non-Profit News TeamMates Recognizes Community Partner Ameritas

Nebraska No Kill Canine Rescue Receives Over $1,300 From Raising Cane’s

TeamMates Mentoring Program of Lincoln enjoys community partnerships with businesses, service clubs and faith-based organizations that assist the sc hool-based mentoring program by providing a caring adult mentor to more than 1,100 students.

Ameritas is one such partner. Commenting on the twenty-plus year relationship between TeamMates and Ameritas, JoAnn Martin, Ameritas president and CEO, said, “At Ameritas, we believe in the future of youth and fully support the mission of TeamMates to positively impact the world by inspiring youth to reach their full potential.”

Currently 25 Ameritas associates volunteer for the TeamMates program, taking an hour each week to provide support and encouragement.

Ameritas has supported TeamMates through a variety of mentorrecruiting events, including a “lunch and learn” with Dr. Tom Osborne, TeamMates’ co-founder; an annual volunteer fair where TeamMates recruits new mentors; and for the past two years spearheading the Border to Border Challenge run across Nebraska to raise awareness and recruit more mentors statewide. Ameritas also provides a business liaison with Lincoln Public Schools’ TeamMates staff and sponsors and sends mentors to the annual TeamMates tailgate fundraiser.

Ameritas is in the business of fulfilling life. This means helping customers by reducing uncertainty, helping grow assets and protecting what is most cherished. As a mutual-based organization, backed with financial strength, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses.

Pet welfare has always been a cause that is near and dear to the hearts of Jennifer and Justin Jones, owners of the local Raising Cane’s franchise. During the 2014 holiday season, the Lincoln restaurants sold plush puppies in whic h 100% of the net proceeds were donated back to a local pet welfare organization.

In February at the I Love My Dog Expo, Raising Cane’s sponsored the Rescue Round-Up and had the opportunity to present Karl Skinner, President of the Nebraska No Kill Canine Rescue (NNKCR) with a check for the net proceeds of the plush puppy sales—$1,352 in total.

Nebraska No Kill Canine Rescue (www.nebraskanokill.org) is dedicated to providing foster care and finding forever homes for homeless dogs in Lancaster County, where 100% of all funds donated go toward their rescue efforts and the dogs in their care.

The Lincoln Raising Cane’s Franchise was opened in 2006 by Justin & Jennifer Jones, who moved to Nebraska from Baton Rouge, LA. Since opening their first location, they have set out to make a change in Lincoln by becoming active community leaders and supporting local organizations through donations such as these. Stay connected with Raising Cane’s on social media at facebook.com/CanesNebraska or twitter.com/CanesLincoln to follow their involvement in the Lincoln community.

Nebraska Community Foundation: The Way to Give Back to Your Hometown N eb ra s k a Community Foundation is proud to wor k with more than 1,800 volunteers who believe in the future of their hometowns.

Volunteer leaders of the Foundation’s affiliated funds located in communities across the state get the training and support they need to raise local dollars and build permanent charitable endowments.

This leads to stronger communities today and tomorrow.

NCF works with generous donors and their professional advisors to arrange meaningful planned gifts, ensuring it’s the best fit for your personal circumstances and charitable wishes. NCF’s professional staff handles all the financial management and legal work that could burden its volunteer leaders. Their high level of professional service enables communities to receive gifts of land, agricultural commodities, securities and other complex gifts.

In just the last five years more than $126 million has been invested in our schools, hospitals, community centers, libraries, fire and rescue units, parks and recreation, youth programs and our natural environment. Thousands of citizens have enjoyed the arts, earned scholarships and received specialized training to grow their local economies.

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Find out how you can give back to your hometown at www.

NebraskaHometown.org or (402) 323-7330.

Non-Profit News

Give Your StYle a Fresh Look!

Nebraskans in New York Seeking Taste From Home The NYC Huskers are hosting their biennial event, Taste of Nebraska, a fundraiser to benefit the NYC Huskers scholarship program granting funds to deserving New York students who want to attend the University of Nebraska. The goal for the event is not only to raise funds for the scholarship program, but provide an evening to reunite alumni and friends of Nebraska with their favorite Nebraska foods and goods. There will also be a silent auction featuring Nebraska products that are not available in New York. The event takes place on Saturday, April 18th from 1-5 p.m.

If you are a local business who would like to donate food or products to be served or auctioned, contact nychuskers@gmail.com. The shipment will be leaving Lincoln on April 15th. Visit nychuskers.com for more information.

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Go Big Red! The NYC Huskers, the official University of Nebraska alumni chapter, is dedicated to serving and enriching the University of Nebraska and its friends by attracting and retaining them through involvement with the association. With over 4,000 Nebraskans in the NYC area, Taste of Nebraska will bring attendees together to talk about the “Good Life,” get pumped for fall Husker watch parties and to meet new people.

Pius X Academic Decathlon Team Named State Champion Pius X repeated as the State Champion in only their fifth appearance at t h e N eb ra s k a State Academic Decathlon on Feb. 20-21 at the University Picture cutline: Pius X’s winning team of Nebraska members were (left to right): Jacob Schreiber, - Omaha. The Freddie Barie, Anna Tetherow, Henry Jaros, win earned Catherine Krueger, Noah Schimenti, Esther Pius X a bid to Brown, Philip Hanigan, and Liam Kruse. the National competition to be held in Garden Grove, Calif., on April 16-18.

Pius X’s academic decathletes were awarded a total of 19 gold, 14 silver, and 12 bronze medals. Each of the nine members of Pius X’s first place team also will receive a college scholarship. Pius X took the top spot in the large school division, outscoring Creighton Prep, Daniel Gross, Omaha Burke, Omaha Central, Omaha North, and Seward High School.

Pius X’s win was highlighted by Philip Hanigan earning a perfect score in science. Liam Kruse and Philip Hanigan placed 1st and 2nd, respectively, in the Honors Division. Henry Jaros placed 2nd overall in the Scholastic Division, and Noah Schimenti and Esther Brown placed 1st and 2nd, respectively, in the Varsity Division. Other Pius X students who placed in the competition at the state level include: Catherine Krueger (Honors and alternate Honors), Jacob Schreiber (Scholastic), Anna Tetherow (Scholastic), Freddie Barie (Varsity), Madeline May (alternate), Kathryn Noel (alternate), and Alyssa Jensen (alternate). The Academic Decathlon is coached by Ann Kotopka, Mary Jo Kopf, Shiela Sievert, Margaret Kaiser-Woodward, and Father Steve Mills. To find out more about the Piux X Foundation, visit http://foundation.piusx.net.

Leadercast Lincoln Gives Back The hosts of Leadercast Lincoln are eager to donate profits from this year’s event to City Impact.

Cornerstone Leadership Solutions has committed to giving ten percent of ticket sales to continue seeing urban youth, families and neighborhoods transformed through holistic programming and community investment.

City Impact is a Lincoln based organization that began with a simple Bible Club and has grown to include the Impact Reading Center, Gifts of Love Christmas event, the Impact Leadership Academy and Strength for Life Mentoring program. In the coming months, City Impact will be completing their new Impact Center which will allow the organization to increase programs by 150%. For more information about City Impact and ways to get involved, go to www.cityimpact.org.

Leadercast is a one-day leadership event broadcast live from Atlanta, GA to hundreds of locations around the nation on May 8th. 2015 Speakers include Andy Stanley, Rudy Giuliani, Malala Yousafzai and Seth Godin. Tickets are now available. Discounted ticket prices for groups of 5+ and non-profit organizations are available. For more information and ticket purchase, visit www. leadercastlincoln.com.

Leadercast Lincoln is sponsored by Steph the Mortgage Genie and hosted by Cornerstone Leadership Solutions.

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Non-Profit News East Lincoln Business Association Elects Officers Jacquie Hirschman-Eller, owner of Husker Promotions, was elected president of the East Lincoln Business Association for 2015 during the March ELBA board meeting.

Tim Kirkpatrick, co-owner of Office Interiors and Design, was named vice president; Sherri Stock, owner of inMotion Auto Care is now secretary; Craig Kerr, Shelter Insurance agency owner, was elected treasurer.

“Spring” is Near So Make Your Calls Clear!

Other board members include Patty Bailey (newly elected), Mary Kay independent sales director, Cara Dolberg, sales associate with Best Card, Steve McGinnis, business development and sales associate with Midwest Floor Covering, Inc., Jeremiah Tripp, operations manager at Computer Hardware Inc., and Melissa Wheeler, Farm Bureau Financial Services agency owner.

Launched in 2010, ELBA is a growing network of people from across the city dedicated to enhancing the business climate of east Lincoln through networking, promotion and representation. Lunch meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at Hillcrest Country Club from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. In addition, ELBA schedules regular networking events and plans socials with local businesses and other business associations. Learn more at www.GOELBA.org.

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Junior Achievement (JA) of Lincoln is very proud to announce the success of this year’s Bowl-AThon. This year, 329 teams and nearly 1,700 people bowled at Parkway Lanes, Hollywood Bowl, and Sun Valley Lanes to raise money for JA’s programs in Lincoln-area K-12 schools. Over $118,000 was raised, making this the largest Bowl-A-Thon in Junior Achievement of Lincoln’s 44-year history. Money raised from this event will go to support Junior Achievement’s financial literacy curriculum in Lincoln-area public and parochial schools. With the help of nearly 800 volunteers, Junior Achievement of Lincoln is reaching nearly 23,000 students this school year.

Junior Achievement would like to thank all the Lincoln businesses and individuals who supported Junior Achievement’s Bowl-A-Thon this year and helped make it a success. A special thanks to this year’s major sponsors: Legacy Retirement Communities, ART F/X Screenprinting & Embroidery, Whitehead Oil Co./U-Stop Convenience Stores, CHI Saint Elizabeth, and Bison, Inc. To view the full list of sponsors, please visit www.jalincoln.org/events. The following businesses won the Industry Fundraising Awards for most money raised per industry: Manufacturing - Lincoln Industries, $6,863.00; Food - Sysco of Lincoln, $4,860.00; Service - National Research Corporation, $8,190.00; Community - Lincoln Public Schools, $8,782.00; Finance - Nelnet, $12,670.00. If you are interested in participating in JA’s special events or volunteering in the classroom, please contact Jessica States at jstates@jalincoln.org.

Non-Profit News #IAmAVoice Luncheon to Celebrate 40 Years of Crisis Support for Victims of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Vo i c e s o f H o p e i s h o s t i n g i t s 40th Anniversary Luncheon on Thursday, April 23 from 11:30 am to 1 pm at The Cornhusker Marriott Hotel. The event will feature speakers sharing their voice against sexual assault and domestic violence and will launch a social media campaign encouraging the general public to share their voice. All proceeds from this event will benefit Voices of Hope’s services to empower victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

“We are happy to report that our friends at Verizon have pledged a substantial grant to support the 40thAnniversary event and to launch the ‘#IAmAVoice’ campaign,” said Marcee Metzger, Executive Director of Voices of Hope. “This campaign, utilizing social and traditional media, is designed to raise awareness and help end domestic violence and sexual assault in our community.”

Voice of Hope is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization providing support and access to services for people who are victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Through a crisis phone line, advocates to help create a plan, resources and support groups, victims become survivors. Learn more at www.VoicesOfHopeLincoln.org.

SCC Art Department Involved in Upcoming Events The Southeast Community College Art Department has announced their involvement in several upcoming events.

ArtVenture, one of the most beloved and popular programs offered by Girl Scouts, is an arts education-based leadership program that provides girls with the opportunity to collaborate with professional artists to create an original work of art. Girls work alongside artists throughout the entire process, from conception through completion. These works of art, along with additional pieces donated by professional artists, are then sold at a silent auction from which all proceeds benefit Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska. The Lincoln artVenture is scheduled from 3-5 p.m. April 26 in Lincoln Station’s Great Hall. Cost is $20 per person. Hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be served. Persons are asked to RSVP to Jenny at jcardwell@girlscoutsnebraska.org or call (402) 875-4345. Go to www.girlscoutsnebraska.org/support/ art-venture to learn more.

The Beatrice Public Library will also host an interactive public art installation sponsored by SCC’s Art Department. The works will be on display from April 11-26 and be in the form of a chalkboard wall with an invitation to visitors to respond to the prompt “In a perfect world . . .” Colored chalks will be provided, and visitors are encouraged to express their thoughts and artistry in this familiar medium.

For more information about Southeast Community College, please visit www.southeast.edu.

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Health News Dr. Clare Running Full Steam Through June Although orthopedic surgeon Dr. Pat Clare is looking forward to retirement in July, that hasn’t stopped him from running full steam at his practice, Nebraska Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine, P.C. (nebraskaortho.com). Dr. Clare finished up his last season as the Team Physician for the Nebraska Huskers in January, but will still continue to see patients before his retirement this summer. He co-founded Nebraska Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine, P.C. in 1987 and since has helped it grow into a practice of 14 physicians specializing in a range of orthopedic surgeries and sports medicine. A UNL and UNMC alumni and former Cornhusker football player himself, Dr. Clare also served as the University of Nebraska – Lincoln’s Chief Orthopaedic Surgeon and Team Physician for the Athletic Department for over 30 years.

SIR Promotes Abstract by Drs. Vander Woude and Razdan The Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) promoted Dr. Eric Vander Woude and Dr. Rahul Razdan’s abstract, “Percutaneous Ultrasonic Fasciotomy: A Novel Approach To Treat Chronic Plantar Fasciitis,” in its press efforts for SIR’s Annual Scientific Meeting. Their abstract was selected after review by both Dr. Robert Lewandowski, chair of the SIR 2015 scientific program, and Dr. Robert Vogelzang, chair of SIR’s Communications Committee. Dr. Vander Woude and Dr. Razdan practice at Advanced Medical Imaging and CHI Health St. Elizabeth in Lincoln. To find out more about this new procedure for Plantar Fasciitis, call Advanced Medical Imaging at (402) 484-6677 or visit the website at www.amimaging.com.

WorkWell to Host Inaugural Wellness Legacy Awards Event Wo r k We l l , a Nebraska worksite we l l n e s s c o u n c i l and division of the Nebraska Safety Council, is taking a giant leap forward and holding their inaugural Wellness Legacy Awards event at Nebraska Innovation Campus in Lincoln on May 6.

As the administrators of the Governor’s Wellness Award for the past seven years, WorkWell is the premier organization in Nebraska for the recognition of worksite wellness achievements and they are adding to their awards categories with this event.

Many individuals have left a legacy of good health and wellness impacting their families, friends, co-workers and communities with their inspirational healthy lifestyles and wellness leadership. The examples and contributions of these individuals will have a positive effect on future generations and they deserve to be recognized and their stories need to be shared.

The event will include a social hour with opportunities to win prize packages such as Nebraska Football Tickets, a weekend getaway with Chicago Cubs tickets and Hotel Accommodations and many others.

Doors open at 6:00 p.m. for a social hour, and a dinner by Misty’s followed by the award presentation will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets for individuals and groups are available at www.nesafetycouncil. org. Contact Tonya Vyhlidal at tvyhlidal@nesafetycouncil.org or Jackie Varicak at jvaricak@nesafetycouncil.org. You may also call (402) 483-2511 Ext. 115 for more information.

Dementia Training Opportunity Announced CountryHouse Residences, in partnership with fellow sponsors Bryan Medical Center and the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter, recently announced an upcoming continuing education opportunity for health care professionals on Thursday, May 21st. “Coping With Challenging Behaviors” will be presented by Dementia Care Education Specialist Teepa Snow, MS. The event is divided into two different sessions that will target specific aspects of the disease and strategies for effectively coping and handling situations that arise.

Session One: For Health Care Professionals from 8:30 a.m.-Noon.

Learn why the person you are helping exhibits difficult or challenging behaviors and what you can do about it in order to achieve better outcomes through problem-solving and coping strategies.

Session Two: For Caregivers, Counselors & Professionals from 1:30-5 p.m.

This is a coaching class especially for families, counselors and other health care professionals. Specifically, you’ll learn how to better assist those who need help but don’t want it by using a positive physical approach, supportive communication, meaningful activity and other techniques.

The event will be held at the Bryan Medical Center West Campus Conference Center, located at 2300 S. 16th Street in Lincoln. Visit alz.org/Nebraska and click on the Teepa Snow Event link to register.

For more information, please contact Laura Thelen at (402) 421-1300.

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Health News Comfort Family Chiropractic Opens New Office Respite Care Training Session Set for April Comfort Family Chiropractic 28-29 recently celebrated the opening of its new office, hosting a ribbon cutting with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on January 27th.

The new office located at 1600 S. 70th street, Suite 201, was designed specifically for family care as Comfort Family Chiropractic is a familyfocused health care office. From the dedicated area for kids with movies and books to the tastefully themed treatment rooms, including the Jungle room, Under the Sea room and Husker room, there’s plenty of color and a fresh, fun feel to the office.

As a family chiropractic office, Comfort Family Chiropractic provides care for all ages from infants to the elderly. Gentle, effective care for the whole family at Comfort Family Chiropractic includes chiropractic, exercise rehab, and passive modalities to alleviate pain including muscle stimulation, hot/cold packs, intersegmental traction, kinesiotape, massage therapy and more. Comfort Family Chiropractic strives to provide expert care and excellent customer service—serving families is their specialty.

Dr. Alex Kallio, owner of Comfort Family Chiropractic, has over 15 years of experience treating families and welcomes the opportunity to improve the health of your family. For more information about Comfort Family Chiropractic, please call (402) 484-5166, email dralex@comfortlincoln. com, or find them online at www.ComfortLincoln.com.

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Anyone looking to learn or enhance skills to provide respite care is welcome to attend an upcoming REST (Respite Education & Support Tools) training session, April 28-29, at the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Munroe-Meyer Institute, Room 3016, 444 S. 44th St. in Omaha. Those who complete the two-day interactive Train-theTrainer program can then teach an eight-hour respite training class in their own communities.

Respite care is the provision of short-term relief to primary caregivers from the demands of ongoing care for an individual with special needs. In Nebraska, respite is funded through a variety of programs.

Families and advocates may call a Respite Network Coordinator in their area at 1-866-RESPITE for help with respite resources.

Respite information also is available at the DHHS supported website “Nebraska Resource and Referral System” at https://nrrs.ne.gov/ respitesearch/. This free service will assist 24/7 in finding networkapproved respite providers and supportive services throughout Nebraska that best fit individual needs and location.

REST training is made possible in part by a federal IDEA Part C grant awarded to the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services from the Nebraska Department of Education, Office of Special Education (99-9999-248-1C05-15), in collaboration with UNMC/ Munroe-Meyer Institute. To register, visit http://restprogram.org/ register/. For more information on REST, contact Lisa Esposito, REST administrative assistant, at (630) 397-5656, via email at lesposito@ restprogram.org, or visit www.restprogram.org.

Health News Good Life Fitness Celebrates 5th Anniversary Max Muscle Celebrates 10th Anniversary, Good Life Fitness Grand Opening of Second Location hosted a ribbon cutting event with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on January 19th to commemorate the 5th anniversary of opening its doors on the same date in 2010. Located at 300 Speedway Circle near 3rd and Van Dorn, Good Life Fitness is a locally owned and operated health and fitness facility dedicated to improving the quality of life of clients and helping them to meet and exceed their goals. In doing so Good Life Fitness has established itself as Lincoln’s premier fitness facility, with an atmosphere that provides real results for real people through education, motivation and support. Owner Steve Auxier and the Good Life Fitness staff are honored to have assisted so many people with their fitness journey over the past five years and would like to thank members for their dedication to fitness.

Max Muscle has proudly been doing business in southwest Lincoln for ten years and is excited to announce the grand opening of its second location in northeast Lincoln at 84th and Adams. The south location at 7301 S. 27th Street has been locally owned and operated since opening its doors on April 11, 2005. To provide a more convenient location for loyal customers across town, Max Muscle made the decision to expand with the addition of its second store that officially opened on February 9, 2015.

In honor of their anniversary celebration, Good Life Fitness would like to offer ONE FREE WEEK to all Strictly Business readers. The free week includes access to over 100 fitness boot camp/group fitness classes, full cardio/weight room, women’s only fitness room, use of locker/showers, and free child care. For more information about Good Life Fitness, please call (402) 434-4444, email steve@ goodlifefit.com, or visit goodlifefit.com.

Nebraska Hearing Center Offers Help for Tinnitus

Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital Named Passy-Muir® Center of Excellence

Take back your life. Nebraska Hearing Center can help. Thanks to many technological advances we have devices that can drastically reduce if not completely mask the ringing in your ears.

Among a select group of f a c i l i t i e s wo r l d - w i d e, Madonna was recognized and named a Passy-Muir® C e n t e r o f E xc e l l e n c e.

Through the Centers of Excellence Program, PassyMuir, Inc. recognizes health care facilities that have demonstrated outstanding work in the use of their patented closed system one way valve. The Passy-Muir® Valve (PMV) helps patients who have had tracheotomies or are reliant on mechanical ventilation become more independent while enhancing their quality of life.

With the implementation of the PMV as a standard of care, Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital consistently meets or exceeds the national average in ventilator wean percentage and days to wean. Expedited ventilator weaning may decrease recovery time and length of stay, thus reducing hospital costs.

While the Passy-Muir® Valve is commonly used in facilities around the country, Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital was the first of 12 hospitals to be recognized for meeting the high standards which facilitates early and successful use of the valve. The keys to success include the development of a multi-disciplinary team approach to caring for patients and advanced education and skills training in use of the technology.

Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital (www.madonna.org) is one of the nation’s foremost facilities for medical rehabilitation and research.

Specializing in traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury and pediatric rehabilitation, Madonna offers hope and healing to thousands of patients from throughout the country each year.

Don’t let the name fool you, Max Muscle is a full service nutrition store equipped to help people of all walks of life. No matter the game, no matter the goal, Max Muscle is staffed with Certified Nutritionists to provide you expert advice, free nutritional consultations, as well as fully customized nutritional plans. Max Muscle features products made in the USA and all MMSN products are tested for purity and quality. Max Muscle also offers better than internet pricing, all day every day.

For more information about Max Muscle, please contact Chad Case at (402) 421-4MAX, email chad@maxmusclenebraska.com, or visit the website at www.maxmusclelincoln.com.

Approximately 50 million Americans suffer from tinnitus - or ringing in the ears. At Nebraska Hearing Center, we know how it can affect your quality of life.

Nebraska Hearing Center is locally owned and operated by Audiologist Leslie Frank MS, CCC-A. We are centrally located at 5625 O St; suite 104. Call (402) 486-3737 to schedule your appointment today.

Sunlight Support Forms Senior Nutrition Partnership With Mom’s Meals Over six million seniors are malnourished, affecting their health, happiness and quality of life. They may not be able to shop for groceries or prepare them in their home or apartment. Lincoln senior care company, Sunlight Support, recognizes the growing need for senior care services and has added Mom’s Meals to its service offerings.

Mom’s Meals is a family owned and operated business dedicated to providing great tasting, nutritionally balanced, fresh meals to meet the needs of the aging population. Meals are prepared with fresh fruits and vegetables and stay fresh with refrigeration for up to two weeks.

Through Mom’s Meals, Sunlight Support can offer over 45 unique meal choices that are USDA inspected and approved. Check the website for details on receiving a free meal.

The number of older adults is projected to increase over the next decade and continues to rise. By the year 2040, the US Department of Health and Human Services estimates there will be 79.7 million older adults, more than twice as many as in 2000.

Committed to helping individuals age in their own homes, Sunlight Support Senior Care Solutions offers in-home senior care, home modifications, senior move management, and a number of additional services across our full care continuum. To learn about senior care and aging in place services, contact Sunlight Support at (402) 421-1119 or visit sunlightsupport.com.

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Client Spotlight

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Travel Spotlight

LAS VEGAS

Brief, jam-packed trips to Las Vegas are our specialty and our most recent visit was just as memorable as our numerous adventures over the years. When in Las Vegas, no matter how long you plan to stay, it’s a must to see a show and try a new dining experience. Staying true to this formula, we spent our valuable leisure time doing exactly that!

Britney: Piece of Me | Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino www.caesars.com/planet-hollywood | (855) 234-7469

Carmine’s | Located at The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace www.carminesvegas.com | (702) 473-9700

Planet Hollywood shows are notorious for featuring the biggest names in the entertainment industry, and mega pop star Britney Spears is the latest to bring her talents and extraordinary showmanship to the stage. In her first year as a Las Vegas headliner, Britney: Piece of Me has become the Vegas strip’s hottest show and we were definitely first in line to get in on a piece of the action!

While Britney performs all her infectious dance songs, as well as tracks from her latest album, her show isn’t simply a recreation of her memorable music videos. Instead, her intense performances are way more electrifying in person with stunning costumes and impressive sets that boldly transition from scenes that are dreamlike and glamourous to ones that are edgy and daring.

With state-of-the-art light and sound effects, the venue has a nightclub feel and transforms itself many times through the different acts of the show from a beautiful winter wonderland (our personal favorite!) to an explosion of color to a dark, sultry number. The Axis in Planet Hollywood houses the world’s largest indoor projection screen, resulting in an explosive theatrical experience that launches the show well past merely being a great concert. Britney: Piece of Me is a sexy, action-packed Vegas show from start to finish but as barely anyone in attendance remained seated for the show, be prepared to dance the night away!

Carmine’s is a southern Italian family-style restaurant that has locations spanning the upper east coast all the way to the Bahamas and most recently, Las Vegas in 2013. The restaurant concept is designed to bring guests “wow factor” sized portions (which makes it a perfect fit for Las Vegas, where everything is over the top!) combined with a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes any meal feel like an opulent Italian American wedding feast. Perfect for large groups, Carmine’s boasts an impressive 27,000 sq. ft. restaurant that features nine private dining rooms. While the sheer size may seem overwhelming, once you get situated there’s an intimate ambiance that sets Carmine’s apart as a place where you can take a break from fast-paced Las Vegas to slow down and enjoy each other’s company as well as plenty of delicious fare.

Table 10 | Located at The Palazzo www.emerilsrestaurants.com/table-10 | (702) 607-6363 Table 10 is a charming mix between casual and fine dining, with a noticeable nod to the New Orleans roots of legendary chef and restaurateur Emeril Lagasse. Located inside The Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes at The Palazzo, Table 10 is a breath of fresh air with a classic sidewalk café that moves into a dining area featuring contemporary industrial décor with a splash of color. The menu highlights a variety of modern American cuisine as well as options for culinary favorites inspired by the Big Easy.

Table 10’s menu highlights a relatively newer tasting option, where you pick four items to try at a great price point with an option for an added wine pairing. We chose the Chicken & Andouille Sausage Gumbo, Emeril’s New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, Candied North Country Farms Bacon, and Emeril’s Banana Cream Pie. While everything was delicious, we were especially impressed by an entire dish composed of bacon— between the thickness and flavor we’ve never tried anything like this before and it was amazing! We ordered a few additional items that we just couldn’t resist trying, including the Beet Salad and the Whole Lobster. These were both equally impressive in presentation and taste, with vibrant colors and good-sized portions true to Table 10’s style. Take it from someone in our party who loves beets—“this is hands-down the best dish incorporating beets that I’ve ever tried, it’s delightful!” As far as the lobster, it’s a full two pounds of the steamy, rich delicacy that’s presented ready-to-eat with none of the messy work to worry about in getting to the good stuff. Overall, Table 10 really shined with its rich flavors, easygoing atmosphere, and reasonable pricing.

As a group of six we ordered a variety of items, but in retrospect we could have dialed that down as we really didn’t grasp the generous size of the portions until they were right in front of us (take it from us, they are enormous!). However, on the other hand, if we had it all to do over again it would have been a hard decision as to which ones we would have excluded—the dishes were all a big hit! This included the Calamari, the biggest heaping plate of Antipasto Salad that we’ve ever laid eyes on, Shrimp Scampi, Chicken Marsala, a Pasta Platter that combined four different items, and for dessert, a unique flourless torte with fresh mixed fruit, vanilla and chocolate ice cream, and topped with fresh whipped cream. All of the dishes were served tableside and our service throughout the entire meal was exceptional. Our group thoroughly enjoyed sharing this memorable dining experience together at Carmine’s, and our only piece of advice is to plan your day or evening around a food coma because you won’t be able to resist taking those extra “few” bites! In fact, we’ve already decided that we must return specifically for the salad and dessert— which says a lot as these usually aren’t the dishes that stand out but they really are that incredible!

Yet again Las Vegas has shown us a great time, which isn’t surprising at all. Albeit a brief stay, we covered the staples of incredible dining and world-class entertainment and couldn’t be happier with our choices in those areas. We’ll come back soon Vegas, that’s for sure!

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Spring is finally here! This month is the prime time to get the ball rolling on spring landscaping projects as well as upgrading exterior features of your home and property to improve its overall curb appeal. Whether your vision for your property includes simply adding some color or a few improvements, or you’re gearing up for a larger scale endeavor with an extensive to-do list or complete landscape installation, it’s a good idea (even for the most talented do-it-yourselfer) to at very least pass your ideas by an expert first to ensure you’re taking everything necessary into consideration for the best end results. As many of us have found out the hard way, it’s not always as easy as it seems to get from winter barren to spring beautiful!

“Spring is always a time of renewal,” says Andrew Campbell, Manager of the Landscape Department at Campbell’s Nurseries and Garden Centers. “We come out of winter tired of the cold and snow and everyone seems a bit happier once temperatures warm and we see the first signs of new growth in our landscapes. The fun comes when temperatures get warmer and everyone wants to start planting in March and on into April. Sometimes the most important Andrew Campbell Campbell’s Nurseries thing to remember is to work on Mother and Garden Centers Nature’s schedule. For example, lawn seeding should wait until soil temps are warm enough, which is typically not until the middle of April at the earliest, and general planting shouldn’t occur in tender plants until we see growth on existing plants. Working on cleaning beds of winter trash, trimming back any perennials not trimmed last fall, applying weed pre-emergents, and thickening mulch are all great tasks for early spring while we wait for Mother Nature and true solid warm weather.

While there really isn’t a difference between spring tasks to accomplish at a residential site versus a commercial site, sometimes the timing can be different. Most commercial sites are comfortable with our crews coming out earlier than many residential sites. This timing allows us to complete the larger commercial sites before transitioning to the residential. We also can potentially avoid damaging turf by working at commercial sites off of concrete.

Ideally we all should avoid lots of foot traffic on our lawns until the ground firms a bit as frost recedes.

One of the key changes we are seeing already this year is the increased use of dyed mulches with our clients. Five to ten years ago dyed mulches were usually ground up pallets dyed red. The mulch was chunky, the color a bit weird, and you could see the difference from a long distance compared to traditional mulches.

They just didn’t look or feel right to many. Over time though the dyed mulches have gained traction by moving to environmentally safe dyes, coloration closer to traditional mulches, and a process that in most cases keeps the dye on the mulch versus washing off.

The dyed mulch also will keep its color much longer. While the color will fade over time, the coloration generally will be similar to when first installed for up to six to twelve months compared to traditional mulches that will fade over a month or two. While we install mulch in beds to help prevent weeds and to hold moisture around our plants, for many mulch is really installed for the aesthetic more than the plant benefits, thus mulch that will

hold its color longer can be a great benefit for the beauty of the landscape.

Although we aren’t seeing a ‘silver bullet’ in plant material to use, we are seeing improved varieties every year. Whether it is increased blooming, better disease or insect resistance, or even plants better suited to drier conditions, every year brings improvements to trees, shrubs, evergreens, perennials, and annuals. So while many existing landscapes can be beautiful and grow well over time, for many situations there may be a better plant to use compared to when the landscape was originally planted. So whether you are working on a new landscape or a renovation we always recommend considering the use of newer plant varieties. It can also mean keeping an eye out for plants struggling in an existing landscape and then discussing it with one of our team of designers or garden center staff about new options to consider. Sometimes switching an old plant out for a new one can make maintaining and enjoying your landscape a lot easier.”

He adds, “The best tip we can offer is to always work with a plan. Whether the plan is designed by a landscape designer, by working with the staff at a garden center or good research on your own, by preparing the plan before planting you can usually avoid issues down the road.

Many times as designers we get called onto landscapes where the plants have been planted too close together, where only COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES “TOTAL GROUNDS CARE” spring blooming plants have been installed, or even where plants have been planted where they really shouldn’t have been.

By crafting a landscape plan your odds of success increase dramatically. A plan will be an investment now in your success years after planting. No landscape can be designed that won’t need maintenance and assistance over time, but using the right plants in the right locations, and choosing plants that offer snow removal, lawn care & so much more interest over the whole growing season, you can be assured that your landscape will work for you and it should be easier OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE to maintain to give you the beauty you desire.

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE! In addition, while many projects around the home, such as a 402-217-2314 new roof or a major addition, must be completed in one-step, REVOLUTIONARY SERVICE www.1776gm.com landscaping is a perfect project to install in phases over time.

By working with a designer we can craft a long-term plan that can be installed in pieces over time. This allows you the ability to work the project into your budget; both in time and money, and after installing the phases still end up with the landscape you desired when you began. Any project for your home or business can be daunting but when it can be split up into smaller pieces it should end up being one that is a lot easier to accomplish.”

Count on us for EVERY Season

Lee Schumacher TDK Lawn Care

With a fresh start in the spring, it’s important to assess the overall state of affairs of your property’s exterior features prior to getting started with your projects. “The first thing you should do is to take a walk around your lawn and make a quick survey of the effects the winter had on your property,” advises Lee Schumacher of TDK Lawn Care. “Remove any leaves that are still scattered across the lawn as this will help the grass to breathe and absorb the sun and moisture.

This is also a good time to schedule your lawn to be aerated.

Aerating your lawn is a great way to help loosen compacted soils, which allows water and nutrients to penetrate the soil and helps promote root growth, creating a healthier lawn that’s less susceptible to fungus and drought. If you found any bare spots in your lawn or if it looks thin, right after aerating is a good time to overseed your lawn with drought and fungus resistant seed. You will need about 5-8 lbs. per 1000 sq. ft. which can be purchased for around $3.00 per lb. If you are doing this you will need to use starter fertilizer and wait on crabgrass preventer until the new grass is up and has been mowed at least two times.

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With all of that in mind we usually like to start our fertilizer schedule on or around April 1st with a crab grass preventer included. This is where the majority of home owners meet most of their challenges. Working with a certified lawn care company is important because all lawn care specialists applying fertilizer must be state certified and have the proper knowledge of what works best in our climate, so they can effectively tailor a program that meets your lawn’s needs.”

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Licensed and Insured Since 2002 TDK Lawn Care, Inc. (Timely, Dedicated and Knowledgeable Lawn Care) has been taking care of its client’s one at a time and treating them with the utmost respect. Our goal at TDK is to create a complete annual lawn care program that focuses on your individual or corporate needs and that is honest and professional. With several different options giving you the lawn and service you deserve at a price you can afford. All while using local suppliers and resources to help our local community thrive.

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He also advises, “To grow and sustain a healthy lawn it’s crucial to water your lawn at the correct times, early in the morning, and with the correct amount of water for your type of grass. DO NOT START TOO EARLY; this will cause your lawn to become dependent on your watering as opposed to Mother Nature’s schedule. Blue grass requires ¼” every other day and tall, fine fescue can get by on 1” per week. Varying the heights of your mower throughout the year is also very important due to the varying climate here in Nebraska. During the warmest months, the mower height should be between 3” – 3 ½”.

TDK Lawn Care, Inc. (Timely, Dedicated, and Knowledgeable Lawn Care) can help you create the best lawn possible. For over ten years we have been taking care of our clients by providing a complete, honest, and professional lawn care service that includes lawn mowing, fertilizing, aerating, overseeding, yard clean-ups and snow removal. Our mission is to create an annual lawn care program that focuses on your corporate and individual needs.

TDK Lawn Care offers several different options giving you the lawn you deserve at a price you can afford.”

“As far as grounds maintenance in the spring, property clean-up is our first priority,” says Roger Berte, owner of 1776 Grounds Maintenance. “Picking up and clearing out debris in a timely fashion will ensure that your landscape is able to begin its renewal process right away when the weather becomes ideal, and without the growth of perennial plants and healthy lawn being impeded by all of the junk that’s collected on your property over the winter. The process of landscaping in the spring is very detail oriented and you can’t get started with installation if everything isn’t properly cleaned up and prepared first.

Roger Berte 1776 Grounds Maintenance

The beginning of spring is a great time to have a professional come out and assess your property before you move forward with planning and executing your vision. Consistency is incredibly important to the health of your lawn, plants and shrubs. You’ll want to set up a schedule for lawn treatments as opposed to just ‘one and done’; this will ensure that your grass is thicker, healthier and easier to care for with less weeds and problems over the course of the spring and summer. Combined with proper watering and mowing practices, you’ll be set up for success. It’s important to have a good irrigation professional as well as someone with grounds maintenance expertise to ensure you’ve covered all of the bases, especially to alert you as to the elements you might have missed. There are so many advances in our industry from year to year that it’s common for people to be unaware of many products and services that could make a huge difference in the success of their landscaping endeavors.

Overall, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of hiring contractors for lawn care and landscaping who are established and who you can trust. Check references and past jobs whenever possible; as professionals we take pride in our work and successes and will be happy to show you examples of our past projects.

You’ll want help in making informed decisions so you don’t run

into costly or unfortunate issues that put a damper on the enjoyment of your property.”

“Spring is definitely the time to clean up and get the landscape ready for the season,” agrees Kristin Hain, owner of Land Escapes. “You’ll need to remove any remaining leaves and plant debris as well as removing last year’s leaves or stems from perennials such as Peonies, Salvia, Dayliliies and others that regrow Kristin Hain from the ground each spring. It is also Land Escapes important to cut ornamental grasses down so they’re 4-6 inches tall. Roses should also be pruned now; shrub roses can be trimmed to 2ft tall and any dead (black or brown) stems should be removed completely. Hybrid tea roses may also be pruned but there is a more specific way to prune. Ask your local landscaper, nursery or Google how to prune this type of rose. Spring is also a great time to add fresh wood mulch to your landscape beds. Mulch should be 2-4 inches deep and will help control weeds, maintain even soil temperature and moisture, add organic matter to the soil as it breaks down, and is excellent for the health of most plants.

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As far as trends this year, using natural stone for patio’s, walkways and walls is always popular and will continue to be as they offer a nice, clean look. For someone who wants the sound of water in the garden, but not the maintenance and expense of a pond, consider installing a boulder bubbler. These have been popular with our clients for a few years now and we can install them in just a few hours. A large basin is sunken in the ground (or can be installed above ground and surrounded with dry stack stone) with a sturdy grate covering the top. Then a pre-drilled boulder is set on top of the grate and cobblestone is used to hide the grate so all you see is stone with water bubbling up through the boulder. They’re beautiful, easy for a homeowner to maintain and provide the relaxing sound of water in the garden without all of the headaches that come along with ponds or large water features.”

Hain also emphasizes the importance of planning ahead.

“Landscaping companies start booking spring jobs in winter, and sometimes even the previous fall. So if you want a project done in spring, don’t wait until May 1st to start calling and getting estimates. Also, make sure you hire a reputable company with experience in the type of project you want to do. Make sure the company you work for is a licensed Nebraska contractor, is a licensed nursery dealer (if you’re installing plants), and don’t be afraid to ask for references or ask to see photos of their past work. Looking at pictures of other work the company has done will give you an idea of their style and if they’ll be a good fit for your project. Most companies will have a website and/ or Facebook page, which are great places to look at photos.

Land Escapes has both, Website: www.LandEscapesOnline.com and Facebook: www.Facebook.com/LandEscapes. Furthermore, don’t be afraid to use more than one contractor for a project if it involves a number of different aspects. Land Escapes specializes in plants, design, installation and maintenance of ornamental landscape beds. We know our plants and will make sure that the plants chosen for your landscape are appropriate, sited correctly and meet the ongoing maintenance needs or visual appeal that you want. Plus, after planting we are able to come back for routine maintenance throughout the season if that is something you don’t want to keep up on yourself or don’t have time for. This ensures your plants are cared for properly and we can notify you of any pest or disease problems that you may not be aware of.”

“In real estate it’s all about location, location, location. When it comes to spring landscape projects it’s all about timing,

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timing, timing,” explains Ken Svoboda, owner of Ray’s Lawn and Home Care. “My best advice is to contact a professional landscaper immediately if you’re anticipating a 2015 project. Ask for references and a list of completed projects similar to what you’re dreaming.

Make sure your landscaper is fully insured and by all means have them provide evidence that their employees are not independent contractors as any accident on your property will more than likely Ken Svoboda become your liability. Most importantly, Ray’s Lawn & Home Care be patient. The more information you can provide a prospective landscaper as to your needs and your likes and dislikes the better.

The strong trend toward outdoor living spaces continues to grow every year. Outdoor kitchens with pizza ovens, fireplaces and grill inserts were only seen in lavish million dollar homes ten years ago. Today those same design features are more moderately priced and because of modular construction can be incorporated in nearly any landscape and patio space. These modular units are generally one or two pieces and can be installed with small to medium equipment. Their affordability has made them one of the most requested and popular items. For the more ambitious customer, Ray’s Lawn and Home Care can design and construct a custom unit to meet their needs and their budget.

The other popular trend is outdoor lighting. Architecturally designed cast aluminum path lights and spots with a variety of finishes can enhance the nightscaping of any landscape. Like the modular constructed kitchens and fireplaces, lighting systems have been transformed from the do-it-yourself plastic fixtures whose bulbs burn out what seemed like weekly to attractive LED units whose bulbs last fifteen to twenty years with a properly designed system.

These are features that can be planned in advance, budgeted as necessary and constructed as needs and budgets allow.

Ray’s Lawn and Home Care is a locally, family owned lawn and landscape firm that is celebrating our 49th year of providing the highest quality services to their customers in Lincoln and southeast Nebraska. We offer a complete array of landscape services including all hardscape such as patios, retaining walls, water features, outdoor kitchens, and of course, live plants. Our design team will work with each customer to create their dream oasis.”

If you’re considering adding a new outdoor living space or upgrading your current space, now is the time to get started so you can enjoy it for the rest of the year! Nebraska Outdoor Living Center, Inc. specializes in projects that will transform your property from a littleused deck or patio into a comfortable, useable outdoor living area. “We strive to make outdoor living COMFORTABLE and to help our clients choose a design that fits their tastes and personalities,” Bill Budler says Bill Budler of Nebraska Outdoor Nebraska Outdoor Living Center. “We’ve been helping Living Center customers re-design their yards for over a decade, and we’re always happy to help with any outdoor project endeavors as it’s our specialty. We have plenty of items to choose from, whether your vision is to incorporate a pergola, awning, gazebo, fire pit or fireplace, patio furniture or even a solar screen. Through a full selection of brands, quality service, and thorough knowledge of outdoor living, we have everything necessary to bring your backyard to life.”

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Your garage door is another prime example of a prominent feature of your home’s exterior that adds to its overall curb appeal. “Like a good landscaping job, garage doors add a lot of style to a residence’s curb and house appeal,” asserts Jacob Hiatt of Raynor Doors of Nebraska. “For an average home in America the garage door accounts for around 33% of the exterior appearance. Since this is a large portion of the house, a lot of eyes are directed to the looks of the door and if it’s in sync with the rest of the details of the residence. It is pretty hard to find a house that we cannot match a garage door design or color to.

Jacob Hiatt Raynor Doors of Nebraska

When it comes time to consider a new garage door, insulation factors are a huge part of your decision. There is a large range of insulation R-values that can be chosen based on your garage interior needs. If you have a room above the garage, have a heated garage, or have nicely insulated interior walls, you would want to opt for a higher R-value door. Keep in mind that a nicely insulated door will keep the heat out in our warm spring and summer months as well as vice versa in the winter.

In today’s modern world, garage doors have improved tremendously in both construction and style making it easy for you to make an educated decision. With people using their garage doors more than ever for an entrance into their house, instead of the front door, you want to be confident that your door is going to go up and down safely and in correct working order. Come spring time and summer time, garage doors get used twice as much than in the winter months. We all want to be outside enjoying the weather. Now is a great time to have a technician from Raynor Doors of Nebraska come take a look at your door and tune it up for preventative maintenance as well as diagnose any problems, before the spring/summer fun starts!”

You’ll also want to take pest control into consideration as soon as spring arrives—we all know the warmth of spring invites ants and other pests into our yards, homes and businesses. Be on the lookout for spiders, aphids, wasps, ants, fleas, ticks and “pantry” pests (insects and mammals). Here are a few things you can do in the spring to ensure that you eliminate the risk of pests making their homes on your property: • Keep soil away from wood and siding to reduce pest access.

If there must be wood or soil contact, such as on a porch or deck, use pressure-treated wood or material that is insect resistant.

• Eliminate damp conditions, increase ventilation and replace decayed wood. Focus especially on cellars, crawl spaces and under dirt-filled porches.

• Add crushed rock around flower or shrubbery beds instead of mulch or discuss with a professional what type of mulch is best for deterring pests and eliminating potential food sources and habitats.

• Keep gutters in good repair and make sure they are clear of debris from fall/winter.

• Reduce plant coverage around the foundation.

• Remove leaves and other debris under decks, in window wells, and behind bushes to eliminate decaying organic matter that may provide food sources and habitats for pests.

Whether you are excited about upcoming spring landscaping projects on your to-do list or it’s not your thing but you still want to have a nicely landscaped yard, consult the professionals and see what your options are before you make the commitment to moving forward with your plans. This will open your eyes to all of the possibilities so that you have a clear idea of your expectations and how they match up with an expert assessment. We’re back to living in color thanks to the recent arrival of spring, and now it’s time to get your landscaping done so that you have plenty of time to enjoy it!

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Quality Life Quality Care Quality Reputation We all navigate life’s changes, some that we plan diligently for and others that catch us completely off-guard. Unplanned life changes often times induce panic and cause us to react under duress in dealing with crisis or uncertainty. However, many times it truly doesn’t have to be that way! While you can’t necessarily plan out all of the details for dealing with unexpected situations in advance, you CAN build your knowledge of and awareness about resources that are available to connect with should certain things occur.

Coping with life’s unplanned changes in general can be quite trying, but it’s necessary to move forward past the change itself to everything that will happen afterwards as a result. “Individuals often experience negative unplanned life events that are very challenging,” asserts Brenda Rohren, Certified EMDR Therapist and President of Behavioral Health Resources, LLC. “These include loss of employment, diagnosis with a serious health condition, family disruption after disclosure of sexual Brenda Rohren abuse, domestic violence, or being charged Behavioral Health with a criminal offense (e.g., DUI, possession Resources, LLC of a drug) with resulting consequences such as probation, loss of driver’s license, etc. Other events include military deployment (to include pre- and post-deployment) or change in permanent duty station for military personnel and their families.

Unplanned changes may happen suddenly or gradually. Some changes occur with no warning, such as a car accident or rape.

However, most change occurs in small, steady increments with the most significant impact occurring at the culmination of the change.

An example would be helping your adolescent to prepare for graduation from high school with transition to college. Although the family has been working towards these goals for a while, the most difficult aspect of the change for the parents might be after the young adult has left home and is no longer part of their daily lives.

Other milestones in family life can also be challenging, such as marriage, birth of a baby, and retirement. Even if a person otherwise has good coping skills, when faced with a challenging unplanned event (or unrealistic expectations about how their lives would change even with a positive event), it is common for individuals to cope in maladaptive ways. Types of unhealthy coping include drug or alcohol use, excessive spending, or other mood altering behaviors such as overeating. The person usually experiences depression and anxiety, which begin to interfere with daily functioning. They continue to use the negative behaviors to cope, thus beginning a vicious cycle with significant decrease in life satisfaction.

When challenging unplanned life events occur, receiving outpatient treatment from a licensed behavioral health therapist can be an effective option. The ideal therapist would be one who is dually licensed in mental health and substance use issues (i.e., LIMHP, LADC).

At Behavioral Health Resources, LLC, we specialize in assessment and treatment of these co-occurring disorders as well as the underlying issues of trauma and adverse life events. We evaluate the person’s strengths and develop a plan to obtain balance in all areas of the person’s life and increase life satisfaction. Some of the approaches used include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR therapy. Treatment is individualized for all clients based on their strengths, needs, abilities, and preferences.

Our outpatient programs for youth and adults are CARF-accredited.

This means that we conform to CARF standards that focus on personcentered care and high quality of services.”

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She further advises, “When a person is having difficulty adjusting to the change, talking to another person can be a good way to obtain a “reality check” and obtain validation and support. Barriers to this could be lack of a safe, healthy support system. Even if a person does have others in whom they can confide, members of the support system may be unavailable or not able to provide objective listening and problem-solving. Often members of the support system are themselves emotionally involved with the situation and have an inherit bias.

You don’t have to experience life transitions and unplanned changes alone. Finding a therapist who can understand your needs and perspective is an important first step. At Behavioral Health Resources, LLC we offer a no-cost consultation session to meet with the therapist, become acquainted, and determine if this professional has the expertise and experience to help you change a challenging event into a new opportunity for growth. To learn more about our services, contact Brenda Rohren at (402) 486-1101 or brenda@bhr-llc.com.”

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There are crucial decisions that need to be made in response to unplanned life changes, even in less than desirable conditions and when you’d rather not deal with the issue right away. Or as the saying goes, “Hindsight is always 50/50” – it’s better to be prepared to make a decision rather than looking back and regretting how you responded at the time. Forcing yourself to make smart decisions and to be aware of what must be done to move forward can be difficult but will provide you a much better outcome in the future, so you’ll likely be thankful that you took action once the initial emotional response fades.

“The most common unplanned life changes that we see from our clients at Benefit Professionals would be the loss of coverage through an unplanned loss of job or the tragedy of death,” adds Wendi Peterson of Benefit Professionals, Inc. “The most difficult aspect of these unplanned life changes is being notified in a timely fashion.

When unplanned life changes occur for an employee, often the last thing on their mind is their benefits. We continually educate our employer groups and employees through Wendi Peterson correspondence and communication at employee meetings/renewals. It’s important Benefit Professionals, Inc. that we’ve not only educated the employer to notify us of any unplanned life changes, but that the employee notifies his or her employer.

In the event that an unplanned life change occurs and the employer or employee hasn’t given proper notification of the circumstance to us, we fall back on our relationships with our carriers. Years of relationship building helps when dealing with changes that go unreported or reported beyond normal time restraints. Unfortunately, ACA regulations put strict time restraints on the carriers for allowing changes. We deal with any of these types of circumstances directly with appropriate insurance carrier on the behalf of our clients.

Communication is the key and the success to the implementation of these changes.”

Unexpected expenses have the tendency to disrupt our lives, so it only makes sense that budgeting and saving are the two best ways to proactively approach financial security. “Everyone is working within a budget so when something goes wrong, it’s can be a huge issue,” emphasizes David Duff, a local Farm Bureau Financial Services agent. “I help my clients to weigh their options regarding what will make life more affordable, focusing on what’s best for the future and where they should consider allocating their money to reach their goals.

My goal is to find solutions and ways to address budgetary concerns so that when

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David Duff Farm Bureau Financial Services

unplanned life changes occur that they don’t break my clients.

Many times these are small hiccups, like making sure if overtime isn’t guaranteed that the car payment is still affordable, but sometimes they are on a larger scale that would necessitate slimming down what they’re paying into things or whether they should take on a loan to manage their expenses. My grandpa always taught me if you’re prepared for the worst and anything goes better than that, you’re in a good position. While it’s unfortunately somewhat of a pessimistic outlook, it has served me well in helping my clients.

My best advice is to make sure you are working with a professional who can help with your due diligence as well as setting up an effective strategy to deal with unplanned changes when they pop up. It’s always easier to take a small step back and assess the situation rather than to jump off a cliff and then re-climb it. We get in the habit of overextending ourselves, whether in keeping up with the Joneses or simply being looser with our money when we feel that we are at a comfortable point financially. I help people to make smarter decisions with their money, because that will is what keeps them away from struggle and better able to handle life’s unexpected changes. Moreover, I offer an outside perspective and my objectivity combined with my expertise allows me to set up my clients for success.”

Austin Weaver Holmes Lake Chiropractic

There are a lot of unplanned occurrences that have the potential to affect employment, which in turn affects financial security.

“Unplanned life changes can drastically affect one’s livelihood for obvious reasons,” agrees Austin Weaver, DC, owner of Holmes Lake Chiropractic. “I see people and families who have to make hard decisions due to accidents or health issues that cause them to miss or even quit work all together. Low back injuries, whiplash, or any occupational disability can all have long lasting and life changing effect.

These accidents or health issues add strain physically, emotionally, and financially to the individual and family.

There is not only treatment and short term responsibilities, but the long term and lasting injuries that can affect your health if not dealt with appropriately. With not working and having treatment, bills can quickly add up, but is necessary for proper recovery. This is why we offer payment plans in our office to offset the stress of immediate financial responsibility, so the patient can focus on getting better.

That being said, the good news is that there are ways to prepare for the unplanned and even take preventative steps.

To prepare or even prevent an unplanned life change it does not take a lot of extra work, only time and effort. The most important part is to think and take action now, instead of putting it off until it’s too late. Physically, it is important to be active and do the necessary things to keep your body functioning correctly to avoid unnecessary injury. A total of 30 minutes a day walking is a great start and avoid sitting for more than 1 to 2 hours at a time. Diet is also very important. You are what you eat, so if you eat and drink a lot of processed and sugary foods you are much more likely to suffer from health issues and physical injuries. Drinking 80-100 oz. of water a day and limiting carbohydrates, while increasing your vegetables and fruits are a quick way to improve your health and have your body working for you instead of against. Lastly, give yourself peace of mind by creating a financial plan for the unknown. Whether it’s a savings account, disability insurance, or just a way to budget if something should happen can drastically lessen stress.

As a chiropractor, it is rewarding to help people become pain free and improve their health through our care and at home suggestions. If you feel you would benefit from learning how to improve yourself mentally and physically to better avoid unplanned life changes, give us a call.

We can improve how you move and feel and offer suggestions on how to do things properly to stay away from unneeded stress or injury. You can reach me at HolmesLakeChiropractic.com or at (402) 483-4409.”

Health-related changes are most generally all unplanned, and some may be resolved easily while others are more difficult to adjust to.

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This includes our own health issues as well as those that our loved ones will experience. When it comes to hearing, there are several life changes that can affect the way a person copes and manages his or her daily life. An unfortunate medical diagnosis, a spouse suddenly passing; all of these events require being able to hear and understand what is happening. Those same events may have you considering a senior living community. Transitioning from your quiet dinner table to a noisy dining room can make it hard to hear conversations.

• Traditional Funerals • Memorial Services • Basic & Full Service Cremation • Graveside Ceremonies • Living Funeral • Grief Support • Preplanning Available

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“It is important to see your Audiologist so that he or she can adjust your hearing aids to the changes in your hearing and the changes in your lifestyle,” says Leslie Frank, owner and Audiologist at Nebraska Hearing Center. At Nebraska Hearing Center, staff makes monthly visits to several of the surrounding retirement communities.

This makes it easier for servicing of hearing aids for those who prefer to stay in.

In the case of an unplanned event, at Nebraska Hearing Center, their role is one Leslie Frank of support. “My goal is to make sure my Nebraska Hearing Center patient is able to hear their very best at all times,” states Leslie. “That is especially important in challenging times.” Any changes in a client’s lifestyle are always considered.

“When meeting with my patient’s, we always discuss what their expectations are for their hearing aids and their lifestyle”.

If a life changing event occurs, it is important to hear and that is where Nebraska Hearing Center comes in. They encourage preventive care and urge everyone to annually monitor their hearing so that changes can be addressed right away. At Nebraska Hearing Center, the evaluation is free, so it only makes sense to make it part of your annual routine.

Injuries are another one of life’s unplanned changes that will affect us all at one time or another. As previously mentioned, this can determine whether we are able to continue working, could be enormously costly for those with no insurance, in some cases will require a lengthy rehabilitation--essentially it impacts overall quality of life. For seniors, even slips or falls can cause serious injury that would necessitate rehabilitation or a higher level of daily care moving forward.

“In physical therapy we commonly see people with unexpected injuries or deficiencies,” says Ben Petersen of Husker Rehabilitation and Wellness, PC. “It can make them start to rethink everything going on in their lives. This might include their ability to perform their job duties and make money, their ability to physically take care of their kids, spouses, or parents, or their capacity to continue on with their passions or hobbies like playing golf, working out, or just sitting to read a book.

Ben Petersen

Sometimes unexpected injuries might mean Husker Rehabilitation finding alternative work (like moving from and Wellness, PC. a production job to office work), exploring assisted living options, or learning to engage in new activities. The most difficult aspect of those unexpected injuries or life changes can be the apprehension and uncertainty that comes with them, as well as the feeling of lost identity.

With all of our clients it’s a given that we strive to return them to their prior level of function, allowing them to resume their previous activities of daily living. Some injuries are obviously more severe and detrimental to that plan. In that case, our best solution is to help restore maximum obtainable function and to help our clients find alternative methods to achieve their goals. We might also help them make appropriate modifications to their occupational performance, for example, to help them continue with their job duties. Something

as simple as breaking old postural habits and providing a more appropriate ergonomic set up at work can make a big difference for people. The goal is to try to help them continue to live the life they want to!”

“We help those who are experiencing unplanned life changes all the time at Lancaster Rehabilitation Center,” adds Amy Fish, Administrator at Lancaster Rehabilitation Center. “Our short term rehabilitation unit is dedicated to caring for patients who have experienced both planned and unplanned hip and knee replacement procedures, unexpected cardiac surgery, and/or a decline in overall health requiring the need of our clinical and therapy services in order to get back Amy Fish on their feet. We are also there for those Lancaster Rehabilitation residents and families looking for secure Center memory support services or those in need of traditional long term care services.

The most difficult aspect of an unplanned life change is the fact that it is unplanned. As such, my advice is to start the conversation early before an unexpected event occurs. Knowing that the unexpected could always happen, it’s important to take the time to plan for what might be needed in the future. Adult children should take the time to engage in conversation regarding the future care needs of their parents. Often, when something unexpected happens, we’ll find that those now making decisions on behalf of elders are unaware of things like insurance policies, care directives, or how to manage their affairs in the interim of their recovery. Research in advance the many options for care. Know and understand what is important regarding their preferences for social, spiritual, and clinical care. This will help elevate some of the anxiety and stress that occurs when managing the unexpected.

When something unexpected occurs, rely on the expertise of others to help guide the decision making process. Don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions in order to ensure you have all the facts. Some health care providers have limitations on Medicare, Medicaid, VA, or insurance policy participation. You always want to ensure you’re taking full advantage of the benefits or programs you qualify for. And remember to take it one step at a time. Let others help in whatever way they can. Focus on the most critical decisions first, knowing that there is plenty of help available. The Lincoln community truly is resource rich, so use these many experts to your advantage. Call upon trusted physicians, outreach programs, and the many health care facilities to help guide your decision making.

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The team at Lancaster Rehabilitation feels it’s important to serve as a resource to those in need of skilled care services, and other outpatient needs. Community members are welcome to call us anytime with questions. We’re glad to help!”

As the result of an injury, you may consider modifying your home to accommodate any mobility concerns. This is an especially helpful option for seniors who wish to continue living in the comfort of their homes.

The bathroom can be a dangerous area for them to navigate, but there are innovative ways to remodel with these concerns in mind. “There are many modifications that can be made with the safety of seniors at the forefront so that they can maintain their independence and continue living in their homes comfortably,” explains Todd Jones, Todd Jones owner of Nebraska ReBath. “We believe Nebraska ReBath that bathroom remodeling doesn’t need to be a messy, expensive headache and we focus on what we call ‘The Refreshing Remodel,’ an entirely new concept that our company has pioneered. This allows us to preserve the tranquility of your home with quiet, clean, quick and affordable bathroom remodeling. Our goal is to efficiently modify your bathroom based upon your unique APRIL 2015 Strictly Business

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requirements with minimum disruption to you and your home. Aging in place remains an option for many, and we make sure that the home’s bathroom is conducive for this to happen safely and with enhanced functionality that adds enjoyment to something that may have previously been avoided due to fear or inconvenience.”

An unplanned life change is just that, something that unexpectedly happens to you or your family. These changes can be a good thing or they can be a difficult thing.

“When unexpected events occur, whether you have a spouse or a parent who has fallen and needs a little extra care or they have just come to that point when they are in need of more care than you can give them, we at The Waterford Communities are here to help you make the best choices possible,” emphasizes Katie Hammer of The Waterford at Wilderness Hills. “Making sure you and your loved ones are happy and completely satisfied is our number one goal.

Katie Hammer The Waterford at Wilderness Hills

There are a few things to consider when you are determining the type of care your loved one will need: • Once they recover from the surgery or injury will they be able to go home? If not, how much extra care will they need?

• Are they able to do things on their own or are they completely dependent?

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Once you have decided the type of care your loved one will require, you then need to determine in which facility to place them. Some things to consider: • Will they need short term or long term care?

• How much can you afford a month?

• Is it a welcoming and friendly environment?

• Does the facility provide activities that your loved one would enjoy?

• Is the facility able to provide or assist with all the care your loved one needs?

In addition to long term care, The Waterford Communities offer short term respite stays for those who need a little extra care while they are recovering after surgery or an injury. Placing your loved one into Assisted Living doesn’t mean they won’t be able to come home again or that you won’t be able to see them often. Family and friends are welcome to come and go as they please. You are able to visit your loved one whenever you would like!

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• Are they showing signs of memory loss or other issues?

• Will they need other services once they are in a facility? Ex: Physical Therapy, Home Health Aide, Hospice Care, etc.

These are just a few of the many things that should be considered in placing your loved one in a facility that best fits them. The Waterford Communities is happy to sit down with you and go over all of these questions and more to help you decide the best fit for your loved one. If you go to our website, http://www.thewaterford.net, you can request and receive a free residence evaluation checklist to help you make a decision that best fits your loved one. We urge families to make the necessary calls and ask questions when unplanned life changes take place. We understand this is never an easy process, and we do our best to make it as easy and comfortable as possible for all involved.”

While the conversation about a move to an assisted living community can be difficult to start, the sooner the better--it’s of the utmost importance to be as proactive as possible because eventually it will be unavoidable and reacting at the crisis point isn’t ideal for anyone involved. “The Landing at Williamsburg Village, an Immanuel community, experiences the unplanned life changes of seniors every day as we work with families to find appropriate resources,” adds Roxann Rogers-Meyer of Immanuel Communities. “The health and well-being of a loved one can take an unexpected turn and families

are faced with finding a senior living community that can address the immediate needs of the senior. These decisions on care and senior living options often come with complications including health status, finances, insurance, family dynamics, lack of future planning or understanding the various levels of care that are available.

Sometimes we are dealing with an adult child who has just been told by the family physician that Mom can no longer live Roxann Rogers-Meyer at home safely and that adult child is Immanuel Communities scrambling to find a solution. This unplanned life change is complicated by the fact that Mom and the adult child have never had a conversation about a potential move to a senior living community. The current campaign for The Landing at Williamsburg Village focuses on seniors and their adult children having an awkward conversation. It is important to have that conversation before you are dealing with a crisis situation.

The conversation can include a plan for the future, understanding the choices for senior housing and senior services, detailing the financial picture, discussing end of life plans and most importantly respecting the wishes of your love one.

Through seasons of change you have kept your promise to love, honor and respect.

Dementia has brought change, but your commitment remains strong.

Let us help you to continue to love, honor and respect during this challenging season.

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Our marketing and healthcare team at The Landing will partner with our prospective residents to guide them on this difficult journey to find the right approach that will bring peace to everyone involved in the decision making process. It is truly a gift to your loved ones to get the conversation started.”

Jeff Chapin Legacy Retirement Communities

“We often visit with people who are in crisis mode when making assisted living decisions and in this case it puts more undue pressure on them,” explains Jeff Chapin of Legacy Retirement Communities. “Instead they could be enjoying the process of looking at all of the different communities and options for the one they like the most. Crisis forces people to check into this lifestyle but it doesn’t need to be that way. Far too often it comes time to move and seniors aren’t able to move to their top two selections because they’ve waited too long.

So when should you start looking into your options? The more proactive you can be about it, the better. We have people that have been on our waiting list for years because they preferred to have their ducks in a row and have already sat down and reviewed their options well before the time has come to make the move. I guarantee you that after you’ve visited the communities that you’re interested in, one of them will touch you and feel like home and that’s the one you’ll want to be able to choose for yourself.”

He adds, “Many seniors still have a misconception about assisted living because they don’t realize everything that has happened in the last 10-15 years with the amazing improvements to facilities.

Facilities nowadays are far less institutionalized and ‘hospital-like,’ they’ve been carefully designed to closely resemble a home and community setting. Moving from your present home to a new home with more amenities geared towards seniors allows the enjoyment of a nice lifestyle without worrying about home upkeep or health issues.

At all of our locations we try to do the number one thing and just listen, crisis or not. We want to see what we can do for each and every person who reaches out to us. It’s a life changing process and we want to be there when we are needed and called upon.

We invite everyone to our Signature Events, such as our Legacy of Learning classes, as this is another way to get a better feel for each of the communities.

Above all, remember that it doesn’t cost a thing to look into your options and that you don’t have to make all of these decisions on your own. Finding the right fit and ultimately making the move takes APRIL 2015 Strictly Business

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a lot of thought and planning, but there is plenty of help out there and our goal is to ensure that our clients have all of the information they need to make the decisions that will benefit them the most.”

Assisted living might also be optimal for someone who is experiencing memory loss or suffering from dementia-related disorders. Currently more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, including an estimated 33,000 Nebraska residents. As baby boomers age, the number of people living with the disease will rapidly escalate. While memory loss and the onset of dementia is generally a gradual process, many times it can be kept a secret or go under the radar (go unnoticed or not be taken as seriously as it should be, just written off as the normal progression of aging) until something bad happens.

Deb Maguire, Administrator at High Plains Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, offers a few recommendations and addresses some common questions with respect to dealing with memory loss: “We understand that caring for a loved one with memory loss is a difficult and challenging experience. We also understand the decision to place a loved one in the care of others is perhaps the most difficult decision you will ever make. High Plains is here to help ease your mind. Our philosophy Deb Maguire of care is focused on the knowledge that to High Plains Alzheimer’s provide the care and support our residents Special Care Center need, we must know and understand memory care and the ever changing impact it has on their ability to understand their world. We get to know each resident’s life story to create moments that are meaningful to them personally. We strive to provide a warm, caring and supportive environment where our residents can experience daily routines and familiar faces. Our programs are designed to add meaning and value to their lives and to help them feel comfortable in their environment. As partners in care, we will work together to build a plan that supports their independence and provides them with the sense of belonging that is so important to all of us. Our philosophy of care is a simple one: To care for each resident with dignity and respect and join you in honoring them.

Q: Why is it important to know about the resident’s past experiences, preferences and life story?

A: It can give us clues to present moods, fears and behaviors, and also give us ideas for engaging them in conversations, reminiscing and triggering pleasant memories.

Q: What does it mean to minimize a person’s disability?

A: By allowing and assisting the resident to do as much for themselves as possible, also recognizing their limitations and not frustrating them by asking or expecting them to do something they are not able to do by themselves, allows them to maintain their independence and boost self-esteem.

Q: How do you train staff to handle behaviors?

A: We know that a resident’s challenging behavior is just another form of communication. With limited abilities to understand their environment and express themselves, residents develop their own way to communicate – positively or negatively. All behavior is communication. This allows us to let them have meaning and purpose to every day.

Q: What do you mean by “We care for the whole person?”

A: It means not only do we meet the residents’ physical needs, but it is equally vital that we address their social, emotional, mental and spiritual needs, to ensure that their lives continue to hold meaning and purpose.

Q: How are families incorporated into the Meaningful Moments program?

A: We encourage family to participate in events and activities, provide them with ideas for interacting with their loved ones during visits, join them in conversations and give them interesting bits of information about what their loved one has been doing since their last visit.

Here at High Plains Alzheimer’s Special Care Center we offer a

wide range of activities to keep your loved one socially engaged. We take a holistic approach to caring for memory disease and other related dementias. This allows them to continue to experience life in a meaningful way bringing moments of meaning and joy into their daily routines. Call me today to schedule your tour at (402) 483-0250.”

As losing a loved one is inevitable due to the natural order of things, it’s another major unplanned life change that we will all cope with at some point. “It almost goes without saying that death is one of the biggest unplanned life changes we as humans face,” poses Jenn Clark, Grief Counselor at Roper & Sons Funeral Care. “Of course, we all eventually will ‘shed this mortal coil,’ but none of us truly ever know the time or date that will happen.

Even when that person is elderly, or challenged with a grave illness, facing the death of a loved one is not easy. One unplanned change that can be most difficult is when a spouse dies before a couple can experience all their goals are the most unplanned life changes I see most as a grief counselor. Many people come to our grief group and talk about the plans they had for after retirement and how those will never happen now. The most difficult aspect is to help them work through this loss. In some ways it is an additional loss to them on top of losing their spouse. I have not found the perfect solution yet, and there is not a miracle pill they can take to make the pain disappear.

Listening to the person talk about their lost dreams and plans can go a long way. Being able to have the support of others that have the same loss helps people to see they are not alone. Some even decide to still follow through Jenn Clark with a few of the plans in memory of their Roper & Sons Funeral Care. loved ones.

When discussing grief and the loss of the loved one there is no simple way to solve or fix unplanned life changes. If a person feels they need help with their grief, encourage them to talk to someone. It won’t fix it, but it will help to see they are not alone in their journey.”

Renee Zikmund Dakota Guardian Trust

“The loss of a spouse or life partner may leave a huge void, both financially and emotionally,” agrees Renee Zikmund, Vice President and Senior Trust Officer at Dakota Guardian Trust. “An important first step is to talk to others about what you are feeling. Find a good listener that will offer you solid advice and guidance when you are ready to move forward and face the challenges ahead. Surround yourself with people you trust who will provide honest feedback. Seek out professional help if needed and never feel ashamed if you are having trouble coping with the loss.

Furthermore, make sure you and your loved ones have a solid estate plan in place. Your estate planning documents may include Powers of Attorney for both financial transactions and healthcare decisions as well as a Will directing your Personal Representative as to how your assets should be distributed upon your death. In certain circumstances an individual or couple may want to establish a trust during their lifetime or at death to take care of loved ones, a charity or even a pet. A comprehensive estate plan will provide many benefits upon an unplanned life altering event. It is also important to contact anyone that helps you financially as soon as possible.

Your financial advisor can assist you in restructuring your assets if needed so that all financial transactions can be completed easily.

No one can ever be fully prepared for the loss of a loved one, but having an updated estate plan may help you and your family address the most critical issues.”

While life’s unplanned changes are inevitable, moving past them is too as “time stops for no one.” Life happens and we can choose to be prepared or we can choose to react when the time comes. Lincoln has far too many valuable resources available to get stuck in the latter category and forced to make decisions in the midst of a crisis. Whether you just want to talk about a few things or need assistance with a major life change, the help you need is just a phone call or a visit away!

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APRIL 2015 Strictly Business

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Be Your OWN Boss!

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Starting a business is one of the most intrepid missions that a person could choose to take on in his or her lifetime, equally as challenging as it is rewarding. While it’s not an endeavor for the faint of heart to say the least, it is the most worthy option for the entrepreneurial-minded individuals who are fully prepared to invest the time, effort and money in growing something that they can take complete ownership of and pride in. If you’re considering starting your own business you’ve likely already begun to do the research yourself, but it’s of the utmost importance to be aware of the resources that are available and to consult with them early on. This way you’ll have a better idea of what to expect so that you’re setting yourself up for success in every way possible.

While you could certainly start your business from the ground up, that’s not the only way to go into business for yourself. There are also plenty of options available in the current market to purchase an established business or to start your own franchise. Transworld Business Advisors is a great resource for anyone who is looking into buying or selling a business, and for those on the buying end, they have access to over 600 new franchises to choose from!

“We can connect those who are looking into starting a business with the opportunities that are available with the actual franchisors themselves,” explains Mary Jo Cassner, owner of the Transworld Business Advisors Lincoln franchise. “In fact, one of my favorite things to do is to match up a new business owner with the right opportunity to start a thriving franchise. At Transworld, we do this through the process of narrowing down our client’s interests and then facilitating the steps to move forward through the process. This is done essentially at no charge to the buyer Mary Jo Cassner as we are paid through the franchisors. We Transworld Business handle all of the communication between Advisors parties so our clients can continue on with their jobs and lives. Once all of the information that’s needed to narrow down the options has been gathered, we then schedule a ‘discovery day’ with the franchises that fit the buyer’s specifications. This is a day where they visit the franchise headquarters, check everything out and talk to the franchisors directly. If it’s a good fit for both parties then the purchase goes forward, the buyer goes through the necessary training, selects their space and from then on it’s their baby so to speak.

I always emphasize that there is no age limitation when it comes to starting a business. In fact, Lincoln, NE is one of the top geographical areas in the nation for twenty-somethings to start a new franchise. It is truly a great environment for both younger and older entrepreneurs alike. Most of the other common misconceptions are about owning a franchise. Many people are afraid that they won’t have full control in terms of following legal instructions and rules from the franchisors, but that’s generally completely false as there is plenty of room for adaptation. A franchise is developed because it has a proven system that works, which eliminates as much risk as possible in starting a new business. This is appealing to most as you have access to a group of people who have been down the same road before and through plenty of trial and error have everything figured out down to a science.

Right now is a peak time to start a franchise in Lincoln because 1.)

The economy is great and 2.) The city is growing and the needs of its population are diversifying. When deciding whether buying a business is feasible for you or not, it’s important to have enough capital reserved for 2-3 months to get through the initial start-up. Furthermore, it takes perseverance and excellent work ethic to be successful so it’s best to be a self-motivating individual. As the owner of franchises myself, I’ve always lived by the quote ‘Life is an adventure, enjoy the ride.’ Things will definitely go up and down but you ride along with it—it can be trying at times but it’s also exciting, fun, and well worth it. It’s not a boring 9-5 where you’re contributing to someone else’s success, rather you’re doing everything for your own success and that’s quite a feeling. If you’re interested in starting your own business and open to purchasing a franchise, call us as soon as possible instead of doing all of the research and busywork on your own. We will narrow down your options by the

amount of money you have to invest, your interests and your abilities.

It’s essential to have help in this area and there’s no cost, so you have access to professional assistance with nothing to lose!”

You started out with the why, and once you’ve decided the what, when, where and how you’ll move on to who. You’ll need to assemble a great staff, as these individuals will be the ones helping to run your With unmatched know-how, business day-to-day. Furthermore, you’ll also want to put together perfected processes and access a team of professionals that will help you with the aspects of your business that aren’t your forte. Whether you’ve never owned a business to qualified candidates, we can find before or have owned several, it’s advantageous to consider pursuing the talented people you need faster. opportunities that allow you to learn from others who have navigated the same journey.

1631 Pine Lake Road “TAB’s Business Owner Advisory Boards Lincoln expand thinking beyond any one particular 402.484.5511 industry providing out of the box perspectives us.manpower.com to spur new ways of doing business in a safe, confidential environment,” explains Terry Wieczorek of The Alternative Board. “No theories—just practical, real-world, tried and tested solutions and invaluable handson experience. The advice given from those who have ‘been there and done that’ is critical in helping a new business owner make sound business decisions. The TAB process, now in its 25th year, keeps the new business Terry Wieczorek owner accountable for decisions made to The Alternative Board make sure the decisions are acted upon.

Let Me Help You Grow TAB helps new business owners work on their business and not in their Your Business in Lincoln! business. Having good advice and understanding various options will speed the decision making process which in turn will ultimately help the business become more successful - quicker, better & faster.

Professor Stephan Bainbridge of UCLA School of Law authored a Account ExEcutivE research paper titled: “Why a Board? Group Decision Making in DIRECT: 402.436.2282 Corporate Governance.” Bainbridge writes: “Numerous studies have found that group decisions are not only superior to those of the average member, but also to those made by the very best individual decision maker in the group.”

TAB’s monthly board meetings put the power of collective wisdom, accountability, drive and creativity, and clarity of advice in the business owner’s hands to align their business vision with their personal vision and ensure they get what they want out of life.”

He advises, “To launch a successful business, planning is the key to success. TAB’s Strategic Business Planning (SBL) is not traditional strategic planning.

With SBL, realistic, practical benefits come quickly, allowing you to: 1. Align Personal Vision and Business Vision – Balancing your work life and family life.

2. Take Stock With a SWOT – Understand your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.

3. Establish Critical Success Factors - Activities required for ensuring the success your business.

4. Prioritize Goals – Which CSF needs to be tackled first?

5. Hone Your Strategies – Continue to tweak your “go to market” plan.

6. Generate Action Plans – In the words of Larry the Cable Guy, “Git-R-Done.”

Before starting a business the prospective business owner needs to develop a business plan. The business plan could take a few weeks to complete but in the long run it is worth the time and effort. The value of creating a business plan lies in the process of researching and thinking about your business in a systematic way. The act of planning helps you to think things through thoroughly. If outside financing is needed to start your own business then a solid business plan will be one of the requirements of a bank or investor(s).

Specifically for those that are thinking about starting a business but have something holding them back, remember that first to market is better than best in market. Too often, a worried entrepreneur will sit on a great idea, waiting until it is fully perfected before launching. In my opinion, the process of pulling the trigger to start a business generally takes too long. While you are perfecting your product/service, your competition is out in the marketplace, trying new ideas, refining and tweaking as necessary. In today’s fast moving business world, speed is essential.”

Once you’ve attained the asset, which in this case is your new business, and assembled your team of staff and experienced, trustworthy advisors, the next order of business is protecting your asset. Along with an accountant, which is an absolute necessity for a business owner (unless the individual has been an accountant at some point in his/her career), you’ll also want to consider how you will collect your receivables if you’re operating a business where you’ll be billing your clients for products and services.

“I’ve found that one of the biggest things that new business owners don’t necessarily think of before it’s problematic is how to handle the people that aren’t going to pay them in the future,” says Aaron Newell, owner of AR Solutions. “This is usually addressed in retrospect, but having a partner in place that will open your eyes to industry trends and reasonable expectations will allow you to be that much more prepared and precise in your financial planning. In addition to offering the knowledge and expertise as a consultant during the start-up phase, you’ll be able to use that company’s services in the future when you need them. You’ll also want to carefully consider who will be representing your company when you choose who you will partner with for collections. Many collection agencies can get results, but with what tactics and at what cost? Most successful companies are conscious of their reputation and how their accounts are handled, and to that end it’s best to partner with someone who will reflect that reputation while still getting desirable results. Word of mouth will make or break a business; consumers will always remember how they were treated by a company who they owe money to and regardless of who’s right or wrong, if they have a bad experience they will tell others about it. At Aaron Newell AR Solutions we act as an extension of your company and our philosophy is to always keep our client’s best interests in AR Solutions APRIL 2015 Strictly Business 73

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mind—short term and long term. Communication is also key; for new business owners there is so much to set up that once everything is in place you should be able to do what you do best and leave the rest up to your team of professionals. This is especially true for collections, because it’s far less profitable for you to be chasing past accounts when you could be establishing new ones. Concentrate on the high payout activities and be aware of your cost of return for the activities that take up your time.

By not wearing too many hats, you’ll find that everything runs smoothly and you’ll be able to focus on running your business which is exactly why you started out on the journey in the first place.”

Next on the list for asset protection is a security system for your business. “AlarmLink USA systems offer simple control of your security system, and it’s important for business owners to have the peace of mind in knowing that their business is safe and sound,” emphasizes RJ Lipert of AlarmLink USA. “With the current technology that allows for remote access and automation through Honeywell Total Connect, you can monitor the activities at your business at any time of the day, no matter where you are. From your mobile device, you can receive important alerts, view live video and RJ Lipert control your security system remotely from AlarmLink USA anywhere in the world while you are away.

It literally gives you the ability to be in more than one place at a time! If you are a business owner, you can use video monitoring to observe employee performance, productivity and behavior or to oversee all cash register sales as well as to identify an intruder. Security systems that we provide can also include smoke and carbon monoxide protection as well as various medical alarms. Intrusion Monitoring is another popular service for business owners, which provides 24-hour communication between your system and the central station.

At AlarmLink USA it is our philosophy that because the lives and assets of our clients are at stake, we are committed to the flawless execution of our systems.”

In addition to protecting your new business, it’s also a must to focus on promoting it. With so much going on and to be excited about when starting a new business, it’s easy to think that everyone else is just as aware of your new business as you are. However, if you haven’t established a solid plan to get the word out and implemented a marketing campaign moving forward, then most people probably have no idea that your new business even exists yet. The only way to ensure that your presence is known is to effectively market your business from the very beginning, so that you’re proactively creating awareness and building the necessary momentum you’ll need to get through the initial start-up phase.

“Generally I’ve found that business owners are so immersed in their own business that they think everyone has heard of them, but for those who haven’t taken action in marketing themselves, that’s likely not the case,” explains Gina Cotton, an Account Executive with Channel 8 KLKN-TV. “’Build it and they will come’ is not a sound plan; especially not if you’re goal is to establish yourself as an industry leader in a competitive marketplace.

Our number one objective is to make it known to a large audience, including the specific target audience, that not only does the new Gina Cotton business exist, but that it has something special Channel 8 KLKN-TV that the consumer needs/wants. Advertising is definitely a form of consumer education, so we pinpoint what sets our clients’ offerings apart and then focus on the most impactful way to deliver that information to their specific demographic.“ She adds, “I always tell business owners that it’s not a compliment when you hear that you’re the best kept secret. Especially in the case of new businesses, my advice is to take advantage of every opportunity to get your name out there and to set up a plan for continued exposure well after your grand opening has passed to keep the buzz you’ve generated going.”

You may not ever be fully ready to take the plunge and start a business, but in the current business climate, if it’s ever been your dream the time to act is now! Lincoln is rich with resources for entrepreneurs, and utilizing them is the first step toward successfully owning and operating your own business.

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In modern times, the options for continuing one’s education and pursuing a professional degree have expanded to welcome non-traditional students of all ages in many different ways. Programs are designed with the needs of busy professionals and those with families in mind, with unique training opportunities available, and to utilize online platforms as well as traditional classroom settings. Whether you’re looking to begin a career or pursuing a career change, there is something for everyone available right here in Lincoln.

Southeast Community College offers over 50 programs of study, most of which can be completed in 18-24 months followed with job placement assistance in the field. This includes 12 programs of study that are entirely online, as well as options for over 300 online classes. Along with its strong technical programs SCC also has a nationally-known Entrepreneurship Center, which teaches courses on starting a business and operates a successful business incubator that provides support for new, operational or growing ventures. “Adult learners comprise a large percentage of SCC students,” says Stu Osterthun of Southeast Community College. “The Lincoln Campus offers more part-time options than any other SCC location as well as providing child care. The College also works to offer more online courses each quarter, which offer more flexibility than face-to-face courses. Moreover, SCC is all about hands-on learning. Our career/technical programs pride themselves in offering the latest equipment and technology for students to train--the same equipment they will be using on the job. The combination of classroom theory and hands-on practice may not be unique to SCC, but employers continue to be impressed by our graduates. More than 100 Stu Osterthun businesses attend our Trades & Industry Career SCC Fair on the Milford Campus, and dozens set up tables and recruit SCC students at career fairs on the Beatrice and Lincoln campuses.

We continue to monitor the ever-changing landscape of business and industry and work hard to supply qualified, skilled graduates to employers. New this year is the merger of Computer Programming Technology and Computer Information Technology programs, the Electronic Systems Technology program is being offered on the Lincoln Campus only beginning in July, the Human Services program has added an Alcohol and Drug Certificate, the Business Administration program has added a General Business Certificate, and the Criminal Justice program will now offer three focus areas: Homeland Security, Corrections and Community-Based Corrections and Juvenile Services. Furthermore, some programs that SCC offers are unique to the state and to the entire region. For example, SCC has the only Pharmacy Technician program in Nebraska as well as the only Nondestructive Testing technology program in the state (and one of only a handful nationwide). Our Land Surveying/ Civil Engineering Technology program is the only land surveying school in Nebraska, our Polysomnographic Technology program (sleep study) is one of only 20 or so nationwide, and our Long Term Care Administration program is online only and is one of the few programs of its kind in the U.S. that offers an Associate of Applied Science degree. This is just a sampling of the wide variety of opportunities that are available at SCC—we are committed to offer high quality yet affordable options for those who wish to further their education.”

Concordia University’s MBA program is also designed with students of all ages and lifestyles in mind, with flexible class offerings that allow students to finish their degree in as little as two years. Classes start every 8 weeks and emphasis areas are offered so that students can customize their degree specifically towards their individual career goals. “Most of our MBA faculty and staff have been nontraditional students, myself included,” explains Jonathon Moberly, MBA Program Director at Concordia University, Nebraska. “We focus on making our students’ experience rewarding and hassle-free as they juggle families, careers and graduate work. This focus has led to the following: • Our Organization Development clinic that is launching in May is one-of-a-kind for MBA programs in the Lincoln area. It provides students with hands-on experience working Jonathon Moberly with real organizations that need help while CUNE receiving course credit.

• An annual Career Fair & Networking Event that is held at our campus with organizations that are interested in hiring Concordia MBA students.

• We are launching an Alumni Mentor program in the summer of 2015 where current MBA students have the opportunity to choose a mentor who is a Concordia MBA alum and who’s currently working in the student’s desired area of concentration. This mentor will provide guidance on a 76

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career path and progress through this program.

• Providing all the students with a free iPad and free textbooks that are personally hand-delivered to them each term.

• Removing the hassle of registering for classes by automatically enrolling students each term.

• Utilizing a cohort model to build a stronger community amongst the students while offering classes for each cohort on the same night throughout the program to allow for family and career planning.

• Students now go through the program together as a cohort group where they take core courses for the program together for eight terms, concentration courses for three terms, and then finish the program together for the final term in a Strategic Management course. Through this model, our students are building relationships that support their academic and career achievement goals.

• Offering options for students to make up courses through both face-to-face and online methods in case they have a timing conflict with a course in the sequence, while continuing their forward progress with their degree.

Our goal with the service we provide to our students is to eliminate all hassles, allowing them to focus on their class preparation and engagement. Our program is focused on providing a foundation of knowledge through hands-on experience that in turn produces ethical leaders who can make immediate decisions for an organization that leads to its success.”

Wesleyan Advantage programs are another excellent option for adult students pursuing professional growth and mobility, as they offer accelerated programs with their specific needs in mind. “Here at Nebraska Wesleyan, we offer undergraduate and graduate programs for working adults,” emphasizes Melissa McCoy, M.A., Director of Wesleyan Advantage. “A very large percentage of students are what we call ‘post-traditional,’ that is, they aren’t 18 years old and just out of high school. Our programs offer night classes that are accelerated while giving our adult students the opportunity to be connected with our campus, use facilities such as the library and the career center, and to have classes taught by our full-time professors as well as experienced part-time professors who are leaders in their fields of expertise.

The students in our graduate and adult programs typically work full-time and also have family obligations, so we respect the multiple pressures these ambitious students juggle and do all we can to provide convenient services to them. We have after-hours textbook pickup, after-hours advising appointments, and provide spaces where students can relax and heat up dinner in between work and evening classes. Our students appreciate the class formats — five and eight week sessions, courses that are hybrid (a mix of face-to-face and online work), and some courses that are fully online.

Melissa McCoy One thing that is unique about the NWU adult programs is that they all have some experiences built into the curriculum.

NWU Students work on real projects, do internships, or reflect on their work life in a formalized way. Our goal is that all students very quickly learn things that will have immediate impact on their work and careers. Over and over again, our graduates tell us that they feel their educational experiences here had significant value and they are proud to have earned a degree at Nebraska Wesleyan.”

Degrees in the many business-related fields definitely continue to be popular, offering valuable knowledge and experiences that prepare students for real world opportunities with the clear focus of harnessing their potential in the business world. In fact, continued enrollment growth at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business Administration combined with an increase of 36 new faculty hired in the last four years has heightened the urgency for a new CBA building. Record enrollments at CBA approached 3,900 students this fall with an additional 1,300 students enrolled in the popular business minor program for non-business majors.

“The quality of applicants is increasing each year for our programs and we want to continue that trajectory,” emphasizes Sheri Irwin-Gish, Executive Director of Communications, Marketing and External Relations at CBA. and “The $84-million, 240,000-square-foot CBA building is the largest academic building project in recent history at UNL. Designed

by Robert A.M. Stern Architects of New York Open the door to new opportunities. Connect with Lincoln and Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture of Omaha, the building is funded exclusively area professionals, businesses and organizations. from private donations from CBA alumni Sheri Irwin-Gish and business partners. Furthermore, our new 570 Fallbrook Blvd.

UNL CBA undergraduate certificate program in sales Suite 203 excellence was made possible by a $1.5 Lincoln, NE 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. million donation from the National Research Corporation. Students who complete the program will be prepared for outstanding professional sales positions. Our partners in the community are indeed one of our great strengths, allowing us to go above and beyond by offering learning opportunities outside of the building for our students.”

She adds, “Preparation is key when starting a degree program, so right from the very beginning an advisor in the undergraduate programs office helps non-traditional students transition to the College of Business Administration. Non-traditional students are encouraged to take advantage of the many resources offered through CBA including Career Services at CBA and to get involved in the CBA community through one of our 24 student organizations, our study abroad programs in Brazil, China, Oxford, France, Italy and Japan and other opportunities. We are also very proud that we jumped 21 spots in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings and are currently number 51 nationally out of 426 undergraduate business programs.”

Hosted by the College of Graduate Studies With so many opportunities to further your career through continuing education programs locally, a clear path towards achieving your goals and living the life you’ve always imagined for yourself is well within reach. There’s no better time to start the journey towards your degree than the present!

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Career Fair Networking Event APRIL 16

Graduation season is upon us! This means that many of us will be attending graduation parties to join in celebrating this major accomplishment and life milestone, and on the flip side it also means that many of us are planning these upcoming events.

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James Arthur Vineyards is a particularly wonderful destination for a graduation party (especially a college graduation so most attendees are of age) as guests can enjoy the natural beauty of the estate, as well as a host delicious JAV signature wines, and the facilities on-site offer a warm and relaxed atmosphere ideal for gatherings of all sizes. James Arthur Vineyards is the largest winery in Nebraska, and is located near Raymond about 10 miles from downtown Lincoln, James Ballard which makes it a close enough trip for James Arthur Vineyards guests to be able to get out of the city and back in time for any other graduation parties that they might be attending that day. With several private party spaces complete with comfortable furnishings, rich décor and spectacular views, it’s sure to be an enjoyable event for all. One of the winery’s latest additions, The St. Croix Room, is a beautiful, sunny room features a stone fireplace, wine-tasting bar, catering kitchen, and French doors leading to a private deck. James Arthur Vineyards can provide a personalized menu of food options, and works with clients to offer custom-catered meals paired with the extensive award-winning selection of fine wines. “Aside from a spread of hors d’oeuvres or a sit down meal paired with our signature wines, a popular option for this type of event is to set up tasting stations,” advises James Ballard, owner of James Arthur Vineyards.

“These tasting stations allow guests to travel from station to station where a wine has been paired with a specific appetizer.

In addition to hosting graduation parties, if you’re attending upcoming graduation parties and looking for the perfect gift, we have plenty of gift baskets available, we can customize one for you, and gift certificates are always a great option for a future tasting, special event, or just to enjoy a few hours at James Arthur Vineyards. We also offer personalized labels, which are a great special touch for graduation parties—we can use the graduates photo or related motif for the perfect keepsake. Above all, you can’t beat spending time with family and friends over plenty of great food, wine and a healthy dose of fresh air in a picturesque setting that gets everyone away from it all to celebrate such a special occasion together.”

If you’re more inclined to keep your party in Lincoln, it probably comes as no surprise that there are plenty of great venues to choose from! Based upon the size of your party and the atmosphere you wish to create, finding the right fit really depends on knowing what your best options are first.

“If you’re looking for a unique but inclusive setting for your graduation party, Parkway Lanes and Hollywood Bowl are it,” says Jennifer Davis-Korn of 48 Bowl. “There are several ways you could host a party in our centers, but the easiest way might be to rent 2-4 lanes for a couple of hours with pitchers of soft drinks (or provide drink tickets to guests) and appetizer platters.

If you are looking to host a party without bowling, our lounge

areas are available for rental. Prices will vary by day and time, but in May, our best rates of the year will begin.

We host several graduation parties each year, so the sooner you book your party, the better.

When you call to book your event, it’s helpful to know the number of guests you are expecting, if you want to include bowling, and if you have a budget in mind. If bowling is on the list of your party priorities, our weekend rates are inexpensive and we’d recommend renting 2-4 lanes, for ‘open house’ style parties. Lane rental is $30.00 per lane per hour and includes all of the bowling your guests can do in that time. For four or more lane rentals, shoe rental is included in that price and will save you $3.00 per person.

We do not allow outside food or drinks in our centers, but if you have a budget, we can discuss catering and beverage options that meet you and your guest’s needs. Our catering offers everything from appetizers to sandwich trays, taco bars, pizza, or buffet-style meals like pulled pork, beans and chips. Our catering prices range from $3.50 per person to $9.00 per person, depending on the food you wish to provide. Many events provide guests with coffee or tea, lemonade and water, or soft drinks, which cost $5.00 per 60 oz. pitcher. (Water is no cost.) You can also run a tab for your guests or provide drink tickets at $3.50 per ticket so that guests may choose a drink they want.

Choose your own caterer, provide your own food, or let us cater! wedding receptions • banquets anniversaries • birthdays • reunions meetings & more Reserve Your Date!

402-890-6459

Cornhusker Social Hall 2940 Cornhusker Hwy

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You are welcome to set up any decorations or signage that you wish in your rental space or lane area. Your guests may come and go as they please and the only mess you are responsible for is removing any decorations at the end of your party. Depending on other center guests who may be in the building at the time of your party, we’ll do our best to make your party festive with music and/or music video options at your request. Don’t forget that Parkway also offers Glo-Zone bowling at specified times, and party bookings for Glo-Zone hours are an option.

You can call either center Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and ask to speak with a manager about booking your event -- Parkway Lanes can be reached at (402) 483-7763 or Hollywood Bowl at (402) 466-1911.

And, congratulations to all of the graduates!”

When it comes to entertainment, it’s safe to say that with all of the options in Lincoln you can get pretty creative if that’s the direction you want to head. One of the best ways to get out on the town together to celebrate with your friends and family is a Group Therapy Bike Tour!

Party Trays • Hors D’Oeuvres Main Dishes • Salads Sides • Lunch/Dinner • Weddings Call today for all your catering needs!

308.631.7320 Or stop by our store at 5560 S. 48th Street

402.420.MEAT (6328) • www.GretasGourmetFood.com

YOU’RE NEVER TOO WELL FOR GROUP THERAPY

By now you’ve probably seen the Group Therapy Bike Tours pedal-powered trolley, full of people having a great time, pass you by in the downtown Lincoln area. The fantastic news is that they also can be booked for private parties, as a way to extend the festivities from your house or yard into the streets of your neighborhood, or on location wherever you choose to host your event. The trolley can be decorated in any way you see fit and can play any music you like, effectively making a graduation announcement to everyone that sees you cruising past. This is great fun for all guests; there is no age restriction, those that are pedaling simply have to be tall enough for their feet to reach the pedals, and if not, they can ride along on the bench seat which does not require any pedaling at all. This way, no one misses out on enjoying each other’s company and some fresh air too.

“Graduation is one of the most pivotal milestones in early adulthood, which is why it comes as no surprise that parents and students alike spend months preparing for their big celebration,” says Dr ew Phillippi, owner of Group Therapy Bike Tours. “Group Therapy Bike Tours is unmatched in our ability to deliver the most unique social celebration available. As such, planning and preparation are key--to

BOOK YOUR THERAPY ‘SESSION’ TODAY!

402-968-2305

PERFECT FOR Weddings • Graduations • Family Reunions • Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties • Team Building • Corporate Events • City Tours & MORE!

www.grouptherapybiketours.com |

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get the date and time that you want, booking ahead of time is crucial. Simply book your reservation online and let Group Therapy Bike Tours handle the rest. We deliver a social experience that will have everyone smiling ear to ear and reminiscing about your event for years to come!”

Whether you all go together or take turns getting picked up for a ride, there’s plenty of ways to incorporate Group Therapy and it will certainly make for a memorable experience that your guests will love.

So once you’ve decided where you’ll be hosting your graduation party, you can then start getting all of the other items together.

One major thing that the choice of venue for your celebration will determine is your options for catering. There are a number of excellent choices for catering available in Lincoln, so it really depends on the location or venue you choose in addition to the type of fare you prefer and how far in advance you are able to plan your event.

“Graduation, like so many of life’s great moments, is a rite of passage that is cause for celebration,” adds Kyle Rein, Catering Manager for Greta’s Gourmet. “It is occasions such as these where we at Greta’s can truly add to the celebrating. We offer many options from delicious dips and hors d’oeuvres to more unique specialties like a hog roast, and everything in between.

The best advice when booking any event is Kyle Rein to plan ahead of time. It is the best way to Greta’s Gourmet ensure that you will get exactly the venue you want. If you are on a budget, most churches of which you

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are a member will let you use their event spaces and banquet halls at no charge. There are also many fun new places in Lincoln that you may not have considered like The Pilgrimer in the newly renovated Spaghetti Works building just off the P Street district downtown, or Rule G in the Railyard. Be prepared by having a budget in mind, an estimated guest count, and whatever ideas you would like to bring to the table as far as theme and décor.

Again, the more time you give yourself to prepare the more stress free your planning will be.

My best advice is simply to make it yours. This is a celebration of your accomplishments and it should reflect you. We specialize in creating from scratch menus that represent the people who created them and that your guests will be sure to love.

Hors d’oeuvres style spreads are increasingly popular and offer a wide variety of options for your guests to enjoy. Another popular idea is a graduation tailgate party. What better way to celebrate your accomplishments and your school pride than to throw a tailgate? This way you can theme your party around your school colors and offer wings, ribs, and all things barbeque.

There are many occasions in life that grant us the opportunity to call together friends and family for a fun celebration. Take time to relish those moments, and leave the cooking to us.”

By far the best perk of hiring someone to cater your upcoming graduation is that you are able to delegate a major part of the overall entertaining to the talented culinary professionals who are well prepared to help and have the

Cherie Anderson Venue Restaurant & Lounge

experience to know what works best and on the other hand, will lead you away from what really doesn’t.

“Venue offers many varieties of catering options that can be conveniently picked up or delivered with ample notice,” explains Cherie Anderson of Venue Restaurant & Lounge. “Venue also has three private dining rooms that can be booked for your gatherings.

Outside of weddings, graduation tends to be one of the busiest, stressful times in one’s life and having the convenience of not spending hours in the kitchen is priceless!

Our variety of heavy appetizers will give your guests many options to choose from and accommodates for those with certain dietary restrictions. I recommend offering a selection of 7-8 items which allows you to ‘run out’ of one or two options at ease as you have five or more other options to choose from. This way no one will leave hungry. Our BLT Bites are certain to be a topic of conversation as they are so tasty and hold nicely on the spread along with our designer bite size desserts--Chef Linda’s attention to detail on each piece makes this a guest favorite.

Our catering team will assist in calculating how much food is needed and which selections would be the best fit based on several factors such as time of day, number of guests, how long food is being displayed, and whether the style is open house or an intimate family gathering. Food tends to be the focal point of any gathering so why not enjoy your times with family and friends and let Venue take the stress out of this planning process.”

You could also choose to start the party with Raising Cane’s! “Whether you’re hosting only a few people or the entire block, Raising Cane’s has you covered,” says Jennifer Jones, owner of the Lincoln Raising Cane’s franchise.

“Serve up fresh, never frozen chicken fingers, our famous Cane’s Sauce, Texas Toast, cole slaw, fresh squeezed lemonade and freshly brewed tea at your next party in three easy steps: Jennifer Jones Raising Cane’s

1. Nail down the date, time and number of guests you’ll be feeding.

2. Call (402) 875-5754 to speak with one of the friendly managers at a store near you 3. Discuss what menu items you’d like to serve and if you want to pick it up at one of our restaurants or if you’d like us to bring our kitchen to you in our mobile food trailer.

The menu: • For smaller parties we recommend ordering the Tailgates with 25, 50, 75 or 100 chicken fingers and Cane’s Sauce. From there you can add on additional items such as our lightly buttered Texas Toast and creamy cole slaw.

• For larger parties—think 1,800 fingers or more—our mobile food trailer will be a hit. It’s equipped with a full kitchen and crew members and all of your food will be cooked hot and fresh as needed throughout your event.

• Quench their thirst. Jugs of our freshly squeezed lemonade and freshly brewed tea are also available.

For tailgate orders, a one week heads-up is ideal and two weeks if you’d like to have the mobile food trailer, but if you’re in a pinch, give us a shout and let’s see what we can work out. Start planning your event today by calling (402) 8755754 or emailing us at community@ shv-inc.com.”

As you can see, planning for graduation parties is all about the details. Your unique vision for the event and your guest list are the two things that will dictate everything from the venue to the food and drinks and even entertainment.

Anthony Bonelli MoMo Pizzeria and Ristorante

“At MoMo, we offer a private dining area and a special menu for parties with items that are not featured on our APRIL 2015 Strictly Business

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regular menu,” advises Anthony Bonelli of MoMo Pizzeria and Ristorante. “This space allows for 28 people seated, and more for a reception where guests are welcome to move around freely and visit.

For those who are planning a graduation party, we invite them to schedule a time where we can visit and go over all of the details.

At this time you’ll be able to go over the menu options—our most popular dishes are easier finger foods such as cocktail meatballs, caprese skewers and of course, pizza! We have found that people prefer to mingle over cotorno, antipasto and hors d’oeuvres style dishes that are fresh and flavorful yet still very easy to manage. We have a great option to enjoy wine by the glass in addition to purchasing by the bottle, and we also serve carafes of sangria which are very popular during the spring and summer months.

We take pride in offering a casual yet chic environment where our guests feel like they are visiting someone’s home for a party, and we ensure that entertaining is a breeze with exceptional service and our high quality fare.”

Along with offering food or snacks for guests depending on the timing and scale of the party, you definitely can’t forget about dessert! “Graduation is a time to celebrate accomplishments!” says Regina Henson, owner of Cupcakes and more… “What better way than offering ‘sweets’ to your guests who have come to help the graduates celebrate! We offer half-sheet cakes, regular and mini cupcakes, cake balls/cake pops, and sugar cookies to name a few popular options! All can be customized to match the school’s colors.

Our most popular baked sweets for graduation parties are the half sheet cakes and cupcakes. We have cupcake towers to showcase the delectable treats and make it easily accessible for the guests. We offer a wide variety of stands too. It is important to remember that we have over 300 different flavors to offer for your sweet baked treats.

Our latest addition this season is our homemade sugar cookies. We use an old family recipe and have found it’s a crowd pleaser with everyone. These too can be customized to compliment your party theme or school colors.

Regina Henson Cupcakes and more…

As always, we offer free consultations and free samples. You can call (402) 261-6214 to set up your appointment. Our best advice would be to plan three to four weeks ahead of time! Cupcakes & more...can be your biggest stress reliever!”

If you do choose to have the party in your home, which is particularly common in the case of graduation parties, another item you’ll want to consider delegating is the cleaning before and after the event.

“When you are planning a large event there is already a long to-do list,” says Crystal Patzel, owner of Crystal Clean Housekeeping. “Making sure your home is tidy and ready for the guests just adds to the stress—and stress makes parties less exciting!

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It is important to give a couple weeks’ notice to the cleaning company you c hoose. This helps because many times when it comes to events such as graduations there is a high demand for cleaning services and you want to be sure and get the date and time you Crystal Patzel prefer. When we schedule services for Crystal Clean clients, we always ask how many rooms Housekeeping will need to be cleaned and the date and time preferred for scheduling purposes. One of our favorite things to do, especially with new clients, is to have them prepare a priority list. This way there is no confusion on what our clients expect from us during their specified time frame.

When you choose to hire a professional to clean before, after or both you are likely to focus more on the important tasks of planning and enjoying your time with family and friends.”

Whether you’re expecting ten guests or 200, planning a party can be stressful--but it doesn’t have to be with the help of local professionals who have plenty of experience and talent to offer. Taking advantage of this support will ensure that your graduation celebration is one to remember. Congratulations to all of the Class of 2015 graduates, we wish you well and hope you have a great time celebrating such a huge accomplishment!

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