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TOP RATED FENCE CONTRACTOR
Our values and work ethic have helped us become one of the most respected fence companies across the state of Nebraska
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
Our values extend to the customers we serve, and we pride ourselves on the ways we support our local communities through great service and quality care
WORKMANSHIP WARRENTY
For every fence installation we complete, Empire Fence Company provides a 1-year workmanship warranty for your peace of mind and satisfaction
When you want elegance and durability from a fence while having lots of visibility through your yard, check out our aluminum fence options
CHAIN LINK
Fencing in your yard to protect your children, pets, or pool can be done with the installation of an economical chain link fence, built to last and withstand deterioration for many years
Vinyl fences are highly favored in Waverly, Nebraska neighborhoods due to their low maintenance, attractive style, and versatility in both privacy and open designs
For naturally beautiful fences in Nebraska, many homeowners choose wood fencing to complement and protect their yard WOOD
Discover endless possibilities with FenceTrac Customize your fence with red cedar, metal, vinyl, and more! With FenceTrac, enjoy durable privacy borders without worrying about rot or decay
In today’s data-driven world, we often hear about the importance of tracking advertising. But the truth is, some of the most impactful marketing efforts, marketing that delivers fantastic R.O.I. are simply not trackable. You can’t track your vehicle graphics. You can’t track your chamber membership. You can’t track the full impact of your networking meetings. Marketing is about connecting with people, building relationships, and establishing credibility over time.
Consider this: nine out of ten times, when someone sees your ad in Strictly Business Magazine, they don’t click a link or scan a QR code. Instead, they go to a search engine and type in your name. Do we get credit for driving that lead? No. But Big Tech does.
Yes, we can track the nearly 1,000,000 views our website generates. We can show you where visitors are coming from—thousands from across the country, including the U.K., New England, Chicago, and St. Louis. But the bigger picture of advertising R.O.I. is about presence, reputation, and long-term brand recognition. Not every action or reaction to advertising triggers a buying action. We want to connect you to people, local people who make our city such a thriving place. Beyond just visibility, advertising taps into emotional drivers—trust, excitement, social belonging, and even nostalgia. People buy from brands they trust. They respond to
messages that resonate with their emotions, whether it’s the security of working with a reputable company or the joy of being part of something bigger than themselves. Advertising isn’t just about getting seen; it’s about making meaningful connections that lead to lasting relationships.
When you prioritize trackability in your advertising, you are deciding to compete with every competitor in your industry. However, competing against a smaller, more targeted group of businesses offers significant advantages. Focusing on a select market allows you to build stronger customer relationships, stand out more easily, achieve better conversion rates, and avoid the rising costs of competing in an overcrowded digital space.
Strictly Business Magazine helps businesses build that presence. We connect you with the right audience, reinforce your credibility, and make sure when people are ready to buy, they remember your name. Because at the end of the day, real marketing impact isn’t just about trackability— it’s about trust, reputation, and relationships. Our specialty has been and will always be helping companies build their “Expert” status in our marketplace, and doing it all for a very low price.
Warm Regards, Paige Zutavern President
Buying a home is an exciting new adventure for both new and seasoned homebuyers. However, it can be stressful and overwhelming all the same. Finding the right real estate agent is the most reliable solution to alleviating these challenges. Homebuyers need a real estate agent that not only has experience but also knowledge of the current realty field. For a real estate agent that is undeniably invested in his clients’ success, turn to Jayson Becker of BancWise Realty.
buying a first, Jayson can be relied upon to eliminate stress, solve problems as they come up, and create a memorable homebuying or home-selling experience.
“I can be your advocate and represent your best interests as I assist in finding properties and negotiating offers, and I look forward to helping you navigate a seemingly daunting and tough market,” says Real Estate Professional Jayson Becker.
Jayson brings a unique blend of expertise and behind-the-scenes experience to be the perfect agent for new and seasoned homebuyers alike. In addition to his friendly, easy-going personality, Jayson is a valued real estate associate at Lincoln’s premier real estate firm, BancWise Realty. Ultimately, whether one is selling his/her fifth home or
Jayson loves real estate, the process and most of all, the people! With a true passion for the business, he looks forward to spending the rest of his career helping and servicing clients with the greatest investments of their lives. Jayson has committed himself to being a dedicated, informed and competent representative for folks of all walks of life needing a real estate problem explained and solved!
PRODUCTION TEAM:
Managing Editor Emily Clear – Emily@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
Art Director Walker Anderson – Walker@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
Editorial Interns: Rowan Havranek and Avery Carl
TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com
For real estate assistance and ease of mind, contact Jayson at (402) 610-1013 or jbecker@bancwise.com.
The MMC Contractors entities nationwide — including in Omaha and Lincoln — recently rebranded as Cerris Systems, part of the national Cerris group of companies.
Since 2007, the Cerris Systems teams in Nebraska have been part of the same group of national construction services and has provided complex commercial mechanical and plumbing construction solutions. Their parent company, formerly known as MMC Corp, is now Cerris.
By uniting around a common brand name, the enterprise will become a stronger partner with its current clients and invite new ones into the fold by offering complex construction solutions nationwide. The organization has a strong legacy and a relationship-focused way of doing business, and it will continue to build the extraordinary by providing further establishing itself as a multi-faceted commercial construction capabilities firm.
There were no mergers or acquisitions involved in this rebranding effort, and the same team members remain ready to build the extraordinary for their clients and communities.
In addition to the MMC Contractors entities' rebrand to Cerris Systems, general contractor formerly known as MW Builders is now Cerris Builders, also part of the Cerris group of companies.
“While our name is changing, the way we do business remains grounded in nearly a century of experience, long-term relationships, deeply held values, and dedication to our craft,” says Jason Evelyn, CEO of Cerris. “From the initial idea to the first patient, student, resident or gigabyte, we are prepared to meet the building needs of tomorrow.”
Cerris began as a family-owned company in 1932. Through a dynamic blend of entrepreneurial spirit, integrity, quality craftsmanship, and teamwork, the enterprise has grown to include offices nationwide providing construction capabilities including general construction, MEP contracting and service, and building automation.
In 2002, MMC Corp purchased the company from its founding family and became 100% employee-owned. From humble beginnings rooted in the Midwest, growing to a nationwide presence, and a commitment to serving the communities where its employee owners work and live, the company is proud and excited to increase its power and reach in the market with the new Cerris brand.
Cerris is an Overland Park, Kansas-based, 100% employee-owned construction firm with 16 offices nationwide and more than $1.4 billion in revenue. It serves as the Strategic Center for its three Strategic Business Units (SBUs) comprising: Cerris Builders, Cerris Systems and Cerris Emerging Solutions. To learn more, visit cerris.com.
It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You!
At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.
Salt Mine City Brewing is excited to announce that it is now serving lunch and dinner at its Haymarket location (801 R St #100)!
Salt Mine City Brewing is open Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Salt Mine City team can’t wait to see everyone soon!
Salt Mine City Brewing offers handcrafted beer made right here in the Midwest, and its goal is to brew the best beer for a growing community.
Salt Mine City was established in 2022. It started with a vision to brew great beer with great friends and to share a high-quality, Midwestern product in a new and exciting venue! It has expanded from its local beginnings in David City and is now excited to serve its capital city.
To see a menu or contact the team, visit saltminecity.com, email saltminecity22@gmail.com or call (402) 367-5099.
Western National Bank is proud to support the 25th Anniversary of the Rimington Trophy Awards.
Western National Bank is honored to be part of this prestigious event, which not only celebrates excellence in college football, but also contributes to the fight against cystic fibrosis.
The Rimington Trophy, named after Dave Rimington— widely regarded as the greatest college center of all time—recognizes the top Division 1-A college football center. The winner is selected through a thorough process involving the Walter Camp Foundation (WCF), Sporting News (SN) and the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA). This year, Seth McLaughlin of Ohio State University was named the 2024 Rimington Trophy winner.
As Todd Calfee, a member of the Rimington Trophy committee and team member at Western National Bank, explains, “This event raises critical funds for cystic fibrosis research, a rare genetic disease that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs, pancreas and other organs. This mucus clogs airways and makes it difficult to breathe, severely impacting those who live with CF.”
The Rimington Trophy ceremony is held annually at the historic Rococo Theater in downtown Lincoln—a fitting location to celebrate both athletic achievement and support for an important cause.
Learn more by visiting Western National Bank’s website at mywnb. com.
Join R.O. Youker for a ribbon cutting on Thursday, March 27, from 3 to 3:30 p.m. at their office at 811 S 13th St. There are so many reasons to celebrate this accomplishment by R.O. Youker, so make sure to stop by and show your support!
In every project, they work closely with our clients and partners throughout all phases. This maintains a seamless collaborative environment resulting in better coordination and lower added construction cost. They believe consistent and thorough communication is the key to achieving the best possible results. R. O. Youker also provides the necessary on-site field observations during construction to ensure procedures are followed to produce superior results.
Founded in 1967, R. O. Youker, Inc. has provided structural and consulting engineering services throughout the Midwest for over 50 years. With that 50 plus years of experience, R.O. Youker, Inc. has provided licensed structural and consulting engineering services throughout Nebraska. Learn more at royouker.com.
Cedarhurst Senior Living proudly announces its designation as a National Team for the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® in 2025, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s ongoing commitment to Alzheimer’s advocacy.
Cedarhurst’s residents, team members, families, and partners will come together across various walks to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care and research. The 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s will feature the poignant Promise Garden ceremony, where participants carry flowers of various colors symbolizing their personal connection to the disease, creating a powerful display of unity and hope.
“This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s,” said Almir Sajtovic, President of Cedarhurst Senior Living. “Our commitment to this cause extends beyond fundraising; it’s about building a legacy of support for families impacted by Alzheimer’s."
Cedarhurst Senior Living has actively supported the Walk to End Alzheimer’s for several years, and last year, all 50 communities united to raise nearly $66,000, and with additional sponsorship investments, Cedarhurst’s total contribution was just under $150,000.
The impact of Cedarhurst’s involvement goes beyond numbers. Residents, families, and team members have shared deeply personal moments during past walks, from honoring loved ones in the Promise Garden ceremony to raising awareness within their local communities. These shared experiences have strengthened Cedarhurst’s resolve to be a leader in the fight against Alzheimer’s.
To join Cedarhurst Senior Living in the 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s or to learn more, visit alz.org/cedarhurstseniorliving.
Cedarhurst Senior Living is an experienced operator of Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care communities, and its mission is to create communities where each person feels loved, valued, supported and able to live life to the fullest. To learn more about Cedarhurst, please visit cedarhurstliving.com.
Do you feel like you could paint your own cabinets? Maybe you’re not sure, but you still want to save some money...You’re in luck! You can save 50% with Remy Refinishing’s DIY Cabinet Painting Program!
Remy Refinishing will spray paint your doors and drawer faces in its shop. Then, it will teach you how to brush and roll your own frames and how to uninstall and reinstall your cabinets. Basically, Remy Refinishing can do any percentage of any jobs you need it to. If you want to paint your frames but can’t transport or install your own doors, that’s no problem! Remy Refinishing can also drill new handles and install new hinges if needed!
Remy Refinishing wants to open up the possibility for more people to use its services in any capacity. The DIY Cabinet Painting Program is available for homeowners or even other contractors that may not have a shop or the space to paint cabinet doors or drawers. The program is super simple and hassle free. Just email Remy Refinishing with photos at remyrefinishing@gmail.com, or call/text at (402) 570-9427, to get an estimate!
To learn more about Remy Refinishing and its services, visit remyrefinishing.com.
The Lincoln Young Professionals Group (LYPG), a program of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, is excited to announce a dynamic year of programming, events and strategic growth aimed at empowering young professionals in the community.
LYPG offers exclusive opportunities for members to network with influential leaders, participate in professional development programs and engage in events designed to foster personal and professional growth. Individuals can invest in themselves by becoming members for $35/ year, or businesses can invest in their workforce through corporate sponsorships, which provide employees with complimentary memberships.
LYPG’s events early in the year highlight the variety of programming designed to bring value to young professionals regardless of their career field. The group began the year with a Sip + Socialize, a relaxed networking event, on January 16 at The Sitch.
LYPG’s programming also includes five Level Up Lunches, the first of which was held on February 4. This luncheon series, in partnership with Doane University, will explore the theme “Advocating for Yourself” and provide actionable strategies for career advancement. Through programming and member opportunities, LYPG empowers members to learn, connect and lead. In these efforts, LYPG helps individuals achieve career success and contributes to Lincoln’s vibrancy by cultivating talent and fostering leadership. For more information about LYPG, individual membership, sponsorship opportunities or to register for events, visit LincolnYPG.com or contact Mia Wilken at mwilken@lcoc.com or (402) 436-2355.
McGill Law is a leading Nebraska-based firm known for its dedication to family law and client-centered representation and is excited to expand its reach to now offer comprehensive criminal defense services for individuals facing criminal charges. The firm’s experienced attorneys are committed to offering strategic defense solutions tailored to protect clients’ rights and futures.
McGill Law Defense Division specializes in a range of criminal law matters, including:
Felony Criminal Charges: Vigorous representation for serious offenses, excluding Class 1 felonies, ensuring due process and a strong legal strategy.
Misdemeanor Representation: Skilled defense for charges such as DUI, theft, assault and other misdemeanor offenses.
Juvenile Defense: Advocacy for minors involved in the criminal justice system, focusing on rehabilitation and future opportunities.
The firm’s approach to criminal defense is rooted in a deep understanding of the law and a commitment to personalized representation. Each case is handled with a strategic focus, ensuring that clients receive a strong defense and clear guidance throughout the legal process.
With offices in Omaha and Lincoln, McGill Law Defense Division is equipped to handle a broad range of criminal cases across Nebraska. The firm’s attorneys prioritize clear communication, ensuring that clients understand their legal options and the steps involved in their matter.
Whether facing serious felony charges or misdemeanor offenses, McGill Law Defense Division’s team of dedicated attorneys stands ready to advocate for clients in and out of the courtroom. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit McGillLawyers.com or call (402) 548-5418.
True North Technologies would like to extend a huge thank you to all the sponsors who made its event, Chips for Change, possible! Thanks to the support, True North Technologies’ attendees enjoyed a fun night of games, auctions, great food and even better company—all while raising funds to make a real difference for families in Malawi and Zimbabwe.
This kind of generosity helps Child Legacy continue its life-changing work, and True North Technologies is so grateful to have businesses like these backing its mission.
“We couldn’t do it without you!” says the True North Technologies Team.
True North Technologies asks everyone to give the following businesses some love:
Morrow Collision Center, Awesome Garage, United Rent-All, Farmers Union Midwest Agency - FUMA, SEGRA, Millard Lumber Inc., Ameritas, SERVPRO Lincoln, ET's Sweets, Annabell Gardens, Eagle Printing and Sign, F 0 0 D : 3 0, Strictly Business Magazine, Wells Fargo Advisors, Tasty Good Toffee, Cornhusker Bank and PowerTech.
To stay up to date with True North Technologies’ events such as Chips for Change, visit go-tnt.com.
Though the Screamers Family Restaurant is shutting down its Haymarket location, this isn’t the end of the American restaurant, simply the start of a new location. The team at Screamers has decided that it has outgrown its location, and are now focusing more on the family side of their name, moving to a more homely, and more optimal parking, location in the Telegraph district.
With the new location comes a new identity, as they are also changing their name to Show Stoppers. Their old name, Screamers, came from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s show choir, the Scarlet & Cream Singers, where the owner was a member. The show choir—nicknamed the Screamers—disbanded in 2008, so most people who came to the restaurant didn’t make the connection. This rebrand will hopefully offer a chance for less confusion amongst customers.
Despite this big move and rebrand, Screamers, or Show Stoppers, will still employ the same atmosphere it was built with—the singing servers will still be singing, providing entertainment from all eras and genres.
Screamers Dining and Cabaret offers a dining and entertainment experience like no other in Nebraska or the Midwest at large. Reserve a table today at screamersdining.com.
A well-designed outdoor area can boost a home’s resale value. Buyers are often drawn to properties with attractive landscaping, patios and functional outdoor spaces. Curb appeal and a clean landscape that is done correctly shows that the whole property is and has been well maintained. Remember, an outdoor space is an extension of the inside of the home, so one might as well make the most out of the space!
A custom design allows the homeowner to create a space that reflects his/her personal style and meets specific wants and needs, whether it’s a cozy garden, a vibrant entertaining area or a quiet retreat after a long week. It can be optimized for various uses, such as entertaining, gardening or relaxing, ensuring one gets the most out of the investment.
A beautifully designed outdoor space can provide a sanctuary for relaxation, family gatherings or social events, enriching the homeowner’s daily life. The latest trends have been overall backyard makeovers, where homeowners want several features included in their landscape renovation. These features include: paver patios with separate cozy seating areas, fire features with sitting walls, water features, outdoor kitchens or grill surrounds, pergolas and even increased privacy.
Luxury Landscape’s professional designers and installers bring expertise and experience, ensuring that the project is executed to high standards, which will save homeowners time and money in the long run, allowing that time to be spent on other priorities. Overall, investing in a custom outdoor space with Luxury Landscape not only enhances the home’s value, but also improves the homeowner’s lifestyle, making it a worthwhile consideration.
Luxury Landscape is happy to discuss the details of any project at (402) 440-7721 or luxurylandscape-llc.com.
Alpha Zed Business Services helps businesses by implementing systems like Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software and automation, enabling streamlined productivity from the core.
Setting a strong foundation facilitates smoother growth. To achieve this foundation for growth, Alpha Zed Business Services suggests incorporating Customer Experience Automation (CXA).
What is CXA? Ontraport describes it as “the evolution of CRM and marketing automation.” With it, one can personalize interactions, improve customer service and retention, reduce costs, optimize processes, gain business insights, accelerate sales and scale best practices.
Owner of Alpha Business Services Kim Hazelton sees CXA as part of ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks. This means:
• Using the CRM to know who the client is
• Taking advantage of the data to send targeted and timely emails pertinent to clients’ interests
• Utilizing automation to assign tasks to team members
• Keeping the entire team “in the know” about the status of leads
• Allowing clients to self-schedule appointments
• Providing a client portal
• Providing just-in-time education to customers to keep them engaged Alpha Zed Business Services will begin CXA planning sessions this month for its implementation this coming June. To learn more, visit alphazedservices.com.
Oak Electric is excited to announce they’re bringing the “I Spy” campaign for its fifth year. The “I Spy” campaign is a way for Oak Electric to give back to their customers by providing a fun, interactive game of “I Spy” throughout the month of March.
Winning is Easy! All you have to do is spot an Oak Electric van around town and when you do, snap a picture and tag Oak Electric on Facebook. If you’re the first person to do so that day, you win a free gift card from a local restaurant! Make sure you already like and follow the Oak Electric page along with ensure that the post is public (only one winner per address).
Oak Electric will be posting subtle hints throughout the day to guide all eager spies!
Oak Electric is a premium, full service, electrical contractor with a tradition of exemplary service. Oak Electric provides both residential and commercial services and repairs. Some services include security cameras, electric car charges, hook up hot tubs and pools, interior and exterior lighting, panel upgrades, remodels, service conversion and more. For more information, call your friendly electricity expert at (402) 440-5969 or visit oakelectriccompany.com.
In an effort to develop a solution for confiscated nicotine vape devices in schools, Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) partnered with the Environmental Public Health Division of the LincolnLancaster County Health Department, HazToGo—Lincoln’s Hazardous Waste Center and Lincoln Public Schools (LPS).
Most vape devices contain lithium batteries and nicotine juice, both classified as hazardous waste. Lithium batteries can catch fire if defective, damaged or exposed to heat. Nicotine is highly toxic, even in small amounts, and is easily absorbed through the skin. Through collaboration, a system was established to provide school personnel with the knowledge and procedure necessary for proper vape device handling, storage and disposal.
In September 2024, TFLC’s partnership launched a pilot program in four schools, equipping them with vape disposal kits, an instructional video and a three-step procedure flyer. After four months, pilot schools reported the process was efficient and easy to manage. The disposal kits effectively contained odors, and the LPS Environmental Division successfully oversaw collection efforts. In total, 106 vape devices— weighing 21 pounds—were collected.
With the pilot’s success, TFLC looks forward to expanding the program to all LPS middle and high schools, as well as other schools throughout Lancaster County.
Funding for Tobacco Free Lancaster County is provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement. For more information, visit TobaccoFreeLancasterCounty.org.
The Nebraska Communities Playhouse (NCP) is excited to announce the launch of The Y.A.C.H.T. Club (Young Artists Collective Hickman Theater), an innovative arts education program designed to provide area youth with hands-on experiences in theater and the arts.
The Y.A.C.H.T. Club offers a range of exciting opportunities for youth ages six-17 to engage in the world of performance, creativity and artistic expression. Through monthly workshops, camps and a summer production, the Y.A.C.H.T. Club is designed to foster both individual talent and teamwork while helping students develop the skills needed for all aspects of theater—from acting to set design to stage management.
"Our mission at NCP is to be a welcoming and innovative community providing opportunities to create, learn and appreciate the arts. The Y.A.C.H.T. Club is the perfect place to pursue that mission with our youth," said Gina Boe, Productions Coordinator at NCP. "By offering a wide variety of arts experiences for kids, and giving them a safe and nurturing place to try new things, we hope to build their confidence and show them how every person can find a creative home in community theater.”
Summer programming includes two Broadway boot camps and a production of Willy Wonka Jr. Looking ahead to the fall, the program plans to expand with group lessons and additional performance opportunities, enabling even more youth to explore different facets of theater and the arts.
For more information about The Y.A.C.H.T. Club, or to register, please visit neplayhouse.com or email info@neplayhouse.com. You can also reach out via text to (402) 792-8882.
This past week, Sun Valley Lanes & Games played host to the 2025 NSAA State High School Bowling Championships. Athletes traveled from all over the state to participate in both team and individual competitions. Sun Valley Lanes would like to commend every bowler and team who qualified to participate in the state tournament, with special congratulations to the winners in each division.
Individual Champions:
• Girls Class A: Taryn Stern from Omaha Westview
• Girls Class B: Lauren Moore from Arapahoe
• Boys Class A: Anden Sutter from Millard West
• Boys Class B: Dylan Jensen from Wayne Team Champions:
• Girls Class A: Norfolk
• Girls Class B: Northwest
• Boys Class A: Columbus
• Boys Class B: Lincoln Pius X Sun Valley Lanes & Games, located at 321 Victory Lane, is Lincoln’s goto spot for endless fun, mouthwatering dining and friendly competition! The Sun Valley Lanes & Games team is genuinely excited to meet new and seasoned bowlers! Contact them at (402) 475-3469 or bowl@ sunvalleylanes.com.
Seniors in Lincoln are invited to attend two upcoming Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars at St. Mark’s Church, 8550 Pioneers Blvd., where experts will provide insights on securing both personal legacies and financial safety. These engaging sessions, held on the first Wednesday of each month, are designed to educate and empower seniors in navigating life’s important challenges.
In March, the series will focus on "Leaving a Legacy: The Gift of Generosity," exploring the ways seniors can create a lasting impact for their loved ones and communities. Attendees will learn how to pass down values, contribute to meaningful causes and plan estates to reflect their life’s purpose. Whether through charitable giving, wisdom-sharing or financial planning, this seminar will provide practical steps to ensure their legacy endures.
In April, the conversation shifts to security with "Scam-Proof Yourself: Recognizing Scammers and Psychological Tricks." With scams targeting seniors on the rise, this session will uncover the tactics fraudsters use and teach attendees how to spot and avoid them. Experts will discuss common red flags, manipulation techniques and steps to protect personal and financial information from scams both online and in everyday life.
Doors open at 9:30 AM for coffee and conversation before the 10:00 AM seminar begins. A gift will be given to those who bring a friend, and those who complete event surveys will be entered into a door prize drawing.
As always, the events are completely free.
For more information or to register, visit www.NESavvySeniors.com, or call Alicia Chrastil at (402) 499-8147. Don’t miss these informative and engaging discussions designed to help seniors take control of their future.
Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is excited to announce for the opening of its new tenant ‘Let’s Pickle!’, Lincoln's first indoor pickle ball venue located at 5601 S. 59th Street near Edgewood Shopping Center.
Let’s Pickle! includes six indoor courts, food service, a full bar, and sells pickle ball equipment. It is open Sunday-Thursday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and FridaySaturday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Players can book by the hour or sign up for two different levels of Pick Perks memberships, which offer free open play and other discounts.
Let’s Pickle!’s goal is to be Lincoln’s premier pickleball destination that seamlessly combines the thrill of indoor pickleball with a dynamic dining experience. It aims to foster a vibrant community where players of all skill levels can connect, compete and unwind, all while enjoying exceptional food and drinks in a fun, inclusive atmosphere. By promoting health, camaraderie and active lifestyles, Let’s Pickle! hopes to become the go-to hub for all pickleball enthusiasts and food lovers. Learn more at Letspicklebar.com, or call (531) 350-5988.
Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is a local Commercial real estate
Phino Cleaning Services
LLC is the leading provider of residential, commercial and hoarding cleaning services and is exited to announce its spring-cleaning promotion. This is a limited time offer designed to help homeowners and business get their space sparkling clean and organized for new season!
As the snow melts away, it’s time for deep cleaning with Phino. The promotion includes:
• Deep cleaning of the kitchen, bathroom and bedrooms.
• Organization of the closet, garage and other storage spaces.
• Window cleaning and power washing.
• Special discount for the first time customer and referrals.
The Phino Cleaning Services team strives to provide top-notch cleaning services that exceed its customers’ expectations. It only hires experienced professionals who are capable of using ECHO products and well modernized equipment to leave each space sparkling clean and sanitized.
Don’t miss out! Take advantage of this promotion to get every space cleaned, organized and ready for the new season, so contact Phino Cleaning Services at admin@noreencares.com or (402) 805-2190 to schedule an appointment.
Mid-March is the start of lawn care season! Book your 2025 Lawn Care Program with Earl May Garden Centers! Perks members earn triple Perks Points on programs. Not a member? Join today at bit. ly/EarlMayPerksWebsite.
There are so many reasons to trust Earl May with your lawn, for one their programs have more nutrients per bag and they use Time-Release Nitrogen that feeds slowly over time, keeping your lawn greener and healthier for longer. Learn more at earlmay.com/ blog/lawn-care-a-complete-guide. They’ve taken the necessary steps to ensure their Lawn Care Programs are designed to fit your needs and give you the healthiest lawn. Plus, they have the added benefits of them storing the bags for you so you can pick up each step individually.
Earl May Garden Center is family-owned and family grown. Today, they operate 28 family-owned stores in Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri and Kansas. At your local Earl May Garden Center, not only will you find a wide variety of plants, but a friendly and helpful staff, and everything you need to enhance your outdoor living space. Learn more at earlmay.com.
Open Window, a new Lincoln based communications coaching and consulting firm, has launched to help mission-driven leaders, nonprofits and organizations refine their messaging, strengthen their presence, engage their stakeholders and inspire action.
Founded by Wendy Van, a former journalist, nonprofit CEO and TEDx Lincoln coach, Open Window provides expert coaching in public speaking, media training, message development, board engagement and leadership communication development. The company also offers fundraising consulting, case-for-support development and facilitation services to help organizations align leadership and communicate effectively with stakeholders, partners and the public.
“In a world overloaded with noise and misinformation, clear and authentic communication is more critical than ever,” said Van. “At Open Window, we help leaders articulate their vision with confidence, ensuring their message resonates and drives impact.”
Open Window’s tailored approach equips leaders for key presentations, media interviews, board engagement and training and fundraising efforts. Services can be customized to meet the unique needs of each client.
For more information, visit theopenwindowsolution.com, or contact Wendy Van at (402) 540-6906 or wendy@theopenwindowsolution. com.
Open Window provides expert communications coaching to associations, businesses, non-profits and research professionals tell their stories, engage their communities and drive meaningful change.
Walter’s Painting Inc. is excited to announce its participation in the 2025 Painting Contractors (PCA) EXPO from February 3 to February 7 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The PCA EXPO is a one-of-a-kind, annual national convention dedicated to the painting industry. This conference has become a must for like-minded contractors looking to advance their careers while also contributing to the professionalization of the trade. Whether it's a piece of business advice, a fresh perspective or a mentorship opportunity, PCA helps take painters to new heights.
Walter’s Painting can’t wait to see how the EXPO’s networking events inspire and motivate painters across the country to pursue a deeper understanding of the industry. The PCA EXPO will wrap up with a Paint It Forward Charity event, and Walter’s Painting couldn’t be more excited.
With so many painting companies to choose from in Lincoln, Walter's Painting stands out from the rest by consistently completing projects in an efficient manner at fair rates. Walter’s Painting uses only the most top-quality products and qualified painting crews who are experienced with helping clients make the most informed decorating and painting decisions. With a team of well-trained and experienced painters, it understands what home and business owners expect from a painting company, and it is more than ready to deliver.
To see a comprehensive list of Walter’s Painting services, visit walterspaintinginc.com.
Aspire Wellness, a new chiropractic and functional medicine clinic in Lincoln, is excited to host its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, April 1, at 10 a.m. at 3900 Yankee Hill Rd., STE 103.
Founded by Dr. Weston Pickhinke and Amelia Pickhinke, Aspire Wellness takes an integrative approach to healthcare, helping patients optimize movement, function, and overall well-being. The clinic offers chiropractic care, spinal decompression and functional medicine assessments and counseling.
The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, guided clinic tours, free functional health screenings and raffles. Attendees can meet the providers and learn about Aspire Wellness’s evidence-based, personalized approach to care. Special grand opening promotions will be available for new patients who book appointments during the event.
“Our goal is to empower people to take control of their health and live at their best,” say Dr. Weston and Amelia. "By combining chiropractic care with functional medicine, we help people uniquely address the root causes of their health concerns, not just their symptoms."
The event is free and open to the public. For details, visit aspirecfn. com or text/call (402) 230-5773.
About Aspire Wellness LLC: Aspire Wellness provides chiropractic care and functional medicine services, focusing on personalized holistic care to help patients achieve long-term wellness.
Welcome to the Midwest's premier home, garden, outdoor living and leisure lifestyle show with Husker Lawn & Leisure! This is the show with incredible landscape displays, unmatched variety of exhibits and friendly atmosphere for the whole family! Join the many amazing businesses here for your lawn care on March 14 and 16 at the Sandhills Global Event Center. The price is only $8 and free for kids ages 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased and times can be found on the website at huskerlawnshow.com.
This place is the perfect stop for a homeowner looking to spice up their landscape! Learn more about what amazing businesses are going to be there and what to expect at huskerlawnshow.com. They can’t wait to see you there!
Save the date for the Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) and Center Sphere are partnering to host an exciting Coffee and Contacts networking event on March 19th from 8:3010 AM. This gathering offers business owners and professionals a valuable opportunity to connect, collaborate, and strengthen relationships within the local community.
Designed to foster meaningful conversations and new business relationships, Coffee and Contacts is a must-attend event for entrepreneurs and professionals looking to expand their networks. Attendees will have the chance to engage with fellow business owners, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations over a fresh cup of coffee in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
The event's location is yet to be confirmed, but details will be shared as soon as they are finalized. Those interested in attending or seeking additional information are encouraged to contact Laurie Dunn at (402) 525-5797.
LIBA and Center Sphere are dedicated to supporting and growing the local business community, and this event is an excellent way to connect with like-minded professionals. Don’t miss out on this fantastic networking opportunity—mark your calendar for March 19th and stay tuned for further updates.
The team at Nelson Produce Farm is excited to announce their first ever Tulip Festival! Coming tentatively in late April to Elkhorn, get ready to experience 400,000 tulips, delicious local food, farm attractions and so much more!
Be sure to subscribe at nelsonproducefarm.com to be the first in the know on what’s coming!
Nelson Produce Farm offers tours the interactive property, pick fresh produce from their acres of fruit and vegetable plants like ripe strawberries in the summer or big ol’ pumpkins in the fall, and engage with their sweet barnyard animals.
Come jump hay bales, ride pedal trikes, take a trip on their barrel train, and spend hours getting creative in their natural playground. And make sure to stop by Pam’s Kitchen for a Lil’ Farmer Meal or Watermelon Slushie. They have a full menu of homemade meals and baked goods available daily! Learn more at nelsonproducefarm.com.
Akita Hibachi Express has officially opened its doors to serve Lincoln delicious, high-quality Japanese hibachi—fast and fresh!
Whether one is craving hibachi steak, chicken or shrimp, Akita Hibachi Express has got everyone covered. With affordable meals, curbside pickup and a convenient drive-through, Akita Hibachi Express is sure to be a family favorite and easy go-to!
Akita Hibachi Express’ hours include:
Sunday-Thursday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Akita Hibachi is located at 5940 Havelock Avenue. Don’t miss out! Be one of the first to experience Lincoln’s newest Japanese cuisine! To place an order, call (402) 327-8888.
Choices Treatment Center, in partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), is proud to recognize March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM).
This year’s theme, “Seeking Understanding,” focuses on increasing awareness of problem gambling as a serious but often misunderstood mental health condition. The campaign seeks to foster greater awareness and empathy, break down barriers to treatment and provide support for individuals and families impacted by gamblingrelated harm.
Nationally, approximately 2.5 million U.S. adults meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem, with an additional 5-8 million individuals experiencing mild to moderate gambling problems.
The annual observance of Problem Gambling Awareness Month provides an essential platform for organizations across the country to highlight the availability of resources that support problem gambling prevention, education, treatment and recovery.
Throughout March, Choices Treatment Center will host various activities to educate the community and spark meaningful conversations around problem gambling including:
• Proclamation signings recognizing PGAM by city and state leaders in communities throughout Nebraska.
• Problem Gambling screening events held on college campuses, along with presentations and table sessions at other public locations throughout the state.
“Across Nebraska this March during Problem Gambling Awareness Month, Choices is committed to ensuring the public understands what the signs of problem gambling are, and most importantly, the resources that are available to get help,” said Deb Hammond, Choices Treatment Center Director. “Our staff is committed to ensuring Nebraskans gain a greater understanding of problem gambling in order to reduce stigma around this struggle.”
Within Nebraska, call the Nebraska Gambling Helpline at (833) 238-6837, or visit problemgambling.nebraska.gov/. Help is available 24/7/365, and it is free and confidential.
Starlite Lounge is pleased to announce that it will be adjusting its hours to be open on Sunday and Monday evenings!
It doesn’t want its friends missing the Starlite Lounge these two days of the week anymore, so starting Monday, February 17, Starlite Lounge will be open starting at 5 p.m. on both Mondays and Sunday nights!
Come to Starlite and see the best crew making the best cocktails this side of the Mississippi two extra nights a week!
Starlite Lounge’s new, official hours will be the following:
Sunday - Thursday: 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Friday - Saturday: 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Starlite Lounge hopes to see everyone there!
Health announces that each of its 117 branches has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Hospice and Home Health Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards.
This prestigious Gold Seal of Approval® is a hallmark of quality in healthcare, indicating that Traditions Health meets the highest standards of quality and safety and reflects a commitment to delivering safe and quality care to patients.
To achieve Joint Commission accreditation, all Traditions Health branches underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review. During the visit, a Joint Commission reviewer evaluated compliance with home health standards, including environment of care, infection prevention and control, emergency management leadership and medication management.
The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with healthcare experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help healthcare organizations.
“As a healthcare accreditor, The Joint Commission commends Traditions Health for its notable accomplishment of achieving Hospice or Home Health Accreditation for 100 percent of its branches. Its exceptional commitment to advancing patient safety, quality healthcare and compassion for all patients distinguishes Traditions Health as a leader in home- based care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of accreditation and certification operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission.
“Accreditation from The Joint Commission recognizes our staff’s commitment to provide the highest quality and safest care to each patient and family we are privileged to serve. We are honored and excited that all our branches have earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval,” says Brian Lantier, chief executive officer of Traditions Health.
For more information, visit jointcommission.org.
On Saturday, March 15, come to McKinney’s for their annual St. Patrick’s Day Saturday Celebration! There’s no charge so head over for amazing food and drinks and ever better company! Enjoy food specials, a kilt contest at 5 p.m. and a Lucky Charms eating contest at 6 p.m. Then, enjoy live music out of the House Bank with giveaways and prizes, amazing Irish food, green beer and so much more! Come for a night of fun and celebration at McKinney’s.
Mckinney's pub is an Irish pub located in the Haymarket and opened in 2013. They’re open every day at 11 a.m. and serves Irish and American cuisine till 10 p.m. McKinney’s bar is open from 11 to 2 a.m. They have over 20 different beers on tap and 40 different Irish whiskeys. They have a party room that can hold up to 40 people. We also do outside catering! Learn more at lincoln.mckinneyspub.com.
Lincoln Airport (LNK) continues to grow its aeronautical tenant base with the addition of a new maintenance facility (MRO) in its industrial park.
In December, the Lincoln Airport’s Board of Directors approved a three-year lease agreement with SkyWest Airlines.
SkyWest’s new hangar will create about 25 aviation maintenance jobs in Lincoln and support additional staff. The facility will service multiple aircraft, enhancing operations for its fleet of 2,300+ daily flights across North America.
“We look forward to expanding our maintenance operation with the addition of Lincoln to continue supporting SkyWest’s high standards of safety and reliability,” said Joe Sigg, SkyWest VP of Maintenance. “We also appreciate the support we’ve seen from the community and are excited to bring new opportunities for A&P mechanics to our hangar at LNK.”
SkyWest operates a fleet of nearly 500 regional aircraft and provides daily United Airlines flights from Lincoln to Chicago and Denver.
“Adding a maintenance base to LNK is a great tool to help us improve air service and one that can bring significant economic benefits to our community,” said David Haring, Executive Director of the Lincoln Airport Authority.
Lincoln Airport has emerged as a growing hub for aviation maintenance operations, with several major facilities already established in the area. The addition of SkyWest's MRO facility reinforces LNK's position as a strategic location for aviation maintenance in the Midwest and strengthens its growing economy.
SkyWest Airlines partnered with United, Delta, American and Alaska Airlines, carrying over 42 million passengers in 2024. Based in St. George, Utah, its fleet of nearly 500 aircraft serves 258 North American destinations.
Learn more about LNK at lincolnairport.com.
Are you ready for a doggone good time? Kenl Inn is thrilled to announce its first-ever Mutt Maddness event, an exciting online competition inspired by the spirit of March Madness—but in Kenl Inn’s version, the players are four-legged, fun loving, tail-waggin’ furry friends!
Throughout March, pet lovers will have the chance to vote online and help determine which adorable contender will take home the prestigious title of "Top Dog." The tournament will feature four thrilling rounds, with matchups showcasing the personality, charm and cuteness of the furry competitors.
• Sweet 16: "Super Sniffin' Sixteen Matchups"
• Elite 8: "Tail-Waggin' Eight"
• Final 4: "Final Fur"
• Championship: "Mutt Maddness Showdown"
• Winner: TOP DOG
Each round will narrow down the field until the final two dogs face off in the ultimate championship showdown. Fans can vote, cheer and follow the fun as their favorite canines compete for the top dog crown. Kenl Inn invites all pet enthusiasts to join the fun by casting votes and supporting their favorite four-legged athletes. Stay tuned to Kenl Inn’s website and social media for updates, matchups and voting opportunities.
Think your favorite breed of pup has what it takes? Let’s find out in Mutt Maddness!
For more details, visit kenl-inn.com or Kenl Inn’s Facebook at facebook. com/KENLINN.INC.
courteousandprofessional.Ournew treeslookgreat!!!!-ScottMausbach
Mosquito Shield is a company providing professionally applied mosquito spray that kills and repels mosquitoes and ticks. Their vector-trained technicians treat your common use areas so that your family can maximize the quality of time spent outdoors. Local Franchise Owner Alec Carberry is proud to offer Mosquito Shield’s services to the Lincoln community so that everyone can have the ability to safely enjoy the outdoors. These services include mosquito shield, tick shield, perimeter shield and event shield.
Mosquito Shield provides the best value in mosquito control services of how they treat your yard using the Mosquito Shield Tailored Treatment System™. They don’t use a fixed schedule, identical product, “one size fits all” service program.
In the off-season, Alec will return your call within 48 hours, and during mosquito season, you can expect to have your property fully serviced within 48 hours of the initial call. Better yet, you can spray and play in the same day! You may begin using your property as soon as they spray has dried, usually by the time your technician has left. Learn more at moshield.com or contact them at (402) 909-3582 and info@mosquitoshieldlne.com.
The ALLO Smart Business app is a powerful solution designed to give business owners complete control. Focusing on speed, security, and seamless management, it ensures that businesses stay connected and protected in an increasingly digital world.
ALLO’s advanced fiber-optic technology delivers unmatched performance, keeping businesses running at peak efficiency. In addition to speed and reliability, business-grade cybersecurity is built into the system, offering proactive security monitoring, firewalls and segmented networks to safeguard critical systems like point-of-sale transactions, staff networks and guest Wi-Fi access.
Beyond security, the ALLO Smart Business app provides customized network solutions that optimize daily operations. Business owners can create dedicated and secure networks for employees, establish branded portals for customers and ensure that point-of-sale systems remain stable and secure. Additionally, it also offers content filtering tools, allowing businesses to manage and restrict online access to enhance security and productivity.
For more information, visit AlloBusiness.com or call (844) 560-2556.
ALLO Communications, a Nebraska-based company and a leader in providing fiber-optic services, has been dedicated to delivering world-class communications and entertainment services since 2003. With a commitment to building Gigabit communities, ALLO serves over 50 communities across Nebraska, Colorado, Arizona, Missouri, Iowa and Kansas. ALLO is known for its reliable fiber networks and customized technology solutions that support businesses of all sizes. Learn more at AlloBusiness.com.
Construction on JetSplash Car
Wash’s ninth Lincoln location is moving full speed ahead. Located at the bustling intersection of 27th & Vine, JetSplash #9 is well on its way to bringing another fast, high-quality car wash experience to Lincoln residents.
Currently, the trenches and dirt work are complete, and the walls are officially up. With the structure in place, the next phases will focus on securing the building, installing plumbing and electrical and preparing the site for exterior paving and slab heating. In the final months before opening, crews will begin installing equipment, programming systems and ensuring every detail is dialed in for a seamless customer experience.
Expected to open this summer, JetSplash #9 is a strategic addition to the city, helping to ease traffic at the 27th & Superior location while providing more convenience for Lincoln drivers. As with all JetSplash locations, this site will feature the same exceptional wash quality, friendly service, and commitment to keeping Lincoln shining.
“Lincoln is home. Every location we build is for this community,” said Kinsey Bauer, Sales Manager at JetSplash. “We’re excited to expand and continue providing the best car wash experience in town.”
Stay tuned for updates as JetSplash #9 nears its grand opening!
Since 2003, JetSplash Car Wash has washed over 11 million vehicles in Lincoln, NE, offering high-quality, detail-oriented washes with a signature hand-dry finish. With new locations on West O Street and an upcoming site at 27th and Vine, JetSplash continues expanding to meet Lincoln’s car wash needs.
For more information, visit JetSplash.com.
To give its customers the best possible service experience and the best value for their hard-earned money, inMOTION Auto Care strives to stay on the leading edge of automotive technology and innovations. Part of that effort is continuous learning and advanced training. Every staff member at inMOTION is required to have a minimum of 60 hours of professional, automotive, industry-specific training. Some of inMOTION Auto Care’s staff are overachievers and will likely reach the 80-hour mark this year!
This March 6-9, inMOTION Auto Care’s skilled technicians will attend the Vision High Tech Training in Kansas City. This event is one of the largest automotive training conferences in the U.S. with attendees coming from all over the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Learn more at visionkc.com.
Today’s vehicles can’t be properly tested and repaired without a commitment to training and the investment in proper test equipment. With this commitment to training and equipment, inMOTION Auto Care can guarantee its technician’s testing results. If inMOTION does the full testing procedure on a vehicle and suggests a repair that does not fix the customer’s concern, the customer does not pay for that repair. Very few shops in the industry will do that, which is what sets inMOTION apart!
To learn more about inMOTION Auto Care’s special team and values, visit inmotionautocare.com.
by Krista Dittman Agent, Individual & Senior Benefits
There are important considerations to make when managing your health insurance choices when turning 65. Here are some questions commonly heard at On Point Insurance Agency about Medicare enrollment:
Do I have to start Medicare when I turn 65? In certain circumstances the answer is yes. For example, if covered through the Affordable Care Act the eligibility for the Advance Premium Tax Credit ends when eligibility for Medicare begins. Paying full price for a plan through the ACA would always be more expensive than Medicare premiums. Only individuals with eligible immigration status who have not yet qualified for Medicare by living here for five years may get ACA tax credits over the age of 65.
In addition, beginning Medicare coverage is required if currently employed where there are fewer than 20 employees. Employer coverage can be used in addition to Medicare to cover the gaps of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), but Medicare is primary and the employer plan will be secondary.
Can I keep my coverage through my employer after age 65? Yes – if there are more than 20 employees the employer plan will pay first instead of Medicare. It is possible to start Part A only and continue with employer coverage and there will be a coordination of coverage between the two. Part B can be added later when leaving the employer plan.
I've heard there are Medicare penalties in the future if I don’t enroll right away? The Late Enrollment Penalties to avoid are for both Part B (medical) and Part D (prescription drug coverage). There is an 8-month Special Enrollment Period after leaving an employer’s plan to enroll in Part B without penalty. There is a cumulative Part D penalty that begins to accrue within 63 days of leaving an employer plan and is assessed when a Part D plan is chosen later.
Can I keep COBRA after age 65 so my younger spouse can have coverage? No – COBRA is not considered creditable coverage by Medicare so penalties will be assessed accordingly when enrolling in Medicare. A spouse still needing coverage could choose to enroll in the ACA Marketplace while the employee enrolls in Medicare.
Let the licensed health insurance agents at On Point help you navigate the road from employer coverage to Medicare!
Chris Elgert LINCOLN FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK
Chris Elgert is the Loan Officer and Vice President at Federal Savings Bank.
Tell us a little about your business. - I am a mortgage loan officer providing financing for those interested in purchasing a home or refinancing their current home.
How did you get started in the business? - I actually started with an interest in getting my real estate license. My father was the President/ Managing Broker of Home Real Estate in Lincoln until 2010. After taking the real estate classes in 2000, it was he who said I might want to take a look on the financing side. There was a Home Real Estate office that was opening on North 27th Street here in Lincoln and they were in need of an in-house loan officer (HomeServices Lending). I decided to take my father’s advice, probably for the first time in my life, and I have never looked back. It has been an incredibly rewarding career and I have many clients who have turned into friends/family and I have some of the best relationships possible with some of my real estate agent colleagues. I have been at Lincoln Federal since 2010 and plan continue in the for many years.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I would just say just the overall volatility of the interest rates create a challenge in our industry. Through my entire career, navigating through COVID-19 was one of the most unique challenges and honestly not something I would like to experience again. Not only was the way in which we do business turned upside down without being able to meet and guide people through the process in person, but it was also the most productive time in our industry due to the uniquely low rates. In 2020, I closed over 500 loans. I found out very quickly that my love for this industry has to do more with the people and very little to do with the numbers or transactions.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Honestly, just the friendships and clients I have over the years. I have been in the industry over 20 years and have worked with families multiple times. In fact, I have some clients who came in as children with their parents and now have used me to purchase their first home. I’m also nearing $1 Billion in total loan production. That is a milestone that I never thought I would reach and I am honored that so many clients have put their faith and trust in working with me.
Tell us a little about your family. - My family consists of my wife (Laurissa), my daughter (Isabella – 18) and my son (Miles – 16). I also have three golden doodles (Max, Rex and Sandy). To say they are my “WHY” would be an understatement.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Getting married and having children has been the greatest gift of my life. I’m getting closer to being an “empty nester” with my wife and I hate every minute of it. If I could, I would have my kids and their families live with me forever. My children are both very competitive golfers and it has been wonderful just being their Dad and watching them grow as young adults and in their love for the game.
Who inspires you? - My brother. I have a brother that is 11 years younger than I who has Down’s Syndrome. He is the most loving person I have ever known, calls me every day and is never in a bad mood.
What local nonprofit organizations are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?Teammates, Big Brothers/Big Sisters and the Malone Center. More than anything, I’m passionate about giving children opportunities/ support that they would not otherwise have the opportunity for.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do?Best way to
Dustin Benes OAK ELECTRIC, INC.
Meet Dustin Benes, Master Electrician at Oak Electric, Inc.
Tell us a little about your business. - Oak Electric, Inc. is a premium full service electrical contractor that provides exceptional services to the Lincoln and surrounding communities. We offer residential and commercial electrical services.
How did you get started in the business? - In high school we built a house for credits and I was watching the electricians work and thought that would be something I could see myself doing long term. I love the challenges and opportunities to continue to learn.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - My biggest challenges were learning the calculations because I’ve always been more of a hands-on type.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Passing my Journeyman Exam was my first major accomplishment. I had opportunities to run larger jobs like apartment complexes. Tell us a little about your family. - My wife and I have been together for 18 years and we have three amazing children (two boys and one girl).
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Passing my Contractor’s Exam was a major turning point for me. The amount of responsibility and level of teaching is what I love the most. I enjoy learning and teaching the trade.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - On my days off, I enjoy spending time with my family. Typically watching the boys play basketball and watching my daughter dance. When I’m not busy with that, I enjoy golfing.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - One of my hobbies is roasting coffee.
Who inspires you? - My dad has always been an inspiration, in my life he has taught me to just take it one day at a time.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Always do your best, even when nobody is watching. Being average is easy, so always go the extra mile.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Positive.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? - Country Roads by John Denver.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - My sense of humor. Which talent would you most like to have? - If I was 6’7” – that would help! Haha.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - A Chef.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I don’t have a specific organization, but I am passionate about giving back every chance I get. It’s important the we help others who cannot help themselves.
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Shout-out to the Cheesesteak Grill.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 440-5969
We believe in the power of positive relationships.
Trista Roque
Meet Trista Roque, RN, Marketing Coordinator at Old Cheney Rehabilitation.
Tell us a little about your business. - We are a short-term rehabilitation facility. Our goal is to get individuals “from here to home” after they have had an illness, accident or surgical procedure that requires to get them additional therapy or skilled nursing services to safely return home after discharge from the hospital.
How did you get started in the business? - I have been in long term care/ rehabilitation since 2010. I knew I always wanted to be a nurse growing up. However, it was always a goal to be an ER nurse or OB nurse. My last year of nursing school hospital nurse positions with an ADN was hard to come by. So, I landed at Madonna. An amazing first nursing job experience, however my schedule with being a new mom that caused me to slow down. In which I went over to long term care. I have not left the field since. I love what I get to do in creating relationships with individuals.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?COVID-19. We are still in a recovery phase as staffing and burnout in our profession is at an all-time high. Which makes working in healthcare in general much more difficult.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Graduating from nursing school in 2010.
Tell us a little about your family. - I have three daughters ages four, 11, 13. They all keep me very busy with afterschool activities.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I’ll never turn down an afternoon of retail therapy… and of course spending free time with my kiddos.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Leave people better than you found them.”
If you had a theme song, what would it be? - From Finding Nemo; “Just Keep Swimming.”
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? - Everything that Mary Poppins has; Magic to clean rooms quickly. And a large bag that I can store everything in, and quickly retrieve things from. Last- to get kiddos to take medicine at ease… “Just a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down”.
Which talent would you most like to have? - I have always wanted to be able to sit down at a piano and just play. I traded lessons for babysitting as a kid for a few years, but it was never enough to read any music.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?Alzheimer’s Association. My mom has early on set Dementia, and going to support groups and partnering with others has been such a huge asset to my dad and family. American Heart Association. I have cared for numerous individuals recovering from having a stroke, there could not raise enough awareness for prevention in Heart health. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?- That’s a tossup between Atomic Habits and The Power of Discipline
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Ginger.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - 5431 S 16th Street | (531) 739-3200 | oldcheneyrehab.com
Tell us a little about your business. - Access Family Medicine is the first direct primary care company established in Lincoln, NE. Our office provides the best care to our patients without being tied to the constraints of offices that deal with traditional Insurance. Our providers take on smaller patient loads, allowing our providers to spend more time focusing on your needs, building closer relationships and truly getting to know our patients which increase quality of care. How did you get started in the business? - I received my BSN, RN back in 2011. I have worked in a variety of different roles throughout my 14-year career. I recently had to step away from a job that required on call, evening and weekend hours which did not work with current life circumstances. My friend who was the nurse for Access Family for 7 years let me know about the company, their philosophy and an open position. I have only been with the company for a few months, but I love having the time to get to know the patients on a personal level and having time to truly listen/assist with concerns. The team at Access Family are kind, knowledgeable and very thankful for the family-oriented work environment.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I would say my biggest professional challenge is establishing a work life balance. Nursing is a very demanding career, and hours do not always work with an active family. Thankful Access Family understands the importance of flexibility and balance for family life. This is evident both for its employees and their availability to their patients.
Tell us a little about your family. - I have been with my husband for 18 years. We have been blessed with five healthy, active kids, four girls and a boy. They are ages six to 17 years old. We also have three dogs.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Sewing, crocheting, crafting or reading books currently. When the weather's nice I enjoy being outside camping, hiking and tinkering at my parents’ farm.
Who inspires you? - My mom. She chose to go back to school later in life and graduated with her Doctorates the same year my brother graduated high school. She fought and beat cancer. Even though it was a hard fight she did it with a smile on her face while still caring for those around her. She has a big heart, is hardworking, funny and just all around amazing person. I hope to be half the person she is in life.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Focus one doing 1% better every day. After 100 days you will be 100% better then where you started.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - A dog trainer that specializes in service dogs for PTSD, anxiety and mental health services. Dogs have so much to give and love unconditionally. People with mental health conditions have an unseen illness that can be debilitating, but having a dog trained to recognize and decrease the severity of attacks allows individual to be able function living a full life.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Nebraska Hemophilia Foundation. My late best friend has three boys with hemophilia. She was a huge advocate for her boys and others with bleeding conditions.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 858-1510
Meet Wendy Van, CEO at Open Window Solution.
Tell us a little about your business. - Open Window works with mission driven professionals to tell their stories and rally their teams to be great messengers of the mission. I work with businesses, scientists, associations, non-profits and entrepreneurs to get the message right so their audiences not only understand, but put their new ideas into action. Additionally, I help non-profits position themselves engage stakeholders and donors.
How did you get started in the business? - This has been a joy of mine for 30+ years. I’ve worked with a few clients here and there, mostly doing media training. It was when Randy Bretz asked me to be a speech coach for TEDxLincoln that I knew I found a real passion. In my early career, I was a journalist and PR professional working in video, radio, TV news, film, production management and more. Then, I had a long and fulfilling career in non-profit leadership and management, serving 5 different community non-profits over the last 25 years and ending that chapter as the President of the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools. In September 2024, I left the non-profit world and dove into a solopreneurship, where I get to bring all of my experiences and skills together by working with extremely bright visionaries who have cutting edge ideas that are truly world changing. A few months after I launched, I got the chance to thank my high school speech and theater coach, Terry Peterson, on his 80th birthday. I was a shy kid, and he helped me find my voice, and the confidence to share bold ideas about important topics. It really cemented how fortunate I feel to start a second rewarding career changing lives and building meaningful conversations in my community.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - In 2021, I was going through some personal struggles. It was then that I chose to live large. To attract the people and the life that I wished for. As my favorite poet, John O’Donohue said in his poem Morning Offering --To postpone my dream no longer, but to do at last what I came her for and waste my heart on fear no more.” It was then that I started really owning what I was good at and letting go of what I wasn’t. There’s some great perspective in your early 50’s. Things just seemed to fall into place when I started to live with curiosity and authenticity. Since then I’ve taken a 12 day solo camping trip, traveled Europe, bought an old house, leaned into friendships, found love and made time to adore my grown children.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?- After being on the staff side of non-profits for so long, it feels great to get involved with causes that intrigue me. They all share the theme of connection, story and community. I’m the incoming chair of the Angel’s Theater board. (Lincoln’s best kept secret) Angel’s focuses on new plays, with relevant modern topics. It’s magic when the theater brings conversations out in the open, in safe spaces where we can all learn about the human condition. angelscompany.org I also love leadership development and community. I serve on the Leadership Lincoln Board and am a proud alumnus of class 17. Most recently have joined The Foundry Board. Both organizations serve to build community through education, support and common goals. Great people all around! leadershiplincoln.org and thefoundry.co.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Please give me a call! My website is www.theopenwindowsolution. com or I can be reached at 402.540.6906. Open Window provides a secret sauce that serves many purposes.
Yolanda Sifuentez TALON ROOM
Meet Yolanda Sifuentez, a catering lead at Talon Room.
Tell us a little about your business. - I work at the Talon Room. We are a catering business in the heart of downtown Lincoln in the old Spaghetti works building on 12th & Pst. We cater Weddings, Receptions, and work Holiday parties
How did you get started in the business? - I started as an extra part time employee as a busser, and recently been hired full time to help our Head Chef Matt Rogge in the kitchen, the best opportunity I have been given .
Tell us a little about your family. - I Have 4 Beautiful daughters and 10 Beautiful Grandchildren and my precious white westie dog name Lucky jr. They are my World!
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to spend time with my Family and watch my grandkids play their sports basketball and volleyball. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Live it, Do it, Enjoy it.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? I absolutely Love working for the Talon Room because they are involved in many nonprofit organizations. We recently hosted a Fundraising event by providing our Venue ,Food and Beverages at a discounted price for Everybody Get a Chance. Helping youth in our community the opportunity to play sports they reached above their fundraising goal. Also the Talon Room had a event with Brave De and we was in the auction for a in home catering for 16 people that was very nice as well. We also have many groups that we donate food to help our community.
Who inspires you? - My grandchildren the way they are so involved in school, keeping their grades up, sports and other activities. In addition, the way they are breaking stereotypes of children their age by staying off social media.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read . - The last good book I read was the Rain of Gold by Victor Villasenor.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - To contact us you can call or email Matt: 402-6410943 | matt@talonroom.com
The team here at Strictly Business was able to dine in at Salt Mine City Brewing Company located at 801 R St #100 in the Haymarket district. We were welcomed by the atmosphere and able to sit at their high top family style table immediately upon arriving. The Brewing company started out in David City and is now also located in Lincoln.
We started with a flight of 12 beers from their very own brewing company. All of the beers were delicious however, the ones that stood out included: Single Axle American light lager, Jake Break Mango Wheat, Red Lake American light lager, Beachin IPA and Tripple Axle American IPA.
To complement our drinks, we started with a selection of appetizers. The Nachos were a good choice, generously portioned and easily shareable among 4 or more people. We also indulged in the Spinach and Artichoke dip, which was rich and creamy, served with toasted sourdough bread. Another highlight was the Bavarian Pretzels, which were warm, soft and had just the right amount of salt. While the pretzels themselves were tasty, what truly stole the show was their homemade horseradish beer mustard; a flavorful and slightly spicy dip that paired perfectly with the warm doughy pretzels.
For our main entrees, we opted for a variety of sandwiches, with all of the side offerings to go with them. The Classic Reuben was a well executed version of this timeless favorite, featuring corned beef, swiss cheese and thousand island on black stone rye bread. The San Francisco Melt was a savory sandwich packed with a burger patty, muenster cheese, grilled onions and avocado on focaccia bread. The Turkey Melt ended up being the fan favorite of the evening. With smoked turkey, bacon, muenster cheese, tomato, alfalfa sprouts, shredded romaine and mayo on focaccia bread. On the side we tried a variety of their options. The pasta salad, potato salad and side salad were all to be expected but the seasoned fries were fantastic, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
The overall experience at Salt Mine Brewing Company was great. The combination of flavorful, expertly crafted beer and hearty food made for a memorable visit. The Brewery maintains smalltown roots while embracing its new location, delivering a warm and welcoming environment where great beer and good food bring people together. Whether you are a beer enthusiast or just looking to explore new flavors, Salt Mine City Brewing is definitely worth a visit.
Cornhusker Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Grant McGill to Vice President, Relationship Manager, Commercial Lending. Grant’s dedication to building meaningful relationships and providing financial solutions will play a key role in the continued success of the bank’s mission to serve its customers and community.
David Nuismer, Chief Lending Officer remarks, “Grant’s strengths lie in his team-oriented approach and thrives in creating strategies that help customers achieve their goals.”
Grant is also committed to making a positive impact beyond the bank’s walls. He is an active participant in the TeamMates Mentoring Program, where he supports students in achieving their potential and building brighter futures.
Cornhusker Bank remains locally owned, built on trust, integrity and a commitment to the community through the service of local leadership. For more information visit Cornhusker.Bank.
Nebraska Hematology-Oncology (NHO) is excited to announce the appointment of Lisa Jansen as its new Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive national search process. Holding more than 18 years of experience as a healthcare executive and leading highperformance growth organizations, Jansen will conduct all elements of NHO’s vastly growing operations that serve patients with cancer and blood disorders in Southeast Nebraska and beyond.
“We are absolutely elated to welcome Lisa to our practice,” commented Dr. Eric Avery, medical oncologist at NHO. “Her background and knowledge of how to successfully grow healthcare organizations is impressive and her desire to lead an organization dedicated to serving patients first was evident during all our encounters in this search process. Her successes at Nebraska Medicine and throughout her career really speak to her firm grasp of how to run an organization and her collaborative approach will fit in with our already outstanding team of staff and providers.”
Jansen comes to NHO following a successful tenure at Nebraska Medicine, most recently serving as Director of Digestive Diseases, Kidney, Transplant and Specialty Care programs where she implemented strategies that generated triple-digit growth. Prior to this role she held positions as Nebraska Medicine’s Business Manager for Internal Medicine as well as the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Administrator for the Division of Rheumatology and had served in analyst and management positions at Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC).
“I am thrilled to join the physicians and team at Nebraska HematologyOncology,” commented Jansen. “The commitment to provide personalized exceptional care to each patient shines through in all they do and the culture is one I am proud to be part of. I look forward to the future as we work together to serve the patients and our community!”
As the first QOPI-certified and Oncology Medical Home APC4-certified clinic in Nebraska, NHO has been identified as a cancer center that meets the highest standards for quality cancer care. More information about NHO can be found at YourCancerCare.com.
Join us for refreshments and a tour of our mission and discover how Mosaic pursues opportunities for people with disabilities in our communities. Tours are held on the third Wednesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. –12:30 p.m.
mosaicinfo.org/locations/nebraska/southeast-ne
Contact Malindi at malindi.gabelhouse@mosaicinfo.org or 402.429.0088 for more information.
www.pioneerprintinginc.com
Cornhusker Bank is excited to announce the promotion of Chelsy Arkfeld to Area Branch Manager. With 13 years of experience in retail banking and 17 years in customer service, Chelsy brings an impressive depth of knowledge and expertise to her new role.
Having spent nearly a decade with Cornhusker Bank in most every position in retail, she has firsthand experience in the roles in which she oversees, allowing her to effectively connect with her team.
Chelsy is deeply committed to financial education for younger generations as she has volunteered her time doing so for various community programs. “Teaching high school students about personal finance, covering topics like credit scores, student loans, and credit cards, is a cause close to my heart. It’s so important to prepare them for life after graduation,” she explained.
Audrie Bates, Vice President Retail Experience shared, “Chelsy’s experience and passion for helping others succeed makes her perfect for this role. We’re excited to see the positive impact she’ll continue to make.”
Cornhusker Bank remains locally owned, built on trust, integrity and a commitment to the community through the service of local leadership. For more information visit Cornhusker.Bank.
First, meet Albulena Govori. She is a skilled and compassionate Family Nurse Practitioner with a diverse background in cardiac progressive care and the emergency department.
Fluent in three languages, Lena brings a unique ability to connect with patients from all walks of life. She believes quality care is rooted in collaboration, which is why she is proud to be part of Health At Home Consultants.
Lena thrives in the complex and rewarding role of a Family Nurse Practitioner, finding joy in continuous learning to provide the best possible care for her patients.
Additionally, with these changes come with a new logo as well! Their new logo embodies the warmth and comfort of home, reflecting the caring touch we bring to every client interaction. The fresh, vibrant colors signify growth, renewal and their continuous commitment to excellence in healthcare for wherever you call home.
This transformation is more than a new visual identity; it’s a renewed promise to the community. At Health at Home Consultants, they’re not just caregivers— they’re family. Their team is honored to be a part of your healthcare journey, providing support and care that make a meaningful difference in your life. Health at Home Consultants is a group of Nurse Practitioners that are ready to care for you—no matter what that looks like. Learn more at healthathomeconsultants.com.
Dvorak Law Group, LLC is pleased to announce the addition of Stacia L. Palser as a Corporate Attorney at the firm.
“With more than 20 years of extensive legal experience, Stacia brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, strengthening our ability to serve our clients across a wide range of industries.” said David M. Dvorak, President of Dvorak Law Group.
Stacia joins Dvorak Law Group following a distinguished 13-year tenure with the University of Nebraska System, where she most recently served as Vice President and General Counsel. In this role, she acted as the chief legal advisor for the University system’s four campuses—the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK), the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). Her responsibilities included providing comprehensive legal guidance and representation on issues such as corporate governance, employment, litigation, compliance, academic medical center operations, athletics and contracts. She demonstrated particular expertise in real estate, environmental and transactional matters.
During her time with the University, Stacia played a pivotal role in driving innovation through creative legal structures and solutions, including public-private partnerships that facilitated transformational University projects. She also managed a team of 10 attorneys and support staff, ensuring exceptional legal support across all campuses. Additionally, Stacia served as Interim Corporation Secretary, providing critical support to the Board of Regents and facilitating Board meetings.
Before her work with the University, Stacia spent a decade in private practice, focusing on commercial transactions, real estate, environmental law and commercial litigation. Her depth of experience in both public and private sectors positions her uniquely to address the complex legal needs of our clients.
“Having known Stacia for more than two decades, I can personally attest to her remarkable legal talent and commitment to excellence,” added David M. Dvorak. “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome her to the team, and I know she will make an immediate and lasting impact as we continue to provide outstanding service to our clients.”
Stacia holds a Bachelor of Science in Biological Systems Engineering and graduated with honors from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1999. She earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Colorado School of Law in 2002.
Join Dvorak Law Group in welcoming Stacia to its team!
Dvorak Law Group, LLC is a full-service business law firm dedicated to providing clients with exceptional legal services. Based in Omaha, the firm specializes in corporate, real estate, estate and wealth transfer planning and litigation services for businesses and individuals around the region and across the United States.
For more information, visit dvoraklawgroup.com.
At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha. com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.
Depend on our compassionate and experienced staff to provide customized care to meet your needs. Our cost effective services and flexible payment options work in conjuction with all your existing home health or hospice services.
Union Bank & Trust (UBT) recently promoted Mike Hansen to the position of Vice President – Portfolio Manager in Union Investment Management Group (UIMG).
Hansen has been with UBT for seven years, six of which have been with UIMG. In his position, he focuses on equity and fixed income investment research and provides portfolio management services to UIMG, Personal Trust, and Retirement Plan Services (RPS) clients. Hansen has spent the majority of his 35-year banking career managing institutional fixed-income portfolios and has facilitated enhancements to the bank’s bond management and trading processes.
Hansen is a graduate of the University of Nebraska – Lincoln with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He also holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation and is involved in the CFA Institute and CFA Society of Nebraska.
Union Bank & Trust is a privately-owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. The bank has 34 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $8.7 billion and trust assets of $40 billion as of December 31, 2024.
Union Bank & Trust (UBT) recently hired Mackenzie Waldron as Personal Trust Officer in the Personal Trust–Wealth Management division.
Waldron joins the bank with two years of experience in estate planning, trust and estate administration, entity formation and business succession planning. In her role at UBT, she’ll provide a supporting role to senior trust officers in administration of trusts, estates, agencies and conservatorships.
Waldron will also monitor daily operations of trust accounts with the investment officers and assist with the department’s tax reporting process.
A graduate of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln with a bachelor’s degree in math and economics, Waldron completed her juris doctor with highest distinction at the University of Nebraska College of Law, where she was managing editor of the Nebraska Law Review, Volume 98, a member of the Order of the Coif and a recipient of the Guy Cleveland Chambers Award and several CALI Excellence for the Future Awards. She’s a current member of the Nebraska State Bar Association’s Executive Committee of the Elder Law and Special Needs Section and a past volunteer for the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging.
Union Bank & Trust is a privately-owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. The bank has 34 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $8.7 billion and trust assets of $40 billion as of December 31, 2024.
Union Bank & Trust (UBT) recently hired Leslie Wieseler as Corporate Trust Officer.
Wieseler joins the bank with 16 years of business management experience and in her new role will execute documentation requirements to ensure accounts are administered correctly and efficiently, including debt service payments, investment of assets and compliance monitoring. She’ll also participate in the development and implementation of approved policies, procedures, and programs.
A graduate of Bellevue University with a bachelor's degree in business management, Wieseler has served the community as a member of the Parish Council of Catholic Women, and past board member of American Heritage Girls and the Pius Booster Club.
Union Bank & Trust is a privately-owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. The bank has 34 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $8.7 billion and trust assets of $40 billion as of December 31, 2024.
Union Bank & Trust (UBT) recently promoted Blanca Valencia to the position of Multicultural Banking Officer in the Small Business department.
Valencia started her career with the bank in 2019 as a teller and was promoted to Personal Banker in 2022. In 2023, she transferred to the new bank branch at Union Bank Place and was later promoted to the roles of Non-Real Estate Lender and Senior Personal Banker in 2024. In her new role, Valencia will be focused on helping immigrants and multicultural businesses in the Lincoln community to learn the banking system and connecting them with the tools they need to be successful.
A Mexico native, Valencia immigrated to the United States in 2005 and graduated from high school in 2013. She credits the support of the community and access to valuable resources for making the transition as smooth as possible for her. “From an early age, I knew I wanted to help others, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to fulfill that passion through my work at UBT,” Valencia said of her newest role within the bank.
Union Bank & Trust is a privately-owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. The bank has 34 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $8.7 billion and trust assets of $40 billion as of December 31, 2024. Learn more at ubt.com.
Kingery is excited to welcome Kayla Butler to the Kingery team as an Estimator. Kayla began her career as an assistant, immersing herself in every opportunity to learn and grow. She then transitioned into a specialty trade, gaining hands-on experience that fueled her passion for construction. Through dedication and hard work, she advanced into estimating, where she excels. The team at Kingery is thrilled to have her expertise and enthusiasm on board!
Kingery: Confidence in Every Detail. Pride in Every Building Since 1924.
Kingery is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and honesty while delivering cost-effective solutions on time. With exceptional management skills and a strong work ethic, they ensure superior workmanship on every project. Dedicated to lasting relationships, Kingery remains true to its employees, project owners, vendors and partners. Learn more about their commitment at kccobuilders.com.
The Lincoln Saltdogs have announced that Rich Ray has been named the new Broadcasting/Communications Director for the 2025 season. Prior to his time with Lincoln, Ray spent time in college, summerleague baseball as Director of Broadcasting/Media Relations with the Fremont Moo from 2022-2024, in the Independence League Baseball Association, in Fremont, Nebraska. Prior to his time with the Moo, Ray worked in commercial radio for 25 years, with positions at KHUB in Fremont, Nebraska, KJAM in Madison, South Dakota, and KTTT in Columbus, Nebraska. Ray is an award-winning sports broadcaster, receiving numerous recognitions from state and regional broadcast associations. He was named the Nebraska Sports Broadcaster of the Year in 2009 by the Nebraska Coaches Association. Ray was inducted into the Midland University Athletics Hall of Fame in 2022, for his career-long broadcasting contributions. Ray has extensive media relations experience as well, as he served as Sports Information Director at Midland University, in Fremont, from 2006-2011.
Saltdogs General Manager Shane Tritz commented on Ray joining the staff. "I am thrilled to have someone with Rich's experience join our team as the voice of the Saltdogs, as I am confident our fans will enjoy his play-by-play commentary and be treated to a first-class broadcast for all 100 games in 2025 on KFOR 1240 AM/101.5FM."
A native of Blair, Nebraska, Ray received his bachelor’s degree from Midland Lutheran College in 2010, with a major in Broadcast Journalism and a minor in Sports Coaching. Ray will broadcast all of the home and away Saltdogs games during the 2025 season. Once again, the broadcasts will air on KFOR 1240 AM/101.5FM, in Lincoln.
NE Chamber President Bryan Slone recently welcomed Ryan Querry to the NE Chamber team. Querry will serve as Vice President of Membership Development, expanding the Chamber’s membership base and providing the best experience for members spanning the entire state.
“Ryan is adding immense depth to the NE Chamber team with his experience in sales and membership development,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. “His commitment to the state of Nebraska and local businesses will continue to advance not only the NE Chamber, but the state as a whole.”
An Omaha native, Ryan was raised in Louisville, KY and returned to Nebraska in high school. After attending York College to play soccer, he later graduated from Bellevue University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and a minor in Business Administration.
In his 19-year career, Ryan spent time at a Berkshire Hathaway owned insurance company, the San Francisco 49ers, as Chief Revenue Officer at Werner Park, and ultimately founded his consulting firm, Great Plains Sponsorships. Most recently, Ryan served as the Vice President of Development at the Omaha Children’s Museum.
Over the years, Ryan has sat on nonprofit boards and coached numerous teams that accomplished unprecedented sales results. The accomplishments he is most proud of are being married to his wife, Jen, and raising their two kids, Harper and Nash. In his spare time, Ryan loves watching his son play baseball and daughter take the stage as a performer. He's a diehard fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Kentucky Wildcats basketball and San Francisco 49ers. He treasures his time outdoors, whether on the golf course, by the water or in his garage.
The NE Chamber is the largest, statewide business association, proudly serving as the voice of Nebraska’s business community since 1912. The organization promotes and protects Nebraska’s free enterprise system by ensuring a competitive business climate, economic growth and greater prosperity for all Nebraskans. Learn more at nechamber.com.
The twenty-fourth season of Lincoln Saltdogs Baseball will begin on Friday, May 9th, when Lincoln visits the Kansas City Monarchs. Opening night at Haymarket Park will be Friday, May 16th, when the Saltdogs welcome the Winnipeg Goldeyes. First pitch is 7:05 p.m. For tickets, promotional information and to visit the online store, go to www.saltdogs.com.
Strictly Business is excited to welcome Walker Anderson on board as the magazine’s new Art Director. As the Art Director, Walker will be responsible for paginating the magazine, designing advertisements and visual elements, managing press relations and quality control and updating online and digital media presences.
Walker is originally from Kansas City, MO. He graduated from the Creative Center College of Art and Design in Omaha, NE in 2013. In his free time, Walker enjoys fitness, creating digital artwork, and listening to music.
“I am so excited to start a new journey with Strictly Business. I love pushing creative boundaries, and look forward to doing so as the Art Director here!”
Please help Strictly Business welcome Walker! He can be reached at the office at (402) 466-3330 or by email at walker@ strictlybusinessomaha.com . To view monthly articles and stories on Lincoln businesses and other local professionals, go online to strictlybusiness.com.
As the Senior Enrollment Coordinator at Big Brothers Big Sisters, Jalin Gerdes has the privilege of enrolling amazing volunteers (Bigs) and youth/families (Littles) into their program! She gets to match Bigs with Littles by determining who would be a successful match.
Starting her interest in this nonprofit as an undergraduate student, she chose to volunteer at a local mentoring organization as a mentor and work study student. She learned the ins and outs of the organization while also having a firsthand experience of being a mentor, now Jalin has been honing her talent at Big Brothers Big Sisters for nearly a decade and they are so happy to have her!
When she’s not working, she enjoys visiting the library and exploring the outdoors with her four-year-old son and Goldendoodle.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands helps children realize their potential and build their futures. They nurture children and strengthen communities, and couldn't do any of it without you. Their mission is and always will be to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Learn more at bbbsmidlands.org.
Angels Among Us (AAU) welcomed three new members to their Board of Directors for 2025. Its Board of Directors plays an integral role in governing the organization, community connections, process development and support in the mission to assist pediatric cancer families living in or being treated in Nebraska.
Jackie Froendt is the Chief People Officer at Fusion in Omaha, and she became involved with AAU through the Fusion Holiday Party, where families enjoy a night of holiday activities and gifts from Fusion staff. Jackie brings expertise in human resources, organization culture and a passion for serving others.
Nick Heinzman is another addition to the AAU’s Board from Omaha and became involved through volunteering at various AAU family events.
Ryan Maloley is one of the newest Partners at Koley Jessen in Omaha. He got involved the past few years through committee work and has grown in his involvement in being on the Board. Ryan looks to assist AAU with policies to positively impact families supported.
Angels Among Us is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to any family whose child is battling pediatric cancer living in or being treated in Nebraska. Since 2006, over 700 families have been supported with over $5 million in financial support. To learn more, visit myangelsamongus. org or contact Ashley McMurchie at ashley@myangelsamongus.org or (402) 934-0999.
The West Gate Bank® Board of Directors has elected Tanner Fridrich to the role of Business Banking Solutions Officer.
Fridrich is a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He began his West Gate Bank career in 2018 as a teller at the Midtown branch in Lincoln. During his time at West Gate Bank, Fridrich has held various roles in Retail Banking, with his most recent role as Assistant Branch Manager at the West Gate Bank Center location.
As a Business Banking Solutions Officer, he will customize products to enhance business banking portfolios and create additional benefits for businesses, as well as develop and maintain account relationships. Fridrich participates in various bank-supported community activities.
Tanner Fridrich is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Road and can be reached at (402) 323-8907 or tfridrich@ westgate.bank.
West Gate Bank is a family-owned community bank with 10 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. Offering consumer, business and mortgage lending services, West Gate Bank’s interest is its clients every time! Visit westgate.bank for more information.
Nebraska Community Foundation welcomes Amy Sandeen to its team of talented professionals committed to supporting its network of 1,500 volunteers as they build a Greater Nebraska.
Sandeen joins NCF as the organization’s Director of Major Gifts, a role in which she will help individuals, families and businesses make major gifts for the benefit of NCF affiliated funds. Her duties include helping volunteers develop strategies to secure gifts and cultivating and nurturing relationships with donors statewide.
“Amy’s depth and breadth of experience in philanthropy are a welcome addition to the NCF team,” said NCF president and CEO Jeff Yost. “Above all, her passion for rural communities made her an ideal candidate for this new position. We look forward to Amy’s many contributions to our work and growing NCF’s impact across the state.”
Sandeen comes to NCF with extensive nonprofit experience, including 15 years as the executive director for Prairie Loft Center for Outdoor and Agricultural Learning in Hastings. There she designed place-based community engagement programming and developed comprehensive fundraising strategies that prioritized strong donor relationships.
She currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands and serves as treasurer on the Humanities Nebraska Council. She has previously sat on boards or committees for the Center for Rural Affairs, Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce, the Federation for State Humanities Councils and more. As founder of Roots & Ripples LLC, Sandeen has facilitated customized workshops to enhance capacity growth for many nonprofits.
Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
Visiting Angels hired Rebekkah VanDerslice to the Lincoln office team in the client care coordinator role. VanDerslice has been in the healthcare industry for eight years with the vocation to provide kind, compassionate care for aging seniors. As the client care coordinator, VanDerslice will be monitoring and overseeing client care needs throughout their entire experience with Visiting Angels.
"Aging is often such an unnerving process, I want to help lessen the burden of that and bring a sense of control and calmness back into their lives," said VanDerslice.
Visiting Angels is excited to have Rebekkah on the team!
At Visiting Angels, they specialize in providing compassionate, personalized care that enriches the lives of aging adults and ensures their thriving in the comfort of home. Learn more about their mission and what they do at visitingangels.com.
Eventide | Tabitha has named Jeff McGinn as Vice President of System Philanthropy. This new appointment signifies a broader role that encompasses fundraising efforts for the nonprofit organization market-wide, which includes Western Minnesota, North Dakota and Nebraska.
McGinn most recently served as the Vice President of the Tabitha Foundation and prior, as the Executive Director of Advancement, Annual Giving and Membership at the University of Missouri.
McGinn’s career has spanned senior-level fundraising, outreach and advocacy positions. He has served as a board member with Phoenix Academy and College Possible in Omaha and was named as “40 Under 40” in 2019’s Midlands Business Journal.
As he leads fundraising efforts, McGinn will cultivate and nurture relationships with community donors and direct fundraising efforts to assist seniors through Eventide | Tabitha.
“Through Eventide | Tabitha we have wonderful opportunities to shape both the future of senior care in the heartland, as well as the workforce who care for and about older adults. It’s a great honor to put my philanthropic experience to work with such a well-respected community resource,” stated McGinn. “Together, we will continue Eventide | Tabitha’s strong legacy and ensure those who came before us receive the exceptional quality care they need and deserve.”
Committed to excellence in healthcare innovation and impact, McGinn is a member of the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy and holds the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential.
“We are excited to elevate Jeff’s role throughout the organization. We see great opportunities to further support older adults and their families with the help of the generous and engaged communities we have been invited to serve,” shared Jon Riewer, Eventide | Tabitha President & CEO. “He brings a vast knowledge and passion that will lead to new charitable avenues and strengthen much-needed options for seniors.”
Clinic with a Heart welcomes Joanna Calel to the position of Director of Communications. Joanna Calel has studied English and Sociology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and has over two years of experience in communications and social media management. She has previously served as the Culturally Based Fraternal Organizations Summer Intern for the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life (OFSL) at the University of Nebraska Lincoln in 2024 and as the Vice President of Community Engagement and Public Relations for the Multicultural Greek Council also within OFSL. Joanna’s unique experiences in design and storytelling guarantee a new perspective to the image of Clinic with a Heart. Joanna Calel will oversee all digital communications and grant writing for the Clinic.
“I learned to suffer in silence too, to bear pain because my parents couldn’t afford a medical bill. When Clinic with a Heart extended its hand toward me I became another of their patients. This opportunity to help serve my community is healing, and although my strengths don’t lie in my ability to treat patients or diagnose, I can proudly showcase those who do.”
To keep up to date with Clinic with a Heart follow us @ clinicwithaheartlnk on all social media and visit our website clinicwithaheart.org.
Alex Downing was hired this past December as a Financial Services Agent with Farmers Union Midwest Agency (FUMA). He has been in the industry for a year and a half and joins FUMA with the goal of growing his business and helping the local area with all its Life and Health insurance needs, as well as annuities. Reach him at Alex@fumafinancial.com.
With a rich history rooted in the heart of Nebraska and Kansas, Farmers Union Midwest Agency is dedicated to providing insurance protection for individuals, family farms and businesses of all sizes. Its agents are committed to building better communities by safeguarding where its clients work, live and play, taking pride in offering exceptional service that not only meets but strives to exceed expectations.
FUMA’s vision is to be an industry growth leader by providing personalized protection and exceptional service to its agents, customers and Farmers Union members. FUMA will be the premier purveyor of insurance in the Midwest as it creates ongoing professional and financial opportunities to support its agents. FUMA will utilize its market partners, agents and its overall stability to protect its customers and build better, safer communities.
Learn more at fumainsurance.com.
At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha. com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.
Farris Engineering is proud to announce that Chad McCarthy has transitioned into a Business Development role, bringing his technical expertise and client-focused approach to the forefront of the firm’s growth strategy.
With a background in plumbing design, Chad has been an integral part of Farris Engineering, contributing to successful projects across multiple markets. His deep understanding of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection (MEPF) systems allows him to bridge the gap between technical innovation and client needs, making him an asset in building and strengthening relationships.
In his new role, Chad will focus on expanding Farris Engineering’s reach by fostering connections with industry partners, identifying new opportunities, and ensuring that clients continue to receive top-tier engineering solutions. His ability to communicate complex technical concepts in a clear and approachable manner will serve him well as he helps drive the firm’s strategic initiatives forward.
“Chad’s passion for problem-solving and his commitment to client success make him a natural fit for business development,” said Omaha Office Manager Kate Breitenfeld. “He understands the challenges our clients face and is dedicated to providing solutions that make a real impact.”
Chad is eager to take on this new challenge and looks forward to collaborating with both existing and potential clients. His approach centers on understanding their unique needs and aligning them with Farris Engineering’s capabilities to create lasting partnerships. As he steps into this role, he remains dedicated to the firm’s mission of Bringing Your Buildings to Life through innovative and sustainable engineering solutions.
As Farris Engineering continues to evolve, Chad McCarthy’s transition into Business Development marks an exciting step in the firm’s ongoing commitment to delivering client-centered engineering excellence.
For more information about Farris Engineering, please visit farris-usa. com, or contact Chad directly at (712) 227-5201 or via email at cmccarthy@farris-usa.com.
Lincoln native Jadyn Cree secured a spot on Michael Bublé’s team in Season 27 of The Voice after impressing the judges with her performance of Still Into You by Paramore. Both Bublé and Kelsea Ballerini turned their chairs, giving her a tough decision to make. Though this is her first time competing, Cree is no stranger to the show—her father, Bryan Olesen, was a contestant on Season 25, placing third on John Legend’s team. She grew up surrounded by music, watching her father’s career unfold, and even performed on The Voice stage during his audition. In 2022, she joined the ‘80s cover band AMFM as a lead vocalist, helping her gain stage confidence despite still battling nerves. Now on Team Bublé, she’s eager for the journey ahead, leaning on her father’s guidance while carving out her own path in the competition.
Old Cheney Rehabilitation is proud to partner with Deb Bussey, APRN from Community Health Care Partners in efforts to prevent and heal wounds at Old Cheney Rehabilitation. Deb is a certified wound ostomy and continence provider with 33 years of experience in nursing, 10 of those years were spent in the Wound Center at St Elizabeth. After earning her advanced nurse practitioner in 2023, Deb has since obtained her primary care gerontology certification and foot care certifications.
There is an increased need for advanced wound care in the community for those both living at home and completing rehabilitation services in a facility. Deb says, “I have always loved wound care, with the challenges in navigating the barriers that are present in those who are at higher risk for developing wounds and/or delayed wound healing.”
Deb describes herself as a lifelong learner and is working on obtaining her certification in diabetic foot care. She provides education for Old Cheney Rehabilitation’s nursing staff to enhance treatments and prevention of wounds.
Suzanne Gill, Director of Nursing at Old Cheney Rehabilitation shares, “Deb is very easy to work with; she is knowledgeable and patientdriven as she really advocates for patients in helping them reach their health goals. We are lucky to partner Deb as we work together to enhance our patient outcomes here at Old Cheney Rehabilitation.”
Noah Wilger joined the Ashley Freese & Associates team in April of 2024. He is licensed in all lines of insurance and is knowledgeable about all of their American Family policies that they offer including Property, Casualty and life insurance. Noah would love the opportunity to help you with your insurance needs!
Noah was born and raised here in Lincoln. He went to Pius High School and then attended the University of NebraskaLincoln for college. Noah is coming up on his one year work anniversary with us. Please help us congratulate him on this career milestone. You can contact him at (402) 411-9227 or nwilger@amfam.com.
The team at Ashley Freese & Associates is here to serve. Their unique backgrounds, training and experience have prepared them well to help meet your insurance needs. Additionally, as residents of your community, they understand how important it is to be there for youtheir trusted friends and neighbors. Together, they’re building strong partnerships that help everyone succeed. Learn more at amfam.com/ agents/nebraska/lincoln/ashley-freese.
Willet Construction is excited to announce they have two new hires, Jadyn Kirchhoff as a Carpenter and Aiden Krumwiede as an Apprentice Carpenter. Willet is excited to bring them aboard as people who truly care about people and their homes. Jadyn has already been able to put his skills to work on several projects so far, like window installation and addressing chimney rot! Aiden has also been busy! He’s quickly picking up the Willet way with his most recent project being helping on a new pool roof cover!
Willet Construction’s services include complete design/build drawings in threedimensional viewing. Their team has produced projects of all types and sizes including whole house remodels, large and small additions, kitchens, bathrooms, sunrooms, basements, living spaces, attic finishes, siding replacement, window and door replacements, screened in porches, decks and garage additions. Their craftsmanship is seen through trim work, interior finishes, framing, tile setting and flooring. There is no project too big or small for us to create a “top-quality impression.” Learn more at willetconstruction.com.
Strictly Business is excited to welcome Emily Clear as the magazine's new Managing Editor and Coordinator. As the Managing Editor and Coordinator, Emily will be responsible for all of the content in both the Lincoln and Omaha publications, including press releases and feature stories. In addition she will be taking on wide variety of responsibilities, including client correspondence, account management, event planning and networking.
Emily is originally from Orono, Minnesota. She recently graduated from the University of NebraskaLincoln where she gained a Bachelor's in Journalism and Mass Communications. At UNL she majored in Advertising and Public Relations with a minor in English literature. Before Strictly Business she has in TV News, Social Media and Marketing. In her free time she enjoys painting, reading and outdoor activities.
"I am excited about my new position with Strictly Business Magazine. I love writing and this role gives me the creative freedom to write about the positive impact businesses have on our local community," shared Emily.
Please help Strictly Business welcome Emily Clear! Emily can be reached at the office at (402) 466-3330 or by email at emily@ strictlybusinessomaha.com. To view monthly articles and stories on Lincoln businesses and other local professionals, go online to strictlybusiness.com.
Project Pink’d has appointed Ashley Solt to its Executive Advisory Council, recognizing her extensive expertise in real estate development and her inspiring journey as a breast cancer survivor. With over 15 years of experience in the real estate industry, Solt has played a pivotal role in a variety of projects, including affordable and market-rate housing, hospitals, hotels, mixed-use developments, senior living facilities, and acquisitions. As the Co-Owner and Vice President of Mesner Development Co., she oversees every phase of project development, from site acquisition to completion. Her leadership ensures that projects meet the highest standards while fostering effective communication between state agencies, architects, engineers, and city representatives.
Solt has also demonstrated a strong ability to secure funding through competitive applications, working closely with organizations such as the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, Nebraska Investment Finance Authority, Nebraska Department of Economic Development, and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka. Her expertise in tax credits, Affordable Housing Program (AHP) funds, Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), and other financing resources has been instrumental in the success of numerous developments.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska Kearney and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Regis University.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Solt is a breast cancer survivor. Diagnosed in 2023 with no prior family history or high-risk factors, she completed treatment in 2024 and remains cancer-free. She embraces her survivor status with gratitude, using her experience to advocate for early detection and self-advocacy. With her wealth of knowledge and personal resilience, Solt is a valuable addition to Project Pink’d’s Executive Advisory Council, furthering the organization's mission to support and empower breast cancer survivors.
Husker Rehab is excited to announce the addition to their North Lincoln team, Drake Krogh, PTA.
He is the middle child of seven brothers and sisters; they grew up on the north side of Lincoln in a tight mobile home and slowly migrated to the south side of Lincoln. In his free time I enjoy drawing, learning about the human body and spending time with my family.
Drake received his associate of Arts from Iowa Western Community College where he met his wife, Lauren. He then joined the United States Navy as it is a family tradition with his older brother, father and great grandfather all being in, he wanted to carry on the tradition.
He then received his Associates of applied science as a Physical Therapist Assistant in December of 2024 from Southeast Community College. Drake plans to continue on with higher education for his Doctorate of Physical Therapy and then use that degree in the military to become a Doctor. Congrats Drake!
Husker Rehab’s mission is to provide cost effective holistic rehabilitation and occupational health services which exceed their customer’s expectations and maximize functional outcomes in an attractive and caring environment, as well as to provide the opportunity for preventative care and continued self-rehabilitation through wellness center programs. Learn more at huskerrehab.com.
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce welcomed John Goodwin, CEO of The Malone Center. John talked about the programs offered at The Malone Center, their impact throughout the community and how they will grow in the future with their new facility that broke ground in September 2024. This event was their first of four Face the Chamber events for their 2025 Spring Series. Other events throughout the spring will feature Dr. Jeffrey Gold, candidates for Lincoln City Council and Dr. Lance Pérez.
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is Lincoln’s leading business organization representing over 1,700 member businesses providing advocacy and connections to help businesses grow and thrive in Lincoln, Nebraska. They are committed to being a five star accredited collaborative partner in Lincoln’s success as a place of endless opportunities and work closely with our partner organizations. Learn more about their mission at lcoc.com.
Roper and Sons Funeral Home is excited to welcome Leslie Howell into her new role as Creative Director!
Leslie joined the Rope and Sons Funeral Home team in 2018 and graduated from mortuary school last spring. Her passion for helping families create meaningful, personalized services has brought comfort and lasting memories to so many.
Roper and Sons’ experienced funeral professionals are committed to making sure its clients’ service arrangements exceed their expectations. Roper and Sons’ personalized service starts with its clients working with one of its dedicated Funeral Directors who are by clients’ sides at every step of the decision-making process, carefully explaining all options, offering recommendations upon request and overseeing all of the details.
“Ensuring that you and your family’s personal touch is present is our top priority,” says Owner Charles Roper.
For more information on services and general support, visit roperandsons.com.
HopeSpoke’s Gourmet Comfort Classic is back! Save the date Friday, May 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Scottish Rite, for HopeSpoke’s annual fundraiser. The Gourmet Comfort Classic brings the areas’ top chefs together for a comfort food showdown.
This year, guests have the opportunity to sample comfort food from “Around the World” and cast a vote for their favorite. Gourmet Comfort Classic guests will also enjoy live music, a silent auction, raffle drawing and the support of HopeSpoke’s mission–providing hope and healing to children and families in the community. Tickets are $75 each, and there are sponsorships available.
Funds raised at the Gourmet Comfort Classic allow HopeSpoke to make sure no one is turned away due to an inability to pay for mental health therapy. Every year, HopeSpoke serves nearly 1,000 individuals of all ages, with an array of services to help build hope and healing. Contact Maggie Montoya at (402) 475-7666 or mmontoya@hopesopke.org for more information.
Learn more at hopespoke.org.
Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures, the popular, longstanding Lincoln nonprofit, announced their 2025 camp registration opens this Saturday, March 1, at 8 a.m. at BrightLights.org.
Bright Lights has been offering hands-on, STEAM-infused summer learning experiences for students in K-8th grades for almost 40 years. Half-day and full-day camp topics range from art and science to robotics, literature, engineering, culinary and more. STEAM = Science, technology, engineering, art + math.
The 2025 summer camps will take place over five weeks: June 2-6, June 9-13, June 16-20, June 23-27 and July 7-11. Roper Elementary School, 2323 S. Coddington Avenue, will be the main site with additional community locations around Lincoln. Before Care and Lunch Care services are also available at select locations.
With just over 100 half-day and full-day camps to choose from this summer – 40 of them new! – there is bound to be something of interest for almost every student. A few of the new camps include:
• Fossil Frontiers
• History of Video Games
• The Science of the Sport: STEM and Tennis
• Shimmer Time: Gem Art
There will also be returning favorites such as Hogwarts, French Cooking and LEGO® Robotics. Get more information on their website at BrightLights.org/camp/camplist.
Need-based scholarships are available on a first-come, first-served basis as long as funds are available at brightlights.org/scholarships. For a complete schedule, more information and to register, visit BrightLights.org.
Bright Lights is a nonprofit organization that has established a long tradition of offering engaging, high-quality summer learning camps for elementary and middle school students. Learn more at BrightLights.org.
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of local cancer patients by becoming a sponsor for the 2025 Oncology Symposium, hosted by the Heartland Cancer Foundation.
The Oncology Symposium to be held Wednesday, April 23 at the April Sampson Cancer Center brings together healthcare professionals, advocates, and industry leaders for an evening of education, networking, and support.
Sponsorship of the Oncology Symposium is an opportunity to showcase your commitment to corporate social responsibility, network with healthcare professionals, and align your brand with a cause that truly makes a difference in the lives of cancer patients. Various sponsorship levels are available, allowing you to tailor your support to match your company's philanthropic goals.
The Heartland Cancer Foundation is dedicated to ensuring that no cancer patient faces financial barriers to treatment. By becoming a sponsor, you contribute directly to its mission of providing immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in our community, enabling them to focus on their healing journey without the burden of everyday expenses.
As an event sponsor, you not only gain visibility and networking opportunities but also become a vital part of a community-driven initiative to ensure that every cancer patient can focus on healing.
To explore sponsorship options, please contact Chris Blum at chris@ heartlandcancerfoundation.org or visit heartlandcancerfoundation.org.
In 2024, Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) distributed a total of $1,319,000 in Open Door Grants to local nonprofit organizations and scholarships for students. Open Door Grants support efforts by nonprofits in Lincoln and Lancaster County to meet existing needs or address challenges and opportunities facing our community. These grants are made possible by contributions from the Lincoln Forever Fund and LCF donor endowment funds. In 2024, LCF granted $749,000 to 100 local nonprofits. The full list of grants awarded may be viewed at lcf. org/impacting-community/grants-awarded.
Generous donors to Lincoln Community Foundation have established 89 scholarship funds that benefit students in Lancaster County and across the state of Nebraska. For 2024, there were 292 scholarship recipients who received awards that totaled $570,000.
Through partnerships and collaboration, Lincoln Community Foundation facilitates positive change for the common good. Since 1955, the Foundation has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. The Foundation has distributed more than $255 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that improve the lives of Lincoln’s residents. Lincoln Community Foundation is accredited by the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations®. Learn more at LCF.org.
Friendship Home has once again partnered with StarTran, Alpha Media radio stations, Walmart, and Sam’s Club stores for the 26th annual Stuff the Bus event. Stuff the Bus asks the Lincoln community to help Stuff four StarTran buses full of new items needed by the families staying at Friendship Home. The items donated will stock our shelves for the coming year.
Friendship Home volunteers will be at all Lincoln Walmart and Sam’s Club stores on April 12 and 13 handing out need’s lists to shoppers. Anyone is welcome to pick up a list, choose a few items to purchase, and help ‘stuff the bus’ parked outside the store. Cash donations and gift cards are also accepted. To learn more about this event, please visit friendship.org.
Friendship Home is Lincoln’s only safe, confidential emergency shelter for individuals experiencing domestic violence. Services include emergency and transitional shelter, as well as supportive services through safety planning, crisis intervention, support groups and mental health counseling. To access safe shelter and services, please call the 24/seven Crisis Line at (402) 437-9302 to speak with an advocate. Learn more about their mission at friendship.org.
Why sleep when the Universe is putting on a show? Join the Branched Oak Observatory on March 13 for an unforgettable late night under the stars, where participants will trade yawns for gasps of wonder!
It will be a total lunar eclipse—when the moon slips into Earth’s shadow, turning a deep, otherworldly red! Enjoy this “Blood Moon” and the following itinerary:
Arrive and settle in: 11 p.m.
Watch the moon enter Earth’s shadow: 12 a.m.
Totality begins—Prepare to be awestruck: 1:27 a.m.
Totality ends—but the magic continues: 2:33 a.m.
Hot cocoa and coffee will be available to keep everyone wide-eyed and ready for the celestial splendor.
There will also be a Deep Space Exploration opportunity where participants will peer through the Branched Oak’s powerful telescopes and gaze at distant galaxies, shimmering star clusters and colorful nebulae.
This is a night for dreamers, stargazers and all those who dare to defy bedtime in the name of wonder. Bring a blanket, dress warmly and join the Branched Oak for some Late Night Lunacy!
There is an admission fee for this event, $10 adults and $5 for children five to 15 years old. However, it is free for astronomers setting up equipment to share their views with the public. These admission fees help preserve the present and plan for the future, so the Branched Oak thanks everyone in advance for their support!
On January 11, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. held its eighth annual Electronics Recycling Drive to celebrate National Technology Day. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Goodwill collected a total of 4,770 pounds of electronics from donors in the community.
Thanks to Goodwill’s partnership with Dell Reconnect, all electronic donations were resold, refurbished or responsibly recycled. Working electronics were sold in Goodwill’s thrift stores in Lincoln and York, where the revenue helps fund employment services and programs in Southeast Nebraska. Nonworking electronics were shipped to Dell’s recycling centers and broken down in an environmentally responsible manner. By recycling used technology, Dell keeps reusable materials out of the landfill and decreases the amount of e-waste in the environment.
Community members who missed the Electronics Recycling Drive can still drop off their technology–of all brands and conditions–at Goodwill’s Lincoln and York thrift locations during open store hours. Goodwill accepts most electronics and small appliances but cannot accept TVs at this time.
For 93 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been strengthening the Lincoln community by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents a year-round outlet for recycling electronics, household items and clothing. To learn more about Goodwill and these events, follow them on Facebook (@LincolnGoodwill) or visit lincolngoodwill.org.
The Pregnancy Center Partnership Dinner is an annual event to raise funds for this vital, nonprofit, faith-based organization located in the heart of Lincoln, just off O Street. Every month, more than 300 young women in the community visit the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need love and support, and many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center offers comprehensive information about every option available to a woman facing an unintended pregnancy. They also provide confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support and parenting classes all at no cost to their clients or taxpayers.
This annual dinner is set to take place on Tuesday, April 8 at the Embassy Suites downtown. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. and the program starts at 6:30 p.m. The dinner will feature actors Kevin and Sam Sorbo as guest keynote speakers. Tickets are $50 per person and proceeds go to support the work of the Pregnancy Center.
The Pregnancy Center operates as a professional medical clinic with a Medical Director who provides oversight to registered nurses and sonographers on staff. When women visit the Pregnancy Center they receive complete information about pregnancy options, a free pregnancy test and an ultrasound. Learn more at pregnancycenterpartners.org.
Registration is open for the 2025 Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games, with space limited to just 50 companies per city. Businesses looking to promote health, wellness, and team building are encouraged to secure their spot before capacity is reached.
The Corporate Games offer a unique opportunity for companies to engage employees in friendly competition across a variety of events. With options for both physical and non-physical challenges, employees of all abilities can participate. Points are awarded based on both participation and performance, with an overall company champion crowned at the end of the competition.
“The Corporate Games are about more than competition—they’re about bringing employees together, fostering camaraderie, and promoting workplace wellness,” said Dave Mlnarik, Nebraska Sports Council President. “With limited space, we encourage companies to register early to guarantee participation.”
The Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games will take place from August through October, offering a fun and engaging way for businesses to strengthen their workplace culture. Whether competing to win or simply participating for team spirit, companies will find plenty of opportunities to connect and celebrate together.
For more information or to register, visit LincolnCorporateGames. com and OmahaCorporateGames.com. Don’t miss the chance to take part in this exciting corporate tradition!
Wanting to know more about the health and care of your child? Look no further than the Kids Health Fair, hosted by the College View Seventh-day Adventist Church! Join them for this FREE community health fair for kids (ages three - 12) and their families! This event will offer a smoothie bar and kid-friendly health information and education, booths, resources and so much more!
Join them for four interactive activity zones:
• Mental Health
• Dental Hygiene
• Sports and Games
• Hands-On Cooking Demo
The fair takes place on Sunday, March 2, from 1:30 to 3 p.m., and tickets are available at subspla.sh/v3pg8zz. For more information contact them at Nicole.broushet@collegeviewchurch.org, or (347) 931-5922.
College View Church is a Seventh-day Adventist congregation on a mission to involve joyful followers of Jesus in changing our community with love. Learn more at collegeviewchurch.org.
March is National Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Awareness (NIDDA) Month. Meant to create awareness about the importance of including people with IDD in all facets of community life, Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska will kick off its own NIDDA educational and awareness campaign with the theme, “Belonging Matters.”
“A large part of helping people with IDD and other diverse needs to fully lead the lives they choose is by advocating community participation. Equal belonging matters not only to the people we support, it also matters to our communities as a whole,” said Odessa Schoneberg, Area Director. “Social welcoming of diverse people creates a harmonious, vibrant society where everyone’s participation and contribution matters and is respected.” Mosaic is a nonprofit, whole-person healthcare organization that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other diverse needs across 12 states in more than 750 communities. As its mission is to “relentlessly pursue opportunities that empower people,” Mosaic’s ultimate goal is to help people it serves to have full, meaningful lives and to make their own choices that reflect their personal goals and aspirations.
“In order for us to help those we support to equally participate in their communities, we greatly depend on and want to inspire potential community partners such as businesses, churches, charities, civic organizations and others to employ them, include them in worship, offer volunteer and group recreation opportunities and more. Those partners make a real, positive impact on their lives and the community as a whole,” added Shoneberg.
To find out more about how partnering with Mosaic helps people with IDD become active in their communities in varying ways, contact Malindi Gabelhouse at (402) 477-2101 or malindi.gabelhouse@ mosaicinfo.org, or visit mosaicinfo.org/nidda-month.
In addition, Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is hosting a free, one-hour Discover The Possibilities event on April 16 at 11:30 a.m. Members of the community are invited to participate in the event.
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Whether one is a seasoned bowler or just looking for fun, any and all participation in Voices of Hope’s 14th Annual Strike Out Sexual Assault Bowl-a-Thon event will help raise awareness about sexual assault and fund crucial programs for prevention, education and survivor support. The event will take place on April 5,, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at Sun Valley Lanes & Games (321 Victory Lane).
Participants will not only have a great time, but also make a real impact in the lives of those affected by sexual violence—ensuring survivors have access to critical resources and contributing to a safer, more supportive community.
Register and get more information by contacting, Marla Sohl, Voices of Hope Sexual Assault Services Coordinator, or by visiting voicesofhopelincoln.org.
Voices of Hope’s mission is to provide services to victims and their significant others who are faced with the traumatic aftermath of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, incest and childhood abuse and to provide information about these crimes for the purposed of citizen awareness, prevention and to enhance the sensitivity and professional understanding of those who may work with individuals with these problems.
Voices of Hope helps ensure that all victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as their families and communities, receive responsive, empowering services and support that meet their needs, both individually and culturally, through advocacy and education. Learn more at voicesofhopelincoln.org.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln is excited to bring back its signature fundraiser, Bowl for Kids’ Sake! Members of our community are invited to raise funds by asking family and friends to help them hit their fundraising goal. To show gratitude, BBBS celebrates their efforts with 90 minutes of FREE bowling, pizza, drinks, prizes and more at a local bowling alley. This year, our celebration will be at Sun Valley Lanes & Games on Friday, May 2nd!
Registration for individuals and teams is available now at the following link: bit.ly/bfkslnk2025.
Sponsorship opportunities are also available! To learn how you can maximize the impact by partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters, please contact Amber C. Nore, Director of Community Engagement, at anore@bbbslincoln.org or by calling (402) 281-4899.
Vision Maker Media and The Ross Media Arts Center Native American Film Series 2025 are screening For the Rights of All: Ending Jim Crow in Alaska, a docudrama that tells the story of an extraordinary Alaskan woman who becomes an unlikely hero in the fight for civil rights. Elizabeth Peratrovich (Tlingit) testified before the Alaska Territorial Senate in 1945, and with her compelling testimony swayed the vote for the passage of the Anti-Discrimination Act, the first civil rights bill passed in the United States since the Civil War. Following the film will be a pre-recorded presentation with legal historian Katrina Jagodinsky, examining marginalized peoples’ engagement with nineteenth-century legal regimes and competing jurisdictions throughout the North American West.
Join us Monday, March 10, at 7 p.m. at The Ross. Admission is free and open to the public. For all shows and times, visit theross.org or call The Ross hotline at (402) 472-5353.
Global Ties Nebraska officially marked its rebranding with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, January 29, at The Foundry Community in downtown Lincoln. The event served as both a celebration and a formal introduction of the organization’s new identity, transitioning from the Lincoln Council for International Visitors (LCIV) to Global Ties Nebraska.
The ceremony featured remarks from Derek Feyerherm, Vice President of Operations and Development for the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, and Crystal Bock Thiessen, Executive Director of Global Ties Nebraska. Attendees included members of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Global Ties Nebraska board members, organization members, and community supporters.
Following the ribbon cutting, guests enjoyed a reception, celebrating the organization’s continued commitment to fostering international connections and citizen diplomacy. The rebranding reflects Global Ties Nebraska’s expanded mission of connecting Nebraska to the world.
"As we step into this new chapter as Global Ties Nebraska, we reaffirm our dedication to building bridges between our Nebraska communities and the world," said Crystal Bock Thiessen. "Through citizen diplomacy, we create more personalized opportunities for meaningful global engagement, professional exchanges, and crosscultural understanding right here in the Heartland."
Board president, Jill Wightman , stated that “whether through meetings between professional peers or sharing a family dinner in a local home, we believe these cultural exchanges are the building block to creating a safer and more prosperous world for everyone.”
For almost 60 years (since 1966), the organization has worked to facilitate international exchanges through programs such as the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), in partnership with the U.S. Department of State. The new Global Ties Nebraska identity reinforces this commitment as a local affiliate of the national organization, Global Ties U.S.
For more information about Global Ties Nebraska and upcoming events, visit globaltiesnebraska.org.
Vision Maker Media envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. The Native American Film Series showcases films to illuminate and educate audiences about Native people’s past and present lives and experiences. Screenings in this series are on the second Monday of each month in 2025.
Vision Maker Media’s mission is empowering and engaging Native people to share stories. For more information, visit visionmakermedia. org.
Lincoln Christian Businessmen’s Connection (CBMC) provides numerous opportunities for one-onone Christian mentoring, fostering spiritual growth within the context of meaningful relationships. One of their key tools is Operation Timothy, a proven and widely used discipleship program inspired by the Apostle Paul’s mentoring of Timothy. Designed for individuals seeking answers to life’s challenges or those eager to deepen their faith, Operation Timothy has been embraced globally by CBMC, churches, and other ministries.
This program is active in over 140 countries, fulfilling Jesus’ command in Matthew 28:19 to "go into all the world and make disciples." It is a transformational journey that also equips leaders to purposefully integrate their faith into their work. The curriculum includes three study books—Life Questions, Life Foundations and Life Perspectives— available for free online at advance.cbmc.com. Hard copies can be purchased on Amazon. For more details, reach out to Larry at (402) 204-1997 or email lincoln@cbmc.com.
CBMC helps men grow personally, professionally, and spiritually. As part of a global movement of men dedicated to bringing Christ to the marketplace, Lincoln CBMC is connected to a larger network spanning 350 U.S. cities and nearly 100 countries. To learn more about Lincoln CBMC, connect with them on Facebook or LinkedIn, visit Lincoln.cbmc.com or call (402) 204-1997.
Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) was proud to attend the 2025 Keep America Beautiful (KAB) National Conference in Washington, D.C., from February 10-13. This annual gathering brought together affiliates from across the country to share ideas, undergo training and celebrate achievements in community sustainability.
During the conference, KNB participated in affiliate training sessions designed to strengthen their programs and operations. They also had the opportunity to hear from fellow KAB affiliates, learning from their successes and challenges. The energy and innovative ideas shared throughout the event will help KNB continue to enhance their efforts here in Nebraska.
One of the highlights of the conference was Day on the Hill, where they met with Nebraska’s state representatives to discuss the importance of litter reduction, sustainability effort, and their upcoming Greatest American Cleanup. Advocating for Nebraska’s environmental initiatives on a national level was an inspiring experience, reinforcing the importance of their mission.
KNB was also thrilled to celebrate one of their own—Keep Keith County Beautiful, a Nebraska affiliate, received the Keep America Beautiful Innovation Award for programs serving populations of 30,000 and under. Their dedication to sustainability and community engagement is truly commendable, and KNB are proud to see their efforts recognized on a national stage.
Attending this conference reaffirmed their commitment to keeping Nebraska beautiful, and they’re excited to implement the insights and strategies they gained. They look forward to another year of growth, collaboration and impact! Learn more on their website knb.org!
The YMCA of Lincoln held its annual meeting last month to celebrate the organization’s accomplishments, honor its volunteers and corporate partners, and ratify board members.
Joining the YMCA of Lincoln Board of Directors for their first term is Alex Cassidy (Lutz), and reelected for a second term are Kelly Brunkhorst (Nebraska Corn Board) and Jennifer Dougherty (West Gate Bank).
Officers for the 2025 Board of Directors include: Kelly Wieseler, Chair (Ameritas); Stacy Brass, First Vice Chair (Union Bank & Trust); Chris Lindner, Second Vice Chair & Treasurer (Forvis); Matt Frederick, Secretary (UBS); and Lori Druse, Ex-Officio (Deloitte & Touche LLP).
The Executive Committee at Large includes: Blake Anderson (Pittenger & Anderson, Inc); Kaye Jesske (Bridge to Better Living); and Curt Hartter (Universal Surety/Inland Insurance).
The YMCA of Lincoln recognized Lincoln Industries with the 2024 Corporate Partner Award, Ann Ringlein with the 2024 Outstanding Volunteer Award, and Claire Savage with the 2024 Outstanding Youth Character Award.
The YMCA of Lincoln has served the community for over 150 years, promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind, and body for all. To learn more about volunteering for the YMCA, visit YMCALincoln.org or contact your local YMCA branch.
West Gate Bank , we prioritize the unique financial needs of businesses by offering checking accounts that suit various transaction requirements and account balances.
Nine out of ten people who suffer cardiac arrest outside the hospital die. In most of those cases, bystander CPR was not performed, but this can be changed.
Cardiac arrests happen at work, in homes, on athletic fields and in neighborhoods everywhere, and the readiness of the community can be the difference between life and death.
It's time to unite, take action and save lives. The American Heart Association’s goal is to have one person in every household confident and prepared to perform CPR. The American Heart Association invites YOU to join the Heart Walk to broaden its impact by turning bystanders into lifesavers. The Heart Walk is set for May 10 at 8:30 a.m. in Antelope Park.
Register at lincolnheartwalk.com to take the first step in saving lives. Every walker who joins, every dollar donated, means more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone. Learn more at heart.org.
Child Evangelism Fellowship of Lincoln will host its annual fundraising banquet on April 4 at the Calvary Community Church (4400 N 1st St.). Dinner, catered by Chef-a-Chef, will begin at 6:30 p.m. with doors opening at 6:00 pm.
Discover how the Bible, prayer and the Gospel is being taken into public elementary schools and how it is positively impacting the lives of children, families and the school through the Good News Club® (GNC®). This dynamic, after-school Bible club has been ongoing in the Lincoln public schools since 2004.
In addition, come hear the exciting stories of the lives of children who have been impacted through the Summer Good News Club ministry. If you are unable to attend the event, CEF is encouraging donations to support this life-impacting ministry to children, and through your gift, help it expand to reach even more children and their families. Register for or inquire about sponsoring this exciting and uplifting banquet at (402) 484-7877, office@ceflincoln.org or on the web at www.ceflincoln.org.
The Nebraska Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship is part of the world’s largest and oldest children’s ministry. Established in 1937, the global ministry has reached over 250 million children with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are unique in that they focus specifically on elementary children ages 5–12. CEF of Nebraska’s Good News Club (GNC) is an after-school club during the school year that primarily meets in local public schools.
Nebraska Diaper Bank (NDB) is thrilled to launch its first-ever diaper drop-off location in Lincoln at Once Upon A Child. Community members can now conveniently donate diapers—including open packages and leftover diapers— at this location. All donations will be transported to NDB’s warehouse, where they’ll be bundled and distributed to families in need.
Access to clean diapers is essential for a baby’s health and wellbeing, yet many families struggle to afford them. In 2024, NDB distributed over 3.4 million diapers, with a goal of 3.7 million diapers for 2025. In Lincoln alone, NDB provided 524,720 diapers to 1,306 babies last year.
Want to make a difference?
• Become a Diaper Drop-Off location – Businesses, offices and organizations can collect diapers for Nebraska families.
• Volunteer at a Diaper Wrap – Help count, sort and bundle diapers for distribution.
• Schedule a Mobile Wrap – NDB brings the diaper-wrapping experience to your business or group—just sponsor diapers and donate your time!
NDB currently supports 650 babies each month in Lincoln, and volunteers are key to making this possible. To schedule a diaper wrap or mobile wrap, contact NDB at (402) 557-8205 or email mikaela@ nebraskadiaperbank.org. Learn more at nebraskadiaperbank.org.
CASA for Lancaster County is seeking volunteers. A training session for new volunteers is set to begin on March 25th. This is a six-week training course held on Tuesday nights from 6 to 9 p.m. All training sessions will be held at CASA for Lancaster County, 1141 H St., STE C on the third floor.
CASA volunteers are trained community advocates who are assigned to abused/ neglected children who are in Juvenile Court through no fault of their own.
CASA volunteers have a court order that gives them access to the child and to all their records so that the CASA volunteer can gather information and determine the needs of the child. This is done by gathering information from all interested and concerned parties to determine the facts as well as reviewing all records and documents.
CASA volunteers get to know the child and they communicate the child’s needs and wishes to the judge along with their own recommendations for next steps. CASA volunteers are required to attend approximately 30 hours of pre-service training and 12 hours of in-service (continuing education) annually and are supervised by a CASA staff person.
In 2024, CASA served 288 children, trained 28 new volunteers, and had 117 volunteers assigned to children. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a volunteer or about CASA for Lancaster County, go to www.casa4lancaster.org/advocate-forchildren.
Since 2019, the National Association of Local Health Directors (NALHD) has been co-hosting the Nebraska Public Health Conference. This hybrid event brings together hundreds of Nebraska’s public health practitioners, researchers, students and collaborators. The conference takes place on April 1-2, in La Vista.
The topic of this event will be modernizing Nebraska’s public health system. It’s all about sustaining what works, improving what can be better and imagining a healthier future. Attendees will enjoy a hybrid experience, with both in-person and virtual opportunities to engage with thought leaders, innovative ideas and peers.
The Nebraska Public Health Conference brings together over 400 attendees—including local and tribal health department leaders, state officials, academics and students—to inspire collaboration and reimagine what public health can be. Together, they’ll explore continuous quality improvement, community-led efforts and transformative partnerships to ensure all Nebraskans thrive. Register today at nepublichealthconference.org.
NALHD supports local public health departments by building partnerships, systems and infrastructures that enhance their capacity. Learn more at nalhd.org.
The Bridge Behavioral Health is excited to announce that The Bridge Connect is now open Monday through Friday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 721 K Street, Lincoln, NE 68508. Their mission remains the same: to offer a warm meal, a safe space and the chance to build new connections. Visitors can enjoy a hot meal, relax in comfortable indoor seating and charge their electronic devices, all while our team provides support and guidance. They also offer a safe, caring environment for your pets with a kennel and snacks, ensuring both you and your pet feel cared for. If you have any questions, please reach out to Ed Thornbrugh, Executive Director, at (402) 413-2203. Together, they are building a community, one connection at a time!
At The Bridge Behavioral Health, they believe recovery is possible, and they’re here to help every step of the way. The Bridge offers a range of treatment programs for men 19 years and older, designed to address the root causes of substance misuse and help individuals cope with personal trauma and life skills. In addition to residential treatment, they provide a voluntary, medically supervised withdrawal/detoxification program to safely assist clients in withdrawing from substances such as alcohol, opioids, benzos, fentanyl and meth. Their substance use respite program offers clients 5-7 days in a safe, structured environment to evaluate treatment options. We also offer outpatient services, including substance use evaluations, to support individuals on their recovery journey. Contact the Bridge Behavioral Health at (402) 477-3951—they are glad to help!
The Alzheimer’s Association offers educational programs to help your group understand Alzheimer’s, dementia and brain health. Whether you need a brief overview or an in-depth discussion, we’ll tailor the program to fit your needs. Sessions range from 15 to 60 minutes and cover key topics like risk factors, warning signs and healthy aging. Program Options:
• Healthy Living for Your Brain & Body (30/60 mins): Learn about research-backed lifestyle choices—diet, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement—to promote brain health.
• 10 Warning Signs (30/60 mins): Understand common dementia warning signs, how to address memory concerns, and the importance of early detection.
• Dementia Conversations (30/60 mins): Get tips for discussing tough topics like medical visits, driving, and financial planning with loved ones.
• Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia (30/60 mins): Explore the impact of Alzheimer’s, stages, risk factors, current research and available treatments.
• Awareness Presentation (15 mins): A brief introduction to the Alzheimer’s Association, its resources and ways to get involved.
• Managing Money – A Caregiver’s Guide to Finances (60 mins): Learn tips for managing someone else's finances, how to prepare for future care costs and the benefits of early planning. View upcoming presentations at alz.org/nebraska. To learn more or schedule a class for your group or company, please contact Sadie Hinkel at (402) 739-8637 or sshinkel@alz.org. All classes are free and presented virtually or in person.
The Arc of Lincoln was initially organized in 1952 and incorporated in 1967 by a group of parents committed to promoting and protecting the rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc of Lincoln's longstanding mission has been to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to promote and protect their rights and interests, while enriching the quality of their lives.
With the support of The Arc of Lincoln, family members of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities no longer have to feel alone and gain access to valuable resources and a supportive network that provides encouragement and assistance during crises. Families are reassured that their loved ones are given every opportunity to succeed, with service providers monitored and held accountable. This peace of mind helps families adopt a more positive outlook, stay focused and reduce absenteeism at work.
The Arc of Lincoln helps educate employers, friends, neighbors and the community, fostering greater awareness and understanding of intellectual and developmental disabilities, so it is excited to host the following events during the month of March:
• March 8 from 10 to 12 p.m: Beat the Winter Blues.
• March 11 from 5:30 to 7 p.m: Inclusive Girl Scouts Club
• March 13 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m: Dine Out for The Arc of Lincoln at Don & Millies (84th and O St.)
• March 20 from 4 to 5:30 p.m: Friendly Faces (ages 12-18)
• Mach 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m: NASP Annual Conference at Cornhusker Marriott
• Call to register: (402) 320-5319
• March 25 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m: The Arc of NE Senatorial Dinner at Cornhusker Marriott
• Call (402) 475-4407 for tickets
• March 27 from 6 to 7:30 p.m: Parent Resource Fair with LPS at LPSDO (5905 O St.)
• March 28 from 5:30 to 7 p.m: Come Together Adult Social Club
The Arc is a respected leader and trusted partner, known for its integrity and community impact. Staff and volunteers find their work meaningful, embrace leadership roles and engage in personal and professional growth.
To learn more, visit advocacypartnership.org or call their offer at (402) 421-8866.
At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.
For every $1 donated to the Food Bank of Lincoln, they can provide about two meals for neighbors facing hunger. Which means that one single dollar can mean a world of difference for someone who doesn’t know where their next meal is coming from.
To learn more, check out their website at lincolnfoodbank.org, and save the date for these upcoming opportunities to help alleviate hunger!
Dates include:
Saturday, April 26, Extra Mile Walk: Help put an end to child hunger in the communities. Fundraising is now open! Thanks to the Acklie Charitable Foundation, each dollar donated to the walk is being matched—up to $200,000.
Tuesday, May 27, Empty Bowls Luncheon: Enjoy soups from local chefs and pick out your own handcrafted pottery bowl from Down Under Pottery. Tickets go on sale March 10.
Thursday, May 29, Give to Lincoln Day: A community-wide day of giving to support local non-profits.
Your time and support will have a lasting impact on the neighbors in Southeast Nebraska. Every action counts and together, they can make a significant difference in the community.
Food Bank of Lincoln’s mission is to alleviate hunger in Southeast Nebraska. They are a proud member of Feeding America. Learn more at lincolnfoodbank.org.
If you’re in Belmont, get ready for some exciting new developments! NeighborWorks Lincoln is proud to announce they have a couple new build projects coming near you, including:
• 1028 Furnas Avenue (Lincoln Northeast High School Student Build Project)
• 1212 Garber Avenue
• 1218 Garber Avenue
• 1224 Belmont Avenue
They would love to hear from you! Whether you have questions, ideas or concerns about these projects or their work in the community, they are here for you!
Feel free to reach out and chat with the team! Drop them a message or contact their Community Builder, Brent Lucke, at brent.lucke@ nwlincoln.org.
For more information on all of their projects, check out nwlincoln. org/our-work/red/new.
NeighborWorks Lincoln is a nonprofit community housing development organization that actively partners with residents, businesses and public officials to increase the supply of affordable housing and strengthen neighborhoods. They open doors for people to achieve their dreams of home ownership and for others who are committed to strong and inclusive neighborhoods. Learn more at nwlincoln.org.
At Apace, safety is at the heart of everything they do. Some of their Day Centers are already equipped with life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), but they need your help to ensure every center in the region has one.
Your contribution can make a difference in ensuring quick, critical response times during emergencies and creating a safer environment for all those they serve.
• Donate to help them install AEDs in the remaining locations.
• Make sure to get the word out about this campaign.
• Together, we can make every second count.
Apace’s goal is to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in Southeast Nebraska. The Apace Foundation helps provide services that may not be available through using funding methods. They strive for a community where those who experience disabilities are included. By providing tools and resources, they educate the public and connect members of the community. Learn more at goapace.com.
Foster Care Closet has been giving clothes to kids for 18 years. They are passionate about restoring dignity to youth in crisis and make sure to ask kids what they want when they come to the stores and shopping events. They work hard to have clothes kids can feel confident and comfortable in.
This year they have to move their facility from the Bottling Company building at 25th and Randolph to a new location at 643 S 25th St. This move will be expensive but is necessary for the growth they are having. They are hoping to find a facility that can house all of the clothes we have been purchasing in one level to ease the frustrations they currently have with their multi-level space. They’re looking for:
• Backpacks and Duffle Bags - all sizes
• Pull-ups - in all sizes for boys and girls - especially size 4/5
• Diapers - in all sizes 4, 5, 6
• New Pajamas - boys and girls in all sizes
• Dental Health Supplies - kid flavored toothpaste
• Twin Size Fleece Blankets - especially for teen children
• Hair Care Products - shampoo/conditioner, combs, brushes - please remember they have children of all nationalities entering into foster care and we need hair care products for all hair types
• Personal Hygiene Products
• New Car Seats - for babies and small children. For information regarding donating at their other locations, please call (402) 853-9990.
Foster care is a journey, not a destination. Foster Care Closet is here to help support youth through the entire foster care journey. Learn more at fostercarecloset.org.
The Junior Achievement Young Professionals Board is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated Trivia Night 2025 – Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader? Join us for an exciting evening of trivia, food, games, a silent auction, and more – all in support of Junior Achievement programs!
Event Details:
• Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
• Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Location: Spikes Beach Bar & Grille 2300 Judson Street
Gather your team of four and put your knowledge to the test as you compete for the coveted title of being Smarter Than a 5th Grader! The event will feature four to five rounds of trivia, each with 10 engaging questions that will challenge participants of all ages.
Enjoy a delicious dinner and desserts (included with your entry fee), take advantage of the cash bar, and participate in the silent auction, raffles, and games for a chance to win amazing prizes.
All proceeds from the event will go directly toward supporting Junior Achievement programs, which help inspire and prepare young people for success in their academic and professional journeys.
For more information, to register your team, or to become a sponsor, please contact Kennedie Sutton at ksutton@jalincoln.org or call (402) 467-1010.
Come out for a night of fun, friendly competition, and community support – and see if you really are Smarter Than a 5th Grader!
The 2025 Strong Communities Luncheon is an inspiring event dedicated to building a healthier, more resilient community. This luncheon will feature powerful stories of transformation and perseverance, including those of Willie Miller, a former Husker and Daisy Award-winning nurse, who will share his journey of overcoming addiction and homelessness. Juan Carlos Huertas, a minister devoted to reconnecting congregations with their communities, will also speak at the event.
The luncheon is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at the Embassy Suites in Lincoln. Tickets are available for $85 and can be purchased by scanning the QR code or visiting https://ow.ly/hwgp50UWTME.
Support for this event directly impacts the individuals and families served. This is an opportunity to contribute to a movement that strengthens the community.
Every Spring, the Hope Venture gathers everyone they can to run. Not for themselves, but for others. They put on crazy costumes, toss back a few donuts, and run to bring education to children in India and Bangladesh. This year, they hope to raise enough money to distribute 3,000 backpacks with supplies. Join them in the adventure and run for hope. The run takes place on Saturday, April 12, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Registration is open now at thehopeventure.org/run. Not a runner? No worries, there are other ways you can get involved! This event wouldn’t be possible without a rad crew of sponsors and volunteers, so join the team!
The Hope Venture is a non-profit organization existing to bring hope and dignity to the most disadvantaged people in the world. They’re using education and health projects to bring hope to people in India, Bangladesh, Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. Learn more at thehopeventure.org.
Get ready for two days of dog-friendly, family-oriented fun this spring at the I Love My Dog Expo!
The I Love My Dog Expo is a perfect opportunity to visit your favorite vendors for dogrelated products and services or find your new best friend at one of several rescue organizations in attendance. Join thousands of pet lovers in the area and learn about responsible dog ownership. The event includes entertainment, games, training demonstrations and, of course, plenty of shopping. The Expo attracts dog lovers of all ages and interests. It’s also fun for those who don't have a dog and just want to come, check out the cool canines, and be a part of the festivities.
Whether you have a question for your favorite vet, want to purchase a new leash and collar, find unique dog-related home apparel or décor or learn a new trick; visit the I Love My Dog Expo, Saturday, March 22 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, March 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Sandhills Global Event Center. Learn more and purchase tickets at ilovemydogexpo.com.
Domesti-PUPS is 501c3 community organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for persons with special needs through the assistance of animals, and to promote awareness through education. Learn more at domesti-pups.org.
Please join Down Syndrome Advocates in Action (DSAA) on March 15 to help them celebrate their 10th annual Lincoln Buddy Walk! They are excited to be celebrating a decade of advocacy in honor of World Down Syndrome Day.
Join their walk to create a louder single voice advocating for the rights, inclusion and well-being of people with Down syndrome.
Create or join a team in honor of your favorite person with Down syndrome at charity.pledgeit.org/dsaabuddywalk. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out through their website at dsaane.org.
DSAA is a 501(c)3 not for profit formed by advocates with over 30 years of experience, who want to promote inclusion and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome of all ages in the state of Nebraska. They hope to encourage families to be an active participant in helping all individuals with Down syndrome to achieve their full potential. Learn more at dsaane.org.
It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You!
At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com or submit your news at strictly-business.com.
People’s City Mission Homeless Shelter (PCM) was originally built to house between 250 and 280 guests. Beds have been added to expand that capacity, but it is still a tight fit. On February 12, People’s City Mission had a record 430 people in its shelter.
That means that between the men’s and women’s temporary housing units, over 140 men, women and children were sleeping on mattresses on the floor. In extreme weather conditions, such as those these past few months, PCM does not turn anyone away. This increase in demand for emergency housing emphasizes the need for an expansion of PCM’s facility in the very near future.
People’s City Mission will continue to do everything possible to meet the needs of those experiencing homelessness in Lincoln and is grateful for the ongoing and generous support from the community.
With that, People’s City Mission is in need of Twin XL mattresses and sheet sets, which can be found on its Amazon wish list. This link and more information about PCM can be found on PCM’s homepage, pcmlincoln.org.
Volunteers have been the heart and soul of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach since its first meal was served in 1992. Most meals are provided, prepared and served by volunteer teams who come to the kitchen on a regular, ongoing schedule. If one is interested in volunteering, one can choose from three options:
Provide, Prepare & Serve: Purchase the ingredients, prepare the food and serve the meal. This option is Matt Talbot’s traditional model and allows it to save on food costs and invest in other prevention programs like housing and case management.
Pay & Serve: Make a $300 donation to cover food costs. Matt Talbot prepares the meal and the volunteer team comes in to serve. This option saves on food costs and requires less of a time commitment from volunteers.
Sides & Serve: Bring side dishes. Matt Talbot prepares the main entree and the volunteer team serves the meal. By providing partial coverage of the meal, this option also allows to save on food costs. Matt Talbot serves individuals and families who are struggling to maintain housing or who are experiencing homelessness. Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and dinner is served from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Matt Talbot serves an average of 125 meals during each serving period. For many, meals at Matt Talbot are their main source of daily nutrition, and in some cases, it allows the household to save on food costs to pay for other basic needs such as rent. While on-site for a meal, guests can access outreach and homeless prevention programs such as laundry, showers, substance use services and housing.
Contact Victoria O'Neil, Director of Hunger Relief and Volunteerism, at victoria.oneil@mtko.org or (402) 817-0623 with questions or to see a list of open volunteer dates. Learn more at mtko.org.
On Saturday, March 15, Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska will hold its 2025 Celebration of Hope Gala & Silent Auction at Embassy Suites, 1040 P St. New this year is the silent auction and bidding can only be done online. This means you don’t have to attend the gala in-person to bid on great items such as getaways to Breckenridge, the Ozarks and Grand Cayman. Other great items include concert tickets, dining packages, Nebraska football tickets (including four tickets to the season opener against Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium), a wine tasting and much more. Bidding opens Wednesday, March 5, and will conclude on the evening of Saturday, March 15th. Scan the QR code accompanying this article to register on Handbid to get updates on items and when bidding begins.
Proceeds from Celebration of Hope Gala & Silent Auction will benefit the work of CSS across southern Nebraska. CSS programs include Family Support Services/Food Market & Meal Services, Immigration Legal Services, Refugee Resettlement Services and St. Gianna Program for women and children escaping domestic violence. From their locations in Lincoln, Auburn, Hastings and Imperial, CSS assists neighbors in need across southern Nebraska, regardless of their faith. Visit csshope.org for more information.
What does it mean to be fearless?
It means showing up for your neighbors.
It means providing housing, education and a nightly meal.
It means putting hard-earned dollars to work.
It doesn’t happen just once. Fearlessness happens every day, and it’s what Community Action does.
Community Action is asking for monthly donors, people who wish to show up for their neighbors with a monthly gift any amount: $10, $50 or $100. Every gift is a fearless act.
This kind of regular commitment means support is there when Community Action needs it. This kind of fearless generosity strengthens the entire community.
Commit to fearlessness. Become a monthly Community Action donor today at communityactionatwork.org/help/donatenow/.
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Advertising with Strictly Business is a no brainer! Paige and her crew are thorough, professional, and provide so much. From linking our business content online, to promoting employee morale with press releases and spotlights, they hit the mark every time. Not only do we love advertising here, we love receiving the publication each month. I absolutely recommend them to businesses large and small!
-Alyssa Richards, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank
Strictly Business is by far the most accommodating, personable, and creative team to work with for all of our advertising needs! Their magazine is in every business and waiting room in Lincoln. Thanks for all you continue to do!
-Crystal Collins, Oak Electric
Businesses such as convenience stores, gas stations, truck stops, bars, taverns, bowling alleys, laundromats, and vape shops are embracing skill-based gaming and ATM services to increase their revenue! With absolutely no upfront costs, no risks, and guaranteed results, partnering with Husker ATM is the perfect decision for any establishment.
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As the gaming and financial industries evolve, Husker ATM provides secure, compliant, and revenue-enhancing solutions to keep businesses ahead of the curve. Every system is equipped with the latest technology to ensure seamless operation and support for all merchants. Husker ATM is a leading stocking dealer of GenMega and Hyosung ATMs in the Midwest, offering new bank ATM terminals for your business. Every ATM comes with an EMV chip card reader and an electronic lock for enhanced security.
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HUGE thank you to everyone who came to our first Friends4Lunch of 2025 at Piedmont Bistro by Venue. It was so great to catch up with everyone and meet all our newcomers! Piedmont Bistro is located at 1265 S. Cotner Blvd. in The Shoppes at Piedmont.
MARCH 5
Chamber Coffee | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
MARCH 6
Coffee with the President | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce RISE & Give | Community Action
MARCH 7
GenLNK | LIBA Lincoln Circle- Select Lincoln LPED | Lincoln HR
MARCH 10
Latino Connect | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
MARCH 11
Lincoln HR Program | Lincoln HR
Mark your calendars! For March, we're heading to Mckinney's Irish Pub for Friends4Lunch. Join us on Friday March 14th, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The pub offers bar classics such as burgers, sandwiches and nachos as well as some Irish Pub options including bangers and mash, Irish coddle and Irish dunker. We will have a select menu for our event, featuring some of your favorite dishes and appetizers. Mckinney's Irish Pub is located at 151 N 8th St. in the Haymarket District. We hope you can make it!
We hope you're able to join us and get in on the fun. Our networking events are an amazing opportunity to have a nice relaxing time while also getting connected with other Lincoln businesses. You can find more information on our Facebook page (@StrictlyBusinessMagazine).
As always, these events are free to you – you only pay for what you order! We’ve been loving the energy you all have been bringing to our meetings recently, and we can’t wait to see you and your friends at the next one. If you have any questions, reach out to emily@strictlybusinessomaha.com / (402) 466-3330.
MARCH 13
Biz Net | LIBA
MARCH 14
Friends4Lunch | McKinney’s Irish Pub
MARCH 20
HBAL 101 | Home Builders Association of Lincoln
MARCH 25
Coffee & Contacts | LIBA
For specific event details including time, location and contact information, visit our event calendar online at strictly-business.com/calendar-of-events
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RSVP is encouraged for these events. Please let the Strictly Business team know if you plan to attend by calling (402) 466-3330, emailing office@strictlybusinessomaha.com or marking yourself as “Going” on the Facebook event pages.
This month Strictly Business is excited to announce a new feature for our senior residential clients. A new exclusive food expose that you can only experience as a resident or staff member. The Waterford Williamsburg Assisted Living Community is the first of our clients to participate in the feature.
The Waterford Williamsburg Assisted Living community is one of the premier communities in Lincoln. This assisted living community is designed to make the residents feel at home. Jura Michael, the dedicated Administrator, goes above and beyond each day to cultivate a home-like atmosphere, not only for the residents but also for the hardworking staff.
One of the most remarkable aspects of life at Waterford is their emphasis on convivium - a gathering, feast, or banquet where people come together to share a meal and build meaningful relationships. This unique practice helps foster a sense of belonging among the residents and the staff, making routine mealtimes and opportunity to engage and bond with one another. Jura has been instrumental in implementing changes that promote this family-style dining experience, reinforcing the idea that Waterford is truly a home rather than just a residence.
Strictly Business was honored to participate in a convivial lunch at Waterford this past month. The carefully curated meal began with a choice of fruit, oranges, or jell-o, followed by the featured barbecue chicken, green beans and scalloped mashed potatoes. The meal was rounded out with a delicious chocolate cookie with containing bits of white chocolate and cherries for desert. The meal was thoughtfully prepared creating the perfect balance between the comfort of being home cooked along with quality ingredients. There are alternative meals available so long as you put in your preference in 2 hours before the meal.
Beyond the quality meal, what truly stood out was the warmth of the overall dining experience. Residents and staff dined together at this family style meal, sharing stories and laughter reinforcing the deep sense of community that helps to define Waterford. This unique approach to assisted living dining sets it apart, while ensuring residents feel valued, connected and most importantly at home.
If you or your business are interested in being featured please reach out to Paige Zutavern at (402) 466-3330 or email paige@strictlybusinessomaha.com.
According to Websters (as if anyone even uses that anymore) – free enterprise is
“… the freedom of private businesses to operate for profit without government interference”.
That is the very spirit on which LIBA was founded and continues to be one of the core pillars of LIBA. We will celebrate our shared commitment to free enterprise with the Free Enterprise Celebration at The Embassy Suites on March 27th. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at www.LIBA.org
Growth
LIBA also continues a relentless focus on GROWTH. That focus can take the form of growth in our community, growth of our members’ businesses, growth in the “number” of businesses by encouraging new entrepreneurs, or supporting the growth and development of the leaders of tomorrow.
LIBA Foundation Scholarships
The LIBA Foundation is a non-profit organization that is separate from LIBA. The Foundation annually gives $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors from high schools or homeschooled in Lancaster County who will be attending a trade, 2 or 4 year post-secondary Nebraska accredited school.
The scholarship applicants must complete an essay on the impact of free enterprise on local businesses or how free enterprise has impacted them. Applications must be received in the LIBA office no later than April 23, 2025
Legislative Activity
Naturally the LIBA team has been extremely busy keeping up on bills as they are introduced in the Unicameral and as they work through the legislative committees. As noted above, our focus continues to be ensuring that new legislation is business friendly – that is it does not impose an undue burden on small businesses or unfairly tilt the competitive landscape away from them.
What’s Happening at LIBA
Luncheon next month’s luncheon on March 18th, 2025 at the Cornhusker Marriott will feature an open forum of candidates running for Lincoln City Council!
LIBA Business Hour on 93.7 The Ticket – every Saturday morning at 9 AM LIBA hosts in-studio one or more LIBA members. We get to hear about the evolution of their business, the challenges they currently face – and celebrate their successes.
As a trusted Managed Service Provider (MSP), we focus on partnering with your business to design integrated technology solutions that fit your needs now and your goals for the future. We are dedicated to proactively helping you manage your network, protecting your assets from cyber threats and ensuring you have the latest technology to support your business needs. We listen first and provide solutions made specifically for your business, your budget and your goals.
Peace of Mind: When you hire Hamilton, you can trust the people here as an extension of your staff working to protect your business and network from attempted hackers, ransomware and other threats.
Experience: Ongoing education in technology and hands-on knowledge means our experts can step in whether you’re starting from scratch or already trying to manage a problematic situation.
Time: Free up your time to focus your efforts on your business because you no longer have to manage helpdesk matters or other IT requirements.
Budget Planning: It’s easier to manage a tech budget with a fully managed IT solution as expenses are known and set in advance.
Staff Support: Hire Hamilton for your IT work and have the support your team needs whenever they need it.
by Todd Ogden, President
(402) 434-6900 www.downtownlincoln.org
Live Yes Studios is a vibrant nonprofit art studio on a mission to empower disabled artists through creative expression, artistic resources, and community partnerships. Here, artists find a professional space that encourages artistic expression and personal growth and offers opportunities beyond the canvas. Through skill-building and integration into the local workforce, Live Yes teaches professional skills that allow artists to thrive.
Natasha Scholz and Micah Snyder are the dedicated leaders at Live Yes. “I have always been drawn to the therapeutic value of art,” says Scholz, who started as an intern when Live Yes opened its doors in 2009. “It's a good place, a bunch of people having fun and creating together,” she adds. After attending Live Yes, Micah, who spent eight years in art school, discovered his passion for human services. Together, they have committed to fostering a space where artists can connect, express and heal through creativity.
The classes change often, but one remains the same: the Friday dance party. “Nobody would attend Friday afternoon class, so one day, we just blasted music, and everybody loved it,” said Natasha. It’s safe to say that Live Yes has created quite a unique environment.
In 2024, the studio faced an unexpected challenge. On February 28th, they learned some shocking news: their financial backers in Philadelphia were struggling with a deficit and would be forced to shut down Live Yes Studios at the end of June.
For Natasha and Micah, this was a call to action. Determined to keep the studio alive, they turned Live Yes into an independent nonprofit—an undertaking that typically takes six to twelve months. “Collectively, we decided that if there was a way, we want to do it ourselves," said Scholz.
With support from new business partners like Craig Roper, they were able to achieve the near impossible and become an independent nonprofit provider in record time. Still, their biggest hurdle stood in the way: funding. “There's a lot of ups and downs; we roughly figured out that we needed to raise about $100,000 in a month,” said Micah Snyder. The goal was daunting, but they pressed forward. They met with a financial consultant who was endeared by Live Yes Studios' mission and wanted to help. This partnership raised just enough funds to keep the studio thriving.
Currently, Live Yes Studios resides in a temporary space while construction of their new, expanded studio is underway. By early 2025, their artists will enjoy more than double their current space, with room to host regular art shows. These shows present the opportunity for community members to purchase artwork, with 100% of each sale going directly to the artist.
Over the last year, Live Yes Studios has had quite the journey. Thanks to Natasha Scholz and Micah Snyder's determination, the community's support, and the generosity of donors, Live Yes Studios emerges with a promising future ahead. Their new studio will symbolize their perseverance and creativity.
Contact (402) 904-4216 for more information on donating or volunteering.
Utra’s Salsa Sabor y Cuba is a restaurant that dishes up only the most authentic Caribbean food. Specializing in Cuban cuisine, Utra’s has been open to the public since April of last year, but since October, it has offered a buffet with a variety of flavors, providing foodies with an unlimited flavor experience. Utra’s menu also includes a Cuban sandwich, Cuban Pizza, pork sandwich and more! Utra’s is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 to 8 p.m.
Utra’s regulars love the authenticity Utra’s Salsa Sabor y Cuba provides. Its recipes and cooking techniques are deeply rooted in Caribbean tradition, ensuring an unparalleled and genuine dining experience every time. To bring out the vibrant and authentic flavors associated with Caribbean cuisine to its customers, Utra’s takes great care in creating a memorable and culturally rich dining experience.
Utra’s will soon have a bar to accompany its delicious meals and looks forward to hosting events with a Cuban atmosphere and an excellent DJ!
Krueger Development has been specializing in commercial and residential sales and leasing in Lincoln for over two decades. Its expertise has led to new buildings and satisfied clients throughout the Lincoln community. Whether one is looking to lease or purchase, Krueger Development works alongside its clients to find the right location, make the right design and build the perfect floor plan.
by Jason Ball President
Lincoln’s entrepreneurial spirit is stronger than ever, and today, I’m thrilled to introduce the six outstanding startups selected for the 2025 LaunchLNK grant. These companies are part of the future of our business community, and they’re finding new ways to solve problems in agriculture, education, technology and small business support. Selected from a highly competitive pool of almost 65 applicants, each of these high-growth startups will receive a $20,000 non-dilutive grant, along with access to crucial resources such as accounting services, intellectual property support and expert mentorship.
Since its debut in 2018, LaunchLNK has been a strong driver of Lincoln’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, equipping businesses with essential resources to grow and succeed. Its 30 program alumni have collectively secured over $100 million in follow-on funding and grants, underscoring the significant impact of the program, as well as Lincoln’s dedication to fostering innovation within our community.
After a rigorous selection process, we are proud to welcome this year’s cohort of LaunchLNK grant recipients. Congratulations to these visionary startups:
Set Your Sites is revolutionizing campground management by equipping sites for the next generation of campers. Their technology offers mobile payments, real-time campsite availability information and Wi-Fi services. Unlike any other camping technology, Set Your Sites supports all campsite types, benefiting both campers seeking instant availability updates and campgrounds looking to boost revenue and occupancy rates.
Short Answer helps K-12 schools embed writing across the curriculum through engaging, gamified writing activities for any subject. In an age where AI can generate text for students, developing core literacy skills is more challenging than ever. Short Answer makes it simple and fun for students to build core literacy skills.
FuturHerd Solutions is a swine-focused ag-tech startup dedicated to solving key challenges in swine care with innovative technology. With labor shortages impacting the swine industry, their flagship innovation – the Nursery Nanny robot – empowers caretakers by ensuring piglets receive essential support, even in the absence of direct supervision. This provides young piglets with the optimal guidance needed from the start of the nursery phase, leading to healthier herds and more sustainable farming practices.
Build Más recognized that Hispanic-owned small business contractors often struggle to create accurate, professional and profitable estimates due to language barriers, limited access to affordable tools and inefficient processes. Their bilingual platform offers templates and resources that help contractors confidently price projects, maximize their profitability and streamline their operations to build trust with their clients.
Bullseye GX, Inc. is an agri-genomics startup committed to empowering beef and dairy producers with genetic testing solutions. Their innovative approach delivers affordable, high-speed insights to optimize herd health, enhance breeding efficiency and drive profitability. By providing actionable data, they enable producers to make informed decisions that maximize their returns.
Landoption is a network of trusted local agriculture and conservation advisors, helping landowners and producers navigate alternative revenue programs. By streamlining education and enrollment, they simplify the process of integrating conservation, regenerative agriculture, and other programs into land and farm management.
Congratulations once again to this year’s grant recipients. To learn more about this impactful program, visit LaunchLNK.com.
The Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together. For more information, contact Derek Feyerherm atdfeyerherm@lincoln.org.
Strictly Business Magazine delivers powerful, online editorial content for our clients, content that Google assigns the maximum credibility. No other local media business can help you create new and fresh content with a higher level of skill and experience than we can—we’ve been doing this for 25+ years.
Google loves original, timely, backlinked, and promoted editorial content. These are the most important SEO tactics that you should adopt to improve your website’s search engine ranking. By employing these tactics, you demonstrate to Google, and all the other search engines, that you and your website are a credible source of information.
Establishing credibility with search engines is just as important as establishing credibility with clients and potential clients. Fresh new content is of the upmost importance for your website’s online ranking and your ability to hold on to a coveted top search position.
Strictly Business Magazine is your local expert for creating original, timely, backlinked and promoted editorial content, and the proof is in the 15.3+ million times our clients’ press has been seen in just Google Search Engine Result Pages (SERPs) per year. That’s over one million times that our clients’ content has been viewed in Google search results per month! WOW!
To see the proof, just visit our website and click on the “Boost Your Online Credibility” ad.
What’s even more amazing is the fact that we will create, post, and promote your content at no charge, as a part of your print advertising campaign.
That’s Right: It’s 100%, Totally, Absolutely, FREE!
Isn’t it time you created some new and fresh content to increase your online presence and credibility for free? To get started, call or visit our website today: 402.466.3330 | Strictly-Business.com
Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about renewal, protection, and preparing for the seasons ahead. From cars to homes and commercial spaces, winter leaves behind a mess that requires deep cleaning to restore and maintain. Whether it’s removing salt and grime from vehicles, freshening up living spaces, or revitalizing business environments, spring cleaning is essential for a fresh start.
At JetSplash, spring cleaning is about more than just a fresh start—it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring your car looks and performs its best. After enduring months of harsh winter conditions, vehicles accumulate salt, grime and debris that can take a serious toll on their exterior and undercarriage. Just as people deep-clean their homes to eliminate dust and clutter, their cars require the same level of attention to remove built-up residue that could lead to long-term damage.
JetSplash specializes in thoroughly cleaning vehicles affected by winter’s wear and tear. Road salt, while essential for safer driving during icy conditions, is also highly corrosive and can accelerate rust formation on metal surfaces. Without proper washing, this buildup can compromise both the appearance and integrity of your car. Our high-powered washes target these problem areas, ensuring every inch of your vehicle is free from harmful contaminants. In addition, our premium ceramic coatings provide an added layer of protection, helping to preserve your car’s shine and shield it from future damage. Spring represents renewal, and nothing complements the season like a spotless, well-maintained car. Whether you're heading out on a road trip or simply enjoying a daily commute, JetSplash makes sure you start the season fresh, clean, and protected.
Getting Down and Getting Clean
Spring cleaning is more than just a routine—it’s a time-honored tradition, especially in regions with harsh winters. Phino Cleaning Services believes in the power of a deep clean to refresh your home and declutter your life. As winter fades and spring begins to bloom, you may start noticing the dust and grime that accumulated over the colder months. That’s where spring cleaning comes in. Unlike regular cleaning, this process involves sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, and dusting from ceiling to floor in every room.
Noreen Mwabe
During winter, shorter days and less sunlight can leave us feeling unmotivated, allowing dust and clutter to build up. As spring’s warmth and longer daylight hours return, they reveal what was missed and naturally inspire us to clean. This seasonal shift boosts energy levels, making it the perfect time to refresh your home and embrace a cleaner, more organized space.
A well-structured plan makes spring cleaning more manageable. Follow these essential steps: Create a schedule – Break tasks into manageable steps and check them off as you go. Declutter your home – Donate or discard items you no longer need. Make it enjoyable – Play music or involve family members to make cleaning fun. Use multi-purpose products – Simplify cleaning with effective, versatile solutions. Spring cleaning is the perfect time for a fresh start.
Make your space shine with Service Master this spring. Spring cleaning is an essential time to refresh your space, whether at home or in a business setting. At home, a focused approach is best - starting with decluttering and donating or discarding unnecessary items, the cleaning process can be made more efficient. Once a space is cleared out, a deep clean, including conditioning wood accents, floors and baseboard can bring renewed vibrancy to your home.
Spring is the perfect time for a thorough deep clean for your business. Public buildings have a lot of high traffic areas such as cafeterias, break rooms and restrooms and often need extra attention after winter. Offering employees a deeply cleaned workspace such as sanitized cubicles including cleaning the fabric walls, is not only a thoughtful gesture but also promotes a healthier and more productive environment.
As we transition from winter into spring we see unique cleaning challenges, particularly the buildup of salt, mud and outdoor debris in the lobbies and entryways. Businesses with a janitorial contract often schedule additional spring maintenance to address these issues, ensuring their facilities remain clean and welcoming. We also have several customers who appreciate our day porter services as they can then monitor the main lobbies and areas for salt and mud so the area doesn’t build up with outdoor debris
ready to be tracked into the building.
Spring is also the perfect time for a flooring assessment. As Jon Paolini put it, “Your floors might be in need of maintenance to get them back up to their ‘like new’ shine!”
Pure Care gets Pure Clean
Spring cleaning is an amazing opportunity to refresh and maintain your home or commercial space after months of winter wear and tear. Pure Care takes a continual maintenance approach to help ensure that high-traffic areas like entryways, kitchens, dining rooms and bathrooms remain clean year-round. Spring cleaning is the perfect time to focus on low traffic areas such as guest rooms, vacant offices and boardrooms. These areas may not show visible dirt but dust, allergens and mold spores can accumulate in carpets and flooring over time. A thorough extraction removes built-up debris, enhancing indoor air quality and overall cleanliness.
One of the biggest challenges of winter is the accumulation of salt and grime, particularly in public buildings. If left untreated these elements can accelerate the deterioration of flooring especially at entry points. Having these spaces receive a deep professional clean in the spring can help extend the lifespan of carpets, time and vinyl flooring. This not only improves the appearance of your space but also saves money by reducing the need for premature replacements.
Spring cleaning with Pure Care ensures that every area is maintained according to its usage. Their customized approach allows for rate adjustments based on frequency and the products used, making it a cost effective solution for long-term care. As we transition to spring it is the perfect time to invest in a fresh, clean start- helping your space look its best while preserving your flooring for years to come.
Get bulk pricing & make your business shine.
“We believe healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires honest caring without judgment, and we cooperatively assist clients in clarifying their goals for treatment.”
individual, family, and Couples’ Counseling substance Use/Mental health/Co-occurring/Trauma evaluations
Welcome to a different kind of healthcare.
Now offering the only Sofwave™ tech in Lincoln, FDA approved to lift and tighten the skin!
Nutrition and Supplement Counseling Hormone Replacement
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5505 S. 16th St. Suite 600 Dr.
that stress.
Work can be fast-paced, demanding, and full of challenges—but that doesn’t mean it has to be overwhelming. Many employees today are taking on more responsibilities, adapting to constant changes, and striving to do their best in evolving workplaces. While this can bring moments of stress, it also highlights resilience, dedication, and growth. The good news is that there are many businesses in Lincoln that can help you manage
With the workplace becoming increasingly stressful, prioritizing your health is more important than ever. Elevated stress levels can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses, especially during the winter season. Having direct primary care ensures that you receive personalized and timely medical attention when you need it most. At Access Family Medicine, your healthcare is tailored specifically to you, giving you peace of mind and quality care.
Unlike traditional healthcare models, direct primary
care (DPC) limits a physician’s patient load to just 600, compared to the 2,000+ patients seen in a conventional practice. This smaller patient base allows for more flexible scheduling, extended appointment times, and better overall care. With fewer patients to manage, physicians at Access Family Medicine can provide individualized attention, ensuring that your health concerns are addressed promptly and thoroughly. Becoming a member at Access Family Medicine comes with numerous benefits, just to mention a few: diagnostic and procedural services at wholesale cost. These services include EKG, spirometry, laceration repair, lesion removal, joint injections, and osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT).
At Access Family Medicine, we believe that quality healthcare should be both affordable and accessible. With so many daily stressors in life, worrying about your health or the cost of care shouldn't be one of them. Let us help you stay healthy without the added financial burden.
Collaborative Medical Alternatives believes that a healthy, happy team is essential to a successful business. Which is why they prioritize employee wellness by fostering a flexible and respectful work environment.
One of the ways CMA supports their employees is by recognizing the importance of downtime and personal boundaries. Work life balance is essential. Stefanie Leyden says, "For example, if a team member chooses not to participate in promotional events outside of work hours, we fully respect that decision. This approach helps prevent burnout and ensures that our employees feel values beyond their job performance."
Another important pillar of the CMA workplace wellness strategy is flexibility. LIfe outside of work is just as important as professional responsibilities and they want their employees to have the freedom to balance both. Employees have the ability to adjust their work schedules to leave work early if they are planning on attending a weekend work function and are concerned about missing valuable time with their families. Providing this level of flexibility helps employees maintain both professional engagement and personal well-being.
Work life balance is so important because when employees feel supported and have a well balanced calendar they thrive. A workplace that prioritizes mental and emotional health leads to increased job satisfaction, productivity and overall company morale. When employees are happy they bring more energy and enthusiasm to their roles, ultimately benefiting both the individual and the organization.
CMA has an understanding that workplace wellness is not just a perk-it is a necessity. Investing in employees' well being creates a positive and sustainable work culture where everyone can do their best work while maintaining a healthy and fulfilling personal life.
The workplace can be a source of significant stress, whether due to high demands, interpersonal conflicts, or feeling undervalued. Without a safe and confidential space to process these challenges, stress can build up, leading to burnout, anxiety, or even a decline in overall well-being. Professionals at Daring Minds Therapy understand the complexities of workplace dynamics and offer support to help individuals navigate professional challenges with confidence and resilience.
Therapy provides a structured environment where individuals can explore stressors, develop effective coping mechanisms, and build emotional resilience. Whether you're struggling with maintaining professionalism in a toxic work culture, facing difficult colleagues, or managing work-life balance, our licensed professionals offer guidance tailored to your needs.
Daring Minds Therapy utilizes evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), SolutionFocused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy, to empower clients in overcoming workplace-related stressors. Their approach is collaborative, compassionate, and judgment-free, ensuring that every client feels heard and supported in their journey toward personal and professional growth.
At Daring Minds Therapy they believe that healing and success go hand in hand. Investing in your mental health is the first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling work life. Reclaim your personal and professional peace of mind with a no pressure therapy session.
Husker Rehab provides Physical and Occupational Therapy services in Southeast Nebraska. Working with Husker Rehab Therapists can help combat stress. The dedicated professionals are able to help with tightness and tension partly due to stressors on the job, including postural injuries due to poorly designed workstations.
As noted by Paul Craig, DPT "Stress is a contributor to pain and can amplify it. As a therapist, educating patients on pain science and giving them relaxation techniques can go a long way to aid in their road to recovery."
Managing stress and pain are essential components in aiding the process of recovery from injuries and surgery. They are adamant about treating the cause of pain not just the symptoms. This is why it is so important to educate patients about the science of pain and use an integrated approach for treatment. The Therapists at Husker Rehab provide the tools to understand pain and the knowledge to combat pain daily.
Husker Rehab offers a variety of services, including occupational therapy, postural restorative therapy, and physical therapy. Their therapists use evidence-based techniques to help patients restore mobility, improve posture, and relieve chronic pain. Whether someone is recovering from an injury, managing a condition, or looking for ways to reduce stress-induced pain, Husker Rehab provides the tools and knowledge necessary for long-term relief. Through compassionate care and specialized treatments, they help patients build healthier, pain-free lives.
Managing stress outside of the workplace helps immensely with feeling better at work. If the office
has got you itching to move your body, Club Pilates (clubpilates.com/location/lincoln) is the place to go.
The studio welcomes members into a supportive and dedicated atmosphere of peers and allows members to choose a class type perfectly fitted to them. Club Pilates is meeting members where they're at in their work and personal fitness journeys from high intensity and strength training to mobility and recovery.
Club Pilates is a globally recognized brand offering a low-impact and effective fitness routine enjoyed by people from all walks of life. These full-body workouts help strengthen muscles, enhance posture, and correct imbalances, allowing members to feel their best and embrace life to the fullest. Designed to accommodate everyone, Club Pilates specializes in Reformer-based Pilates while incorporating additional equipment like the Chair, SpringBoard, and Jumpboard for core-focused, low-impact exercises.
Finding time to work out after a long day—especially with family responsibilities—can be challenging. However, maintaining a healthy body and mind can positively impact your professional performance. Many companies offer wellness programs that provide employees with discounts to encourage a commitment to health. Check with your HR director to see if your company offers this benefit.
has two locations in the Lincoln area to serve you. One at 8222 Holdrege St and one at 5601 Union Hills Road. Don't run away from your problems
Participating in a run or walk might seem simple, but as the Lincoln Running Co. points out, there’s more to it than just putting on a pair of sneakers. Proper preparation, guidance, and support can make a significant difference.
These days work/ life balance is getting more and more difficult. Many people are working parents and trying to care for aging family as well. “In order to provide for all of those other people, you have to take care of yourself first. Carving out an hour a day for your health and wellness is something you should not skip. Invest in you!” Club Pilates Owner Christine Krueger said.
Even when you are able to work from home, there are additional stress factors. Working from home makes leaving work at the office more difficult. Taking time out for your personal health is important no matter your work split or working environment. Finding yourself checking work emails while making dinner or watching tv, signing up for a pilates class where you are forced to focus on the movement of your body can help relieve stress and release the tension of the work day.
Club Pilates not only has nearly 800 studios open in North America, but is also one of the largest providers of a comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Program in the world; the 500-hour program is designed to thoroughly and safely teach group Reformer Pilates classes along with TRX and Triggerpoint. Club Pilates
“We have the time, knowledge, passion, and empathy to help people get moving,” says Manager Ann Ringlein. “Our goal is to equip our customers with everything they need—from high-quality gear like shoes, socks, and apparel to structured training programs and walking or running classes. We support our customers from the ground up!”
When it comes to workplace wellness, Lincoln Running Co. encourages employers to integrate physical activity into the workday. Organizing regular fitness challenges, promoting outdoor walks or runs, and even participating as a team in organized events can help employees stay active. These initiatives not only encourage a healthier lifestyle but also strengthen workplace relationships, fostering a more energetic and connected office culture.
However, workplace wellness isn’t just about staying active—it’s also about recovery. Employees dealing with injuries often face challenges in maintaining their physical and mental well-being. The physical demands of their job can slow the healing process, increasing the risk of further health issues. At the same time, managing work responsibilities while recovering can lead to heightened stress and reduced overall well-being.
By creating a supportive environment that prioritizes both movement and recovery, employers can contribute to a healthier, happier workforce. Whether through running programs or wellness initiatives, encouraging employees to stay active and care for their health ultimately benefits both individuals and the organization as a whole.
From physical to mental Lincoln local businesses are here for your stressful times and are promoting workplace wellness. Your job may cause you so much stress that you get that little twinge in your right eye when you think about it. However, just because your job stresses you out you do not have to sacrifice in your personal life.
O M M E R C I A L C O N S T R U C T I O
N
Commercial Construction is creating a healthy economic environment for Lincoln. The value of building permits has been on a general upward trend since 2009 and has skyrocketed since 2020 with the city of Lincoln continuing to invest in new commercial buildings. Not only is the commercial construction industry creating construction jobs but is also creating jobs for electricians, plumbers and more.
ABC Electric is a full-service union electrical contractor that has proudly served the Lincoln community for over 90 years. They are a family-owned business spanning four generations and remains committed to delivering exceptional service with integrity. The company built there foundation on quality craftsmanship and ethical business practices. ABC Electric continues to uphold its reputation as a trusted industry leader. ABC Electric offers helpful hints, industrial services, institutional services, commercial services, residential services, fiber/data and solar/EV charging.
Offering a wide range of services, ABC Electric specializes in industrial, institutional, commercial, and residential electrical work. The company also provides fiber and data solutions, as well as solar and EV charging installations. Their expertise ensures that every project is completed efficiently and to the highest standards.
With a team of skilled professionals, ABC Electric understands that success is driven by experience,
dedication, and attention to detail. From the initial consultation to project completion, their knowledgeable experts are there to guide clients through every step of the process. The company strongly believes in treating others with the same respect and care they would expect for themselves. This commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction has made ABC Electric a trusted name in the industry for nearly a century.
Commercial construction is a dynamic process that requires meticulous planning, expert execution, and ongoing support to ensure the client's vision is successfully realized. Cheever Construction follows a structured approach to bring projects from design to completion while maintaining strong client collaboration. This process is broken down into three key phases: Pre-Construction, Construction, and PostConstruction.
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Cheever Constructions approach to creating or fulfilling a client’s vision starts with spending time with the client months before construction begins. The time spent in meetings with our clients during the Pre-Construction phase allows our team of professionals to get a true understanding of our clients’ needs to accomplish their project vision. After we gain knowledge of their project objectives our team makes recommendations on construction methods, and scheduling needs to ensure that our client’s vision comes to fruition.
Once the Pre-Construction planning is complete, the project transitions into the Construction phase. This phase includes periodic meetings with clients. These meetings are held to update construction progress, discuss any changes the client wishes to incorporate, and project challenges and solutions.
Upon completion of the project the Cheever Construction team continues communication with clients to address any issues that come up while they are operating in their new facility. The first year there are inevitably small challenges as the new facility or space acclimates. The construction team is always prepared to jump in and guide our clients so they can troubleshoot any items they have.
Through this structured approach, Cheever Construction ensures that each client’s vision is meticulously planned, expertly executed, and fully supported beyond completion, reinforcing their reputation as a trusted partner in commercial construction.
Concrete Craft of Lincoln specializes in expertly handcrafted concrete resurfacing, offering services such as stamping, staining, repair, and polishing. More than just a concrete company, the team consists of dedicated artisans who take pride in their craftsmanship.
When the time comes to enhance a patio, driveway, walkway, or pool deck, Concrete Craft of Lincoln is prepared to create a lasting and visually stunning space. With extensive experience in commercial concrete flooring, the company specializes in a
proprietary resurfacing process designed for highprofile reception areas, offices, salons, restaurants, and retail buildings—prioritizing durability, low maintenance, and easy care.
Their stamp patterns authentically replicate slate, stone, brick, and even wood planks, making them an ideal choice for restaurants and offices. Through a hand-cut and custom-color approach, the team excels at transforming concrete to resemble real flagstone or cobblestone, perfect for patios and courtyards. With an extensive selection of stained concrete options and specialized application techniques, they create unique finishes tailored to complement any brand. Best of all, most commercial projects require overlays, allowing for faster completion, minimal downtime, and cost-effective solutions compared to alternative materials.
Be in Control of your project with Engineered Controls
Engineered Controls is a leading building control technologies contractor specializing in designing, installing, managing, and servicing building management and security solutions. They work with buildings and facilities of all sizes and types, ensuring efficient and effective control systems that enhance safety, comfort, and sustainability.
The company’s vision is to contribute to projects that revolutionize how buildings are designed, constructed, and operated. Their mission is to create environmentally responsible, profitable, and healthy places for people to live and work. By integrating cutting-edge control technologies into their designs and
Our collaborative team provides innovative, project-specific solutions to any challenge they face. Let us help bring your buildings to life.
actively participating in contracting work, Engineered Controls is a key player in the green movement within Nebraska and Iowa’s construction industry.
Their primary goal is to provide customers with top-tier products and services that foster energy efficiency, safety, and comfort in building environments. Engineered Controls helps businesses optimize their energy use, reduce operational costs, and improve indoor air quality by implementing state-of-the-art automation systems. Their commitment to sustainability and innovation ensures that clients receive the most advanced and reliable building management solutions available.
With a focus on quality, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, Engineered Controls continues to be a trusted partner in transforming the future of building management and security systems.
Farris Engineering is an employee-owned building design firm specializing in mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and commissioning services. With roots dating back to 1967, they have successfully completed over 34,000 projects across more than 42 states.
Farris Engineering offers a comprehensive range of commercial building design and construction expertise, incorporating mechanical, plumbing, electrical, lighting, fire safety and data-communication design into every project. They prioritize aligning every decision with the client’s vision and needs to ensure project success. Additionally, strong communication among owners, clients, designers, and tradespeople is essential to creating a well-designed, functional building.
Farris Engineering has completed projects including commercial, federal, health care, higher education, K-12 education and physical plant. This is a testament to the diversity of projects they successfully complete on a yearly basis. They are innovative and committed to excellence allowing they to foster growth, collaboration and prosperity in our community.
With numerous exceptional local businesses available for construction and design projects, Farris strives to stand out through its commitment to quality and innovation. Farris Engineering has the expertise and adaptability to work in any type of building
construction environment, as they continue growing in this industry they recognize that sustainability and energy conservation must be key elements in every successful project.
For over a century, Kingery Construction has built more than structures—they’ve built trust. As a fullservice construction firm, Kingery delivers high-quality projects from pre-construction to completion with a commitment to professionalism, integrity, and costeffective solutions. Their expertise spans Design-Build, Design-Bid-Build, Construction Management, and General Contracting.
Kingery’s versatility is evident in projects such as the Arlington Veterinary Clinic, Constellation Studios Expansion, and major ongoing work at Denison Community School District’s Broadway Elementary, Four Corners Health Department, and the Sidney EB Rest Area for the Nebraska Department of Transportation. Regardless of the project size or complexity, Kingery ensures meticulous planning, seamless execution, and strong collaboration with clients and partners.
Industry trends continue to shape the future of construction, and Kingery remains at the forefront. “Green materials remain in high demand, and many cost minimally more than traditional options,” says Vice President Rick Wintermute. The company is also responding to increased demand for warehouse and manufacturing spaces, along with integrated building systems for heating, lighting, security, and access control.
In 2023, Kingery strengthened its presence by acquiring Construct Inc. in Omaha. As they enter their 101st year in 2025, they remain dedicated to building with quality, innovation, and strong relationships.
Lasting Community Impact with REGA Engineering
REGA Engineering specializes in strategic surveying and civil engineering solutions, fostering professional growth and delivering exceptional results. Their commitment to success is reflected in their ability to exceed expectations through practical problem-solving and innovative approaches. By cultivating strong, lasting relationships, they seamlessly integrate with their clients’ teams, serving as a valuable extension of their operations.
Adhering to industry standards and embracing cuttingedge technology, REGA Engineering ensures highquality outcomes tailored to each project’s unique demands. Their team is dedicated to providing reliable, practical, and responsive solutions through proactive strategies, collaboration, and keen attention to detail. This dedication not only enhances efficiency but also ensures the long-term success of every venture.
With a diverse portfolio spanning multiple cities and states across the Midwest, REGA Engineering brings decades of industry experience and strong core values to every project. Their deep understanding of regional challenges, opportunities, and regulatory landscapes allows them to navigate complexities with confidence and precision. This expertise empowers them to deliver solutions that align with their clients unique goals, ensuring seamless project execution from start to finish. At its core, REGA Engineering is more than just a service provider—they are a trusted partner committed to excellence, innovation, and long-term success. Through their technical expertise, client-focused approach, and unwavering dedication, they continue to make a lasting
impact in the communities they serve.
Schwisow Construction's Visionary Execution
Schwisow Construction brings clients' visions to life by first understanding their unique "WHY." Whether working on expansion projects for Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings or tackling complex builds that require innovative solutions, our approach is rooted in collaboration and personalized service.
Their process begins with building strong relationships. "We get to know their families, past projects, and how and why the company started," says Chief Operating Officer Wesley Leuck . "These are the foundational building blocks of any great partnership.
Understanding that unique history and learning the "Why" behind what is driving their vision."
Schwisow combines a deep understanding and expertise in construction, to create tailored solutions
for clients' aspirations while ensuring quality, efficiency, and excellence from start to finish.
Tru-Built Construction provides expert guidance throughout the entire building process, ensuring each decision enhances long-term value and efficiency. Bo Jones the founder of Tru-Built Construction says; "We assist in lot selection, considering factors like location, topography, drainage, and accessibility." The build is carefully planned from start to finish with special emphasis on maximizing natural light, energy efficiency and curb appeal. Floor plans are designed for functionality and flow while maintaining structural integrity and exterior designs balance personal style with durability. Tru-Built prioritizes quality materials and thoughtful design by creating visually striking, cost-effective solutions that stand the test of time.
The process begins with a comprehensive consultation to align with the client's vision, needs and budget. They are consistently offering expert recommendations on insulation, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and energysmart construction to enhance comfort and reduce operating costs. They use clear communication and detailed project timelines to keep clients engaged from design to completion. Tru-Built uses precision in every step from material selection to final finishes, we deliver projects that are beautiful, functional and built to last.
Lincoln’s commercial construction industry is driving economic growth, innovation, and sustainability. Companies like ABC Electric, Cheever Construction, and others are shaping the city’s future through quality craftsmanship, energy-efficient solutions, and strong community impact. As demand rises, these industry leaders will continue building spaces that serve generations to come.
Twice a year, in March and September, Strictly Business puts together a Joining Organizations feature. We want to make sure that these organizations have a chance to get their name out there and share their current efforts, membership benefits, partnership opportunities and anything else the community should be aware of.
Community organizations contribute to the fabric of our economy by bringing industry leaders together, offering education and resources to their members and partnering with other local entities to implement positive change in our area. There are so many dedicated, passionate groups of like-minded individuals who are all committed to making a difference in their professional, cultural and social communities. Joining these groups often results in forming new relationships that, in turn, lead to personal and professional growth and success.
Here at Strictly Business, we stand behind the hard-working organizations that continuously better Lincoln and its occupants. We do this by offering discounted rates to these organizations so they can highlight their upcoming events and meetings, accomplishments, awards, members, staff and opportunities for involvement. In Lincoln, you will find organizations and association representing nearly every profession or industry – many of which have national, regional, state and/or local chapters who would love to have you as a member. With countless reputable and talented professionals in Lincoln, it can be difficult to stand out. One of the best ways to stand out and become a household name in the community is to get involved in every way you can. By finding an organization or association that matches your interest, passions and goals, your commitment to excellence in the Lincoln community will shine through and differentiate you from other local businesses.
The Lincoln Young Professionals Group (Lincoln YPG) is dedicated to empowering young professionals with educational, leadership and networking opportunities. Lincoln keeps its young professionals here by fostering a collaborative community enriched with a bolstering economy, connectivity and endless opportunities. The Lincoln Young Professionals Group believes members can make the difference they want to see, develop a career that is pleasing to them and grow into the professional that they want to be.
To learn more about Lincoln YPG, please visit www.lincolnypg.com, email Mia Wilken at mwilken@lcoc.com or call (402) 436-2355.
The Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) offers numerous opportunities to network with other Lincoln business leaders. LIBA’s monthly BizNet events are free to attend with complimentary snacks and beverages. This provides a great place to meet other local business people and City Council members. Many of the people who attend BizNet are eager businessmen and women who are ready to learn more about your business. It's free to attend and you can invite customers and vendors to give them an opportunity to grow their businesses as well. While BizNet is an after-hours event, LIBA also has a morning “Coffee & Contacts” every month that is sponsored by Custom Blinds & Design. Also free to attend, this event has breakfast snacks and coffee. With this event being early in the morning, it is a wonderful way to start off your day by networking and exchanging business cards. Lastly, the monthly LIBA luncheon features the opportunity to meet dozens of business owners and community leaders each month. For $20, you can eat a delicious meal, network with likeminded leaders and listen to a special guest speaker.
Call (402) 466-3419 and ask about joining LIBA. A membership staff would be happy to visit your office and answer all of your questions. You can also visit www.liba.org for more information.
At Professional Networking Group (PNG), they are all about relationships. It’s the bread and butter to making a business successful. Through PNG’s five Lincoln groups, and one Omaha group, bi-weekly meetings, quarterly socials (all groups are invited to an evening networking with a guest) and donations back to the community, they’re constantly working to network and build relationships with the best and the brightest around town.
Join this networking community and watch how you can impact the bottom line on your business like never before. If the thought of creating a new network makes you a little nervous, take a look at why you should take the plunge:
• Each group averages over one referral per person per meeting. That equates to over 1,600 referrals per year.
• Every year, each group refers over SIX FIGURES worth of business.
• Automatically add 18–25 salespeople to your team.
• PNG donates both time and goods back to the Lincoln community each year, including over $5.2K last year.
• The membership cost of $250 is less than half of competitors’ costs.
• The group culture actually allows you to laugh and have fun as you are doing business, all without the use of a stopwatch. For more information, please visit pnglincoln.com.
The Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) is a visible, effective and respected trade association which promotes home building through professional education, member communication and civic participation, and which represents builders and associated professionals in community, governmental and industry forums. With over 500 members, HBAL proudly promotes the Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show, Spring & Fall Parade of Homes and Tour of Remodeled Homes. These events not only benefit the members, but also the public. HBAL offers networking, education and training to its members, along with representing the industry at Local and State levels of government.
To learn more about joining the Home Builders Association of Lincoln, go to www.hbal.org for a membership application and to see the many services of this 74-year old association.
To be a Lincoln Chamber of Commerce (LCOC) member is to be a partner. The Chamber honors that partnership by creating opportunities for growth and development, while advocating for the best environment for Lincoln businesses to thrive. They understand each member has unique ideas and ambitions in mind, and they are here to provide the best opportunities for you to get the most out of your membership.
To find out more about how to get your business engaged, contact Derek Feyerherm at (402) 434-5344 or via email at dfeyerherm@ lincoln.org. For more information about the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, visit the website at www.LCOC.com.
Leadership Lincoln is at the forefront of building tomorrow’s community leaders.
Open to everyone in the Lincoln area, Leadership Lincoln invites applications every spring. With classes launching in August and September, participants join a nine-month immersive experience, aligning with the academic year. This program connects members with prominent figures across Lincoln’s business, education, government and nonprofit landscapes, empowering them to take an active role in their community.
In addition to the core leadership program, Leadership Lincoln presents regular public “Hot Topics” sessions. These forums provide valuable insights into pertinent issues, from candidate selection to pandemic management, healthcare inequalities, low-income housing, park development and more.
A standout feature of the program is the Poverty Simulation exercise, a unique experience that reveals the intricate challenges of living in poverty.
Leadership Lincoln is not just an organization; it’s a thriving network. With over 4,000 alumni actively enhancing their communities locally, statewide and nationally, Leadership Lincoln continues to shape the future.
Discover how you can be a part of this transformative journey. Visit www.leadershiplincoln.org for more details.
Lincoln HR strives to be a first-class resource on people management for the community. Lincoln HR connects professionals to solve every day workforce problems, provides quality education, collaborates with community leaders and leads change for our industry. The organization comprises a large network of human resources professionals ranging from senior level executives to those just entering the profession and welcomes new members monthly.
Benefits to membership include:
• Monthly meetings with learning events and professional speakers
• Professional networking events
• Career development
• Collaboration of HR information
• Monthly newsletter resources
• Membership directory
• Professional certification study groups
• Legislative updates
• Community and diversity programs
For more information or to register for a meeting, visit www.lincolnhr.org.
SCORE Lincoln has openings for volunteers. If you want to make a lasting impact in your business community, then SCORE may be for you. SCORE volunteers help thousands of entrepreneurs start small businesses and achieve new levels of success in their existing businesses. Small business owners receiving three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased growth.
Most SCORE mentors own or have owned and operated their own companies or served in management positions. They understand business challenges because they’ve faced them too.
Volunteer with SCORE and give back to your community, connect with fellow business owners and pass on your knowledge and expertise to the next generation of entrepreneurs.
SCORE is America’s premier source of free, confidential business advice.
Take the step to become a SCORE volunteer mentor. Visit lincoln.score. org to sign up. Want more info? Email infolincoln@scorevolunteer. org or call (402) 870-1821 to learn more about SCORE Lincoln.
Better Business Bureau (BBB) has been assisting U.S. consumers and businesses since 1912. It is a private, nonprofit, businesssupported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Nearly 400,000 BBB Accredited Businesses support BBB’s mission of advancing marketplace trust, and their dues and contributions allow BBB to offer its information and services to consumers at no charge. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, over 11,000 charity reviews, dispute resolution services, alerts and educational information on topics affecting the marketplace.
People today are overwhelmed with choices – and often unsure about where to find verified, unbiased information. There are more than 32 million businesses in North America alone, and hundreds of thousands of sites around the world where people shop online. Also, thousands of free and subscription websites offer a range of information, including: reviews, reports, directories, listings and gripe sites. BBB is the resource where you can find trusted, verified information. Go to BBB.org/nebraska, call (800) 649-6814 and follow on social media (@BBBMidwestPlains).
As the winter temperatures slowly dissipate, it’s important now more than ever to take care of those outdoor spaces, and Luxury Landscape is there to help! Outdoor spaces are extensions of one’s home, offering additional square footage and usable space, so it only makes sense to revive one’s outdoor areas, especially if they’ve been neglected during the colder months.
With Luxury Landscape, the benefits and possibilities of outdoor living are endless! Not only does an outdoor living rejuvenation help homeowners capitalize on every inch of their spaces, but it also serves as a retreat, place to host or entertainment space. Luxury Landscape takes pride in adhering to its clients’ personal styles and customizing its designs to ensure they are unique and satisfactory to each and every client. Not to mention, a good outdoor remodel also add value to any property!
Luxury Landscape is dedicated to exceptional communication with its customers. It recommends that clients be home while its team works, which allows for open conversation, the answering of questions quickly and ensures everyone is one the same page. Luxury Landscape’s top priority is to give clients peace of mind, so it works around its clients’ schedules to make sure the project comes out looking exactly how the client pictured it!
“We always make sure to plan around our client’s schedule,” says owner Jackie Svoboda. “We don’t want to plant a whole new landscape during the week they may be on vacation, since new plants need water!”
Even after an outdoors space gets the rejuvenation it deserves, it still requires upkeep. Don’t sweat it! Luxury Landscape offers both spring and fall cleanup, ensuring every investment continues to pay off for years to come!
Captivate visitors and increase property exposure by up to 60%!
Significant increase in exposure on Zillow
3D interactive tours paired by blueprints of every floor
The best experience possible for buyers to tour virtually, saving sellers from unnecessary traffic through the home
Let’s drive higher quality buyers to your home!
