Strictly Business Magazine July 2020

LINCOLN • JULY 2020 TM

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM Indoor Air Quality

Access Control Video

Ligh�ng Control

Parking Control

Climate Control Smart Analy�cs

The Leader in Building Technology Solu�ons We Make Buildings SMARTER • PET CARE • RESIDENTIAL REMODEL • SUPPORTING NONPROFITS CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • VISITING ANGELS • MORTON BUILDINGS • INMOTION AUTO CARE

Rachel Barth

Stacia Thiesen

Jeremy Schafer

Evan Welch

Nikke Hollenbeck

Russ Meyer

Lincoln Airport Authority

Sandhills Global

Union Bank & Trust

H.F. Crave

Revolution Roof

Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate

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JULY 2020 Strictly Business

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

Celebrating 27 Years of Strictly Business July is a special month because it marks the anniversary of both Strictly Business and the United States of America, and we don’t have any problem stealing a little bit of the firework thunder from Fourth of July celebrations! The magazine has now been in Lincoln for 27 years and 13 years in Omaha, and that really is something to make noise about. Twenty-seven years of partnering with local businesses, promoting local businesses, and helping local businesses grow—there is much to be proud of and thankful for. We have always operated by the saying, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know... and who knows you!” As you flip through Strictly Business, it’s clear to see the importance we put on branding company names and people’s faces. Running an ad is one thing, giving a deeper look into a business/organization and the people who run it is another—and we do this through all of the free, value-added editorial we offer to our clients. By sharing our content in print, online, and on social media, we’ve built a reputation in the Lincoln and Omaha communities as a strong multimedia marketing tool and trusted source of relevant business news and information.

the magazine. I invite you to take time to reach out to the businesses and individuals we feature and tell them you saw them in Strictly Business. You might just be introducing yourself to a new client for your own business! Shayne and I are also very proud of our awesome team, which continues to grow and evolve. Most recently, we added Diane Gumaer to the team as our copywriter. I have to remind myself that she just came on board because it feels like she’s been here all along—and that just speaks to how well she fits our culture and the role she is in. Diane works closely with our editor, Hannah Hundley, who celebrated her two-year anniversary with Strictly Business back in February. Along with our intern Kadi Carleton, the three make up the writing force of the magazine. On the design end, our talented art director, Katherine Crawford, works her magic every month with the help of our graphic design intern, Julia Evertson. These women are an inspiration to me as I continue to lead the sales force for both Omaha and Lincoln publications.

Pictured (L-R): Kadi Carleton, Katherine Crawford, Hannah Hundley, Paige Zutavern, Diane Gumaer, and Julia Evertson. Photo by Monica Sempek Photography, LLC.

While sales efforts were put on a brief pause (and are still a little shaky), our team has been working diligently to support the businesses and organizations that we were already partnered with. I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, it’s far better to change your message to your audience than it is to have no message at all, which is why advertising during a crisis remains just as crucial as ever.

Our clients are at the center of everything we do, and we dedicate every day to earning their trust in us as an advertising partner. We have over 50 clients who have been with us for more than 10 years and even one who has been advertising for the full 27 years. As business owners, this is something Shayne and I are very proud of.

As proud Americans—living in one nation under God—Shayne and I are thankful for the opportunity to do business in Lincoln and Omaha, and we can’t say thank you enough to our clients, readers, and all of the current and past staff members who make Strictly Business possible. We hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July!

We’d also like to thank our readers for their continued support, not only of Strictly Business itself but of the businesses we feature. It is such a good feeling to hear about a connection or partnership forming because of

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

CONTENTS NEWS 4 Business 26 Personnel

35 Nonprofit 49 Health

SPOTLIGHTS 54 Visiting Angels 56 Morton Buildings 58 inMOTION Auto Care

ASK THE EXPERT 19 ComPro COLUMNS 20 Star City Six 53 55 57 59

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

Strictly Business Magazine

FEATURE STORIES 60 Pet Care 62 Residential Remodel 72 Supporting Nonprofits 2 Strictly Business JULY 2020

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

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ABOUT THE COVER

We Make Buildings SMARTER LINCOLN • JULY 2020

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM Access Control

Indoor Air Quality Lighting Control

Video

Parking Control Climate Control Smart Analytics

The Leader in Building Technology Solutions We Make Buildings SMARTE R • PET CARE • RESIDENTIAL REMODEL • SUPPORTING NONPROFITS CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • VISITING ANGELS • MORTON BUILDINGS • INMOTION AUTO CARE

Rachel Barth

Lincoln Airport Authority

Evan Welch

Sandhills Global

Stacia Thiesen

Union Bank & Trust

Nikke Hollenbeck H.F. Crave

Jeremy Schafer Revolution Roof

Russ Meyer

Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate

Engineered Controls: The Leader in Building Technology Solutions As a leading building control technology contractor in Nebraska and Iowa, Engineered Controls’ goal is to provide customers with products and services to create efficient, safe, and comfortable building environments.

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

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Established in 1994, Engineered Controls offers a complete turnkey building control solution including system design, new construction, and owner-direct retrofit sales, installation, repair service, and preventive maintenance work for smart buildings. In their 26 years of operation, Engineered Controls has provided innovative and cost-effective building control solutions to over 3,000 satisfied customers. With offices in Lincoln and Omaha, today Engineered Controls employs over 100 people throughout Nebraska and Iowa and their employees collectively represent over 850 years of industry experience. When combined with their hands-on experience, this ensures that their clients receive the most cost-effective and professional service. Engineered Controls is a fully licensed electrical contracting firm in Nebraska and Iowa with journeyman and apprentice electricians on staff. As an Authorized Control Integrator contractor for Honeywell, Inc., Engineered Controls provides a very valuable function in bridging the gap between mega technology companies like Honeywell and their thousands of commercial customers who use Honeywell building technology products every day. The team offers a wide range of products and services in the areas of advanced HVAC building

controls, building automation systems, facility system integration, energy management, lighting systems, energy metering systems, gas detection and refrigerant monitoring systems, intrusion detection, video surveillance, and access control systems and parking management systems. Engineered Controls’ experience in building control technologies extends across a wide spectrum of facility types including commercial office, health care, industrial, government and military, hotels, museums, sports and entertainment, educational, and public buildings. For the past 26 years, Engineered Controls has consistently ranked in the top three of Honeywell’s Elite ACI Direct club of advanced building automation contractors. This award is presented annually to only 10 of the top contractors in the nation and its designation is based on a dozen rigorous criteria including reputation in the marketplace, outstanding service to customers, and expert technical knowledge on staff. Additionally, Engineered Controls has been honored to receive Honeywell’s National Contractor of the Year award on four different occasions. At Engineered Controls, their goal is to build strong and lasting relationships with their customers by providing value and experience that is unparalleled in the industry. They strive to excel in all aspects of their business, offering quality services in a timely manner but at affordable rates. Whether your needs are a simple component repair or a fully integrated building automation system, Engineered Controls is ready to provide you the building control technologies and support you need. For more information about how Engineered Controls may be of personal service to you, please visit the website, call, or stop by the Lincoln or Omaha locations.

Creating efficient, safe, and comfortable building environments.

www.engineeredcontrols.com · Lincoln 402.434.2110 · Omaha 402.339.1300

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

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JULY 2020 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Kinetic by Windstream Keeps Fans Connected and Updated at Kinetic Sports Complex

Coldwell Banker NHS Announces Construction Start for Roose Haven in South Lincoln

As the Kinetic Sports Complex begins opening for team play, Kinetic by Windstream announced that families who come to Lincoln for games and tournaments will have access to Kinetic by Windstream services that improve their fan experience. Because of the Kinetic managed Wi-Fi system at the complex, known in the telecom industry as Managed LAN WAN, fans who’ve logged into the Wi-Fi on site can get SMS text updates on changes to game schedules or specials at nearby restaurants for teams or weather information that could be important.

Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate REALTOR ® Russ Myer is proud to announce that construction is underway at Roose Haven, a six-home development on Roose St., near the intersection of 56th and Van Dorn. The development process began two years ago, after scouting out opportunities and land to build homes for the Lincoln community. Construction began on the first three of six homes on June 1. “We designed the homes to create a community within a neighborhood, with each home facing toward each other along a private drive,” Russ said. The homes will feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, an attached three-car garage, and an open-concept design, totaling about 1,650 square feet. Exteriors will feature modern farmhouse designs with broad front porches, high-quality materials, and attention to detail. Russ and his wife Christine have poured their time and talents into this development to make it a success and are excited to offer new housing in an older, established neighborhood. One of the major attractions with this development will be its location and proximity to the Lincoln bike trail network and to Holmes lake. The homes in Roose Haven are for sale through Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate, a locally owned and operated real estate company, and listed by Russ. The homes are listed in the $300,000’s and will be featured in the fall Parade of Homes. If you are interested in learning more, call Russ at (402) 310-8262 or email him at Russ@cb-nhs.com.

Messages also can be tailored for who is logged on at the moment or who has logged on during a particular time frame, keeping the information for fans relevant and useful. Of course, fans can always opt out of the messages if they want. The good news for other businesses in Lincoln is they don’t have to be the size of a sports complex to take advantage of this managed Wi-Fi system. A quick lube store can notify customers who’ve used their Wi-Fi in the waiting room recently that they have specials on services in the future. Coffee shops can let regulars know when the summer iced flavors have arrived, and restaurants can tell folks who logged onto Wi-Fi during trivia night when special prizes or theme nights are coming up. Kinetic by Windstream connects fans and customers to information they need when they need it. Check with the company’s local sales director at (402) 437-7226 to find out how their solutions can help you communicate with your customers. More information is availble online by visiting www.kineticbusiness.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS Lincolnites Find Custom Furniture at Barnwood & Leather’s New Showroom One of Lincoln’s newest installments is Barnwood & Leather, a store full of rustic home furnishings and customized cabinetry. Locally owned by Mike and Brenda Clark, Barnwood & Leather works with small business owners who manufacture American-made furniture products or offer high-quality pieces from outside of the U.S. Since opening in late 2019, Lincolnites have had the chance to find unique barnwood furniture and custom cabinet options by craftsmen who pride themselves in creating each piece. The store also proudly sells an Amish line of hardwood furniture pieces that you cannot find anywhere else in Nebraska. Though inclement weather and COVID derailed plans for a ribbon cutting, people are encouraged to continue welcoming Mike, Brenda, and the Barnwood & Leather family to the community. The store is located at 1401 Dahlberg Dr., STE H, in southwest Lincoln. Go online to www.barnwoodandleather.com to view beautiful photos of some of the products they have featured in their showroom. Call (531) 500-4848 with any questions about how Barnwood & Leather can fill your home with customized furniture and decor.

Oasis Senior Advisors Partners to Produce, Distribute Face Shields to Healthcare Facilities Oasis Senior Advisors corporate offices recently partnered with a high-tech printing company in New Jersey to produce plastic face shields and deliver them to hospitals and nursing facilities nationwide. Lincoln Oasis franchisee owner Beth Friesen helped by distributing them locally, thanks to an opportunity that arose from a deep desire to help healthcare workers, a commitment to communities, and a decades-long friendship. It started with Oasis Senior Advisors corporate President John Benbrook, who reached out to high school friend Don Terwilliger, president of Digital Color Concepts, a high-tech printing company based in Mountainside, NJ, to inquire about their operation producing the shields. His friend jumped on the opportunity, and a project was born. Beth quickly reached out to several healthcare facilities that she partners with in Lincoln, and they were eager to get more face shields to continue providing adequate protection for their staff members and potential patients. Digital Color Concepts has the capability of producing 500 shields a day and could make up to 17,000. This is at zero cost to those receiving the shields. There are shipping costs involved, but those are being donated by the franchisees distributing the face shields, including Beth. “In the spirit of cooperation during this time, we truly wished to just donate the face shields and we happy to be able to do so,” she said. “It felt absolutely amazing to be able to provide such a valuable PPE product for our healthcare partners, and they were very thankful to receive them!” Oasis Senior Advisors franchisees make up a nationwide network of compassionate advisors who connect seniors and their families to the resources they need and help make the transition to a senior-living community that is the right fit. For more information about Oasis Senior Advisors in Lincoln, contact Beth at (402) 429-8891 or visit www. oasissenioradvisors.com/lincoln. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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I've known Tom for a long time! Always courteous and professional. Our new trees look great!!!! - Scott Mausbach

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Pioneer Printing Celebrates 40 Years Pioneer Printing is celebrating 40 years in business as of July 1, and while restrictions on social gatherings have prevented them from having an open house to celebrate with the community, they’re celebrating with their customers and staff. The family-owned local business has thrived in Lincoln by maintaining high quality standards, extraordinary service, and meaningful value at a competitive price. Pioneer Printing has been in the same family since it began as a Sir Speedy franchise on 33rd and Pioneers in 1980. In the beginning, they had only a press, plate maker, typewriter, and a tabletop copier. Now located at 3133 S 7 St., STE D, Pioneer Printing is a full-service locally-owned print shop operating with state-of-the-art digital printers for color and B&W, producing big jobs and small jobs alike, and delivering them with expert staff and “crazy-fast” service. Using sustainably sourced or recycled paper materials whenever possible, Pioneer Printing does custom printing for just about anything you could possibly need—from promotional cups, pens, tote bags, and other items, to announcements, large-format posters, B&W copies, booklets, brochures, business cards, carbonless forms, color digital printing, door hangers, envelopes, flyers, labels, letterhead, memo and notepads, newsletters, pocket folders, postcards, programs, and rubber stamps. “Our small-but-mighty team of four employees combine more than 80 years of experience in printing,” said Owner Cyndy Harkins, whose parents started the family business. “Of course, we would not be here without all of our wonderful customers and friends, so we’re grateful for everyone who helped get us to this day!” To place an order or learn more about Pioneer Printing, visit www. pioneerprintinginc.com or call (402) 483-7575. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 5

BUSINESS NEWS Sumner Place Earns Five-Star Rating from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

Transworld Business Advisor MJ Cassner Brokers Sale of Edible Arrangements®

Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation of Lincoln recently was given a five-star quality rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The rating system aims to help consumers, their families, and caregivers compare nursing homes more easily and help identify areas about which you might want to ask questions. A Nursing Home Compare webpage on medicare.gov features the ratings for all nursing homes in the country, and Sumner Place scored the highest level—five out of five stars—in every category: overall rating, health inspections, staffing, and quality measures. Nursing homes with five stars are considered to have “much above average” quality, according to the government site. The basis for the ratings includes the three most recent health inspections and investigations, as gathered by objective inspectors. Staffing ratings are based on the average number of hours of care provided to each resident, each day by nursing staff, and the qualitymeasures rating includes information about 15 different physical and clinical measures for nursing-home residents, which highlight how well the nursing home is caring for its residents’ physical and clinical needs. Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation is one of 31 communities owned or managed by Vetter Health Services of Elkhorn. For more information about Sumner Place, please call (402) 4756791 or visit www.SumnerPlaceCare.com.

MJ Cassner, experienced business broker for Transworld Business Advisor, was thrilled to broker the sale of Edible Arrangements® 506 at 1036 S 74th Plaza off of Pacific St. in Omaha to Ratheesh Nair. The previous owners, Ali Henrichs and Donna Pletcher, first opened the shop in September of 2006. Ratheesh looks forward to continuing to help people in the local community Pictured (L-R): MJ Cassner, Ali Henrichs, and Ratheesh Nair. celebrate all kinds of occasions— big and small. The store reported a successful Mother’s Day season, and COVID-19 has only served to increase business since Edible Arrangements was already set up to do delivery. Ratheesh is also excited about a few new menu items, including smoothies, cheesecakes, and cookies. Edible Arrangements (www.ediblearrangements.com) fruit arrangements and gifts are always freshly-crafted using fruit that’s grown and picked to their Fruit Expert® standards. Edible Arrangements also has locations in Bellevue and Lincoln, which are under different ownership. Transworld Business Advisors is the worldwide leader in business and franchise brokerage. To learn more about buying or selling a business with Transworld, visit www.tworld.com/omaha-south or contact MJ at (402) 715-9574 / mjcassner@tworld.com.

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As a leading Building Control contractor, Engineered Controls’ goal is to provide customers with products and services to create efficient, safe and comfortable building environments. Engineered Controls offers complete turn-key control solutions including construction, retrofit, service and maintenance for facilities of all types and sizes. Offices in Omaha and Lincoln, NE.

866.395.0186 | engineeredcontrols.com Building Automation and Controls I Security I Lighting I Gas Detection I Parking Management

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BUSINESS NEWS Home Care Partners of Nebraska Announces Your Choice Care Credit Program H o m e C a r e Pa r t n e r s o f Nebraska is giving back to the community by offering the Your Choice Care Credit program. It will provide each new family receiving the organization’s services with a $400 credit toward home-care services, in the form of a $10-per-hour fee reduction for their first 40 hours of home-care services. The credit will be available to new clients for a limited time. A recent runner-up in the Lincoln Choice Awards, Home Care Partners wants to see every patient recover or transition into a healthy, supportive environment at home. The caregiving services they provide ease concerns and give family members a break by providing comfort, safety, relief, and companionship to loved ones. They do this by providing a unique, customized care plan that results in a higher quality of life and improved health outcomes. Home Care Partners of Nebraska offers resources for home health, cost of care, how to start the conversation with your elders, and the team is dementia-trained and certified. If you are looking for home-care support in the Lincoln area or are interested in learning more about how the Your Choice Care Credit program could benefit your family, please call (402) 780-1211 or visit homecarepartnersofnebraska.com.

Beyond Vision LNK - 5550 S 59th St #25 - Lincoln, NE 68516 402.261.8699 - beyondvisionlnk@gmail.com www.beyondvisionlnk.com

COVID-19 Response Cleanup Top Spot Cleaning is a qualified company able to address all aspects of decontamination using Chlorine Dioxide (CL02).

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The Chocolate Season Adds Fresh New Summer Items, Extends Hours to Sundays The Chocolate Season continues to keep their customers on their toes by experimenting with new recipes for coffee brews and yummy bites. These include some fun fresh summer items such as the Chai Tea Freeze which can be made “dirty” with their cold brew, a Summer Fling Salad, Turkey Chipotle Wrap, Parisian Ham Sandwich, and much more! Another exciting installment is the official switch from Waffle Saturdays to Waffle Weekends. That’s right! The Chocolate Season is opening up on Sundays to serve their delicious waffle varieties and breakfast items, which include quiche, Super Foods Bowl, the newly added Mango Tango Toast, Elvis Toast, and Strawberry Nutella Toast. Lincoln’s love affair with The Chocolate Season continues to intensify with the addition of their easy-to-use online ordering system on their website. This makes it simple to select something from their All Day (7 a.m. – 5 p.m.) or Lunch (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.) menus and then pick it up from their drive-thru window at the designated completion time. The dine-in option is available again as well, with both indoor and patio seating to choose from. The Chocolate Season specializes in artisan chocolates made inhouse. They are located in Williamsburg Village, and they provide small plates, desserts, craft espresso drinks, and a place for the community to gather and celebrate each other. The Chocolate Season also services a Barista Truck in Lincoln and surrounding communities, which can be booked for private parties, company outings, or found at community events. To see the full menu and specific weekend hours, go to thechocolateseason.com or follow the Facebook page (@thechocolateseason). Also, mark your calendar for July 7, World Chocolate Day, for some special discounts and prizes for customers! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

First National Bank of Omaha Awards More than $3M to COVID-19 Relief Organizations First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) has awarded more than $3 million in community development grants and impact investments to 27 organizations in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, South Dakota, and Texas that are providing relief to individuals and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. FNBO’s community-investment strategy focuses on affordable housing, workforce, and small-business development. The bank’s response to COVID is in line with that strategy because it focuses on housing, workforce, and small-business stability to get through the crisis. The first round of grants supports organizations providing housingstability programs. The grants are being awarded to nonprofit organizations that are helping families remain stable and healthy in their own homes by providing financial assistance for rent, mortgage, utilities, and other needs, such as food and living expenses. FNBO also has contributed $2.75 million in impact investments to community loan funds that are providing small businesses with relief loans across the bank’s service footprint. These community loan funds are held and managed by Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) that provide underserved businesses access to capital. In late summer, FNBO will award another round of grants that will focus on workforce stability. These grants will be awarded to organizations that are providing individuals with crucial workforce-development services to enhance their chances for employment. For more than 160 years, First National Bank of Omaha has maintained its commitment to helping to build strong communities. To learn more, visit www.fnbo.com. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 7

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Call 877-445-9462 or visit kineticbusiness.com/Lincoln to get connected to whatever comes next. Kinetic Business by Windstream: Limited-time offer. Offer available for new customers only. Subject to availability. Promotional price requires a 24-month commitment. After promotional period, standard rates apply. Business Class Internet: Windstream cannot guarantee speeds or uninterrupted, error-free service. Speed availability, capabilities and provisioning vary depending on network and terrain conditions, Internet, website, or network congestion, and customer geographical location. Windstream makes no representations related to download or upload speeds. Windstream assumes no responsibility or liability for interruption of services or service performance differences actual and advertised performance. In select areas, includes Internet transport, Internet access, and unlimited incoming calls. Outbound calls, except for toll free and 911, will be charged at 10 cents/minute. Operator Service and 411 will be charged at tariffed rates. No features or long-distance carrier rates allowed. Kinetic Business Internet Speed: Monthly fees may apply. For speeds over 25 Mbps, services are provisioned in a range including a minimum and maximum speed. Windstream will provision customer’s location for the fastest speed available within the available range at the time of order but cannot guarantee speed or uninterrupted, error-free service. Equipment: Up to $10 equipment fee may apply. Windstream-provided modems will be capable of in-business wireless networking, but devices supported by in-business wireless networking connections may experience speeds not equal to advertised speeds or the speed referenced in your High Speed Internet plan. With wireless networking, actual throughput speed may be impacted by several factors including interference from other equipment or devices at the location, distance from the modem, modem location, number and types of devices connected, physical obstructions, and time of day. To obtain advertised speed, connecting a device directly to the modem to provide a wired connection is recommended. Modem equipment must be returned upon termination, and if not, Windstream reserves the right to charge for the modem or a $100 fee. © 2020 Windstream Services, LLC. All rights reserved. Kinetic and Windstream are registered service marks or trademarks of Windstream Services, LLC and/or its affiliates. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

8 027277LincolnSMB75x10.indd Strictly Business JULY 2020 1

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BUSINESS NEWS Tremendous Growth Leads JetSplash to Announce Plans for a Sixth Location in Lincoln Bouyed by exponential growth, JetSplash has announced plans to build a sixth Lincoln location, just off of 14th Street and Pine Lake Road. Since opening their first location in 2003, JetSplash has washed more than six million vehicles, not as a franchise but as an independent business serving their friends and neighbors in the Lincoln community. Giving back is a commitment they take seriously, and they do so through frequent giveaways, highlighting other Lincoln businesses, and interacting with customers regularly on social media. Existing JetSplash locations are at Hwy 2 and Pioneers, 84th and Holdrege, 27th and Superior, 56th and Pine Lake, and 84th and Hwy 2. All locations demonstrate superior levels of speed, satisfaction, and sustainability, and not many other car-wash facilities can boast use of eco-friendly and 100% biodegradable products only. Plus, all vacuums and wash machines are state-of-the-art and energyefficient. Dates for completion of the new location are not yet set, but keep up by visiting JetSplash’s website at www.jetsplash.com and following on Facebook (@jetsplash).

Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Encouraged by Governor’s Get Nebraska Going Initiative The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is encouraged by Gov. Pete Ricketts’s recently announced Get Nebraska Growing initiative to help Nebraska’s economy recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The state will receive $1.2 billion in funding through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES), which the initiative directs to four grant programs to stimulate small businesses, workforce retraining, expansion of rural broadband, and leadership training. “Collaboration and partnerships have long been strengths of the Chamber,” said Lincoln Chamber of Commerce President Wendy Birdsall. “Now more than ever, those are strengths we need to build on and utilize toward recovery in Lincoln and across Nebraska. The Chamber looks forward to our continued work with Gov. Ricketts and Nebraska Economic Development Director Tony Goins as we get our businesses back up to full speed.” Get Nebraska Going includes dedication of $330 million in working capital for Nebraska small businesses and livestock producers through the Small Business Stabilization Grant, plus $16 million to the Workforce Retraining Initiative, which will help community colleges across the state provide training programs to those who have had their employment affected by COVID-19. The Rural Broadband Remote Access Grant will dedicate $40 million to help communities gain important quality-of-life and workforce-development improvements; an additional $1 million will be directed to the Gallup Leadership Training Grant to provide leadership training to keep Nebraska businesses moving forward; and $85 million will go to the Community CARES Program to provide food security, housing, PPE, behavioral health, and other resources to organizations serving Nebraskans that have been strained by COVID-19. The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce (LCOC) is Lincoln’s leading business organization, representing more than 1,700 member businesses by providing advocacy and connections to help businesses grow and thrive in the city. For more information, visit www.lcoc.com or contact Communications Coordinator Chris Whitney at (402) 436-2376 / cwhitney@lcoc.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Toastmasters District 24 is Speaking Up Through Online Club Meetings

New Survey Highlights Lincoln Immigrants’ Deep Investment in Community

Resilient Toastmasters District 24 members are stepping up to help each other stay connected via online platforms that are working like a charm. In the current socialdistancing era, the club’s online meetings are giving people a place to practice speaking, teaching them how to set up a place in their home spaces that offer proper lighting and sound, and helping members maintain their strong sense of community, even when physically distanced. With 49 clubs now open to digital guests and visitors, the group continues to serve as a great place for members to grow communication and leadership skills. Outstanding Toastmasters members are stepping up to help others connect online, too. Volunteers have donated use of their Pro Zoom accounts, helped train others to use Zoom, and encouraged members to give online meetings a try. Toastmasters also hosts one Pro Zoom account that any club can reserve for meetings, too. Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding areas are served by Toastmasters District 24, grouping 70 Toastmasters clubs and 1,100 members from Kearney to Council Bluffs. Find some online clubs at www.meetup.com/District-24-Toastmasters-Meetup or search for clubs at www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club to learn how you can get connected! Learn more about Toastmasters District 24 at www.d24tm.org or on Facebook (@D24TM).

Lincoln is a vibrant and inclusive community that is home to residents from around the world. A first-of-its-kind survey of immigrants and refugees living in Lincoln conducted in early 2019 illustrates a demographically diverse community that is ambitious and committed, has strong faith in civic institutions, and is eager for greater economic opportunity. Over 500 New Americans completed the survey in Spring 2019. The findings affirm that many immigrants and refugees value living in Lincoln and trust many of the City’s key institutions. They are enthusiastic about learning English, and many bring educational and professional credentials, including nearly one in five immigrants who arrived in Lincoln with a bachelor’s or advanced degree from abroad. However, Lincoln’s New Americans also face significant economic and social barriers. Key findings from the survey include: • A high value on English skills • Employed but looking (and trained!) for more • Strong confidence in civic institutions, but gaps in engagement Data was gathered with the support of more than 20 community organizations that are members of the New Americans Task Force (NATF). The survey was administered to 505 adult immigrant and refugee residents of Lincoln from February 2019 to June 2019. Surveys were administered in five languages: English, Arabic, Karen, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Responses were collected in person and online. While demographically diverse, survey respondents were not a statistically representative sample of the foreign-born community in Lincoln. A full survey report is available at www.lincoln.ne.gov/city/natf/pdf/ surveyreport2020.pdf.

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BUSINESS NEWS NebraskaLink Announces Company Name Change to OPTK Networks NebraskaLink, an industry leader in fiber-based network, announced in June that the company will begin operating under a new name and will be known as OPTK Networks, effective immediately. The company’s ownership and staff have not changed.

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As NebraskaLink continues to grow and expand their network outside of Nebraska, they thought it necessary to adopt a new identity. While the name has changed, the company’s core values have not. Nebraska will always be where they started, and they will always remain true to their Midwestern values. OPTK Networks provides diverse, robust, and innovative technology solutions with an emphasis on provider class internet connectivity and multi-site architecture. The infrastructure and investment allow for unequaled service to the business community, where high reliability and dependability are key. Learn more online at optk.com.

SCC Receives Grant to Incorporate Specialty Crop Curriculum, Nebraska Crop Awareness Southeast Community College’s Culinary/Hospitality program received a $37,463 grant to incorporate specialty-crop curriculum and promote awareness of Nebraska specialty crops. SCC’s student-run restaurant, Course, and its coffee shop, Course Ground Coffee, also will be able to showcase some of the crops in the menu items they produce and sell, giving consumers the opportunity to taste and hopefully increase the use of these food items. The grant came from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, and specialty crops are defined as fruits and tree nuts, vegetables, culinary herbs and spices, and medicinal plants, as well as nursery, floriculture, and horticulture crops. Starting this summer, the grant also allows for students and faculty to attend local farmers’ markets and have a chef provide demonstrations and educational experiences about these specialty crops to the public. In addition, SCC was able to fund a campus garden with raised planter boxes, located right outside the Course restaurant on SCC’s Lincoln campus, east of the main campus building. SCC maintenance staff constructed the 12 planter boxes, which have since been filled with a variety of Nebraska specialty crops that students will grow, maintain, harvest, and use to prepare food. Plantings this year include basil, sage, thyme, oregano, dill, cilantro, rosemary, pineapple sage, bee balm, mint, eggplant, cherry and heirloom tomatoes, varieties of carrots, spinach, beets, turnips, serrano peppers, and a variety of flowers! “Hopefully it will increase awareness and knowledge to the general student population and campus visitors,” said Rob Epps, director of the Culinary/Hospitality program. “The hundreds of students and visitors walking by the space daily can see the growth of these crops and will have the opportunity to learn about them from the signs and educational events built around the garden.” Southeast Community College is committed to providing accessible, dynamic, and responsive education to a diverse variety of students in more than 50 programs. For more information about SCC’s Culinary/ Hospitality program, visit www.southeast.edu/culinary. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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EventLNK to Host In-Person Networking Event July 30 at Robber’s Cave Social Hall Mark your calendars for July 30 to participate in the EventLNK in-person networking event at the newly renovated Robber’s Cave & Social Hall, from 4-6 p.m. They can’t wait to show off the new space, which boasts five different meeting rooms, the famous Robber’s Cave, and stateor-the-art meeting equipment. The historic venue is available for weddings, receptions, or any other special event and is one of the most accommodating, convenient, and unique venues for holding your upcoming event in Lincoln. Robber’s Cave Social Hall meeting rooms range from the Green Room, with a capacity of 16 to the Sandstone Room, which seats up to 113 people, to the James & Scarborough combined room, which can host a capacity up to 323. They also provide catering and everything you need to bring your event to life, including menu planning and tastings, rental coordination, vendor referrals, event set-up, and on-site staff. EventLNK’s mission is to bring together Lincoln’s event professionals through innovative education and resources. They strive to enhance and support professional growth in the industry, and membership is open to event/meeting planners, coordinators, and managers. Monthly member meetings include presentations from vendors, suppliers, and hospitality professionals, topic-driven discussion time, and site visits to various Lincoln venues. To learn more, go to www.eventlnk.org or call (402) 435-1372. To register for the July 30 event, go to www.eventbrite.com/e/july-eventlnk-networkingat-robbers-cave-social-hall-registration-110789000884. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS SP Group Swings into Action to Meet July 15 Tax Deadline

HBAL Young Building Professionals Raise Funds for Lincoln Lighthouse

After a short break to recharge following the original April 15 tax deadline, SP Group PC swung back into action to meet the new 2019 tax-return deadline of July 15, extended because of the national emergency declaration related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many SP Group team members have been working from home to honor socialdistancing guidelines and state-directed health measures in Nebraska, but continued to serve clients efficiently and effectively without interruption. SP Group reminds everyone that the July 15 deadline applies to all 2019 tax returns—for individuals, trusts, estates, and corporations. This means that anyone, including Americans who live and work abroad, must file their 2019 federal income-tax return and pay any taxes due by that date. What’s more, any individual or corporation with federal quarterly estimated tax payments due between April 1 and July 15 can wait until July 15 to make a payment, without incurring penalties or interest. Individuals who need additional time to file taxes (but not an extension to pay taxes owed) can still request an extension to October 15. If you have questions regarding tax deadlines, follow SP Group PC on Facebook (@SP Group, P.C.) or Twitter (@SPGroupPC). For more information or to schedule tax preparation, call (402) 420-7758 or visit www.spgrouppc.com.

The Young Building Professionals (YBP) Council of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) had to cancel its annual Light the Way 5K fundraiser, but that didn’t stop them from raising $900 for the Lincoln Lighthouse after-school program. That’s thanks to the generosity of Light the Way sponsors, who allowed YBP to redirect their sponsorship dollars directly to its project, after COVID-19 health measures eliminated the 5K fundraiser.

Strictly Business JULY 2020

On June 23, the HBAL’s YBP Council officially made the donation to Lincoln Lighthouse to support its mission to offer academic support, evening meals, and enrichment and recreational activities during nonschool hours for middle- and high-school youth. The sponsors making the donation possible included Action Plumbing & Heating, Inc., ALLO Communications, Complete Inspection Services, and Woods Bros. Realty / Reynolds Group Real Estate Professionals. The Home Builders Association of Lincoln is a visible, effective, and respected trade association that promotes homebuilding through professional education, member communication, and civic participation, and represents builders and associated professionals in community, government, and industry forums. HBAL’s Young Building Professionals Council is focused on engaging the next generation of builders and associates by giving them a unified voice in the building community. Learn more by visiting www.hbal.org or calling (402) 423-4225.

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Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Will Open New Corporate Office Location in Lincoln July 27 Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is proud to announce the opening of their new corporate office at 8400 Maddox Dr., right off of 84th and Van Dorn. The new headquarters will open on July 27 and will house Lincoln Federal’s corporate employees, including loan services. For retail banking services, visit any of their other locations. The current corporate office at 1101 N St. in Lincoln will close permanently at 5 p.m. on July 23. Operating solely in Nebraska, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is a depositor-owned financial institution specializing in residential home loans, construction loans, home equity loan products, commercial real estate loans, and deposit services. Because there are no outside shareholders, Lincoln Federal can offer highly competitive rates to customers on loans and help increase housing in the community. Throughout the relocation, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank’s corporate phone number will remain unchanged, at (402) 474-1400. For more information, visit www.Lincolnfed.com.

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Raising Cane’s Franchisee Unveils Managing Partner Program Southern Hospitality Ventures (SHV), a proud franc hisee of Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, has unveiled an unmatched Managing Partner Program that aims to make its highestperforming restaurant leaders, or general managers, excel financially without an upfront investment. The program lays out a path for high-performing restaurants to attain a level of compensation unmatched in the restaurant industry—more than $100,000 per year in salary, bonuses, and incentives. In short, the initiative is designed to create millionaires out of restaurant leaders and help fuel the brand’s continued growth. Justin and Jennifer Jones, owners of the SHV franchise, opened their first Raising Cane’s restaurant in 2006, and they focus the menu on fresh, made-to-order chicken fingers paired with their homemade Cane’s sauce, grilled Texas toast, creamy coleslaw, and crinkle-cut fries. Having become America’s fastest-growing chicken brand, Raising Cane’s new Restaurant Partner Program invites exceptional restaurant managers to invest in the form of hard work and stellar performance—both in the restaurant and as leaders in their community—in place of the typical financial buy-in required by other restaurant concepts. SVH’s CEO Justin Jones says the goal of the Managing Partner Program is to partner with leading performers for the long term. “Franchisees aren’t normally allowed to create these types of programs,” Justin said. “However, we are fortunate to be partnered with a great brand that allows us to do so. To us, that’s important and separates the Raising Cane’s brand from other concepts.” SHV has four locations in Lincoln and nine others across Nebraska and Iowa. The company has made community involvement a key to its operations because they don’t want to be just another restaurant, but instead to be the community’s restaurant. Since its inception, the franchise has given back more than $2 million to their restaurants’ communities, including Nebraska veterans and their families, Nebraska No-Kill Canine Rescue, Nebraska military troops, the Nebraska National Guard Foundation, and more. To find the location nearest you, visit www.raisingcanes.com/locations , and for more information, email mp@shv-inc.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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JULY 2020 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Better Business Bureau Addresses Red Flags of Identity Theft

Center Sphere Launches Two New Initiatives to Create Opportunities for Network Members

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) knows that business ID theft is real, and they have addressed a couple red flags so owners can ensure they are protecting their company. Running a business has so many moving components; it can be hard to keep track of everything. That is especially true in light of all that small businesses are having to do to stay afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic. You want to be sure you are doing all you can to protect your business’s reputation and take steps to prevent business identity theft. Small- and medium-size businesses are also at risk, not just big-name businesses. Criminals can steal a business’s identity by gaining access to financial or other sensitive information. They also have a variety of ways in, including hacking, malware, phishing emails, and swiping credit card information. Businesses should be wary of these red flags of identity theft: • You receive a request to verify orders you didn’t place. • You receive phone calls from someone trying to verify an address for your business that is not associated with your company or that you cannot confirm. • You receive invoices for storage, shipping, or other services that you did not purchase. • You are a victim of a phishing attempt or a business email compromise (BEC) scam. For tips to protect your business from identity theft and more information to help you through the COVID-19 pandemic, turn to the Better Business Bureau by going online to bbb.org/smallbusiness.

As the world started to reopen and businesses began to regain focus in June, Center Sphere launched two new initiatives to create opportunities for their members to engage, learn, and build meaningful relationships. First, Center Sphere’s Network inaugurated their first Industry Collaborative Groups, giving members new platforms to connect with other industry experts across the country to share ideas and grow together. Second, Center Sphere launched its newest Academy offering, ELEVATE: Yourself. Your Relationships. Your Business. This personal-development course was created specifically for members and focuses on clarity, presence, trust, and adding value, influence, and connection. This highlevel course is available at no additional cost to members and is the first of many to be offered through Center Sphere Academy. Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. The Lincoln Network is currently made up of nearly 30 chapters. For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event, visit www. CenterSphere.com or connect with Lincoln Area Director Cheryl Hansen at CherylHansen@CenterSphere.com or (402) 499-2009.

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Strictly Business JULY 2020

Hunt Irrigation Offers Water-Saving Tips in Celebration of Smart Irrigation Month Hunt Irrigation, Inc. is joining the city of Lincoln and the state of Nebraska in celebrating Smart Irrigation Month throughout July by helping their clients and fellow Nebraskans save water, save money, and see better results from their underground irrigation systems. Smart Irrigation Month is a public-awareness campaign to promote efficient outdoor water use. Focused in July—traditionally the month of peak outdoor water use—the campaign highlights simple practices and innovative technologies to: • Make the community aware of the efficiencies available for outdoor water use • Minimize overwatering while keeping lawns, gardens, and landscapes beautiful and healthy • Save money on utility bills • Help protect community water supplies for today and the future Known as The Water Smart Company, Hunt Irrigation said many property owners and managers overwater, unintentionally wasting money every time they take out the hose or turn on the sprinkler. Hunt uses a variety of water-saving practices to drive results, including: their proprietary irrigation designs; helping customers plant and maintain low-water landscapes that will thrive in the climate; installing new irrigation systems that use controllers with real-time weather data, rain-climatic sensors to automatically adjust water output to meet plant needs; and using lowvolume drip-irrigation to apply very small amounts of water to gardens, trees, and shrubs, thus minimizing evaporation and waste. The company also retrofits existing systems with rain sensors to prevent watering in rainy weather, and helps customers create custom programs for their automatic controllers to comply with watering restrictions. Since Hunt Irrigation, Inc.’s inception in 1997, their proprietary irrigation designs and use of proven water-conservation technologies and BMPs have been able to conserve millions of gallons of water. To learn more about what Hunt Irrigation can do to improve your irrigationsystem efficiency, contact their office at (402) 438-8151 or visit www. huntirrigation.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar Amps Up with Three New Smooth Peanut Butter Artisan Drinks Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar introduced three new peanut-butter drinks to amp up your summer, including a frozen Peanut Butter Cup Latte, a Peanut Butter Protein Shake, and a classic Peanut Butter & Jelly Smoothie! Going by the reviews on social media, all three are platinum hits, with customers already classifying them as phenomenal, amazing, delish, and YUM, and one person already pleading, “Don’t ever get rid of the latte! It’s so amazing!” Of course, that’s only the tip of the iceberg, because the franchise has an extensive selection of specialty coffees and sandwiches, enjoyed with a backdrop of rock music and memorability. It’s an atmosphere where people gather to enjoy first-rate coffee, outstanding sandwiches, and delicious pastries in a cozy and laidback atmosphere reminiscent of an exclusive backstage lounge. The artisan drinks are focused on quality and craft, with music brewing in the décor and air. Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar is all about creative excellence. Their premium coffee is masterfully blended, and their pastries and allday breakfast sandwiches are a must. Rock ‘n’ Joe is located at 5025 Lindberg St. Learn more at www.rocknjoe.com, on Facebook (@RnJLincoln), or by calling (531) 500-4684.

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Lincoln Airport Authority Taking COVID Precautions as Air Travel Picks Back Up The Lincoln Airport Authority is seeing an uptick in travel since COVID-19 restrictions loosened, but they are keeping strict safety measures in place to protect the health and safety of all guests, passengers, and employees. The airport is monitoring impacts resulting from the domestic and international spread of COVID-19 and is working with their local, state, and federal partners on formulation and implementation of guidance and recommendations aimed at ensuring the safety and welfare of everyone in the airport. The airport terminal is cleaned thoroughly multiple times throughout the day, and custodial staff is taking extra time to address the sanitization of high-traffic areas, using new disinfectant products and materials on and around those features that are touched most often by terminal users, including tables, chairs, handrails, door handles, and the like. Hand sanitizers are available on stands in the terminal, for use by everyone in the building, for disinfecting hands and wiping down luggage and other surfaces. LNK also is offering free face masks to anyone who arrives at the airport without one; signage placed throughout the terminal alerts guests to contact the Communication Center phone number so an LNK employee can deliver a complimentary mask to them. The Lincoln Airport Authority operates the Lincoln Airport, which is a public/military airport located five miles northwest of Lincoln. It is the second-largest airport in Nebraska, spanning more than 5,000 acres. They currently have commercial air service through Delta and United Airlines and operate the LNK Enterprise Park, one of the largest industrial parks in the Midwest. For more information, contact Director of Communications and Customer Engagement Rachel Barth at (402) 440-4211 or r.barth@lincolnairport.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Greater Omaha Chapter #116 announced that their 2020 golf fundraiser will be virtual, given remaining coronavirus pandemic restrictions on social gatherings. Tagged as “2020 In the Rough—A Virtual Golf Fundraiser,” the annual tournament raises money for trade-related scholarships, apprenticeship training, and other industry activities. IN EN

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In the Rough sponsorship opportunities will be available until September 30, and the tournament will include an industry happy hour with raffles and hole prizes at a later date, following lifting of local social-distancing restrictions. Supported by sponsorships for the golf tournament, The Greater Omaha Chapter of NAWIC offers scholarships to men and women pursuing careers in the construction industry via a college education or a trade apprenticeship program. The National Association of Women in Construction is an international organization of women working in and around the construction industry. Their core purpose is to enhance the success of women in the industry through education, networking, and leadership opportunities. Watch for In the Rough details on the NAWIC website at www.nawicomaha.com and on their Facebook page (@nawicomaha).

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum Reopens with Visitor Guidelines After voluntarily closing Marc h 16 in response to the rapidly evolving situation with the novel coronavirus, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum reopened its doors to the general public on May 18. The Museum has resumed regular operations, open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This includes all exhibits, flight simulators, gift shop, and SAC Lunch Café. Summer Camp programming began as scheduled on June 8 and will run through July 24. Both guests and staff are required to wear masks at all times, while visiting the Museum. Signs and notices throughout the Museum are also in place to remind guests and staff to exercise social distancing. Visitors are asked to review the additional guidelines and safety measures in place for staff and guests on the Museum website before visiting. “This is an uncertain time for museums with the likelihood that 25% will not reopen,” explains Executive Director Jeff Cannon. “There is no doubt that tourism oriented businesses such as museums, attractions, hotels, and airlines will continue to have significant challenges over the next few years. I am proud to see the efforts that our team is performing in all departments. Within days of shutting down, the team transitioned into the new normal, adapting and planning for our future by offering virtual programs in our core pillars of education, veterans, and community. In preparation to reopen, the team has implemented current guidelines to assure the safety of staff and visitors.”

Strictly Business JULY 2020

Information about the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum’s upcoming events, summer camps, and visitor guidelines can be found online at www.sacmuseum.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS State Leaders Launch Applications for Grant Programs to Get Nebraska Growing On June 12, Governor Pete Ricketts and State officials hosted a press conference to provide updates on several new grant programs. Combined, the programs will award $387 million in grants, using federal coronavirus relief dollars, to help get the Nebraska economy growing in the coming weeks and months. “Our Get Nebraska Growing initiatives are part of $7.8 billion in federal assistance that has come to Nebraska to aid our coronavirus response,” said Gov. Ricketts. “These business, agriculture, and rural broadband grants will directly address the economic hardships that our state continues to face as we recover from the pandemic.” The new programs will be administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) in partnership with the Nebraska Departments of Labor (NDOL) and Agriculture (NDA). Each addresses a specific economic challenge or need created by the coronavirus pandemic. A website has been created with information about these new grant programs, including eligibility requirements, how to apply, application deadlines, and frequently asked questions. The website is located at getnebraskagrowing.nebraska.gov. Additional questions can be directed to DED’s Get Nebraska Growing information hotline at (855) 264-6858.

LIBA Announces In-Person BizNet and Coffee & Contacts Networking Events in July After hosting its first in-person Coffee & Contacts at Strictly Business on June 23, the Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) is hosting two networking events at local venues in July. The July BizNet—the first in four months—is on tap for Thursday, July 9, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Rodizio Grill in the Haymarket. LIBA will follow that up with its Custom Blinds & Design Coffee & Contacts on July 28, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Capital Cigar Lounge, located off of 16th and Old Cheney. LIBA’s BizNet after-hours event serves up a networking opportunity for local businesspeople to share tips, trends, and referrals and talk about the business climate and forecasts. Join them for complimentary appetizers, beverages, and networking, courtesy of the Rodizio Grill, at 737 P St. The event is free to attend and is open to LIBA members and their guests. The Custom Blinds & Design Coffee & Contacts in July promises to be the perfect way to start out your work day, enjoying complimentary breakfast nibbles and coffee while you network and meet new business contacts, courtesy of Capital Cigar Lounge, at 5505 S 16th St. STE 100. This event also is free to attend and is open to LIBA members and their guests. The first in-person Coffee & Contacts in June was a tremendous success, with more than 50 people turning out for the event. Participants clearly enjoyed getting face-to-face with their friends in business after a long quarantine. They also got to meet new contacts, share referrals, and participate in a drawing for some great prizes, including a ticket to the 8th Annual Strictly Business Party in the Garden fundraiser for Domesti-PUPS, a free ad in the magazine, and a travel coffee mug from Custom Blinds & Design. To keep up with all of LIBA’s networking opportunities, ribbon cuttings, and educational events for local business leaders, go online to www.liba.org or follow the Facebook page (@LIBA.lincoln). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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JULY 2020 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS WISB to Host Monthly Meeting Online via Zoom on July 8

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The Women in Sales & Business (WISB) monthly meeting is on tap for Wednesday, July 8, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Due to ongoing directed health measures, WISB will host their July meeting on the online Zoom meeting platform. On the agenda are general monthly business-meeting items, followed by time for networking. Members and guests will participate in several activities. All women attending/participating should be prepared to give a brief summary of their business, current goals, and a description of their best potential customer. Please register on the WISB Facebook page (@ wisblincoln), so leadership can send you an invitation to the Zoom site. Women in Sales & Business began meeting in 1987 to offer business women in Lincoln the opportunity to network within an all-female setting and traditionally meets at The Venue in the NE/Lancaster Room at 4111 Pioneer Woods Dr. Their goal is to encourage and develop creative leadership in women. They are dedicated to promoting growth through accumulation and sharing of knowledge and are always looking for new members to join. For more information, visit www.wisblincoln.org.

Leadership Harbor Offers Gap Year Coaching and Leadership Education for Graduates Leadership Harbor LLC is offering a GAP Year in the Harbor program to help new graduates take a constructive timeout from school between stages, including one-onone leadership coaching, identification of goals, purpose, and values, as well as budgeting, leadership direction, and more. If you have graduated high school or achieved your GED and are considering deferring the start or completion of college, or the start or completion of a new career—given the uncertainty that COVID-19 brings, or just the uncertainties that come naturally with major life changes—then GAP Year in the Harbor is for you! The upcoming GAP program begins in August 2020 and concludes in May 2021. The program is mostly online, so you can join in from anywhere, but if it is deemed safe for in-person gatherings and you are in the Lincoln area, Leadership Harbor may do some in-person and virtual hybrid sessions. For your $2,444 tuition (payable up-front, in two payments, or in three payments), you’ll be covered for the full nine-month term. For your tuition, you’ll get access to at least nine hour-long one-on-one coaching sessions, phone access to your coach between sessions, access to the Live2Lead simulcast, three Mastermind Group Studies, and a 20% discount on all other Leadership Harbor Products. What’s more, you’ll also benefit from a Transitions workshop, including a college/ career Maxwell Method of Leadership DISC (dominance, influence, steadiness, and conscientiousness) Impact Report. This personality and strengths assessment has been deemed one of the most useful and effective tools to help people uncover their hidden potential, identify opportunities for personal development, and understand how to work with people of other styles. Leadership Harbor LLC offers leadership, coaching, training, and speaking support. For more information about GAP Year in the Harbor, visit www.leadershipharbor.com/gap or contact Kris Peterson at (402) 580-0947 / kris@leadershipharbor.com or Chris Hansen at (402) 5250568 / chris@leadershipharbor.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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We have learned a lot about how to use telehealth services. One of Nebraska’s leading health insurance companies identified these advantages. It has improved access to care because a doctor is available 24/7 and you only need a phone to connect with them. No additional forms to fill out or crowded waiting rooms. Patients have evaluated the services as highly satisfied and feel more engaged in the process. Fewer hospital admissions and lower overall health care expenses. Telehealth cannot be used to treat all medical conditions. It has been particularly effective for primary care, monitoring some chronic conditions, dermatology, behavioral health, and radiology. An example of a chronic condition would be providing virtual care for diabetes. The patient can upload daily information for food logs, medications, and blood sugar levels. An app can help estimate insulin needs. The information is reviewed by medical personnel and the patient is contacted when results exceed normal parameters. Additional support is provided by an online portal to see test results, schedule an appointment, order prescription refills, or email the doctor. There is even a mobile retinal screening app. Telehealth will not replace live interaction between a doctor and a patient. The medical community has many concerns about assuring quality of care and the ongoing continuity of care. These challenges will evolve. However, it is clear that telehealth will grow as a method of delivering health care.

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JULY 2020 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

RACHEL

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The Lincoln Airport Authority owns the Lincoln Airport, the second largest airport in Nebraska. Rachel Barth is the communications director for the Lincoln Airport Authority. Tell us a little about your business. - The Lincoln Airport Authority operates the Lincoln Airport, a public/military airport located five miles northwest of Lincoln. Our base spans more than 5,000 acres. Currently, we have commercial air service through Delta and United Airlines and operate the LNK Enterprise Park, one of the largest industrial parks in the Midwest. How did you get started in the business? - I just started at the beginning of May. My background is in marketing, communications, and public relations, and I’ve worked for several local businesses in those capacities. I’ve flown out of Lincoln several times and in general love to travel. This position allows me to mesh two of my passions, traveling and people. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Learning to balance my personal and professional life. I am a mom of two and I love to volunteer and be involved in my community, so I’ve had to prioritize and learn to say no so I don’t burn myself out. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - When I was in college, I was the founding member of a student organization, Nebraska University Students Against Modern-day Slavery (NUSAMS). In 2012, I was awarded Officer of Year by the Student Impact Awards at UNL for my involvement with NUSAMS. I’m incredibly proud the student organization is still active and helping to make the world a better place. Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Eric and I met in college. We have been married for seven years and live out in Bennet on an acreage. We have two very active little boys, Ryker (4) and Gunner (1). We also have a rescue lab named Izzy who is 10. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Becoming a mom! Having to be100% responsible for someone else’s life is the scariest but most rewarding feeling at the same time. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was the first girl born in my family in 75 years. My grandparents had five boys and then my uncles all had boys until my parents had me in 1988. My grandma actually didn’t believe it, so my baby blanket that she made for me was blue and I made headlines of several local newspapers. Who inspires you? - My Grandma Hilda who has passed. She was one of 11 children and spent almost her entire life on the farm. She could speak German, knew how to cook about anything, sew, garden, can food, keep a farm going...all while raising five boys. She lived through the Depression, war, losing a child, and losing my grandpa. My grandma was tough. She loved everyone even though she never said it. Her actions spoke louder than her words. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.” - George Bernard Shaw If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Passionate. What is your favorite movie? - Stand by Me. (It’s also my dad’s favorite movie!) If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Marilyn Monroe. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 458-2400; r.barth@lincolnairport.com; www.lincolnairport.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

STACIA

Stacia Thiesen

UNION BANK & TRUST Union Bank & Trust (UBT) is a privatelyowned, Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services. Stacia Thiesen is a business banker at Union Bank & Trust. Tell us a little about your business. - I work in UBT’s Small Business Department. We are a niche in the bank and really focus on businesses in Lincoln with loans of $500k or below. On top of helping businesses move forward with a piece of equipment or a line of credit, we are also a resource for startups. We assist them in formulating a business plan and projections. How did you get started in the business? - The old saying, “you plan and God laughs” comes to mind. I was having a successful career in real estate but knew I needed a career change for more stability for my family. I had a friend who was a commercial lender at UBT. I loved the idea of business loans because you are still helping people fulfill their dreams—not in the aspect of their dream home but their dream job. I attained a job in the Credit Admin Department at UBT, which I call “Bankers School”. I learned so much and that lead me to the position I hold now at the bank. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Hands down, helping small business owners with the SBA Paycheck Protection Plan loan. Working as a team and helping thousands of people was awesome. To hear their voice go from panic to calm knowing they can receive the funds they need was gratifying. Tell us a little about your family. - I have 11-year-old twins, Hudson and Samantha. My husband Jake is a talented chef; we are partowners of Yes Chef Catering. We have been married over four years and have a funny, smart, sassy three-year-old named Julia. My mom Brenda lives in Lincoln and my sister Andrea and her family live in Omaha so we see each other often. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - When my dad Larry was diagnosed with a rare brain cancer six years ago. He was my rock; the family’s rock. From the day he was diagnosed to the day he lost his battle, he taught me so much in his bravery and strong, constant faith. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spend time with my family. The day starts with a run with my dog Otis, tennis in the afternoon, followed by a dinner with the family outside by the grill. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was on an episode of Bravo’s Top Chef. It was amazing to meet the late chef Anthony Bourdain. He actually used a quote from my sister at the judge’s table. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Knowledge is power” and “seek to understand”—both are pulled from the book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. These come into play with my everyday life with kids and customers. When dad got sick, he found comfort in the quote “Pray, Hope, Don’t Worry” by St. Padre Pio. I reflect on this daily, reminding myself that all I need to do is stay present and trust God. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “The Dance” by Garth Brooks. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Yes We Care Endowment. My parents established this while at MD Anderson receiving treatment. The purpose of We Care is to offer spiritual and financial assistance to patients who have been diagnosed with a devastating diagnosis. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 323-1996; stacia.thiesen@ubt.com; www.ubt.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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STAR CITY SIX

JEREMY

Jeremy Schafer

REVOLUTION ROOF Roof Maxx, the world’s first asphalt shingle rejuvenator, restores and extends the life of aging shingles. Jeremy Schafer launched Revolution Roof in Lincoln as an authorized sustainable Roof Maxx dealer. Tell us a little about your business. - I’m very excited and proud to be providing our community’s homeowners with Roof Maxx’s SoyFusion Technology. Roof Maxx’s revolutionary award-winning technology allows millions of micro-beads of all-natural oil to penetrate your old brittle roof. This process restores your roof’s flexibility and waterproofing protection preserving the life of your roof. How did you get started in the business? - I’ve always been an entrepreneur, I was just looking for the right product and business model to get behind. I love that Roof Maxx really serves a purpose, and it’s an affordable alternative for homeowners. Plus, it’s green—backed by soybean farmers! What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - It’s happening right now. Getting Revolution Roof started at the same time as my real estate career with Nebraska Realty has been absolutely insane. As overwhelming as the grind can be, though, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m learning so much more on the software and technology side of things than ever before, which has been really great. Tell us a little about your family. - Jamie and I raise our two kids Arastania (19) and Kash (4). I came into Ara’s life when she was 12 so it’s been a great experience watching her grow in so many ways. I feel so blessed to have had Kash at the age of 42. I always wanted to have a son, and now I get the chance to be the best dad I can be. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Getting sober and reprioritizing my life completely. It was no secret what my struggles were, so they needed to be addressed with purpose. I decided to get educated in hopes to change the perception of my past choices and mistakes. Change takes time and doesn’t come easy, but I feel like I’m currently the best version of myself which is an incredible feeling moving forward. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Go fishing with my son. Who inspires you? - I’m inspired by what the future holds! I’ve put a lot of effort into these businesses, my health, and my family. The plan is ahead of schedule and that’s exciting! What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Something both of my parents would say is, “You can always have a plan and then life happens.” If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Passionate. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Jamie would laugh at this because she does most of the cooking at home, but I’m not too bad in the kitchen! If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - A pro bass fisherman. What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I sit on the golf committee for the League of Human Dignity. Our mission is to promote the full integration of people with disabilities into society. What is your favorite TV show? - Ozark, The Blacklist, and Breaking Bad. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Anthony Bourdain or Johnny Cash. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 416-2429; jschafer@roofmaxx.com; www.revolutionroof.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

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Evan Welch

SANDHILLS GLOBAL Sandhills Global is an international information processing company that focuses on serving the farm equipment, construction equipment, truck and trailer, and aviation industries. Evan Welch is the director of new product sales at Sandhills Global and manager of AuctionTime.com. Tell us a little about your business. - We bring buyers and sellers together, whether that be through a retail, wholesale, or auction channel. With that fundamental focus in mind, we have created an array of different products to help enable the process of buying and selling and make it as efficient as possible. Our focus is in the construction equipment, farm equipment, aircraft, recreational vehicle, and over the road truck and trailer industries, but our depth in those extends out to many different niches within each market. For example, we have a product in the construction industry specifically geared toward the crane market called CraneTrader.com. How did you get started in the business? - I started as a sales intern back in 2005 for our construction magazine and website, MachineryTrader.com. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The development of our auction products, specifically AuctionTime.com, was the biggest challenge I’ve faced professionally. The product itself took years to get off the ground and wouldn’t have been possible without the effort of the entire team. From sales to IT, the amount of man hours and effort put into the product is almost unimaginable when you look back at it.

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Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Lacey and I met at Sandhills, actually. We both started as sales interns for MachineryTrader.com on the same day. She now stays at home with our three kids, Camden (10), Ava (7), and Cade (3). What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - We are a competitive family so, typically, it’s something around sports. Whether that be going to sporting events for my kids or playing sports casually, that’s how most of my free time is spent. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “It’s never as good as it seems, and it’s never as bad as it seems.” I think it just keeps everything in perspective. Don’t ever think you are at the top or untouchable because you’re not, and you have to try to get better every day. Conversely, when things are going bad, they are probably much worse in your head than they are in reality. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Positive. If you keep a positive attitude, good things will happen. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - My favorite book is The Presidents Club: Inside the World’s Most Exclusive Fraternity by Michael Duffy and Nancy Gibbs. Each chapter is dedicated to the relationship between two different former Presidents. It’s fascinating to see how they interacted with each other and which ones had close relationships despite having differing opinions. What is your favorite TV show? - I’m into crime shows so I would go with Mindhunter on Netflix. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Ronald Reagan. Politics aside, he was so charismatic and was a true outsider when he came into politics. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 458-4627; evan@auctiontime.com; www.sandhills.com; www. auctiontime.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

JULY 2020 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

NIKKE

Nikke Hollenbeck H.F. CRAVE

H.F. Crave is a local, family-run eatery off of 48th and Holdrege St. featuring burgers, sandwiches, sides, and sauces straight from the farm. Nikke Hollenbeck and her husband JR are the owners of H.F. Crave. Tell us a little about your business. - H.F. Crave is our sweet, little gourmet burger place. We have a heart for sharing fresh, all natural beef and locally sourced vegetables…and absolutely love that we can share the story of Hollenbeck Farms with our customers. Raising cattle and farming have been in my husband’s family since 1901. We feature local craft beer and cocktails that complement our menu. It’s our hope that Lincoln considers us the place to go to get a taste of everything that is truly made in Nebraska by people who are just like us.

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Tell us a little about your family. - JR and I are a blended family of six children. You may have seen them serving burgers a time or two! Jake (25) lives in Utah, Owen (21) goes to college in Arkansas, Emie (20) attends college in Arizona, Olivia (18) is a senior in high school, Brady (17) is a junior, and Ethan (15) is a freshman. We also have a bonus daughter, Anne-Marie, and two grand dogs, Jax and Riley. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - We love to boat and spend lazy days at the lake with friends and family in the summer. Our favorite getaway is a lake in Alabama. In the winter, I could spend every day on a ski slope in the beauty of the mountains. The majority of our time is dedicated to watching our kids play basketball, baseball, football, and running track. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I guess I’m a little bit of a tomboy? I do love spending a day in the tractor or working cattle on the farm with JR. I’m a retired U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant and played roller derby here in Lincoln for several years. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - It would have to be from a recent message I heard while attending church. It encouraged us to grow where we are planted. We are called to plant our seeds in fertile soil, to tend carefully to them so that they take root—strong, life-giving roots. A tree above the soil is easily moved by the wind, but deep roots help it weather the storm and produce the best fruit. This speaks a lot to our passion in this business as well. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Kind. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - To convince JR to make the bed.

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Strictly Business JULY 2020

Which talent would you most like to have? - I have always wanted to learn to play the violin or the fiddle. I grew up in the South in a musically talented family, and I have a bit of a voice of my own, so I think it would be a hoot. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Being involved in the local church is something we are hugely passionate about. Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach, The Bridge, Good News Jail Ministry, and Lincoln Sports Foundation are just some of the many organizations that are doing great work in our communities. We love and support their missions and see the importance of giving back even in the smallest of ways. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 867-4072; hfcrave@gmail.com; hfcrave.com; Facebook and Instagram (@ hfcrave). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

RUSS

Russ Meyer

COLDWELL BANKER NHS REAL ESTATE Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate has a rich legacy of more than 100 years of experience in the real estate industry. Russ Meyer is a REALTOR® and the associate broker for Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate. Tell us a bit about your business. - As a top REALTOR® working in Lincoln and surrounding areas, I have the privilege to help buyers and sellers to do just that: buy and sell residential and commercial property. I am humbled as I started in real estate professionally about nine years ago when I was at the end of one career and searching for the next. Real estate was a natural fit for me. I enjoy the flexible schedule; one that goes into the evenings and weekends when buyers and sellers are wanting to search for homes. How did you get started in the business? - A long time ago, back in 1982, my family had a REALTOR® named Shirly Hinkle with ReMax. Shirly encouraged me to consider real estate as a career—she must have seen some qualities in me that would make for a great REALTOR®, such as being a people person, having confidence, and the ability to advise well. I decided to start with Nebraska Home Sales (which has now changed to a Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate). Since then, a few other top agents have taken me under their wing and showed me the ropes. This was a great time of professional growth. I got to stand on the shoulders of these local real estate giants and learn from their experience. Now, I get to do the same and help new agents become successful.

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Tell us a bit about your family. - My family consists of my wife Christine, who is also a licensed REALTOR® and works for Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate in the role of staff support. We are dog parents to Harley and Beau, both Boston Terriers. If the dogs had opposable thumbs and could type, they would be working as REALTORS® too, as they have listened in and been attentive to all the client needs these last many years. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Woodworking is a craft I’ve taken on, and it’s another profession I would be excited to pursue. My first job out of high school was as an apprentice to a master carpenter here in Lincoln. The shop where I worked was full of talented guys who shared their knowledge with me. They produced custom cabinets, trim, shelving, and wooden furniture using traditional tools. I learned a lot about woodcraft, the design, making, and finishing of period furniture and decor. I love the process of making things by hand. This actually inspired me to earn a degree in interior design from the College of Architecture at UNL. My experience in woodworking and design is valuable to my buyer clients when we walk through houses, as I can advise on how a home is put together and if the work was done well. What is your favorite movie? - The Star Wars trilogy or Indiana Jones...actually, anything with Harrison Ford. What is your favorite TV show? - Our family-favorite TV shows right now are Hollywood on Netflix and Alias on Amazon Prime.

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What is your favorite local restaurant? - Toast in Fallbrook. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 310-8262; russ@cb-nhs.com; www.coldwellbanker. com/coldwell-banker-nhs-real-estate-49311c. Feel free to reach out to me if you would like to discuss houses, buying or selling, the best dog breed on the planet (Boston Terrier), or you just want to meet a real live, local REALTOR® who will listen. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS Four Corners Property Management Welcomes New Director Jenni Wiebke

Waterford Communities Promotes Rebecca Johnson to Dietary Director

Four Corners Property Management is pleased to announce the addition of Jenni Wiebke to the team as the new director. Jenni joins the team with nine years of experience in real estate property management along with many of those years being in a management role. Over those years, she has specialized in real estate property management, team management, creating systems, and detailed reporting for her clients. Along with her leadership and these skills, she will not only guide the company in the right direction but continue to improve the systems and culture to benefit the company and the clients as well. Four Corners is very excited to have Jenni onboard and they are confident she will be a great fit to help support the continued growth and success.

Waterford Communities Executive Director Christy Merritt was excited to announce that former dietary assistant Rebecca “Becca” Johnson has been promoted to Dietary Director of The Waterford at Williamsburg. The move comes just as Becca is celebrating her two-year anniversary with the company. In her new position, she will be responsible for creating menus and preparing meals for The Waterford residents.

The mission at Four Corners Property Management is to provide quality property management service to local property owners. They strive to take pride in all of the properties that they manage and maintain them to a standard as if they were their own. If you are a property owner and in the need of property management services, please visit the website at www.FCPMNE.com to learn more. Feel free to contact the team directly as well at (402) 963-4466 or jwiebke@fcpmne.com.

The Waterford Communities is made up of three communities that offer assisted-living and memory care to seniors in the Lincoln community. The Waterford at Williamsburg and The Waterford at College View are assisted living communities, and The Waterford at Wilderness Hills is a memory care community. The Waterford at Williamsburg is located at 3940 Pine Lake Rd. For more information about any of The Waterford Communities or to schedule a tour, please call (402) 423-0000, email home@thewaterford.net, or visit www.thewaterford.net, where you also can take a virtual tour.

“We are thrilled to have Becca in this new position,” Christy said. “She has demonstrated her capabilities to handle this for two full years now, and I have no doubt that she will be superb for our team and our residents. Her kind heart and welcoming smile always bring joy to the entire place.”

Berry Law Welcomes Attorney and Marine Corps Veteran Matthew Knipe OCTOBER 9, 2020

7:15-2:30 PM | Lincoln, NE

A physical location is to be determined still BUT if it’s unsafe to gather in groups this Fall we will still bring L2L to you, it may just come in a virtual experience.

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Strictly Business JULY 2020

Berry Law has added another seasoned criminal defense lawyer to the team in order to continue expanding services for their clients. Matthew Knipe joins Berry Law’s Omaha office. He will represent persons charged with crimes as part of his mission to uphold the Constitutional rights on which the country was founded. K n i p e h a s ex t e n s i v e ex p e r i e n c e representing clients in both state and federal court, and he will add more firepower to Berry Law’s criminal defense practice. Prior to joining the firm, Knipe served as a defense attorney in Iowa at the firm of McCarthy & Hamrock, P.C. Knipe is also a Veteran, currently serving as a Senior Enlisted Advisor/ Detachment Gunnery Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps Reserve. He is currently assigned to Detachment 1, Maintenance Company located in Omaha. He deployed to Afghanistan in 2010 and has engaged in training operations around the world. Knipe received his Juris Doctor from Drake Law School while also obtaining a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Drake University. Knipe’s dedication to supporting the rights of Americans has been a lifelong commitment. Upon graduation from high school, Knipe enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. Now, he defends the Constitution by safeguarding the individual rights of every client he represents. Through the COVID-19 pandemic, Berry Law remains dedicated to improving their team and legal services. To learn more about the firm, visit jsberrylaw.com or call (402) 704-8180. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

PERSONNEL NEWS Front Door Realty Group Adds Top Performing REALTOR® Tabbitha Friesen to its Ranks The Front Door Realty Group, a real-estate team of Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate in Lincoln, recently welcomed REALTOR® Tabbitha Friesen to its team. Tabbitha has an extensive background in property-casualty insurance and a wide knowledge base about the insurance industry, which make her an exceptional resource to her clients as she turns her attention to full-time real estate. “We are excited to have her experience and work ethic on our team,” said Team Lead Russ Meyer. “She has already made an impact in her clients’ home-buying experiences. She will be a top REALTOR® and is an excellent communicator.”

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A Nebraska native, Tabbitha says she’s a busy mom and business owner who enjoys being with family and spending time outdoors. She is quite familiar with and knowledgeable about the areas west and south of Lincoln. In her new position, Tabbitha will assist clients who are both buyers and sellers in those areas and throughout Lincoln and southeast Nebraska. She also will be helping buyers who are interested in purchasing custom homes in Lincoln, Hickman, and surrounding areas. Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate is a premier real estate company in Lincoln. If you have a home to buy or sell, please reach out to one of the capable agents on the Front Door Realty Group team, at Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate at cb-nhs.com. To reach Tabbitha Friesen directly, please call her at (402) 580-3292 or email her at tabbitha@cb-nhs.com.

We Care Every Day in Every Way® Community Action Partnership Welcomes Pam Benner as Human Resources Director Community Action Partnership welcomed Pam Benner to its leadership team on May 27 as the agency’s new human resources director. Benner brings with her myriad human-resources leadership experiences in privately owned, publicly traded, and nonprofit organizations. “Community Action is excited to welcome Pam to our team,” said Community Action Executive Director Vi See. “Along with her experience, Pam embodies our agency’s guiding principles of passion, integrity, respect, performance, and community.”

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Benner’s previous human-resources experience includes service at Martin Luther Homes Society and Mosaic. Most recently, she spent six years as director of people services at Nelnet. She also holds the lifetime designation of Senior Professional in Human Resources from the Human Resources Certification Institute. Community Action Partnership’s mission is to empower people living in poverty to reach economic stability. Their 18 unique programs focus on eliminating the causes and conditions of poverty in four impact areas: early childhood education, homelessness prevention, financial and family wellbeing, and hunger relief and healthy food access. In 2019, Community Action provided 112,004 services to 20,066 individuals. To learn more about the agency’s mission and programs, visit www.communityactionatwork. org or call (402) 471-4515. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

JULY 2020 Strictly Business

PERSONNEL NEWS West Gate Bank® Promotes Kyle Wooster to Old Cheney Rehabilitation Welcomes Sarah Senior Credit Officer LeMaistre as New Director of Rehab The West Gate Bank® Board of Directors promoted Kyle Wooster to senior credit officer. Kyle began his career at West Gate Bank as a commercial loan analyst intern in 2004 and was promoted to commercial loan officer in 2008, before most recently serving as senior vice president, commercial lending and investment officer. As senior credit officer, he is responsible for management of the bank’s loan-review analysis functions and support staff in those areas. Kyle received his Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Concordia University in Seward and his Master of Business Administration from the University of Nebraska– Lincoln. Kyle also graduated from the Nebraska Bankers Association Advanced School of Banking in 2009 and the Nebraska Bankers Association Leadership Program in 2012, and he completed the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Colorado. West Gate Bank® is a family-owned community bank with 10 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. It is large enough to serve all of your personal or commercial banking needs, yet small enough to provide the outstanding personal service that only a community bank can deliver. Kyle works at the West Gate Bank® location at 6003 Old Cheney Road and can be reached at (402) 323-8967 / kwooster@ westgate.bank. For more information, visit www.westgate.bank.

Strictly Business JULY 2020

Old Cheney Rehabilitation is happy to announce Sarah LeMaistre as their new director of rehab. A speech language pathologist, Sarah is a native of Lincoln and graduated from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln where she obtained her master’s degree in communication disorders and speech language pathology (SLP) in August 2008. Prior to joining the team at Old Cheney Rehab, Sarah practiced as an SLP in the post-acute rehab, skilled-nursing facilities, and long-term care communities for about 11 years, during which she served as a clinical front runner. Sarah is a VitalStim certified provider and specializes in dysphagia and dementia care. She also has worked with the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, Omaha, and Kearney during the last 10 years, serving as a clinical supervisor for SLP students working toward their degrees. Sarah and her husband live in Lincoln with their two young daughters. She enjoys traveling, watching Husker volleyball, and spending time with her family and friends. Old Cheney Rehabilitation provides post-acute care for patients who require a regimen of therapy or skilled-nursing care following an acute hospital stay. Learn more at www.oldcheneyrehab.com or by calling (531) 739-3200.

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PERSONNEL NEWS SCIP Welcomes Valerie Hotsenpillar as New School Coordinator for Regions 4 and 6 The School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP) Program has announced the hiring of Valerie Hotsenpillar as school coordinator/administrative assistant. Valerie succeeds Michaela Emmons who has accepted a paraeducator position with Lincoln Public Schools. Valerie is a native of Lincoln and received her degree in human relations from Doane University. In her position with SCIP, Valerie will work with both public and private schools within Region 4 (Northeast Nebraska) and Region 6 (Omaha area). She will also provide administrative support for the program. SCIP is a statewide program designed to bring together families, school, and the community to support student behavioral and emotional health. Their mission is to provide an effective prevention and early intervention process for youth with behavioral health concerns so they may achieve healthy, productive lives. SCIP is a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership, located at 4600 Valley Rd. To find out more about SCIP, visit www. scipnebraska.com.

Pemberly Place Hires Kelly Mans to Serve as Marketing and Sales Director Pemberly Place, Lincoln’s premier senior living community located off 76th and Highway 2, recently hired Kelly Mans to be its marketing and sales director. In her new position, Kelly is available to lead virtual tours of Pemberly Place—and/or onsite tours, once COVID restrictions are lifted—to assist families in their search for a new home. She makes the transition seamless once people choose Pemberly, from the paperwork to the actual move. Kelly is involved in all marketing strategies and promotional materials to assist in providing their residents and prospective residents the information they need to be successful in their new home. Her infectious smile is a staple in the Lincoln senior-care scene. Kelly is originally from Stanton and moved to Hastings for college, where she received her Associates Degree in Architectural Drafting from Hastings Community College. It didn’t take her long, though, to find out that sitting at a desk all day as a draftsman wasn’t for her, so she went back to college and earned her physical therapy assistant (PTA) license. She worked at Bryan West Hospital for three years, and that’s where she really fell in love with working with the elderly population. So, she took a position working PRN (pool or as-needed scheduling) at various rehabilitation facilities in Lincoln. After then working for 14 years as a PTA at Lancaster Manor, Kelly became the rehab director at Homestead Rehabilitation Center, but wanted to expand beyond solely rehabilitation in her work with the elderly. That’s why her new position at Pemberly Place is such a good fit. Pemberly Place has three levels of living, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. They also provide respite (short-term stay) and adult day services in their memory care community. If you are looking for senior living support in the Lincoln area, please visit pemberlyplace.com or call (402) 413-9770 to schedule a virtual tour. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Beat the heat with a custom built shade structure this season. Give us a call, we’d love to discuss your options! Ken & Jackie: luxurylandscape.ne@gmail.com 402.430.9430 | 402.640.6034 | luxurylandscape-llc.com

JULY 2020 Strictly Business

PERSONNEL NEWS Ironhide Compensates for COVID Restrictions Luxury Landscape Welcomes Anthony with Change of Duties for Bob Bagwell Hubbard to its Team of Outdoor Artisans When COVID-19 turned Bob Bagwell’s job in business development and sales upside down, Ironhide Construction, Inc. reworked his position to help out in other departments. With Bob unable to carry out his daily work of meeting in-person with clients and potential clients, his job came down to web meetings and spare time, but Ironhide kept him on staff and busy, doing things like repainting the Ironhide office and finishing up projects in the office that no one had previously been able to map out the time to accomplish. Ironhide also had wanted to start a Special Projects division centered on pre-engineered metal buildings, and the downtime was beneficial for getting the new division moving. Bob said the businesses that Ironhide deals with have all made some changes, including things like requiring that everyone wear a mask in their offices or providing designated areas to meet that can be wiped down easily after meetings, but things are starting to take a bit of a turn toward normalcy. Ironhide adapted to what other businesses required and, while it will take time, Bob is looking forward to having more in-person meetings soon. Ironhide Construction, Inc. is a leading Nebraska general contractor specializing in metal buildings. For more information, visit www. ironhideconstruction.com or contact Troy Bridgford, owner, at (402) 420-4961 / info@ironhideconstruction.com.

Luxury Landscape in Lincoln recently welcomed Anthony Hubbard to its team of outdoor landscapers. Anthony is completing a variety of tasks at Luxury Landscape, including patio installation, planting, mulching, and creating fire features, just to name a few. Anthony said he is motivated to work at Luxury Landscape because he gets to provide for his loving family while doing something he loves. His favorite aspect about landscaping is that he enjoys being outdoors completing a variety of unique projects at various locations, so no day is the same as the last or the next. When he is isn’t busy moving enormous rocks around or building retaining walls for Luxury Landscape—you know, the easy stuff—he enjoys camping, golfing, and visiting with family. Luxury Landscape LLC was born from owners Jackie Lienemann’s and Ken Svoboda’s shared passion for creating unique landscapes that set outdoor living spaces apart from neighbors. From beautifying planters to a complete landscape makeover, Luxury Landscape provides services every step of the way. For more information or to view a gallery of their work, go to www. luxurylandscape-llc.com or schedule an appointment by calling (402) 430-9430 / (402) 640-6034.

Business Development

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Personal Interest

Customized Training

Health Care Careers & Professional Development

When we emerge on the other side of this pandemic, SCC will be ready to provide your employee training, certification and continuing education needs.

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Strictly Business JULY 2020

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PERSONNEL NEWS

A Full-Service Commercial Real Estate Appraisal Firm

Star City Dental Celebrates Hygienist Sarah Seite’s 14-Year Work Anniversary Star City Dental celebrated hygienist Sarah Seite on June 1 for 14 years of unmatched compassion, care, and service to patients, community, and local business. Sarah is known for emulating Star City’s mission to listen to patients’ needs and concerns, including calming anxieties, and to use gentle, efficient cleaning techniques to create bright smiles throughout the Lincoln community. Sarah grew up on a farm in northeastern Kansas and moved to Lincoln to attend dental-assisting school. After completing school, she decided to pursue her Dental Hygiene Degree at Wichita State University in Kansas. She then joined Star City Dental in 2006 and the rest, you can say, is history. She loves her job, and it shows to her patients and coworkers, who all speak highly of her. Sarah loves traveling and getting to the beach as often as possible, but her true passion is for her family. She is married to Tyler and has two boys, Maddox and Tripp, who are the lights of her life.

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Star City Dental is located at 4525 S 86th St. To book an appointment, visit www.starcitydentalne.com or call (402) 858-0525.

Chris Hove Elected to Chairman of Nebraska Bankers Association

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Chris Hove, president and CEO of Nebraska Bank of Commerce in Lincoln, has been elected by his peers as chairman of the Nebraska Bankers Association (NBA) Board of Directors, succeeding Alan Emshoff, president and CEO of Generations Bank in Exeter. Hove began his career in banking more than 35 years ago at the Minden Exchange Bank & Trust Co. in Minden, NE, filling numerous part time positions from bookkeeping and check sorting to janitorial duties. From 1983 to 1992, Hove served in the United States Navy as a Flight Officer. Upon leaving active duty, Hove gained additional banking experience in the areas of compliance, consumer, and commercial banking at numerous Nebraska-chartered banks including First National Bank of Omaha, Platte Valley State Bank, National Bank of Commerce, and West Gate Bank. In July 2010, Hove joined Nebraska Bank of Commerce as executive vice president and senior loan officer. In 2011, Hove was promoted to his current role as president and CEO. Hove has consistently taken active roles within the association having served on the NBA Government Relations Committee, Lending Committee, Bank Management Committee, Executive Management Committee, and several Schools of Banking Advisory Committees. He recently served on the NBA Board of Directors (2014–2016), and the NBA Voluntary Employee Beneficiaries Association Board of Trustees (2017 – 2019). The Nebraska Bankers Association, founded in 1890, is the voice of Nebraska’s $77.9 billion banking industry, which is composed of small, regional, and large banks that together employ more than 15,000 people, and safeguard nearly $63.9 billion in deposits, all within the state of Nebraska. Learn more online at www.nebankers.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

JULY 2020 Strictly Business

PERSONNEL NEWS Melissa Wheeler Farm Bureau Financial Services Hires Girmus and Garcia

9Round Fitness Welcomes Prissylla Penaherrera to its Team of Trainers in Lincoln

As part of its effort to expand and provide additional services to its clients, Farm Bureau Financial Services announced the hiring of two new sales associates—Tiffany Girmus and Roberto Garcia—to Melissa Wheeler’s Cherry Hill Blvd. office in Lincoln. Prior to rejoining the agency, Tiffany served as a sales and service associate at Farmers Insurance. New to the organization, Roberto was previously in the health-and-fitness industry. Both new sales associates are looking forward to getting to know Farm Bureau Tiffany Girmus Financial Services clients and help them create personalized plans for their futures. Farm Bureau Financial Services offers a full suite of insurance and financial services products to client/members in 14 Western and Midwestern states. Their exclusive multi-state agent force provides insurance products including auto, home, life, farm/ ranch, business, and more. Helping complete the financial services offering, advisors offer wealth-management and financial-planning services. Founded 80 years ago to serve the Roberto Garcia needs of farmers and ranchers, Farm Bureau Financial Services has grown to be one of the most comprehensive financial services providers in the market today. To learn more visit www. fbfs.com or contact Melissa Wheeler & Associates at (402) 484-0303.

9Round of Lincoln recently welcomed Prissylla Penaherrera as a new member of its team of kickbox fitness trainers. Besides being a former member of the Army National Guard and a competitive boxer, Prissylla is working on her Master’s degree in a holistic, ancient medical system, Maharishi Ayurveda, integrated with modern health science. As a trainer, she aims to develop the perfect kickbox workout fit for each client’s specific needs and goals. “What has made Prissylla stand out is her ability to take a genuine interest in everyone she trains,” said 9Round Area Director Chris Rush. “The personal touch she adds to every workout is catered to each individual member, and I find that truly amazing.” Since 9Round has no set class times, members get to show up on their own schedules. Prissylla is consistently ready to lead the daily workout at all times, and her high energy and enthusiasm accounts for workouts that are both KILLER and enjoyable. Prissylla enjoys pushing her own fitness limits, too. “In my time in the Army National Guard, I surpassed physical standards and competed regularly with others and myself to reach new levels. A few years ago, I briefly competed in boxing and find myself coming back to it.” If you’re interested in trying a FREE workout, call (402) 817-7349 or visit www.9Round.com for information about the two 9Round locations in Lincoln, at 2800 N 83rd St., STE C and 5609 S 27th St., STE A.

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PERSONNEL NEWS FNBO Announces Corporate and Commercial Leadership Promotions

Program Coordinator Meg Damme Celebrates 15 Years with Fresh Start Home

First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) announced four promotions within its corporate and commercial banking groups. Those include John Grose, promoted to vice president, head of corporate banking; Kevin Thompson to regional vice president, commercial banking; and Steve Eck and Doug Sutko to managing directors, commercial banking.

Meg Damme recently celebrated 15 years of dedication and ser vice to Fresh Start Home and subsequently to ending homelessness in Lincoln. She currently is thriving in the role as program coordinator. Meg is in charge of program management and development, mentoring and coaching staff, direct service as needed, and more. She is a firm believer of women inspiring women.

“This talented and tenured group is sure to make a meaningful impact in new leadership roles,” said David Cota, executive vice president, wholesale banking. “Individually, these leaders have a strong understanding of the needs of our business customers and we continuously see their commitment to the success of the community. Together, they make a dynamic team whose vision will be essential as we grow and enhance our capabilities for serving businesses of all sizes.” As vice president, head of corporate banking, Grose is responsible for the bank’s corporate banking team, which works with large-scale clients that have complex financial needs and span the bank’s seven-state footprint. Serving a broad range of industries, the team also specializes in healthcare and transportation. Grose joined FNBO in 2007 and during his tenure has served in many positions working with businesses, most recently serving as managing director of the commercial banking team in Omaha. As regional vice president, commercial banking, Thompson has accountability for leading the teams working with FNBO’s business customers in Lincoln, Fremont, Beatrice and the Omaha Metro area, along with communities in Kansas and Texas. He is responsible for guiding these teams to continuously improve FNBO’s business-customer experience and capabilities in the region. Thompson began his career with FNBO in 1994 and previously served as managing director for the commercial banking team in Omaha. With their new roles as managing directors, commercial banking, Eck and Sutko each will lead a team of relationship managers in providing business customers with advice and value. They will be responsible for overseeing the teams working with businesses in Lincoln, Beatrice, Fremont, and the Omaha Metro area.

John Grose

Meg is proud to be a part of a support system for many women that is honest and trauma-informed, lacks all judgment, and always acts in clients’ best interest. Meg’s passion for helping others is evident in her work in the Lincoln community. In addition to working at Fresh Start, Meg holds an appointed seat on the State Advisory Committee on Mental Health Services, is a member of the Mental Health Association Consumer Advisory Board, and is a recipient of the Homeless Coalition Human Services Worker of the Year 2019 award. She has also volunteered for many projects that serve victims of domestic violence.

Kevin Thompson

Steve Eck

Fresh Start Home is a transitional home for women who are moving out of homelessness. To congratulate Meg on all her hard work for these women, contact her at (402) 475-7777 / megd@ freshstarthome.org.

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Doug Sutko

Before joining FNBO in 2014, Eck was a practicing Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He served as vice president of commercial banking prior to his new role. Sutko joined FNBO in 2003 and started in commercial banking in 2007. He has held a variety of positions working with businesses and most recently served as vice president of commercial banking. First National Bank of Omaha is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $23 billion in assets and nearly 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas. Learn more at www.FNBO.com and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@fnbo). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Domesti-PUPS Celebrates 20 Years of Helping People with Disabilities Gain Independence For 20 years, Domesti-PUPS has been training service dogs to help people with disabilities live their best lives by gaining independence and confidence. Executive Director Michelle O’Dea founded DomestiPUPS in 2000 after her own emotional support dog helped her through chronic depression. Her personal experiences showed her that dogs can help mankind and provide much needed support to differently abled people. The PUPS in Domesti-PUPS stands for Providing Unique Personal Service. All dogs are individually matched based on needs and training. Service PUPS are taught to pick up dropped items from the floor, open doors, turn on light switches, provide balance, pull wheelchairs, and can even be taught to sort laundry. These special canines are taught anywhere from 30 to 90 commands over a two-year period before being placed with their future life partner. Domesti-PUPS also trains dogs to become certified therapy dogs for classrooms, hospitals, nursing homes, and more. Domesti-PUPS is proud of the community support the organization has received in Lincoln, Omaha, and beyond for the past 20 years, and they look forward to many more years of service. In May, the community raised over $12,000 for the organization and volunteers continually help raise and socialize these pups. To learn how you can help, go to domesti-pups.org.

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Record-Breaking Give to Lincoln Day Raises HopeSpoke Commits to Engaging in Brave Nearly $7M, Benefits 448 Nonprofits Conversations about Mental Health Give to Lincoln Day on May 28 raised a record-breaking nearly $7 million, almost $1.4 million over the previous record set last year. The funds were designated to help support 448 local nonprofits that ser ve Lincoln and Lancaster County. All participating nonprofits will receive a proportional share of a $500,000 match fund provided by Lincoln Community Foundation and other sponsors, based upon the organization’s percentage of the total dollars raised. “What a heartwarming response from our city,” said Barbara Bartle, president of the Lincoln Community Foundation. “The organizations that are critical to the care, support, and spirit of Lincoln needed us now more than ever. Thousands of donors answered the call during such an uncertain time. I am so grateful for this generous community.” Nearly 31,000 individual donations were received for the 9th annual Give to Lincoln Day, an increase of almost 10,000 from the previous year. “Since Give to Lincoln Day began in 2012, donors have contributed nearly $33 million to our nonprofits,” said Bartle. “This was truly a remarkable day and an incredible show of support for our community and neighbors. Lincoln came together to help Lincoln and, in the process, lifted our spirits.” The Lincoln Community Foundation, established in 1955, strives to continually enrich the Lincoln community by promoting and achieving perpetual philanthropic support. The foundation has distributed more than $147 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. For more information, visit www.LCF.org. For more information and to see gifts received for each nonprofit, visit www.GiveToLincoln.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

With the protests against systemic racial injustice piled atop the tumult that COVID brought with it, HopeSpoke is committed to engaging in brave conversations with the Lincoln community. HopeSpoke understands the importance of the difficult discussions underway, so they found ways to provide seamless resources for all individuals and families in need of mental health services. After being forced to cancel their 12th Annual Gourmet Comfort Classic fundraiser amid COVID restrictions, they were able to get set up to provide remote outpatient services using Telehealth technology within five days. Everything happening in the world right now is taking a psychological toll on members of our community, and HopeSpoke encourages early intervention and treatment of trauma, with its services available to help anyone who needs to heal. Even though times are volatile, the HopeSpoke team knows that what people will remember most is how the Lincoln community stepped forward to offer assistance and begin taking steps toward community solutions. They have already seen a tremendous amount of support from generous donors on Give to Lincoln Day, as well as from individuals who made masks for HopeSpoke staff and clients during the shortage. HopeSpoke’s mission is to inspire healthy futures for children and their families through provision of comprehensive behavioral and mental health services, including crisis and residential services, extended day treatment, outpatient services, and school programs. For more information, visit www.hopespoke.org or contact them at (402) 475-7666 / info@hopespoke.org. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 35

NONPROFIT NEWS Lincoln Goodwill Extends Neighborhood Challenge Through September

American Heart Association to Host Annual Lincoln Go Red for Women October 13

Lincoln Goodwill invites neighborhoods to participate in their 8th annual Neighborhood Challenge. The event, which is a competition among Neighborhood Associations in Lincoln, encourages neighbors to donate their leftover items from their garage sales or clean-ups.

The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, announced the 2020 Lincoln Go Red for Women to support the fight to end heart disease and stroke in women will be Tuesday, October 13, at Embassy Suites. The Association is working diligently to provide reliable, science-based information for the approximately 120 million people in the United States who currently have one or more cardiovascular conditions and who already may be at higher risk for COVID-19 complications. For women, this is vital as nearly half (48%) of women in the United States age 20 and up have some form of cardiovascular disease. For those living with heart disease or having survived a stroke, preventing the virus is key. Lincoln Go Red for Women, chaired by Tessa Warner of RE/MAX Real Estate Concepts, is designed to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death for women in the United States, as well as generate funds for lifesaving cardiovascular research for women. In fact, the Association is fast-tracking a special $2.5 million fund for rapid response scientific research projects to investigate the specific cardiovascular implications of coronavirus, investing in shortterm projects that can turn around results quickly (within 9–12 months). American Heart Association’s Lincoln Go Red For Women is sponsored by CVS Health. To register and get more information, visit www. heart.org/lincolngored.

Goodwill will provide convenient and free pick-ups for participating neighborhoods. To accommodate changing garage sale dates, the challenge will be extended through the end of September. Pick-ups can be scheduled any day of the week at a centralized location. Each participating association will also receive advertising and marketing materials upon request to aid in organizing and promoting their event. The top three Neighborhood Associations who collect the most pounds in donations exceeding 2,000 pounds will win a cash prize. In 2019, Goodwill diverted 2.6 million pounds of materials from Lincoln landfills through community donations. Donations directly support Goodwill’s partners, which include the Community Justice Center, Lincoln Literacy, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and YWCA Job Outfitters, as well as Goodwill’s Job Connection and Retail Organizational Employment program. Lincoln Goodwill’s annual Neighborhood Challenge presents an opportunity to provide a convenient donation location for the community, help the environment, and support employment programming in the community. Contact donate@lincolngoodwill. org, call (402) 742-8456, or visit lincolngoodwill.org for further information about participating in the Neighborhood Challenge.

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NONPROFIT NEWS CEDARS Introduces Virtual Training for New Foster Parents

Southeast Community College Donates Unused Food to Lincoln Nonprofits

CEDARS recently introduced virtual training classes for new foster parents. The next class starts July 16 and runs on Thursday evenings for 10 weeks. Previously, those interested in becoming a foster parent were required to attend class in person, but due to current restrictions, training classes have been made virtual so that new classes weren’t postponed. “These classes can’t wait because the kids can’t wait,” says CEDARS President Jim Blue. “Recently, we had to turn away over a hundred kids in a single month because there aren’t enough licensed foster parents in our community.” It is important to know that there is no typical CEDARS foster family. CEDARS foster families include parents with children at home, single adults, couples hoping to adopt, and empty nesters. To help, all you need is a stable home, an open heart, and a willingness to reach out to a child in need. CEDARS foster care team will be with you every step of the way. CEDARS has served kids and families in the community for over 70 years. If you have ever considered becoming a foster parent, now’s the time. Visit cedarskids.org or contact Caitlin Summerlin at (402) 810-1399 / csummerlin@cedarskids.org for more information.

Southeast Community College (SCC) has donated about $2,500 worth of food to local organizations, including the Lincoln Food Bank and the People’s City Mission. The food came from SCC’s grill and café, which has been closed since March 19 due to COVID-19, leaving the grill with an overabundance of food.

Thirteen Students Return to Greater Nebraska for NCF Hometown Internships Thirteen students are being welcomed to their Greater Nebraska hometowns for summer internships that will further the community-building work of local Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) affiliated funds. The opportunity to host a summer intern came about through Nebraska Community Foundation’s Hometown Internship Program. Affiliated funds of Nebraska Community Foundation were offered challenge grants in partnership with NCF’s board of directors to ensure students would be compensated for their work. As part of the program, interns are asked to discover and document the assets and abundance of their homeplace. They will help facilitate conversations with community members regarding these assets and opportunities, and they will co-create opportunities to mobilize these local assets to increase community quality of life. “Connecting young people to opportunities in their hometowns is critical to Nebraska’s people attraction efforts,” said Jeff Yost, president and CEO of Nebraska Community Foundation. “Thirteen bright, young, ambitious Nebraskans will return to their communities for the summer and while I am certain they will gain invaluable learning experiences, we also have much to learn from these students about what they are looking for in the places they ultimately decide to call home.” NCF Hometown Interns include: Ben Arens, Ainsworth; Lydia Behnk, Elgin; Dakota Cherney, Chester; Patricia Cleveland, Albion; Haley Faust, Columbus; Lexi Gross, McCook; Jacy Hafer, Long Pine; Chloe Higgins, Nebraska City; Hannah Meeske, Imperial; Abigail Moody, Burwell; Katie Patrick, Grant; Erik Rodriquez, Nebraska City; and Miranda Shreves, Johnson. To learn more about the Nebraska Community Foundation, visit NebraskaHometown.org, call (402) 323-7000, or email info@ nebcommfound.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“Being able to donate the food to the citizens of our community on behalf of SCC has been such a great experience,” said Shalaia Schrunk, an SCC chef. “The kitchen manager at the People’s City Mission was so grateful for the food to help provide sustenance to those in the shelter, as well as those who are unable to stay there due to the coronavirus.” Items donated during the last couple of months included produce, dairy products, snacks, frozen meats, salad dressings, frozen breads, pastries, desserts, and beverages. Schrunk said SCC is pleased to know that it is helping those who need it most. For more information about the SCC food and dining options, visit www.southeast.edu/ foodanddining. Southeast Community College is committed to providing accessible, dynamic, and responsive education in more than 50 programs to a diverse variety of students. They also have degree, diploma, and certificate options. SCC is proud to have a staff of engaging, encouraging, and accomplished professors and educators. To learn more, go to www.southeast.edu.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Wear Yellow Nebraska Hits Halfway Mark of Malone Community Center Adapts and Participants for Annual Ride, Fun Run & Walk Extends Services Throughout COVID-19 Wear Yellow Nebraska’s 17th Annual Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk is still on for Saturday, August 15, at Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland and, so far, over 250 participants have registered which is halfway to the organization’s goal of 500 total participants. Due to safety precautions, Wear Yellow Nebraska is capping the registration of this event at 500, and they anticipate to fill every spot. So anyone who is interested in being a part of this amazing event—cyclists, runners, and walkers alike—are encourage to register today! Registration is available online until midnight on August 10 and the t-shirt cutoff is August 1 at 5 p.m. Each registration provides two rides to a fellow Nebraskan in the fight against cancer who does not have adequate transportation to and from their treatments. Additionally, there will be a variety of events taking place after the event. Riders and walkers/runners are encouraged to stick around after the race for breakfast by the Pancake Man, Wear Yellow’s Legendary Raffle, and dozens of door prizes. Each paid registration will also be given free access to the museum following the race. Non-participants can also enjoy breakfast for $5.

All of the Malone Community Center’s families and programs have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. As a team, they have worked night and day to continue services and create new ways to help the community, including opening their child care facility for parents who are essential workers, offering all programs virtually, and providing food and hygiene products for families. For the last 65 years, the Malone Center has created and facilitated programs to combat the racial disparities and inequities in justice, healthcare, and social systems. They have served as a cornerstone for educational, cultural, advocacy, and health and welfare programs to create unity and prosperity in Lincoln while honoring their African American Heritage. Their community holistic programming includes Early Achiever’s Academy, Out of School Program, Culler Community Learning Center, Young Business Leadership Academy, Pregnant and Parenting Programs, Minority Health Initiative, Take Pause, Project Uplift, and Hold Cops Accountable Initiative. The Center continually creates and changes programs to meet the needs of the youth, families, and community they serve. For more information, visit www.malonecenter.org or call (402) 474-1110.

If you would like to participate in Wear Yellow Nebraska’s Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk on August 15, register online at www. supportwyn.org/17. You can also follow the Facebook event page (@WearYellowNebraska) for the latest information.

CBMC Lincoln’s 19th Annual Golf Classic Set for September 15 Annually, over 100 golfers attend CBMC Lincoln’s Golf Classic and luncheon at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course. This year’s tournament will be held on Tuesday, September 15. Golfers will enjoy a great luncheon and speaker, some great golf at a premier course, auction items, raffle prizes, and multiple team and pin prizes. This year’s guest speaker is Ron “Gus” Gustafson. Growing up, Gus had great parents, great siblings, and a great future. He was the biggest, fastest, and strongest in his athletic family at his age. He had dreams of being the next Nebraska Husker I-back and then on to the NFL. Then came a major tragedy. Gus battled for his life at age nine following a tractor accident that took his right arm and shoulder and crushed his right leg. Despite his injury, he was determined to excel in athletics. He played varsity basketball, achieving Honorable Mention All-State, and went on to play collegiate ball until it was ended with a knee injury. Gus will talk about his life-changing accident, the impact his Christian faith has had on his life, and will challenge attendees to “Turn your Setbacks into Comebacks”. Gus has spoken to over one million people over his 20-year speaking career. CBMC Lincoln is part of a global ministry that encourages men toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others. For information about CBMC, connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne), visit Lincoln.cbmc.com, or call (402) 540-1093. For more info about the Golf Classic, to register a team, or become a sponsor, go to Lincoln.cbmc.com/golf-classic. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Wood Charitable Fund Selects Lincoln Literacy for Breakthrough Initiative Grant

Lancaster County 4-H Sews 1,729 Units for Hospitals Through Two Service Projects

Woods Charitable Fund announced that it has selected Lincoln Literacy for its third Breakthrough Initiative grant, which provides major, multi-year funding for promising and groundbreaking programs, collaborations, or organizational best practices in Lincoln’s nonprofits. The grant of $500,000 over three years will enable Lincoln Literacy to expand its Bridgeway to a Better Life project, providing residents of Lincoln with a unique opportunity to build foundational skills in English language and literacy and then continue with job skills and occupation training, in collaboration with a wide range of partners. “We are grateful and humbled that Woods Charitable Fund, through its generosity, has entrusted Lincoln Literacy with such an awesome responsibility by providing this grant,” said Lincoln Literacy Executive Director Clayton Naff. “Even before the pandemic hit, many Lincoln families were mired in poverty for lack of skills to land living-wage jobs. Now, the challenge is greater and more urgent. Together with our partners and our volunteers, we’re ready to rise up and meet it.” Established in 1972, Lincoln Literacy has grown to become the community’s leader in helping refugees and immigrants gain the English language skills and cross-cultural competence they need to become full and productive members of our community, while also helping homegrown Americans acquire the skills they need to attain living-wage jobs. It currently does this through free online classes and tutoring. Learn more online at www.lincolnliteracy.org.

Lancaster County 4-H launched two back-to-back community service sewing projects which began on March 25 due to the need for protective gear for Bryan Health’s medical staff in Lincoln. The first was the “Hats for Hospitals” project where cotton surgeon hats were sewn. Volunteers picked up fabric kits from the Extension office. Initial funding of $211 for this project was sponsored by a 4-H memorial fund and was used to purchase fabric and supplies for the first kits. In just a few weeks, hundreds of yards of fabric and elastic were donated, over 543 sewing hours was spent and 756 surgeon hats were completed. Once the need for hats was fulfilled, by April 13, the second project, “Sewing for Hospitals” was in full swing with volunteers sewing cotton face masks. In just a few days, 4-H face masks were already in use at the hospitals. The need was great as Bryan Health was using 100 face masks each day for patients, visitors, and non-medical staff. At the conclusion of this phase, volunteer sewers spent over 352 hours which produced 973 face masks. During both projects, one 13-year-old 4-H member sewed 330 hats and masks. Another dedicated volunteer sewed 350 units. Open to all youth ages 5–18, the Nebraska Extension 4-H youth development program emphasizes: 4-H science, citizenship and leadership, agricultural literacy, career development, college readiness, and healthy lifestyles. Lancaster County 4-H is a partnership between the Lancaster County government and Nebraska Extension. To learn more, visit lancaster.unl.edu/4h or call (402) 441-7180.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach to Host Feeding the Soul of the City Auction Online

Family Service Lincoln’s Women, Infant, and Children Program Perseveres Through COVID

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is hosting a virtual Feeding the Soul of the City auction July 13-17 after COVID-19 precautions first forced them to postpone, and then cancel their annual dinner and gala. This is typically the organization’s largest fundraising event, with all of the funds raised supporting continued outreach and support of the homeless, nearhomeless and hungry in Lincoln. Community participation in the auction and online donations will be important to their operations during the coming year.

The Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program at Family Service Lincoln has continued services via phone and/or video conferencing as a public health precaution during COVID. It is important to their team to keep strong in their commitment to protecting the well-being of their participants from the spread of the coronavirus.

“We look forward to this event every year and will miss being together,” said Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach Executive Director Susanne Blue, “but like many others, we are pivoting and holding a virtual event instead. We are planning a fun and inspiring online event, which will provide the needed financial support for our ongoing operations.”

WIC provides healthy foods at no cost to eligible participants in order to help keep pregnant, breastfeeding (up to one year postpartum), or non-breastfeeding (up to six months postpartum) women, infants, and children up to age five healthy. To be eligible for WIC, a person must meet one of the above requirements, have identification, and proof of address and income. Income guidelines can be found online at dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/WIC-About.aspx. Individuals who participate in other programs such as SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, and Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) may automatically be income-eligible for WIC.

Details about the Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach virtual event are available at www.mtko.org, where you also can make a donation if you’re not participating in the auction. If you purchased reservations for the in-person event, you may request a refund by contacting Vicky Drozd, event coordinator, at (402) 817-0619.

Family Service Lincoln provides WIC services to qualified families and is taking applications today. For more information, visit Family Service Lincoln’s website at familyservicelincoln.org/wic-womeninfants-children or call (402) 441-8655 for appointments and hours.

Record Donations to Allow TeamMates to Expand Number of Student-Mentor Matches

Kinkaider Announced as Beer Sponsor for Party in the Garden September 11

Thanks to record donations on Give to Lincoln Day, Lincoln TeamMates plans to expand the number of mentors in its program and increase the number of youth who get to experience the personal growth and confidence that a TeamMates match feeds. The group received a record-high $26,000+ in this year’s campaign, up 24% from last year’s contributions. “We weren’t sure how the day would go at a time of struggle for so many,” said Christine Davis, grant and fundraising specialist for Lincoln TeamMates. “Early in the day, it seemed that we might need to appropriately set aside our goal to make way for those nonprofits providing basic necessities. But the Lincoln community had another plan in mind, with givers appearing to recognize the value of a ‘both-and’ approach instead of an ‘either-or’ one.” For Lincoln TeamMates, the success of the fundraising drive means that it can continue to carry out all of the behind-the-scenes work that fuels the valued partnerships that students get to share with their volunteer mentors, in addition to expanding the program to reach more students. “We’re so thankful for our generous partners, the Lincoln Community Foundation and Firespring, for coordinating such an efficient and unifying event – and, of course, the community of Lincoln for stepping up to the plate,” Davis said. TeamMates mentoring of Lincoln makes a meaningful impact in the local community and beyond by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring. Matches meet once a week in school during the academic year. For more information about TeamMates of Lincoln and becoming a mentor, please visit www.lincolnteammates. org or call (402) 436-1990. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Kinkaider recently committed to being the official Beer Sponsor for Party in the Garden (formally known as Garden Party), an annual fundraiser benefitting Domesti-PUPS. The event, which is hosted by Strictly Business, is slated for Friday, September 11, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Zutavern residence, 9200 Holdrege St. in Lincoln. This is the second year Kinkaider has generously supported this fundraiser.

th Annual 8Party in the

Garden

Benefitting Domesti-PUPS

Party in the Garden attendees will enjoy free food and drinks, a live and silent auction, the chance to do some gardening fun with Earl May, and live music throughout the evening, all in a beautiful outdoor setting. Hors d’oeuvres and beverages are donated by local vendors. The planning committee has recently resumed donation requests for food/drinks and auction items after pausing efforts due to COVID. Proceeds from this event will go towards supporting Domesti-PUPS’s mission of providing therapy dogs, service dogs for persons with disabilities, and training rescue dogs. The costs to acquire, maintain, and place these highly skilled canines is quite high—veterinary costs alone are over $2,500 a month as Domesti-PUPS has over 40 dogs in their care at any given time. These dogs receive quality care and require extensive testing to ensure they are healthy enough to do their future jobs. To learn more about Strictly Business, Domesti-PUPS, or the Party in the Garden fundraiser, please contact (402) 466-3330 / editor@ strictlybusinessomaha.com. Individual tickets and tables of 6, 8, and 10 are now available through the Facebook event page and on the website at www.domesti-pups.org/2020-party-in-the-garden. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 41

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NONPROFIT NEWS Center for People in Need Receives Record Kids’ Chance of Nebraska to Host 2020 Golf High Donations for Growing List of Families Outing August 27 at Iron Horse Golf Course The Center for People in Need received a record amount in donations from a record number of donors during Give to Lincoln 2020—nearly double the contributions made last year. Thanks to the generosity of the Lincoln community, the Center finished the event with $167,711 from 595 donors. The funds raised through Give to Lincoln will, among other things, help provide food and diapers to the more than 1,200 families that visit the Center’s drive-thru each week. Since March 17, more than 800 new families have signed up for Center services. For the safety of clients and staff, the Center for People in Need’s services currently are limited to drive-thru distribution, virtual client assistance, and contactless applications for their People Obtaining Prosperity scholarship program. The Center for People in Need is a community-based nonprofit dedicated to helping low-income people achieve economic independence. For more information or to support the Center’s efforts during this ongoing crisis, visit www.cfpin.org or call (402) 476-4357.

NAM Poll Estimates that Heartland Nonprofits Will Lose $42M Because of COVID A new Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) poll of 231 nonprofit organizations in the region found that the COVID-19 crisis is having alarming financial and programmatic repercussions on the sector, with Heartland nonprofits expected to lose $42 million in revenue as a result of the pandemic. Fully 97% of poll respondents said they expect the coronavirus to have a negative effect on their nonprofits, while 81% said it will affect their budgets, and 61% say the impact will be significant. The survey, conducted April 23-29 as a follow-up to a similar mid-March survey, included responses from nonprofits related to arts, culture and humanities, environmental issues, animals, international affairs, religion, education, health and human services, public and societal benefits, and member and unclassified organizations. Of the total respondents, 49% operate in the Omaha metro area, 17% are in the Lincoln area, 10% are in Council Bluffs, IA, and the rest operate elsewhere in Nebraska and Iowa. In other results, 86% of respondents said they had to cancel programs/ fundraisers in the last couple of months, and 74% said services to their clients and the community have been disrupted. What’s more, 43% said staff and volunteer absences have become more frequent and of longer duration, and 36% said supplies and services provided by partners have been disrupted. Finally, 11% said the pandemic has put them in a financial crisis, with 27 organizations having applied for Economic Injury Disaster loans and 156 for Paycheck Protection payments. History has shown that economic downturns typically hit nonprofits immediately, while economic recovery tends to reach the nonprofit community much later than it does for-profit operations. The underlying message of the poll results is that many years of underfunding of vital nonprofit infrastructure and supports means a significant infusion of funds will be needed both in the short- and long-term. The good news from the survey, however, is that the region’s nonprofits have continued to step up to the plate without hesitation to serve their communities, protect public health, and support their own employees. For more information about the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands, visit www.nonprofitam.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

On August 27, Kids’ Chance of Nebraska will be hosting their 2020 Golf Outing at Iron Horse Golf Course, 900 Club House Dr., in Ashland. Times have yet to be announced. It will be an 18-hole game. Lunch, door/pin prizes, and carts are included in the ticket price. The mission of Kids’ Chance of Nebraska is to provide financial support to further the education of the children of Nebraska workers who have been severely injured, totally disabled, or killed as a result of an employment related injury or occupational disease. Their goal is to make a difference by providing scholarships that enable eligible students to achieve their educational goals and fulfill their and their family’s dreams. To learn more about the 2020 Golf Outing, go to kidschanceofne.org/ golf-event. For sponsorship information, contact Shawn Wills at (402) 290-8662 / swills@madonna.org.

LuLu’s on N Launches New Dinner in a Dash Meal Option on Thursdays Lulu’s on N is excited to announce the launch of their new weekly Dinner in a Dash meal option. Each Thursday, it will feature an entrée, side, and a biscuit available for pickup. Meals must be purchased by noon Thursday with pick-up only between 4 and 6 p.m. Dinners in a Dash are only eight dollars. Deserts can sometimes be added as well for purchase. Each Tuesday and Thursday from 1:30 to 3 p.m., Lulu’s provides an entrée, side, and drink for free through their community meal program. They are committed to providing a meal to everyone who is hungry, regardless of ability to pay. They serve meals to about 50 people per week out of St. Paul United Methodist Church. Lulu’s on N offers fresh, made-from-scratch food that includes locally grown produce. They also have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. To order a Dinner in a Dash meal, go to lulusonn.com/order.

Youth for Christ Announces Fresh Georgia and Colorado Peaches on Sale Now Youth for Christ (YFC) / Parent Life annual peach sale is open now! These straight-out-of-the-orchard peaches are shipped directly from Peac h County Georgia. There will also be a limited amount of fresh Colorado peaches as well. Each case of peaches weighs approximately 20 lbs. The sale takes place July 9–10 at Youth for Christ / Campus Life located at 6401 Pine Lake Rd. Purchase of these delicious fruits helps Youth for Christ serve students in the community. YFC is a non-denominational nonprofit organization ser ving youth in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. Their three ministries: Campus Life to teens in high and middle schools, Juvenile Justice to jailed teens, and Parent Life to pregnant teens help teens develop a lifelong relationship with Christ. Through regular programming and events, YFC works with over 2,400 local youth. To learn more, visit yfclincoln.org. For more information about the peach sale, go to yfcpeaches. org or call (402) 420-7475. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 43

NONPROFIT NEWS Branched Oak Observatory Begins Installation Process of New Solar Panels

Angels Among Us to Hold 10th Annual Bland Cares Golf Outing on July 13

In order to become more sustainable as they continue to grow and expand, Branched Oak Observatory recently began the installation process of 14 solar panels. The panels will provide power to the Boller Sivill Observatory, the Everts S. Sibbernsen Memorial Observatory, and the Buhrman Radio Studies Center. The project has been funded thus far by the 100’s of Men Who Care-Lincoln organization.

On July 13, Angels Among Us will be holding their 10th annual Bland Cares Golf Outing at Champions Run, 13800 Eagle Run Dr. The event will begin at 11:30 a.m. and conclude at 6 p.m. In addition to the golf, there will be unique games, raffle items valued at over $150 each, and lunch. They have modified the event format to meet CDC guidelines regarding social distancing so that everyone stays safe while having fun. This golf outing is sponsored by the Bland Cares Foundation which provides financial and volunteer support to local nonprofits.

There are four main parts to every solar power system—solar panels, solar controller, deep cycle battery bank, and large power inverter. If you, your family, or business would like to help fund in whole or in part one or all of the last three major components to Branched Oak Observatory’s system, please email Michael Sibbernsen at info@branchedoakobservatory.com to discuss. The Branched Oak Observatory is a registered 501 (c)(3) nonprofit located near (but not inside) the Branched Oak Recreation Area, 23 miles northwest of Lincoln. It is supported by science education professionals and astronomy enthusiasts who give their valuable time and expertise to the growing facility. Their goal is simple: to share the wonders of the night sky with eastern Nebraska. To learn more, visit www.branchedoakobservatory.com.

Your Health. Your Teeth. Your Smile.

Angels Among Us is a Nebraska nonprofit that provides support, financial and emotional, to families whose children have been diagnosed with cancer. Currently, they are supporting 92 local cancer families. Of those, nearly 60 are critical bills like rent and mortgage. To register for Angels Among Us’ outing, go to their website at myangelsamongus.org. For more information about events or involvement opportunities, contact Aly Theilen at Alyssa@ myangelsamongus.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Community Crops Supports Educare Lincoln with Garden Donations

DSAF to Host 19th Annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk on October 10

Thanks to a generous donation from Community Crops, Educare Lincoln is happy to report their vegetable garden is growing and flourishing. The well-tended garden near their facility now boasts tomato plants, eggplant plants, kale, and a variety of herbs. The partnership between Educare Lincoln and Community Crops was started in 2017, when Educare Lincoln was one of Community Crops’ first Early Childhood Learning Centers in their original School Garden program. Community Crops worked with Educare staff, parents, and children to create a garden space at the entrance of the school. Throughout the years, Community Crops has continued to donate seeds and plants for the garden so that their young students can weed, water, plant, and harvest themselves.

On October 10, Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF) will be hosting their 19th annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk. Festivities, including games, live entertainment, food, prizes, princesses and superheroes, and more, begin at 9 a.m. The one-mile walk will kick off at approximately 10:30 a.m. The event will be held at the Lancaster Event Center located at 4100 N 84th St. The Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk serves as DSAF’s primary fundraiser and largest Down syndrome awareness event in Lincoln. Proceeds support a vast array of programs, partnerships, resources, and networking opportunities that help individuals with Down syndrome and their families feel connected and supported from the moment of diagnosis through adulthood. This year’s event will have special measures in place to ensure the safety of all participants. Many families who have or are expecting a child with Down syndrome don’t always have reliable support or access to accurate information about Down syndrome. DSAF provides that support and information along with a vision of what a blessing their child will be in their lives. Learn more about Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska’s Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk and how you can help at ds-stride.org/dsafstepup. Questions can be directed to Mary Sweeney at (402) 202-0193 / mary@dsafnebraska.org.

The philosophy of Educare Lincoln is to help children develop a positive self-concept, elevate their creativity, and enrich each students’ life socially, intellectually, and emotionally. The early childhood educations they provide allow children to discover and explore the environment which enables them to convert their natural curiosity into the learning process. Hands-on learning is highly valued by the Educare team. The garden is a prime location to teach young people about food systems and nature, observation, being quiet, and connecting with the earth. To learn more, go to home.lps.org/educarelincoln.

Tabitha Offers Online Community Support Groups, Grieving in the Age of COVID-19 Tabitha, Nebraska’s industryleading senior care provider, offers a variety of online support groups available in Lincoln and Lancaster County. Grief and support groups are open to anyone in the community experiencing loss or needing support. Your loved one did not have to be with Tabitha. Registration and participation is free for the following: • “Online Grief Book Club,” beginning Thursday, June 18 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. • “Growing Through Grief General Loss” Six-Week Online Support Group, held every Thursday, June 25 through July 30, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. • “Caregiver Eight-Week Online Support Group,” held every Thursday, July 2 through August 20, from 2 to 3 p.m. Tabitha Hospice is also hosting a special online grief program called, “Grieving in the Age of COVID-19,” which consists of a series of unique grief sessions as they relate to the coronavirus pandemic. Open to anyone experiencing grief; please attend any session that resonates with you. Registration and participation is free for the following: • “Grieving Together While Staying Apart” Online Grief Session, held Monday, June 29 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. • “Where is God?” Online Grief Session, held Monday, July 13, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. • “This Complicates Grief” Online Grief Session, held Monday, July 27, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Supporting friends and neighbors for over 130 years and encompassing 28 Nebraska counties, nonprofit Tabitha offers a range of services from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home home health care, innovative living communities, and compassionate hospice services. For questions and to register for any of the sessions listed above, please call (402) 486-8546 or visit Tabitha.org/Hospice/Bereavement. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

CASA Offers Training for New Volunteer Advocates to Support Children in Need CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children) for Lancaster County is offering training for new volunteer advocates. CASA is looking for caring adult volunteers who are interested in working to provide a voice for children in juvenile court. CASA volunteers gather information about the children’s circumstances and write reports to the judge giving them more information and providing recommendations for needed services and next steps. New volunteer training is a 30-hour curriculum presented through a combination of online and in-class learning. In-class sessions are held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday evenings at the CASA office, located at 1141 H St. in Lincoln. Their next volunteer training begins August 4 and runs weekly through September 8. CASA recruits, trains, and supports community volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused, neglected, truant, and ungovernable children who are in juvenile court through no fault of their own. In 2019, 106 community members volunteered as advocates, helping to serve 234 children in Lancaster County. The nonprofit’s 2019 trainings brought 35 new volunteer advocates to the program. CASA volunteers are trained community volunteers who are appointed by a juvenile court judge. They do their own investigation and write reports to the judge about what they’ve observed, make sure the children’s needs are met while they are in the system, and assist in moving cases forward so that children do not linger needlessly in foster care. CASA for Lancaster County is a volunteer-driven local organization of caring people who want to make a difference in children’s lives. For more information about becoming a volunteer advocate with CASA for Lancaster County, visit www.casa4lancaster.org or contact Dawn Rockey at (402) 474-5161 / drockey@casa4lancaster.org. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 45

NONPROFIT NEWS JDRF to Host Webinar Addressing Labor and Employment Law Changes in 2020

Friendship Home’s Stuff the Bus Moves Online to Support Domestic Violence Victims

Join JDRF Nebraska-Southwest Iowa on Monday, July 13, at noon to hear Chad Richter, office managing principal at Jackson Lewis, P.C. and JDRF board member, discuss labor and employment law changes in 2020 and how to best protect your organization. During this free professional development virtual event, Chad will explore the impact of COVID-19 on the workplace in addition to discussing the important topic of diversity and inclusion within your organization. This webinar will address strategic ways to initiate and elevate your diversity and inclusion internally, share best practices, and how to effectively challenge your teams to be intentional about diversity and inclusion with every key decision in your organization. The event will conclude with JDRF One Walk Chairs Jennifer and Ken Allred sharing their experience with the JDRF One Walk, which will take place on September 20, and how you can strengthen employee engagement at your company through participation. To learn more about the Lincoln JDRF One Walk, visit walk.jdrf.org/lincoln. JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. To learn more or access the pre-registration form required for the free webinar, visit jdrf.org/nebraska. Feel free to pass along this opportunity to any colleagues who may benefit from this presentation. Contact Chris Dunn at (402) 881-3181 / cdunn@jdrf.org with further questions.

For the safety of their staff and volunteers, Friendship Home is moving their 21st Annual Stuff the Bus fundraiser to an online platfor m, likely in late July. Although the feel of the event will be different, the need to “stuff” the virtual bus with essential items remains the same. Donations are critical to the more than 1,500 women and children that Friendship Home serves each year to empower freedom from domestic violence. Many of us take the comfort and safety of home for granted in this time of social distancing, but for some, home is the most dangerous place on Earth. Domestic violence definitely didn’t stop for COVID-19 and, in fact, oftentimes escalates due to additional stressors. With this in mind, Friendship Home wants to assure those in Lancaster County that they are continuing to provide crisis services, emergency shelter, and transitional housing to victims of domestic violence and their children. Their shelter doors remain open, and the crisis line remains available 24/7. Learn more about Friendship Home at www.FriendshipHome. org or follow the Facebook page (@friendshiphome), where they will post specific dates soon. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, the Friendship Home crisis line is available 24 hours a day at (402) 437-9302.

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NONPROFIT NEWS REALTORS® Association Celebrates Successful Nebraska Pork Producers Serve 250 Free Golf Tournament for Habitat for Humanity Pork Burgers at People’s City Mission Even though the tournament looked a little bit different this year, REALTORS® Association of Lincoln is happy to report the RAL Golf Tournament on June 18 at Woodland Hills Golf Course benefitting Habitat for Humanity and NeighborWorks was a success. Despite the not-great weather, many sponsor representatives and golfers turned up for the cause and participated under the overcast. Regardless of the weather, many were excited to show up for a great cause. The REALTORS Association was founded to provide local realtors career-enhancing programs and services. The Association remains active in political issues regarding fair housing, roads and infrastructure, job growth and economic expansion, as well as quality of life and the affordability of housing in Lincoln. For more information, go to lincolnREALTORS.com. Funds from the tournament will go directly towards supporting lowincome families as they build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable shelter provided by Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln. Since their inception in 1988, Habitat for Humanity has housed more than 750 men, women, and children in the Lincoln community by building/repairing more than 162 homes. Learn more at lincolnhabitat. org or by visiting their Facebook page (@HabitatofLincoln).

CenterPointe Gets Design Approval for $16M Renovation, Expansion to Preserve and Serve C e n t e r Po i n t e ’s p l a n s fo r a $ 1 6 - m i l l i o n r e n o va t i o n a n d expansion of Trabert Hall, 2202 S 11th St., took a leap forward on June 18 when the Lincoln Historic Preservation Commission granted early design approval for the organization’s plans for the building. Having purchased the building for $400,000 in 2018, the nonprofit’s proposal would both preserve the 100-year-old building and allow the nonprofit to continue their mission to help individuals facing mental-health or substance-use issues get better, sooner, for longer.

On June 18, the Nebraska Pork Producers and the Nebraska Pork Checkoff Program grilled and served 250 pork burgers to supply a tasty lunch for People’s City Mission (PCM) guests and staff. It was a blessing not just to the guests of the Mission but also to the kitchen staff, who cook three meals a day, 365 days a year. The pig farmers from Nebraska wanted to share a meal with people who need it most and for the people who support the nonprofit every day. The nonprofit People’s City Mission was started in 1907 by local churches, offering food and shelter for transient and impoverished men, women, and children. Today, PCM is Lincoln’s primary homeless shelter, housing 350 men, women, and children on an average day. They provide emergency and transitional housing to both men and families, including single mothers. The People’s City Mission opened its Help Center in 1990, takes the donations that the community gives them, and distributes them to lowincome families within the community, at no cost. Those donations include food, clothing, household items, furniture, toys, and personal-care items. In 2009, the PCM opened its Free Medical Clinic to provide free medical, dental, vision, and behavioral-health care to low-income Lincoln residents who don’t have medical insurance. Today, the Clinic sees more uninsured patients than any other medical provider in the city. For more information or to donate to PCM, visit www.pcmlincoln.org or call (402) 475-1303.

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Trabert Hall was originally used as dormitories for nursing students until St. Elizabeth Hospital moved out. After then serving as a former county office building, the site has been vacant for about three years now. CenterPointe’s plans call for renovation of the brick building and expansion of the entrance into a multi-tiered, glass entrance. The building will be used for both housing and CenterPointe services, including an outpatient behavioral health clinic, a pharmacy, and a medical clinic, plus 32 apartments for individuals in treatment at CenterPointe and those transitioning out but still needing affordable housing. Lincoln’s zoning code provides for protection of designated historic properties and incentives for creative use that maintain the vitality of such historic places. The next stop for the proposal is a review by the Lincoln-Lancaster County Planning Commission. CenterPointe provides treatment, rehabilitation, housing, and crisis services for people experiencing mental-health and substance-use disorders. CenterPointe creates Healthy Minds, Strong Communities. For more information, visit centerpointe.org or contact Scott Williamson at (402) 475-8717 / swilliamson@ centerpointe.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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HEALTH NEWS Nebraska Hospital Association Presents Virtual Speaker Series The Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA), in collaboration with 30 state hospital associations, has begun offering a dynamic virtual speaker series labeled Leadership and Resiliency: Navigating Through and Beyond COVID-19 to its members and affiliates. These one-hour webinars are held every other Thursday, noon–1 p.m., from June 25 through September 3. These sessions are conducted using Zoom and recordings are available for a limited time for later playback. The speakers in this series are nationally recognized experts in their respective fields and provide valuable perspectives on leadership in the wake of COVID-19. These sessions are available for continuing education credits (Nursing - ANCC and Executive - ACHE Qualified). Nebraska Hospital Association Services is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Nebraska Hospital Association. Designed to reduce health care expenses, NHA Services is a collaboration among the NHA, NHA member hospitals, and other Nebraska health care organizations and providers. To find out more about NHA services, go online to www.nebraskahospitals.org or contact Heather Bullock at hbullock@nebraskahospitals.org for questions regarding registration.

Beyond Vision LNK First in Nebraska to Offer Premier Innovation of Eyeris Daily Contacts Beyond Vision LNK, a locally owned independent optometry office, is the first practice in the state of Nebraska to offer Eyeris contacts, which are designed by optometrists and are hailed as the most anticipated, safest, and most innovative daily contact lenses available. Beyond Vision partnered with Eyeris Daily Contacts to bring this brand new innovation in daily contacts to the Lincoln community. Optometrists designed these contacts to address dry-eye discomfort, and they are more cost-effective than what you’ll find from large companies—plus you can order them online any time after your yearly eye exam. “We are excited to offer Eyeris because they have the same ethic mindset as we do,” said Dr. Carla Ericksen. “They work closely with us to verify and give patient-centered care. Many online companies sell dangerous, outdated materials, change the fit without a patient knowing, or do not verify prescriptions, which can result in corneal breakdown, light sensitivity, headaches, or other visual side effects. That won’t happen with Eyeris.”

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Eyeris also uses packaging made from recycled material from the contact lens manufacturing process, which aligns with several of Beyond Vision’s frame brands and with their mission to be environmentally conscientious. Beyond Vision LNK’s continued mission is for all people in the community to experience healthy eyes and to empower businesses with the freedom and knowledge of good eye care options to #seelife. If you’re interested in trying Eyeris Daily Contacts or scheduling an annual exam, call Beyond Vision LNK at (402) 261-8699 or visit www.beyondvisionlnk.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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HEALTH NEWS The Body Lab Opens in Krueger American Red Cross Testing all Blood Development’s Yankee Hills Business Center Donations for COVID-19 Antibodies The Body Lab opened its doors for business on June 1 at 1415 Dahlberg Dr., STE A, in Krueger Development’s Yankee Hills Business Center. To celebrate, the Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 5. The Body Lab is one of the first of its kind in Nebraska, combining chiropractic, rehabilitation, and gym workouts under one roof. Owned by Dr. Rachel Huston, The Body Lab was born out of a hunger for deeper connection in the healthcare system and better answers for people in pain. Dr. Huston knows from experience how discouraging it can be to experience injury-related setbacks. That’s why she offers blood-flow restriction training, chiropractic adjustments, dynamic neuromuscular stabilization, Kinesio taping, sports physicals, functional rehabilitation, the McKenzie Method of mechanical diagnosis and therapy, dry needling, and Graston and FAKTR. To learn more, visit www.thebodylablnk.com or contact Dr. Huston at (531) 510-0276 / thebodylablincoln@gmail.com. Krueger Development is your source in Lincoln for commercial and residential housing needs. For leasing information on the Yankee Hill Business Center or other south Lincoln commercial spaces, contact Allison Santana with Krueger Development at (402) 423-7377 / asantana@ kruegerdevelopment.com.

For a limited time, the American Red Cross is testing all blood, platelet, and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies, providing donors insight into whether they have been exposed to this coronavirus. At the same time, there continues to be an urgent need for blood donations, as hospitals resume surgeries and treatments that require blood products. Antibody testing will indicate whether each donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to this coronavirus, regardless of whether they developed symptoms. Donations will be tested using samples pulled at the time of donation and sent to a testing laboratory, where they will also undergo routine infectious-disease testing. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized the test for emergency use, and the American Red Cross is not testing donors to diagnose illness / diagnostic test. A positive antibody test result does not confirm infection or immunity, and COVID-19 antibody test results will be available within 7-10 days via the Red Cross Blood Donor App or donor portal at www.RedCrossBlood.org. Every day, the American Red Cross is active in the community, serving those in need. Visit redcross.org or call 1-(800) REDCROSS to support Red Cross efforts by volunteering, donating financially, or giving blood.

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HEALTH NEWS Nebraska Safety Council Offers Health Coaching Directly for Purchase by Individuals

CBD American Shaman Offers World’s First CBG Oil Powered by Nanotechnology

Nebraska Safety Council has announced t h a t t h ey a r e n ow offering health coaching directly for purchase by individuals. Now more than ever, individuals are facing challenges that make achieving goals or maintaining healthy behaviors hard.

On June 16, CBD American Shaman announced a new product, CBGo, the world’s first CBG oil powered by nanotechnology. Made with a unique blend of phytocannabinoids from naturally grown hemp plants, CBGo aims to help you focus on the task at hand and give you the energy you need to power through your day, all without the negative effects of caffeine.

The Nebraska Safety Council’s ACE-certified health coaches can help you tap into critical motivators, provide accurate information, and facilitate positive behavior changes. During the pandemic, all coaching sessions are being held telephonically. Get three, 20-minute sessions for $65. It’s simple, just sign up online at bit. ly/nesc-coach. The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting everyone, and the Nebraska Safety Council is committed to play their part in keeping Nebraska safe and healthy. Many trainings, events, and services are still available online and via live webinar. The Nebraska Safety Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Lincoln. Their mission is to empower people to live safe and healthy lives. Learn more by contacting Lisa Henning at (402) 483-2511 ext. 109 / lhenning@nesafetycouncil.org or go online to www.nesafetycouncil.org.

While most people today have heard of the major cannabinoids CBD and THC, American Shaman is making history by focusing on minor cannabinoids for their unique effects. CBGo harnesses the power of CBG to bring an effective plant-based product to disrupt the $53 billion energy-consumables industry. American Shaman takes it one step further with nanotechnology that radically increases the potency of CBGo. When viewed under a microscope, the cannabinoids in hemp oil are locked up in fatty globules. When hemp oil is ingested, the body has to break up these globules to unlock the cannabinoids. American Shaman’s nanotechnology shatters the oil apart, reducing the size of each particle down to the nanometer scale, making CBGo work faster and stronger than any competing CBG oil. To learn more about CBD American Shaman in Lincoln, visit www. cbdoflincoln.com or contact franchise owner Lance Schroeder at (531) 500-3672 / lincolnamshaman@gmail.com. Stores are located off of 48th and O St., 27th and Cornhusker Hwy, and 16th and Old Cheney.

American Cancer Society Encourages Parents to Get Preteens Vaccinated against HPV The American Cancer Society is encouraging parents of preteens to get them the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations to help prevent the infections that lead to many HPV cancers. Safety studies have continued to show the vaccine to be safe and to support cancer prevention, and more than 270 million doses have been distributed worldwide since 2006. The safety of vaccines is continually monitored by organizations in the U.S. and around the world, including the American Cancer Society. HPV is a common virus that can cause six types of cancer, and while there is no treatment for HPV, the vaccine can help prevent it. If your son or daughter is between 9 and 13 years of age, the American Cancer Society urges you to ask your child’s doctor about the vaccine. It is for both boys and girls, from 9-13 years of age. It is given as a series of two shots given six to 12 months apart, and doctors recommend that preteens ultimately get vaccinated at 11 or 12, but definitely finishing the series by age 13. The vaccine can be started as early as age 9. The goal is to vaccinate children before they’re exposed to an infection—just like with measles and pneumonia. HPV is so common that most people will catch it at some point in their lives, but the vaccine helps prevent infection with the most common types of HPV that can cause cervical, throat, vulvar, vaginal, penile, and anal cancers. For infor mation about the American Cancer Society’s recommendations about HPV cancers and the vaccine, visit cancer. org/hpv or call (800) 227-2345. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS Last Month Recap Last month was the last month we plan to host a virtual event, and it feels good to say that! Our Friends4Drinks was held via Zoom on June 4. Thank you to all who have logged in to our virtual events to keep up with the Strictly Business team throughout COVID! Now, we are thrilled to be hosting in-person events again, starting with our Friends4Lunch in June which we held at Venue Restaurant & Lounge. It was so great getting to actually see all our friends and clients who attended, and we even welcomed a few new faces! Thank you to everyone who joined us—we definitely missed you all. Plus, it was a treat getting to dine on the delicious fare at Venue. They use the freshest ingredients and farmto-table products from Nebraska farms. Our group enjoyed dishes such as the prime rib and the Venue Pecan Bleu salad.

Thursday, July 23, 4–6 p.m. at Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar We are very excited about this month’s Friends4Drinks event because it will be hosted at Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar, 5025 Lindberg St, on Thursday, July 23, from 4 to 6 p.m. In addition to a networking happy hour, attendees will also have the opportunity to play MUSIC BINGO! Rock ‘n’ Joe has had a great response to this activity before. With a drink in hand, you will be given a bingo card with song titles in the squares. Then, the emcee will queue up music clips just like bingo numbers! It’s sure to be a fun, interactive time. Rock ‘n’ Joe has a delicious wine selection on hand from their own collection, Whispering Winds Vineyards in York, in addition to other cocktails, brews, and beverages at the bar. We hope to see you there!

Tuesday, July 14, 11:30 a.m. at The Chocolate Season Our Friends4Lunch will be held on Tuesday, July 14, beginning at 11:30 a.m. We are jumping with joy to return to The Chocolate Season for another lunch, especially since they have added some fresh new items to their menu since the last time we were there! These new items include quiche, salads, wraps, and sandwiches. We learned last time that they have delicious grilled cheese options as well. Since The Chocolate Season is still pretty new to Lincoln, we encourage anyone who has not dined there to join us! This event is open to anyone in the Lincoln business community, not just our clients. We love new faces! RSVP is requested for these events. Please let the Strictly Business team know if you plan to attend by calling (402) 466-3330, emailing editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com, or marking yourself as “Going” on the Facebook event pages. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Explore Home Care as an Option for Your Senior Loved Ones Visiting Angels is a local home care agency that matches qualified, professional elder care providers with seniors for compassionate and respectful care. They help families find senior home providers that enable their loved ones to maintain their independence and dignity. Through non-medical home care, Visiting Angels empowers the elderly community to stay in their homes. Natalie Leon, owner and executive director, has over 15 years of experience in the health care industry. She understands the importance of respectful and empathetic senior care. With her experience and passion, Natalie is able to make excellent matches between seniors and helpers that create genuine bonds and fulfill all the senior’s needs. AN INTENTIONAL MATCH The process begins with a free in-home care consultation. The Visiting Angels care coordinator will meet with you and your loved one to listen and comprehend your unique situation. This time allows them to understand you and your loved one’s lifestyle, concerns, preferences, and schedule. Will you need long-term or temporary care? Hourly, overnight, or 24 hour care? What personality types do they get along best with? What are their interests or hobbies? After finding the answers to these questions, Visiting Angels matches your loved one with a home care helper who has the skills, experience, and personality necessary to provide the best care possible care. Visiting Angels provides families with activities of daily living like meal planning and preparation, hygiene assistance, light housekeeping, laundry assistance, medication reminders, running errands, and just plain old friendly companionship. Every care plan is customized to meet all your elder care needs.

BENEFITS OF SENIORS STAYING HOME Private caregivers are like a stepping stone for seniors who are still independent enough to live at home but need help with the logistics of maintaining a comfortable and healthy lifestyle. Instead of a jarring move, utilizing Visiting Angels makes for a comfortable and subtle lifestyle change. Many seniors have happy memories embedded in their home. They raised their children there, held their grandchild for the first time, or have beloved pets. Parting with a home is an extremely difficult situation and especially so for seniors who don’t have frequent medical issues but just struggle maintaining the house. Hiring an elder care provider does have an adjustment period, but it is often much shorter due to the beneficial aspects of having them around. According to AARP, more than 95% of seniors want to stay home as long as possible. Even if they require outside help, many seniors wish to grow old in their own home surrounded by family and friends. One of the hardest decisions adult sons and daughters have to make is how to help their aging parent live the best life possible. Visiting Angels gives peace of mind that your parents are cared for and healthy.

ZEKE AND DIESEL ARE PAW-TIENTLY WAITING TO VISIT THEIR SENIOR FRIENDS The Visiting Angels team includes two very special dogs—Zeke, a trained therapy dog, and Diesel, a faithful companion—who are missing the pets and cuddles they normally receive from senior friends. Pet therapy has been proven to be mentally, emotionally, and even physically beneficial to seniors, and Visiting Angels can’t wait to bring their pups back to the retirement centers, rehabilitation centers, and seniors’ homes that they normally visit. Quarantine has been especially ‘ruff’ on at-risk seniors, so Zeke and Diesel are excited to spread some in-person joy when it is safe to do so.

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If you want to learn more about Visiting Angels, contact Natalie Leon today!

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION by Bud Synhorst, President

(402) 466-3419 • www.liba.org

It’s Time I’m honored and proud to be a part of our Mayor’s Economic Recovery Task Force on how to reopen our local economy and supporting business owners and employees. I promise to be a strong voice for Lincoln’s business community on the task force. As I have prepared for these meetings and have been doing my research, talking with business owners across sectors throughout our community, a recurring theme has come to mind for me: It’s time! It’s time to get back to business! Over the course of the past several weeks, this is a constant theme among business owners in Lincoln. Business owners are begging to open the economy back up. As the local trends for positive cases of COVID-19 continue to decrease and more and more people are out and about in our community, it’s time for us to get back to business and open up our community. It’s time to allow business owners to open and decide how to be open to serve their customers. It’s time to give business owners guidelines and allow them to choose their direction. Some businesses have not missed a beat in the last few months, their customer base has been strong, revenues have been constant (and in some cases increased significantly), and employees were able to continue to work without interruption. Small business owners are getting devastated by the restrictions and slowing of the economy. Business after business in Lincoln reports reductions in revenue and sales from 50% to 90%. These are the local businesses who step up to support youth sports and activities. These local businesses support our local charities. These are the local businesses creating jobs and employing our friends and neighbors. These local businesses are the backbone of our community. It’s time to get the businesses open again! In many sectors, businesses were forced to close without warning— revenues were decimated, employees lost jobs, and they were forced to sit back watching other businesses thrive while their livelihoods were in jeopardy. As the phase-in approach started, some businesses were allowed to open with heavy restrictions while others were forced to remain shut down. This seems inherently unfair. It’s time to share guidelines for business to follow and let the business decide—do they want to be open at full capacity or do they want to be open at reduced capacity. It’s time for the business owners to have the choice how their business will be open! It’s time to let the consumers decide where, when, and how they want to shop. After allowing businesses to choose how they want to be opened, consumers are then allowed to make their choices on where they want to shop, eat, and spend their money. This is no different than the choices we had as consumers prior to COVID-19. We knew businesses, we knew how they operated, we knew the guidelines for when we shopped there, and we CHOSE where we decided to go based on the businesses. With continued reductions in positive cases for COVID-19, we must move forward with our economy, open businesses, and allow the market to determine success. It’s time to allow the consumer to decide where they spend their hard-earned money. It should not be up to the government to decide what and where consumers can shop for products and services that are in all other times legal. It’s time for us to come together as a community. During this pandemic, we have experienced several divisions within our community. It’s time to come together and help our community rebound from this pandemic. Lincoln is a wonderful community. We are a strong community. We have vibrant business and industry in Lincoln. It’s time for business to open. It’s time to move forward. It’s time for consumers to decide where they want to spend. It’s time to come together as a community. It’s time! LIBA studies and promotes these types of issues that are important to businesses and our community. If you have an interest in joining, please call LIBA at (402) 466-3419. LIBA membership is not restricted to just businesses. We also have “individual” memberships for those who want to help influence our local government decisions.

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LIBA NEW MEMBERS

Blumenstock Family Eyecare Blumenstock Family Eyecare offers comprehensive eye care services and in-demand lenses and frames to Lincoln and the surrounding communities. They have been a proud provider of optometry services and vision care products since 2018. Their experienced eye doctors offer vision examinations and are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide array of eye diseases, conditions, and problems. Blumenstock provides advanced diagnostic technology and vision correction products, and they are committed to improving the quality of life through enhanced vision. Their mission is to provide the best eye care services possible, and their doctors only use the most advanced, state-ofthe-art technology. The Blumenstock team genuinely cares about each patient’s health and is dedicated to providing exceptional service to everyone who walks through the door. The practice was started by Dr. Brad Blumenstock. His son followed in his optometrist footsteps and joined the practice last year. To learn more, go to blumenstockeyecare.com or call (402) 421-7773.

Cleaning Ninjas Cleaning Ninjas is a locally owned family business that provides cleaning services to homes and businesses throughout Lincoln and Omaha. Their ninja code forbids carelessness. This attention to detail and a clutter-free life makes them one of the highest quality house cleaning services in the area. They dedicate their efforts to top-notch client service and deliver a sense of warmth, individual pride, and meticulousness. Cleaning Ninjas will keep your home sparkling clean and germ free while utilizing green cleaning products to keep your children and pets safe. Their reliable and stable crews are all insured and bonded. Their ninjas are dedicated to meticulous service—both in cleaning prowess and customer relations. They help people achieve a squeaky clean house. They also provide commercial cleaning. From medical offices to construction clean-up, Cleaning Ninjas are ready to take on any cleaning job. For more information, call (402) 483-0333 or go to cleaningninjas.com.

HOTWORX HOTWORX is a virtually instr ucted exercise program created for users to experience the many benefits of infrared heat absorption while completing 30- or 15-minute workouts. As the infrared heat penetrates your body causing you to sweat, the isometric postures further accelerate detoxification by physically removing the toxins from your organs through muscle contraction. HOTWORX, located at 8600 S 30th St. STE 108, provides a variety of fitness options like pilates, yoga, barre, and cycling. Recently, they’ve been promoting crosstraining at home to better serve customers during the pandemic, but the infrared workout saunas are now back on and members are able to book sessions on the HOTWORX app. Those who are not currently a member are encouraged to join the waitlist to gain access to exclusive discounted monthly dues. Don’t wait! There are a limited number of spots available. HOTWORX is dedicated to providing fitness resources to all their customers. To learn more, go to hotworx.net or call (402) 480-7310. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 55

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Industry Leader in Post-Frame Manufacturing & Construction Morton Buildings, headquartered in Morton, IL, is the industry leader in post-frame manufacturing and construction. At Morton, the difference is in the details. From their cuttingedge innovations, best-in-class warranty, to their craftsmen in the field, Morton Buildings is dedicated to surpassing expectations. Their legacy of excellence in construction spans more than a century and more than a quarter-million satisfied customers. The Waverly office, located at 12055 Hwy 6, has been serving Omaha and surrounding areas since the early 1970s. As the Omaha and Lincoln areas have grown over the years, so has Morton Buildings. The office has been able to still service the agricultural community while adapting and evolving to meet other local community and business needs. The local organizations that Morton employee-owners are involved with include the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce, Home Builders Association of Lincoln, and a variety of community charitable organizations. The roots of the company go back to 1903, when Interlocking Fence Company was formed by John Getz, Sr., who began manufacturing high-quality woven wire fencing. The business soon grew into a small mail order business and maintained 14 retail stores in the state of Illinois to service the ever more sophisticated farming industry. The company then began manufacturing grain handling and storage products that made the task of increasing farm productivity easier for their customers. After WWII, farm mechanization exploded both in size and scope. As farm machinery began to grow in size and utilization, the need to house and protect the farm machinery and provide livestock shelter began to grow exponentially. In 1963, Henry A. Getz became president and started restructuring the company to focus on expanding the building business, which culminated the name change to Morton Buildings, Inc. in 1965. Most early pioneers of post-frame construction promoted the structure as a low-cost product with a limited-life application.

Henry saw the opportunity differently. By emphasizing quality, improved appearance, and value over cost, the company was able to differentiate itself from all others by initiating innovations such as custom roll-formed steel panels with its anti-syphon groove (as compared to galvanized corrugated metal used by others), square posts (as compared to round uneven posts), colored steel, overhangs, and wainscoting over protective liners. As the company experienced rapid growth, it resisted the temptation to sacrifice quality. Today, another differentiator of the company is the integrated design and construction services of Morton designBUILD®. The most effective and most popular method used to deliver construction projects in America is the design-build approach. This approach means that one entity, the design-builder, enters into a single contract with the owner to provide both design and construction services. The benefits of sole-source responsibility that Morton designBUILD offers include: • Greater cost efficiencies with fewer change orders • Earlier knowledge of total project costs • Shared responsibility for the design, budget and schedule • Quicker project delivery through superior collaboration Working with the client and local Morton sales consultant, Morton designBUILD is a dedicated team of architects, project managers, engineers, drafting technicians, project estimators, and construction management professionals, that all utilize the same four-phase project delivery system process to deliver commercial projects that meet clients’ scope, schedule, and budget. Morton’s commercial portfolio includes animal care facilities, churches and activity centers, equestrian facilities, fire stations and municipal buildings, offices, financial institutions, O&M facilities, restaurants, breweries, wineries, schools, retail spaces, and wedding venues.

For more information, please contact the office at (402) 786-3000 or visit www.mortonbuildings.com. 56

Strictly Business JULY 2020

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE by Wendy Birdsall, President

(402) 436-2350 • www.lcoc.com

Building a Better Lincoln

I know we are all continuing to ask ourselves what we can do to ensure positive change within our community. That is the first step, but we have work to do. Each and every one of us will play a role in the changes we make as a community and a country. As business leaders, I encourage you to continue asking questions and engage in meaningful conversations that make an impact. I can assure you this is a top priority at the Chamber, as we heighten our focus on inclusion and diversity and explore opportunities to provide platforms, resources, and direction. We are eager to listen, learn, and take action and hope that you will join us in doing so in the coming days, weeks, and months ahead. With this at the forefront of our minds, it is also important to recognize signs of optimism and celebrate the positive strides we are making together. Embarking upon the path to recovery for our community, one of the most crucial needs is the connection of employers to potential employees. Following the success of our first Drive-Through Career Fair on May 5, we are excited to announce three additional career fairs on July 14. The fairs will run simultaneously from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Gateway Mall, Lincoln Northeast High School, and F Street Community Church. Future events of this nature are likely as we continue in our efforts to connect people to employers and the hopeful discovery of new careers. Partnering with University of Nebraska–Lincoln Industry Relations and Innovation Campus, the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development helped bring a Canadian company, JCA Electronics, to Nebraska. JCA Electronics, which specializes in developing mobile machines for agricultural applications, opened its first American office at Innovation Campus earlier this year and continues to connect with the innovation and research possibilities that UNL has to offer. As we continue our outreach to companies interested in potentially building new projects in Lincoln, we are seeing an increase in inquiries from businesses who recognize our location and logistical advantages bring great value and are beneficial to development. Lincoln remains on the national map when it comes to opportunity and the current pandemic has not negated that fact. Our city continues to make waves as a community that attracts people to it as they seek out a high quality of life. This was recently highlighted by Business Insider magazine, which listed Lincoln as the 14th best city in the country to live in after the pandemic. Governor Ricketts recently announced plans to allocate Nebraska’s just over $1.15B in federal funds, courtesy of the CARES Act. The state also has received over $9B in other federal coronavirus relief. The ‘Get Nebraska Growing’ initiative will focus on infrastructure, small business recovery, workforce, and learning, as the recovery begins. I want to thank Governor Ricketts, Nebraska DED Director Tony Goins, and our other state leaders who have demonstrated great leadership, ensuring our state is on a safe path toward recovery and stability. There are signs of hope, but we know our hard work must continue for our community and for each other.

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BROOKE ROMAN

STUDIO

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

402-486-1466

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Friday, September 11, 2020 | 5:30 - 9 pm Zutavern Residence, 9200 Holdrege St, Lincoln Tickets: $40 (Includes food and drinks). Tables of 6 or 8 available for purchase. Inclement Weather Reschedule Date: Friday, September 18, 2020

Festivities Will Include: Silent & Live Auction • Complimentary Hors d’oeuvres & Cocktails Live Music • Build Your Own Fairy Garden • & Much More!

PRESENTED BY:

Domesti-PUPS is a 501c3 nonprofit organization based in Lincoln, NE providing therapy dogs, service dogs for persons with disabilities, and trained rescue dogs. Domesti-PUPS mission is to improve the quality of life for persons with special needs through the assistance of animals, and to promote awareness through education. The Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together. For more information, contact Derek Feyerherm at dfeyerherm@lincoln.org.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT Michelle O’Dea at michelle.ashley.odea@gmail.com or Paige Zutavern at (402) 466-3330 / office@strictlybusinessomaha.com

JULY 2020 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Providing Vehicle Repairs and Service with a Mission for 100% Satisfaction From the moment you walk into inMOTION Auto Care’s beautiful, welcoming customer lounge, you will recognize that it is not your typical auto repair facility. Owned by lifelong Lincoln residents Sherri Stock and Jared McPike, inMOTION operates with a mission to partner with customers to protect their vehicle investments, and that commitment is reflected in everything they do. inMOTION Auto Care prides itself Jared McPike on being a premier, full-service “The days of grease monkeys and auto-repair facility that employs cars being repaired in our backyards only the most qualified auto mechanics, are long gone. Today’s vehicles service advisors, and office staff. While are sophisticated, highly technical experience, skills, and training go a machines that need equally highly long way with Sherri and Jared, their technical, skilled men and women to commitment to the overall customer repair them.” - Co-owner Sherri Stock experience matters just as much as their hiring process. The staff truly cares about you, your safety, and your vehicle’s performance. They’ve been picking up and dropping off people’s cars at their homes throughout the pandemic, and they offer Sherri Stock you a free loaner vehicle while yours is in for repairs or maintenance. The icing on the cake just might be their five-year, 50,000-mile parts and labor warranty. If you really want to know where the rubber meets the road with a business, ask their customers. According to a recent study from Big Commerce, 92% of consumers today read online reviews and testimonials before seeking a service or making a product purchase, and 88% trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. The hundreds of testimonials online about inMOTION Auto Care are almost unanimous in giving the business five out of five stars, both for service and customer service. Take a look at just a sampling of them: “inMOTION has been awesome to work with! We take both of our cars there and have always had a positive experience. They were even willing to pick our car up at home during the pandemic since I am working from home and have an infant. They are very straightforward about what work needs to be done now and what can wait it needs to be monitored.” – Casey J. “Serviced my truck. [inMOTION] did an outstanding job, as usual! Then Chris delivered it in the snow storm. If that isn't first-rate service from an outstanding group of people then I have no idea what is. It is like dealing with friends rather than just a business.” – Jim B. “Always good service and work for a fair price. Even in the rough times we deal with, they came to my house picked up my car and brought it back. All for an oil change and tire rotation. I usually speak with Jared and he is always helpful and professional. I definitely recommend these guys to anyone needing car issues addressed and fixed.” – B. Deshoot “I loved the open communication and the understanding of the budget and how to make it work. You want to trust what is said and done, and inMotion is the place to be trusted.” – Peg T.

Contact inMOTION Auto Care the next time your vehicle needs repairs or maintenance. They’re located at 84th and O Street, and they’ll make sure the work is done right and you’re 100% satisfied with it and their customer service.

Make an appointment online at www.inmotionautocare.com, or call them at (402) 802-9380.

Strictly Business JULY 2020

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION Resolve Your Pest Problems by Todd Ogden, President (402) 434-6900 • www.downtownlincoln.org Quickly & Effectively Boombox Social is Kinkaider’s Vibrant Ode to the 80s and 90s

After some big success and expansion in the past five years, Nebraska’s Kinkaider Brewing is taking their business in a whole new direction: back in time. Boombox Social officially (and cautiously) opened their doors on May 11 after holding off a month due to COVID-19 concerns. The new bar, pizza joint, arcade, and soon-to-be distillery is located in the large building at 1630 P St. that has formerly housed Ploughshare and Green Flash. Take a stroll past, and you might do a double take. The space has transformed with neon lighting and vintage video game imagery, bar seating that opens up to the street via garage-style doors, and, of course, “Take on Me” playing over the speakers. Step inside, and you’ll find a space that’s a complete ode to the 80s and 90s. No need for the DeLorean.

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“The 80s and 90s were my childhood,” owner Cody Schmick said. “I’m 36 years old, but I love the resurgence of that kind of stuff. This appeals to the younger generation because the fashion, movies, and music of the 80s and 90s are coming full circle, but then it also appeals to guys and gals my age because it’s nostalgic for us. It’s a little risky, but we had so much fun building the brand. We didn’t take it too seriously.” Along with funky, bright design elements that scream “Saved by the Bell,” Boombox Social has a faux food truck, walk-up window where you can order gourmet pizza with names like “Smells Like Taco Spirit” as well as fried sides and loaded “totchos” (tater tots + nachos.) It’ll stay open until 2 a.m. every night. In the building’s large lofted area, the team decided to opt for a throwback arcade rather than extra seating. Local arcade vendors VVS jumped on the project to help. While Boombox Social was an opportunity to try out a fun concept with a college crowd appeal, the team was after the large production backroom to launch Sideshow Spirits, a Kinkaider-owned distillery.

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“We wanted this front side to have a little bit more of a broad appeal,” Schmick said. “The backside of the arcade is going to have a secret door that you go through into The Sideshow Cocktail Lounge. It’s going to be super high end, and have a little bit of a different drink menu, but people will be able to flow between the two spaces, too.” The team hopes to have the lounge open by fall, along with an operating production room to distribute their product across the state. The focus will be rum, vodka, whiskey, and gin, as well as liqueurs, canned cocktails, and kegged cocktails. “We’re setting ourselves up, equipment-wise, to be the biggest in the state, right out the gate, and Lincoln’s first distillery for the time being,” Schmick said. “This building is about 11,000 square feet, but every inch is going to be used.” While COVID-19 pushed back the timeline for Boombox’s opening, Schmick said the team took the extra time to prepare in their stride. The team has been careful to operate at half capacity with all employees wearing a mask. Founded in 1967, the Downtown Lincoln Association provides services and champions initiatives for maintaining and enhancing our vibrant downtown. Our vision is to create an energetic downtown environment where we live, learn, work, invest and play. DLA has evolved into a multi-faceted organization supporting a wide range of programs and activities including maintenance, economic development and advocacy. For a complete listing of downtown businesses, events and residences visit downtownlincoln.org. ‘Like’ us on Facebook at facebook.com/downtownlincoln.

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JULY 2020 Strictly Business

Pet Care REFRESHED MIND • ELEVATED MOOD

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Strictly Business JULY 2020

Prepare Your Beloved Pets for Summer Challenges and Household Schedule Changes “Pets bring vital energy to our homes and lives. Pets communicate many messages about love and connection. Care tenderly for all pets throughout their precious lives. The interspecies dance of love softens and expands the heart.” - Laura Staley, Feng Shui expert If you have pets at home, they’ve probably been thrilled with the whole COVID-19 quarantine thing. They would do anything to spend more time with you, take more walks, and cuddle on the couch, and the whole quarantine situation gave them the chance to do just that. It goes both ways, though, as your pets surely provide you with the unconditional love and support you need to navigate through difficult times—that “interspecies dance,” if you will. With all of this in mind, we talked to some local pet experts in Lincoln to ask about ways that the pandemic might have affected your best friends. We also asked them to offer some tips for summer pet care and for getting your furry ones transitioned to another new normal, when they’ll likely be alone again far more often than they have been of late. Transitioning Challenges The onset of summer heat and humidity combined with the transition out of COVID-19 restrictions brings with it some challenges, according to Arnie’s Pet Food Store Owner Dave Titterington. “Over the past several months, many of us have spent more time at home helping to slow the spread of COVID-19, and our pets have certainly enjoyed the added time we’ve been spending with them,” Dave said. “Daily dog walks became more frequent, as did playtime and cuddling during mid-afternoon naps, but Dave Titterington now that we are slowly transitioning back Arnie’s Pet Food Store into our daily work routines, our pets may experience some separation anxiety.” Dave recommends trying some of his store’s full line of CBD pet products from Earth Animal and Super Snouts that aim to relieve that separation anxiety in pets. At the same time, be aware of the dangers that can be a threat to your pets, especially dogs, with the summer heat in Nebraska. “Be sure your pets have some form of protection from fleas, ticks, and mosquitos, which can otherwise cause serious health issues. The holistic products from Earth Animal that Arnie’s offers are pesticide-free yet provide effective control.” Keeping your pets well-hydrated in hot weather also is crucial to prevent overheating. If you’re going to be taking your dog on long walks or to visit Lincoln’s dog parks, be sure to carry water with you. “Pet water bottles and collapsible bowls from Arnie’s Pet Food Store make it easy to carry water for your dog,” Dave said. “If your dog spends time outdoors in the backyard, make sure you provide a source of #PrintProudDigitalSmart

fresh water at all times. Also avoid excessive time playing or walking your dog on concrete and asphalt. Even on a nice summer day, temperatures on these materials can exceed 120 degrees, which cause burns and damage the pads on your furry companion’s paws.” Recognizing Behavioral Changes Dian Quist, who manages Kenl Inn, says changes in your household schedules, like shift changes, going back to work, the kids being home from school for the summer, and the like, can manifest behavioral changes in your pet, especially in dogs. “Help your dog through this by spending a little extra time with them, going on walks, teaching a new trick, re-establishing door manners or sit-stay prompts when you put the food bowl down,” Dian said. “There are many things you can do during your tasks with Dian Quist your dogs this summer to make them feel more Kenl Inn included and less stressed about the changes.” Set on 44 acres just outside Lincoln on Old Cheney Road, Kenl Inn offers daycare, boarding, grooming, and specialized training for all types of pets. They also carry a variety of pet essentials, from bath and grooming tools to collars, leashes, treats, toys, and chews, which are helpful training items. With summer in full swing, it’s crucial that pet owners are careful not to let their pets get overheated. Each dog is different, but every owner must learn to watch for signs that their pet is in distress. “During the summer, you want to take care when walking your dogs that they don’t get overheated,” Dian said. “Know the signs, including excessive panting, long-wide tongue, slowing down, and wanting to take breaks or seek shade. Be sure to take humidity into account, too. It might not be that hot, but humidity can be harmful if you exercise your dog too long or hard.” Promoting Relaxation If your canine, feline, or equine pet is feeling a little unsettled over constant changes in your life and schedule recently or feeling the mild discomfort from all of those extra walks they get in the summer, CBD American Shaman of Lincoln has dozens of CBD products aimed at helping your buddies relax, manage stress, and provide relief and overall wellness. According to Lincoln Franchise Owner Lance Schroeder, their product line includes everything from full-spectrum and THC-free CBD hemp oil tinctures to canine and feline Lance Schroeder food, and treats for your cat, dog, or horse. CBD American Shaman “Animals have occasional stress, need jointhealth support, and have many of the same wellness needs as humans,” Lance said. “So, just as with our human line of products, we use the best of all ingredients for our canine, feline, and equine customers. After all, they’re family, too!” CBD is the acronym for cannabidiol, which is a naturally occurring substance found in the cannabis plant. It is well known for its relief and wellness properties. American Shaman CBD products for pets are all made from high-quality and terpene-rich pure hemp extract, and all of their CBD pet products are made with non-GMO hemp, grown in the USA, powered by their proprietary nanotechnology and lab-tested to ensure that they meet or exceed purity and potency standards. So, what are the benefits for your pets? “The benefits for CBD oil for your pets are the same as they are for humans, as their bodies and human bodies react the same way to CBD,” Lance said. “CBD may help them by providing relief from mild discomfort, promoting relaxation, managing occasional stress or separation, and providing relief from occasional sleeplessness. It also may provide positive mental support for your dog, helping to improve their mood, maintain cardiovascular function, and help promote joint flexibility.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Keeping Your Pets Safe Summer conditions definitely present some additional challenges for pets, and Canine Design Owner Danetta Jensen says it’s important that dog owners pay particular heed to those. For example, grooming remains important in the warmer months…but don’t overdo it. “During summer, a lot of people think they need to get their dogs shaved,” Danetta said, “but especially for dogs that spend a lot of time outside, shaving will have the opposite effect than you’re expecting. Dogs need Danetta Jensen enough fur or hair to protect them from the Canine Design sun because they sunburn just like we do. It’s also important that every pet owner monitor their animals closely for overheating during summer months, especially by watching for excessive panting. Some dogs don’t seem to care that they’re too hot because they just love lying on the hot concrete and don’t always come in out of the heat when they need to.” If you have a pet with allergies—or you have allergies—it’s also crucial to keep your pets brushed and cleaned in the summer, among other pet-care musts. “Keeping dogs brushed and cleaned protects both you and them from allergies they carry in and out of the house, and pets with allergies should be groomed more often to keep the allergens off of them,” Danetta said. “It’s also important that you protect your pets from flies, mosquitoes, and other insects throughout the summer.” We all love our pets like members of our families, so it’s important that we monitor them closely, knowing that summer heat and changes in our seasonal schedules can affect their comfort, safety, and anxiety levels. Watch for signals of distress, and confer with your local pet experts in Lincoln regularly to keep your furry friends safe and happy! JULY 2020 Strictly Business

Residential Remodel

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westgate.bank | 402.434.3456

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LENDER

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Turning Your House into Your Dream Home Spending more time at home in recent months appears to have many homeowners dreaming of remodeling or upgrading. Whether you’re considering remodeling your entire house, adding another room onto it, putting up a garage or shop on your property, redecorating the interior or exterior of your home, or just remodeling your kitchen or a bathroom, Lincoln businesses are here for you. Right here in our big small town, you have access to premier remodeling services for every stage of every project you could imagine. Shoot, you’re probably a little antsy from being stuck at home so much in the wake of COVID-19, so what better time to spruce things up and transform your house into your dream home? We picked the brains of representatives of nearly 20 reputable local businesses associated with residential remodeling—from the banks that provide loans for your projects, to roofers, furniture specialists, deck builders, technology trades, flooring, cabinet, and granite specialists, heating and plumbing gurus, and more—to get you the details you need to start working toward your dream home. Keep in mind that if you try to DIY a substantial remodel, you’re asking for trouble. Read on to find the professionals who will get your job done right! Rounding Up the Funds Unless you’ve been saving your money like a rock star, you’ll probably be looking to take out a loan to finish any substantial remodeling project, and there are a number of ways you can approach it. The choice you make will depend on a number of things, including the size and estimated cost of the entire project and the amount of equity you have in your house. Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer Dan Walker said they offer three primary lending tools for funding a residential remodeling project, including home equity lines of credit, home equity loans, and construction loans. “If you’re looking to work on a long-term project and need flexibility to continue to draw money out as you go along, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) might be a good choice for you—especially for smaller projects, when you don’t know the full cost Dan Walker out of the gate,” Dan said. “We have equity Lincoln Federal lines of credit available with a five-year Savings Bank draw period, so you can draw on the credit line throughout that period until you get everything done. At the end of five years, the outstanding balance is amortized over 15 years.” A second option is a home equity loan. While the line of credit basically works like a credit card, the home equity loan gets you the money upfront, but you have to start paying it back immediately. “It’s for a specific project with a set cost,” Dan said. “For example, if you have $100,000 in equity and want new windows, you can get #PrintProudDigitalSmart

the amount you need to complete the project, so the home equity loan works well. It’s a separate loan from your mortgage, usually in a second-lien position, with a separate payment.” The third option is for the biggest of remodeling projects—the demolition-to-reconstruction types of jobs that require a general contractor and can cost as much as several hundred thousand dollars. A construction loan requires significant monitoring and costs on the bank’s side and home equity lines of credit and loans typically involve more risk for the bank, so the interest rates on these lending tools generally are a bit higher than a traditional mortgage loan. For example, mortgage rates hit some of the lowest rates ever in June 2020, at about 2.5% and lower for 15-year terms and less than 3% for 30-year loans. That compares to interest rates in the 4.5% range for construction and equity loans and credit lines. Dan’s biggest piece of advice is not to try to do residential remodels on your own: “Hire a pro,” he said. “Let a contractor come in and line up the subcontractors and get everything done to code. It’s going to be done quicker and better in nearly every case, and you’re just not going to save much, if any, money by trying to be your own general contractor.” Enhancing Your Curb Appeal When you’re looking for professionals to help you with your remodel, be sure to consider Morton Buildings, because repairs and renovations are one of their specialties. Regional Service Manager Corey Lindeland said their service specialists boast extensive on-the-job experience and vast knowledge to ensure that their customers are satisfied when their work is complete. Morton has found that making exterior upgrades has become increasingly trendy in the remodeling world, which bodes well Corey Lindeland for the company, as they offer steel-roof Morton Buildings replacements, steel siding, and skylight installations. From a small garage to an elaborate workshop to a home upgrade, Morton buildings are one of a kind, customized, designed, and constructed to suit your specific needs and design preferences. “Using the latest superior construction materials, Morton provides a wide variety of exterior service options that will provide the boost your home or building needs,” Corey said. “Whether you’re looking for new siding, wainscot, doors, or a roof that utilizes Morton’s timetested Hi-Rib steel, we will deliver on the promise to make your home or building feel like new all over again. Morton will work its magic on all brands of buildings, too. Even if you didn’t build a Morton from the start, we’ll be happy to provide the repair or renovation you need!” Corey offers a word of caution for anyone considering improving, redesigning, adding on or otherwise remodeling their home— especially first-timers: “Talk to a professional first to ensure you completely understand the services they will provide and what your responsibility will be.” Know Your Purpose The budgeting and planning processes go hand-in-hand, and when you’re planning a remodel, it’s crucial to build your plan and your budget around the true purpose of your project, according to Union Bank & Trust Loan Specialist Brian Nelson. “Knowing and understanding your purpose for the remodel will help you know your budget and plan accordingly,” Brian said. “Are you remodeling to increase value or are you remodeling to increase appeal? Is your remodel to make your home what you Brian Nelson want it to be or are you remodeling to make Union Bank & Trust it easier to sell your home in the near future?” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Brian says if your goal is to add value to your home, smaller singleroom remodeling projects won’t generally do the trick, unless you add, expand, or do a total remodel and upgrade to a bathroom or your kitchen. However, the best value boosters come in larger projects, such as adding another bedroom on to your home or changing your overall floor plan. While Union Bank & Trust hasn’t really seen a significant increase in remodeling applications in recent months, Brian said the stars are aligned for good deals now. “I would say yes, now is the right time to be remodeling, with materials under special pricing and specials on home-equity loans,” he said. “Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs) are the best-suited product for home remodels. Union Bank offers a low introductory rate and is currently running our lowest two-year introductory rate (2.49% APR) in recent history. We also offer unsecured financing options if equity is an issue in your home value.” Barnwood Beautiful If you’re looking to remodel, the furnishings you choose are crucial to your project’s success. If you love the charm and comfort of timeless but unique, rustic design, Barnwood & Leather can make sure you achieve a look that suits your personality and home to a T. Barnwood & Leather’s pieces include custom-designed leather and fabric home furniture, a wide variety of wood dining, kitchen, bar, and occasional tables, and fabulous custom cabinetry. “Our goal is to work with small business owners who manufacture American-made furniture products or who offer high-quality pieces from outside of the USA,” said Brenda Clark, who co-owns the business with her husband, Mike. “We are thrilled to exclusively offer unique, American-made barnwood furniture and custom-cabinet options that come from the north-central United States and are made by craftsmen who pride themselves on creating each piece. We also proudly offer a line of handcrafted Brenda Clark dining furniture pieces made of American Barnwood & Leather hardwoods as well as upholstered and fine leather living room furniture manufactured in the USA.” Barnwood & Leather was born from the desire to find unique furniture that would fit just as comfortably in a home in the city as it would in a lake cabin. There’s no doubt they’ve achieved that with aplomb. Located near the corner of 14th Street and Yankee Hill Road, the company also offers customized cabinets for your kitchen, pantry, bathroom, family room, or whatever other space you want to have them. They blend beautifully with the company’s handcrafted furniture pieces to create that perfect, cozy, rustic charm. Just don’t confuse rustic with old-fashioned. “We give a second life to our country’s original barns by crafting high-quality beautiful cabinets,” Brenda said. “When remodeling a kitchen, for example, our skilled cabinetmakers combine aged timbers for a timeless look with modern kitchen hardware and functionality like soft-close doors. They combine all the latest in kitchen technologies with ancient reclaimed timbers to create a classic look that’s decidedly timeless. We strive not just for a look as timeless and unique as America’s barns but for a level of quality unmatched in the industry.” Make Room for Relaxation A great way to boost the value and curb appeal of your home in one fell swoop is to add a fantastic outdoor space from Decks Unlimited. There’s no limit to what this Lincoln business can accomplish for you—from a simple extension for sitting outside to a pergolacovered patio or a charming screen room for relaxing with a nice beverage, or even extravagant, multi-level deck systems with firepits, bars, and more to serve the biggest of family gatherings or wedding parties. Most important, they want to provide you a space you can use for years to come! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“We take great pride in the projects we build, and we want our customers to understand the kind of respect they will receive when contracting with us,” said Decks Unlimited Owner Dan Waters. “We will help you design the perfect outdoor space for your family and give you something to be proud of.” Decks Unlimited uses only the highestquality products available on the market. That includes TimberTech/Azek composite, Westbury Aluminum, and YellaWood No. 1, Dan Waters and they have a showroom at 3160 N 33rd Decks Unlimited St., where they showcase several options for materials. TimberTech has a new line out this year called Reserve and offers an array of amazing new colors and quality like no other. “Everyone really loves the Westbury Aluminum railings, which are extremely lightweight and durable,” Dan said. “Their railings are third-party tested to meet the American Architectural Manufacturing Association’s certification, and they use an 11-step powder-coating process, which allows them to offer a limited lifetime warranty against cracking, peeling, fading, and rusting. They have 10 different styles of railings available in 12 different colors, and we can even offer you an exclusive Westbury color that is not readily available in the Lincoln area.” Inexpensive Money From a banking perspective, now is a good time to consider making some upgrades to your home, according to First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) Mortgage Sales Manager Noelle Jacquot, who works at the FNBO location on 6600 S 27th St. in Lincoln. “Personally, I would say now is a good time for remodeling projects and improvements,” Noelle said. “With money being inexpensive to borrow, it will help with affordability. Most banks offer a variety of ways to finance improvements, with home-equity Noelle Jacquot and home-improvement loans, in addition First National Bank to the traditional long-term mortgage. of Omaha Traditionally, those rates may start very low but are oftentimes variable, so be sure you understand your terms.” Noelle says FNBO has definitely witnessed an increase in loan applications for remodeling projects since COVID quarantined people to home. She said that people also appear to be choosing to make improvements on their existing homes rather than looking to purchase a different home. “With long-term mortgage rates being so low, we are seeing a large number of consumers refinancing their mortgage and pulling out equity to do improvements.” FNBO also offers home-equity loans, which allow you to borrow money against a limit, as determined by the equity you’ve built in your home. They are considered best for large, single purchases of a specific amount and carry lower interest rates than personal loans or lines of credit. Their home equity lines of credit allow you to borrow money—again determined by the equity you’ve built—and you pay interest only on the amount you use. Lines of credit tend to be best for multiple purchases, or ongoing use throughout a remodeling project, for example, with uncertain costs. Professional Exterior Services A family-owned business with nearly 30 employees and in operation for nearly 40 years, Neemann & Sons is a professional team of exterior experts. They take pride in transforming the curb appeal of your home and offer fully tailored solutions so you can dream the perfect home while they provide the quality materials and talent to construct it. Co-owner Chris Neemann said their company provides everything from roofing to seamless gutters, gutter covers, replacement windows, #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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insulations, siding, repairs, inspections, and more. Because every project is different, they provide a free quote to estimate the scope, materials, and expectations of your particular job. “You can trust Neemann & Sons to care for your home the way we care for our own,” Chris said. “You’ll get professional design, installation, and repairs using only quality products that fit your budget, and our goal is to exceed your expectations every time.” Chris Neemann If you work with Neemann & Sons on an Neemann & Sons exterior remodel of your home, you’ll get their five-year workmanship warranty to fix any problems you might experience during that time. “Whatever your home needs, we’ll provide fully comprehensive solutions to execute your exterior needs,” Chris said. “No job is too big or too small!” The Art of Lighting Gone are the days when lighting your home was about replacing your lightbulbs now and again. It’s truly become an art, and one that employs ever-extending technologies. Jon Eicher, project manager for ABC Electric, says the LED lighting industry is continuously evolving and that company has been doing numerous residential lighting remodeling projects that employ Bluetooth technology, which is changing the residential remodeling landscape with app-based controls. “We have done all manners of LED lighting Jon Eicher and controls in kitchens family 0990b_Morton Ad_55.qxp_Layout 1 6/4/20 4:34 PMand Page 1 spaces,” ABC Electric Jon said. “We are seeing Bluetooth

technology being incorporated into not just control systems but LED lighting as well. LED lighting now has the capability of adjustable lumen outputs, or brightness, and color-changing capability integral to the fixture. This sector of the industry continues to evolve.” Having been in the industry for nearly 90 years, ABC Electric has been part of that evolution firsthand and has acquired all of the specialized equipment, tooling, and experience to set them apart from the competition. In fact, there also are very few potential stumbling blocks that ABC’s management team and highly skilled technicians haven’t experienced—so you can be confident that they know how to address just about any potential issue that could arise during a remodel. With that in mind, Jon also recommends that people planning a remodeling project in their home always build a contingency fund into their project budget. “Once you start to open up ceilings and tear out walls, there are usually some hidden surprises…and not the good kind,” he said. “We also suggest hiring professionals in their respective disciplines. It can be tempting to hire a handyman or a friend of a friend to potentially save you some money, but do yourself a favor and check references. Check references of licensed contractors, as well. The reputable ones have nothing to hide.” Let Us Love Your Home! Xcel Roofing has been providing exterior home upgrades to Midwest communities since 1990, and they do far more to boost your curb appeal than just putting a new roof on your home. “When it comes to remodeling, our specialty is your exterior,” said Xcel Project Manager Frantz Antoine. “That includes roofing, gutters, siding, and windows, and we also paint and do decks. Frantz Antoine The before-and-after pictures you’ll get Xcel Roofing

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of the exterior of your home will be like buying a new outfit for your home!” Your home likely will be your biggest investment in your life, so don’t take shortcuts when it comes to quality. Style is important, but be sure to look into the quality of the materials you are using on your beloved home. “You want to use materials that will earn your money back on your investment,” he said. “For example, there are high-end shingles out there that not only look good but can save you 20% to 30% on your homeowners’ insurance. Likewise, there are siding and windows out there that can cut your utility bill down dramatically on an annual basis.” The process for getting work done by Xcel is simple but meaningful. They will start by seeing if you have any storm damage to your home; if so, it can offset the cost and Xcel will work with your insurance company to see that you get what you’ve paid for. You’ll then get to see your home with all the new exterior before work even begins, thanks to their digital technology. “You will be able to achieve exactly the look you’re hoping for,” Frantz said. “Let us love your home!” Trusted Kitchen and Bath Remodeling John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is a trusted bath and kitchen remodeling company in Lincoln, which can also help you with all of your general plumbing needs. When it comes to a residential remodeling project, Co-owner Lindsey Reinke points up the importance of hiring a professional to do the job, if plumbing is involved. “You might be opting for a DIY project,” she said. “This is OK if you’re not doing any plumbing work, but if part of your plan Lindsey Reinke includes this, hiring a contractor is beneficial. John Henry’s Plumbing, Bathroom and kitchen remodeling companies Heating, and Air are a dime a dozen and sometimes get a Conditioning bad reputation for shoddy work or scam-like behavior. This is never the case with John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning. Our slogan is ‘our family serving yours’ for a reason.” John Henry’s prides itself on being honest by using flat-rate pricing, which ensures that every technician is drug-screened and background-checked. It is a family-run business that recently retired Deb and John Henry (Jack) Zohner started in their home about 24 years ago. Their daughter Lindsey and her husband, Joe—who has been with John Henry’s for about 18 years—recently took over ownership when Deb and Jack “finished” retiring. When you’re choosing a kitchen remodeler, there are a number of things that are crucial to consider, including making sure that the company takes the time to hear and understand what you want and how you want it done, then getting an estimate for all the work you need done and choosing something that works for your budget. Finally, choose someone with experience. “When you’re investing in a remodel in your home, you want someone to get the job done right…the first time,” Lindsey said. “Be sure you choose a plumbing company that knows what they’re doing and stands behind their work. With John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, you get extensive experience and flat-rate pricing. This means you’re not going to be surprised by hidden costs or worried about the amount of time spent, because it will cost the same regardless.” Bringing Your Visions to Life While known for kitchen remodeling, Lincoln Cabinet can work with you to update any space in your home to give it a new look or better function. They take a step-by-step approach, first meeting in your home to see the space and take measurements, then creating design ideas for the space and finally putting together an estimate so you have an idea of the overall cost for the project. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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“By doing this, we find that every client gets the best outcome for the budget they are comfortable with, said Co-owner Lori Wellman, “and as home-remodeling trends go, bathrooms are definitely on-trend right now. “ Yes, 2020 is the year of the bathroom at Lincoln Cabinet! They have had many people calling in for bathroom remodels, and some with master-closet updates done at the same time. While a bathroom often is a smaller space than a kitchen, Lincoln Cabinet goes Lori Wellman through all of the same steps to assist clients in Lincoln Cabinet making the decisions that are right for them. Finding the right color and product combination is key in giving any room the look you want to achieve. Lincoln Cabinet’s showroom has samples of cabinetry, tile, countertops, and hardware on display, making them a one-stop shop for most of the decision-making process that helps you put together the look you want. “Our goal is to assist you throughout your remodeling project,” Lori said. “We work with a quality team of licensed and insured professional subcontractors throughout the design process so we can help you achieve your vision for your space.” If you have an area that needs a fresh look or does not function to fit your needs, let the design team at Lincoln Cabinet help you pull it all together! Light Up Your Life! If you’re investing in a remodel of your home—or even just a room in it—don’t forget to include lighting in your project plan. The choices are endless, and the effects can really be the cherry on top! “Lighting is one of the best upgrades to consider with any home-remodel project,” said Matt Collins with Oak Electric, Inc. “For example, if

you are investing thousands of dollars into updating your kitchen, why not invest a little more to install under-cabinet lights to showcase your new space? The same goes for bathrooms. You can install new lighting over the shower or bath area, and you might be surprised how much it showcases your investment.” Matt says the most popular trend in home lighting today is to replace old overhead light fixtures with strategically placed can lights. Another stunner is to design directional Matt Collins lighting to enhance artwork or photography Oak Electric, Inc. that you have hanging on your walls. Don’t forget your exterior lighting, either. “Lighting is equally important on the exterior of your home as it is on the inside,” Matt said. “Outside lighting provides safety after dark. It provides functionality to use your patio and/or deck later into the evening and it also gives your home greater curb appeal.” When you’re starting a remodeling project of just about any kind in your home, Matt warned us that it’s absolutely crucial to make sure you know exactly how it will affect your home’s overall electrical workings to ensure the safety of you and your family. “Before you start any remodeling project—from getting new appliances to a hot tub to an addition on your home—please have a licensed electrician evaluate your home’s electrical panel to ensure that it can safely handle any and all upgrades.” Creating an Exquisite Exterior If you’re looking to create a unique home exterior or features—including decks, pergola, feature walls, trellises, gates, and more—knotwood cladding will meet your needs, and it will withstand the elements and stand the test of time. To see what kind of boost it can give to your curb appeal, check out the options at Knotwood Central. You can create

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an exterior to your home that will stop people in their tracks, as your home will stand out with architectural features that showcase your style and design. “If you’re looking for a feature that sets your remodeling project apart from the rest and is safe and environmentally friendly, Knotwood cladding is the perfect choice,” said Shane Ligon, owner and operator of Knotwood Central. Knotwood is a state-of-the-art product that genuinely looks like wood, but it’s actually aluminum. It’s difficult to tell the difference, but what you will notice right away is that it is truly stunning. It is the new look of modern architecture that really pops. It comes in Shane Ligon more than 30 wood colors and more than Knotwood Central 50 custom colors, and might be one of the most versatile materials you’ll ever find. “A lot of people are surprised that it isn’t really wood because it has such a beautiful, natural look, and that’s just the beginning of what makes it a great product. It is also eco-friendly, non-porous, non-warping, scratch-, corrosion-, stain-, freeze-, and slip-resistant, lightweight, non-combustible, insect-proof, heat-dissipating, and covered by a 15-year warranty. What more could you want from a building material?” Plumbing with Aplomb Bob Nohavec Plumbing has been extremely busy with residential remodeling jobs of late and has found that many people are choosing to do major remodels all at once instead of working on one room at a time. The company has built a solid reputation in the Lincoln area for its reliable and high-quality service on projects varying from new-home construction to remodels, providing services involving everything from water heaters to water softeners, drain cabling, plumbing, faucet, and toilet repairs and replacements. “We have been working hard to serve our customers’ needs through these crazy times,” said Donald “Chip” Martin, remodel plumber for Bob Nohavec Plumbing. “Our company is a full-service plumbing company that is well balanced with talented apprentices and experienced Journeyman and Master plumbers, and there’s not a lot we haven’t seen.” When it comes to remodeling, Bob Nohavec Plumbing specializes in kitchen and bath Donald “Chip” Martin remodels that upgrade bathtubs, showers, Bob Nohavec Plumbing vanities, counter tops, and bathroom accessories and fixtures, including onyx. If your remodeling project requires that your plumbing be moved, they can take care of that, as well. “In the remodel portion of our company, we are led by Lee Wassenberg, who I think truly may have seen it all,” Chip said. “I would say our specialty is completing projects, from small to large, with as little disruption to the homeowner as possible. I would say the largest trend in remodels right now would be walk-in showers. In the last few years, showers have really become a focal point, from tile to onyx, with multiple valves and spray heads. Recently, I have seen some of the most beautiful walk-in showers I have ever seen. We have been really proud to be part of the team making them.” Revolutionary Rejuvenation If your roof has seen better days, you might think that you have no choice but to replace it. That’s not necessarily the case, though, thanks to Roof Maxx, sold and applied in Lincoln under the name of Revolution Roof. Roof Maxx is a scientifically formulated and 100% safe, plant-based roof-rejuvenating spray treatment that was developed by Battelle Labs, the world’s largest private researchand-development company. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“This award-winning technology allows millions of micro-beads of all-natural oil to penetrate your old brittle roof,” said Revolution Roof Owner Jeremy Schafer. “This process restores your roof’s flexibility and waterproofing protection, thus preserving the life of your roof. Plus, every treatment comes with a five-year transferrable warranty, and repeating treatments every five years can extend your roof’s life by up to 15 years!” Research by the Ohio State University found that Roof Maxx restored the flexibility Jeremy Schafer of 17-year-old roof shingles, successfully Revolution Roof passing the same materials testing required for new roof shingles. It further demonstrated that Roof Maxx significantly improved flexibility of shingles, significantly improved their adhesion to the roof; restored permeability values close to those of new shingles, improved resistance to hail impact, and did not increase the risk of flames spreading across the roof in the event of a fire. Unfortunately, most shingles today are manufactured differently than they were a decade ago and are drying out and failing well before their expected lifespans. If you spot shingle aging signs, like black streaking and stains, loss of top coating, or shingle-seal tab failure, you can give Revolution Roof a call and they’ll provide you with a free, no-obligation inspection to help you avoid premature failure. “Roof Maxx is unlike anything that has come before it,” Jeremy said. “If your roof is starting to wear and you worry it may not last through another heavy Nebraska storm but you don’t want to dish out the money for a full roof replacement, Roof Maxx offers an alternative at a fraction of the cost of getting a new roof!” Taking Advantage of Equity If you own a home and you’re looking for a way to pay for that roof repair, or for upgrades you’ve been wanting to make—maybe putting

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in a pool—West Gate Bank Vice President and Consumer Loan Manager Nancy Johnson said a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) might be the right financial product for you to consider. With social-distancing recommendations keeping people at home more, she said lots of folks are making the time to check off some of those projects that they have been putting off but still want to complete, so home equity lines of credit have been quite popular of late. “A Home Equity Line of Credit is a great Nancy Johnson product because it gives you the flexibility West Gate Bank to access money when you need it,” Nancy said. “You might not know the exact cost of all of the upgrades you want to complete over the period of the credit line—five years, for example—so you can decide as you go what fits into your budget and your list of priorities.” The amount you can access or draw upon from a HELOC will be based on the amount of equity you have in your home, among other considerations. When your upgrades are complete or your credit-line expires, West Gate will amortize the amount you spent for you to pay out over a number of years following. “Current rates on home equity lines are a bit lower than other loans since they are a variable-rate product that fluctuates with the prime rate,” Nancy said, “so it’s a great time to get started on that to-do list you keep putting off. Of course, be certain that you get multiple estimates if you’re considering a remodel, and talk to your banker to identify the best financing route for your particular situation.” From the Ground Up You might be amazed how much upgrading your flooring can change the entire look and attitude of any room in your home. Jacque Lee with EMO Flooring said when you’re remodeling your floors, it’s important to select a type of material and style that fits your life. For simple and classic, hardwood is always a good choice, whereas tile and stone are considered pretty and practical. If you’re going for a classy and comfy option, area rugs can help get you there, and if you want to go bold and fashionable, you can’t beat Jacque Lee the luxurious comfort of carpet. EMO Flooring “We always advise clients to take all factors into consideration, including the room’s use, its size, its aesthetics, style, furnishings, and such,” Jacque said. “Hard flooring is extremely popular and versatile these days, but many people like to keep carpet in their bedrooms for the comfort factor.” In addition to offering a wide variety of carpet, hardwood, area rugs, tile and stone, laminate, and even vinyl flooring materials and installation, EMO Flooring also offers floor-refinishing services. They can sand and stain your wood floors to a different color or return them to their original splendor. Depending on the traffic and care your floor gets, wood floors may need to be refinished at about five years, though some may never need refinishing. Tile is another trendy remodeling material for everything from floors to walls to backsplashes, and it’s not all pale beige or boring anymore. “Today’s new colors are richer and somewhat deeper, and there are exciting looks in surface texture and edge treatments,” Jacque said. “Tile is appearing in larger sizes, too, so that it’s easier than ever to make a dramatic statement that you’ll love.” Quality and Affordability If you’re remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, you’ll find more fabulous options at A1 Cabinet & Granite, LLC. From a wide variety of cabinetry to fit your individual needs to more than 60 colors of granite to choose from and both granite composite and stainless-steel sinks, you’ll find it all here—without breaking the bank. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“We focus on pricing and quality, which set us apart from other remodeling companies,” said Office Manager Kim Choo. “Having our own line allows us to promise good quality at reasonable prices. Come to our showroom to see the wide selections of colors and materials, and we’ll work with you to choose a design that suits your tastes and vision.” A1 Cabinet & Granite has found white cabinetry and granite to be particularly trendy recently, and customers can customize the depth, with the height and width Kim Choo A1 Cabinet & Granite, LLC available in a number of measurement options. Base, wall, pantry, vanity, and other cabinet options include this semi-customization option, plus full-extension drawers, plywood boxes, maple doors, drawers and frames, dove-tail and soft-close drawers, six-way Euro hinges, and full overlay panels. The turnaround time for cabinet delivery is about one to two weeks. Counters and other surfaces come in a huge variety of granite and quartzite and quartz composite, with your choice from eight types of edges, including straight, double radius, waterfall, chiseled, ogee, half bullnose, bevel, and laminated. “Our warehouse is onsite, so you can pick the exact slab of granite that you want for your dream kitchen, bathroom, or bar, and we have marble and quartz options, too,” Kim said. “We have one of the biggest selections in Lincoln and some of the best prices. Come by and see what we can do for you!” Experience Matters! When you want something done right, you hire a professional because you know experience matters. Biggerstaff Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning knows that, too. Owned by brothers Doug, Dennis, and Don, Biggerstaff has been serving the Lincoln area for more than 60 years, and their success stems from the reputation they’ve built for reliability, professionalism, and for providing top-quality care in a timely manner. The company was founded by their parents and all three of the brothers started working in Jim Johnson the family business since they were 18. Biggerstaff Plumbing, “We operate according to the same standards Heating, & Air Conditioning that the founders set for this family-owned business in 1957,” said Jim Johnson, a member of the management team at Biggerstaff. “We believe that you should receive the best care among knowledgeable professionals, and we believe that integrity is what makes a business successful.” If you’re doing any significant remodeling in your home, it likely will affect your plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning systems, and Biggerstaff is equipped to handle all of your upgrades, changes, installations, and repairs. Services include new installation and remodeling of your plumbing system, including faucets and sinks, toilets, showers and tubs, disposals and drain lines, dishwashers and water lines, and water heaters and sump pumps. When it comes to your heating and cooling systems, it’s important to ensure that any remodeling project you do pays heed to the limits of your current systems and that you include upgrades so that you are certain to get the most efficiency possible for heating and cooling your home. Biggerstaff is skilled at installing these systems, in addition to thermostats, indoor air-quality systems, geothermal systems, and anything associated with your sewer system. “Biggerstaff isn’t just a name,” Jim said. “It’s a promise that you can count on us to do the best job possible, every time. If you’re looking at remodeling all or a portion of your home, we’re here to help!” The possibilities for transforming a room in your home or overhauling your entire interior or exterior are endless, and you can achieve your dream home, even if you don’t know yet what that looks like. That’s because there are so many experts in Lincoln who can help. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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supporting Nonprofits COVID-19 has placed an enormous burden on local nonprofits. Over the past several months, Lincoln nonprofits have been forced to shut down their events and fundraisers while also suffering heavy losses in their volunteer count. While most organizations have embodied that Nebraska heartiness, cheerily vowing to continue doing their good work for the community, it has nevertheless injured their efforts. According to a survey of 231 Nebraska nonprofits conducted by Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM), these nonprofits have collectively lost over $42 million since the pandemic started in March. The late April poll revealed that 81% of Nebraska nonprofits have had to significantly alter their budgets to adjust for the economic impact, and 74% reported that the burden disrupted their services to clients and communities. Nebraska boasts a rich network of nonprofits that add vibrancy and life to our communities and neighborhoods. While COVID-19 has hurt us all in various ways, the nonprofits that selflessly work to keep Nebraska a safer, kinder, and more artistic place have suffered the worst. Studies show that when economic turmoil hits, nonprofits feel the hurt immediately, and they stay down for longer. This means that these nonprofits that make Nebraska Nebraska may run stagnant if we as a community don’t pitch in to lift them up. We were very encouraged to see the outpouring of generosity this year during Give to Lincoln Day on May 28. In fact, the donor response hit a record high with nearly $7 million raised, almost $1.4 million over the previous record set last year. The funds were designated to help support 448 local nonprofits that serve Lincoln and Lancaster County.

Not only do local nonprofits help enrich Nebraskan life, but they also create jobs and give workers, volunteers, and donors alike a connection to something greater than themselves.

At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Nonprofit organizations understand the needs of fellow Nebraskans and work to help support causes many of us connect to. Not only do local nonprofits help enrich Nebraskan life, but they also create jobs and give workers, volunteers, and donors alike a connection to something greater than themselves. When we pitch in to help nonprofits, we’re helping our communities and neighbors and keeping a culture of humanity, art, and philanthropy alive.

Even though many of us as businesspeople have also suffered losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we can still do our part to help the community by investing in our nonprofits in any way we can. It’s important to remember that a business doesn’t have to donate a large sum of money or time in order to make a difference. Hosting fundraisers, participating in a donation drive, even volunteering for a few hours can do wonders to help others and also connect you and your business with others that are making a difference in your community. Not only does giving to a nonprofit help Nebraska and the people who live here, but it will also help your business by building relationships, producing publicity, and opening the door to networking opportunities! Nebraska’s nonprofits do whatever they can to make our beautiful state an even better place to live, and so we also want to bring awareness to their efforts. In our Supporting Nonprofits feature, we’re choosing to highlight all the amazing things they’ve done and the news they’re choosing to share with everyone throughout the year. Readers should keep these nonprofits in mind when they’re choosing to give back to Lincoln this year, as they’re doing astounding things for our city. Whether you choose to donate your own time or to give back through your business, supporting any of these nonprofits will make a positive influence in the lives of fellow Nebraskans. We’d love to extend a formal thank you to all of the following nonprofits and applaud them for their work to keep helping Nebraska despite the economic hardship many of them have faced during COVID-19. These nonprofits continue working tirelessly to make Nebraska a better place to live, and we at Strictly Business are so happy to support them. 72 Strictly Business JULY 2020 #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives—devoted to saving people from two of the nation’s top killers, heart disease (No. 1) and stroke (No. 5). Powered by millions of volunteers, global and local collaborators, their goal is to equitably increase worldwide healthy life expectancy from 64 to at least 67 years by 2030. Through events right here in Lincoln like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women, and Heart Ball, the American Heart Association is making an impact. For more information, visit www.heart.org/Lincoln.

Hundreds of children and youth in Lancaster County are victims of abuse and neglect. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Lancaster County is local nonprofit that recruits, trains, and supports community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused, neglected, truant, or ungovernable c hildren in Juvenile Cour t. CASA volunteers get to know the children and all of the circumstances and issues surrounding the family. They gather information and report their findings and recommendations directly to the judge. CASA volunteer advocates provide a voice for children in court, expedite permanency, share with the judge the needs and wishes of the children, and ensure that children have safe permanent homes. To help them serve more children, volunteer or donate today! To volunteer, donate, or for more information, please contact CASA for Lancaster County at (402) 474-5161, visit www.casa4lancaster. org, or follow on Facebook (@CASA4LancasterCo) and Twitter (@ CASALancasterCo).

The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum mission is to preserve the history of Strategic Air Command, the Cold War and aerospace artifacts and to inspire learning through imaginative, innovative, and inspirational programs and exhibits. The Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and Smithsonian Affiliate. The Museum is not funded by any government source, relying on the community to help carry out its mission. The Museum is home to one of the largest collections of Cold War aircraft and artifacts in the U.S. Visitors can view iconic aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft as well as learn about historic leaders and events. The Museum offers free public tours, family events, an interactive Children’s Learning Center, and educational programs. The Museum’s Education Team and STEM programming supplements public education with field trips, camps, and monthly workshops. Looking for a thrill? Check out the Museum’s flight simulator or visit their latest temporary exhibit, QUEST! Navigating The World, featuring 20 interactive kiosks exploring travel by land, air, and sea. There is something for everyone at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. Just off I-80 at Exit 426, between Lincoln and Omaha. Learn more about the Museum’s events, rental spaces, membership, and summer camps at SACMuseum.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Angels Among Us provides financial assistance to families whose c hildren are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply. Once approved, families are provided with $500 a month for the length of their entire treatment plan, up to three years, to help them stay financially stable during treatment. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, which ensures that funds are used for their intended purpose. When a child is diagnosed with cancer, a family’s life as they know it comes to an abrupt halt. Unfortunately, their monthly expenses do not. Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 450 families with over $2 million in support. There are angels among us. Will you be one? Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. There is strength in numbers. There is also hope, help, and monetary relief. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit the website at www. myangelsamongus.org.

In this time of social distancing, when most of us are finding comfort and safety at home, for some home is the most dangerous place on earth. Domestic violence doesn’t stop for COVID-19 and may often escalate during additional stress. During this challenging time, Friendship Home wants to assure those in Lancaster County that they are continuing to provide crisis services, emergency shelter, and transitional housing to victims of domestic violence and their children. Friendship Home’s shelter doors remain open and their crisis line is available 24/7. Friendship Home would like to thank the community for their continued support in empowering freedom from domestic violence. Like many organizations, for the safety of staff and volunteers, they have been forced to postpone events, so they need support more than ever. For more information, please visit FriendshipHome.org. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, the crisis line is available 24 hours a day at (402) 437-9302.

“Poverty limits opportunity. We don’t.” Since 1965, Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties has been empowering people living in poverty to reach economic stability. Community Action provides 18 unique programs and services in four impact areas: Early Childhood Education, Homelessness Prevention, Financial and Family Well-Being, and Hunger Relief and Healthy Food Access. Just some programs include Head Start, which supports children from at-risk backgrounds and their families in building skills for success; Emergency Services, which provides rent, utility, and deposit assistance to those at-risk of experiencing homelessness; and the Gathering Place, which provides free hot, nutritious meals to anyone experiencing hunger in Lincoln. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Community Action is continuing provision of its poverty-fighting programming, following guidance from local health experts. Last year, Community Action provided over 112,000 poverty-fighting services to over 20,000 children and adults. To connect, call (402) 471-4515 or visit www. communityactionatwork.org JULY 2020 Strictly Business 73

HopeSpoke inspires healthy f u t u r e s fo r c h i l d r e n a n d families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. The struggle is real. Mental health issues and trauma are hard for anyone to overcome, especially if you’re a kid. When things feel hopeless, HopeSpoke helps families find confidence. This is true even during the COVID-19 pandemic. HopeSpoke plays an invaluable role in providing children, youth, adults, and entire families with the skills to feel empowered and be successful—helping them heal, be courageous, and find strength to live well. With a 71-year history and positive presence, HopeSpoke continues to reach out with expert care in new ways to make our community a better place full of happy, hopeful, healthy families. Services include Crisis & Residential, Extended Day Treatment Program, Outpatient Services, School Programs, and more. For more information about HopeSpoke’s programs and the latest adaptations, or to make a donation, please go to www.hopespoke. org or call (402) 475-7666.

“I was sold for $60 and some meth. I was 15 at the time.” – Lincoln survivor I’ve Got a Name is determined to protect and fight for the 900 girls SOLD for sex every month in Nebraska…200 girls sold in the Lincoln area alone. They help the public learn to identify sex trafficking and to become advocates of HOPE and CHANGE. They create awareness through business/public speaking and education. Their Street Outreach provides personal one-on-one help to those on the streets and within neighborhoods. I’ve Got a Name builds strong trusting relationships with the vulnerable victims and survivors of sex trafficking. They provide emotional support and comfort while connecting them to needed services. They empower them into a future of change and purpose. Visit www.ivegotaname.org to find out how you can become an advocate of HOPE and CHANGE. Contact info@ivegotaname.org with questions. “We are Stronger Together!”

With a dedicated and united front of staff and volunteers who help the homeless and near homeless find possibilities when things seem impossible, the vision of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is to defeat hunger and homelessness and restore hope! Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, Matt Talbot is an inviting hunger relief and outreach center for those in need. Annually, Matt Talbot provides more than 100,000 nutritious meals to the hungry in Lincoln and nearly 40,000 outreach and homeless prevention services to the working poor and homeless such as housing, case management, drug and alcohol evaluations, RentWise classes, diversion, nutrition counseling, and help with obtaining vital identification documents. Most importantly, Matt Talbot provides beyond basic needs to embolden people to have hope. Matt Talbot has maintained a 4-star Charity Navigator ranking for six consecutive years, received the Better Business Bureau Integrity Award for the nonprofit sector in 2013, and was recently recognized for transparency with a Gold Seal on their GuideStarNonprofit Profile. Contact Susanne Blue, CMSW, executive director of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach, at (402) 477-4116 / susanne.blue@mtko.org, or learn more online at www.mtko.org. 74 Strictly Business JULY 2020

Can you imagine being a teen parent in this COVID environment? Your high sc hool graduation c hances have diminished. Your part time job is gone. Your daycare through LPS is closed. Parent Life, a program of Youth for Christ, exists to come along side pregnant and parenting teens. They connect them with caring mentors and adults who will walk through life with them, help them graduate from high school, and encourage them to think about their future. Learn more online at www.yfclincoln.org.

Angels Theatre Company creates engaging theatre to promote artistic growth, foster community relationships, and raise social awareness. Angels Theatre Company nurtures and celebrates theatre artists while engaging our community in quality live theatre. Angels Theatre Company is committed to community engagement and improving the quality of life in our community by providing opportunities for artistic growth. By celebrating the work of the playwright and theatre literature through exposure, development, and production. By educating, training, and supporting theatre artists in the community. By honoring diversity in our artistic explorations. By drawing focus to the work of women theatre artists whenever possible. To learn more, visit www.angelscompany.org or contact (402) 417-6545 / AngelsTheatreCo@gmail.com.

As Nebraska’s industry-leading and award-winning senior care exper t, Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully and age gratefully. Nonprofit Tabitha cares for and about seniors across 28 counties, offering resultsdriven rehabilitation, accessible at-home health care, innovative living communities, compassionate hospice care, and Tabitha Meals on Wheels (Lincoln). Tabitha welcomes civic-minded individuals to donate their time, talent, and treasure to help provide support to seniors. Find out how you can make a difference in the lives of local veterans, teachers, public servants, and community leaders who need a helping hand. For all senior care needs, Tabitha is the answer. Connect with Tabitha online at Tabitha.org or by calling (402) 486-8520.

Aiding Angels is a local, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing FREE, professional housecleaning to the cancer heroes in our community during one of the most stressful times of their lives. A clean home and environment contributes to the welfare and recovery of patients. Brenda Schwery, local business owner of Maid To Please, has provided free home cleaning services for years through another foundation where women with cancer are the only recipients. In response to an overwhelming number of requests from not only women, but also men and children, Brenda founded Aiding Angels. Now, the void is filled and the muchneeded help is extended to everyone— men, women, and children regardless of financial status—going through cancer treatment or hospice due to cancer. For more information on Aiding Angels, please visit www.aidingangels. com or contact Brenda at (402) 434-2472. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

In this era of COVID-19 and navigating the “new normal”, connection and authentic relationships are more critical than ever. Plus, the need and opportunity to serve and support others is just as important. CBMC Lincoln offers you the opportunity to connect with others and grow personally, professionally and spiritually. CBMC is a ministry to men in the marketplace, encouraging them toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others. CBMC encourages you in connecting closely with Christ and with others who are growing and discovering how to represent Christ in life and work. CBMC offers one-on-one mentoring, challenging growth groups, leadership development, networking, and events throughout the year. They serve business owners and leaders through Peer Advisory Groups, geared to equip members to lead lives and businesses which honor Christ, and serve the community. Young Professional (YP) groups offer opportunities for men from all areas of the workplace engage with other YP’s as well learn from senior leaders and business owners. To learn how CBMC Lincoln can serve you, please contact CBMC Lincoln at (402) 540-1093 or visit lincoln.cbmc.com. You probably know that when a worker is injured on the job, workers’ compensation pays the medical expenses and lost wages. What you may not know is that workers’ compensation does not take into account the costs of post-secondary education for children of the injured worker. Often, families who have suffered such a tragedy are forced to care for the injured individual and do not have the funding to send their children to college. Kids’ Chance of Nebraska’s mission is to provide scholarships to children whose parents have suffered a workplace injury or death. They want to do what their name suggests: Give the kids a chance. One way they accomplish this is through their annual Kids’ Chance Golf Outing. This year’s event is currently scheduled for August 27 at Iron Horse Golf Club in Ashland. Kids’ Chance of Nebraska is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Eligible students and families are encouraged to go to kidschanceofne.org for information, no matter the age of the children. If you are interested in making a donation, go to www. kidschanceofne.org/make-a-donation. “It’s about what’s good for kids,” says TeamMates of Lincoln Coordinator Jim Bennett. “TeamMates’ work centers around youth, and as our mission says, we aim to positively impact the world by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring.” TeamMates of Lincoln, the flagship chapter of the regional mentoring program co-founded by Tom and Nancy Osborne in 1991, supports approximately 1,500 mentors matched with students in grades 3–12. Mentors meet one-to-one with mentees once a week at their student’s school. Matches often play games, shoot hoops, read or journal together, or complete community service or craft projects. The most important aspect of the meeting is building a meaningful relationship. “Mentors are not parents or peers, but caring adult friends who don’t have to be perfect or know all the answers,“ says mentor support specialist, Stacey Blizek. “TeamMates are cheerleaders, sounding boards, and developers.” The need for TeamMates mentors is great, with 789 students on Lincoln’s waiting list. If you would like to experience the power of mentoring, please call the TeamMates office at (402) 436-1990 or go online to LincolnTeamMates.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Branched Oak Observatory is a unique astronomical park located conveniently just 20 minutes from downtown Lincoln near Branched Oak Lake Recreation Area. Established in 2015, they offer a unique viewing experience and learning opportunity for young and old alike. The Observatory has a 30-student classroom, visitors center, and two buildings dedicated for viewing the night sky. Whether viewing the sun, the moon, or deep space star clusters and nebula, the Observatory’s staff of volunteers—amateur and professional astronomers alike—help to “Bring the Night Sky Down to Earth.” They hold monthly events called “Star Parties” that are FREE and fun for the whole family. Please follow the Branched Oak Observatory on Facebook (@ BranchedOakObservatory). If you would like more information, please email Matt Anderson at matthew@branchedoakobservatory. com or call (402) 480-5515. Branched Oak Observatory is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive) is a local, donor-designation driven organization that has been raising funds for Nebraska’s premier health charities since 1972. Through workplace partnerships, the organization promotes charitable giving, employee engagement and wellness, and connects people with health causes they care about. Formerly Community Health Charities of Nebraska, CHAD is proud to partner with United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County during the annual United Way/CHAD campaign. Donors who give so generously every year ensure the 21-member charity is funded on a consistent basis, and 100% of donor-designated dollars go directly to full-member charities. Valuable donations help Nebraskans in need by providing care and support for those affected by a health diagnosis; funding education and prevention programs in our communities; and supporting advocacy and medical research. Lincoln office: 215 Centennial Mall South, STE 509. Connect: (402) 614-8500 | www.chadnebraska.org | on social media @CHADNebraska Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF) recognizes that every person with Down syndrome is an individual who has a unique purpose and set of abilities. For 25 years, DSAF has provided a positive vision for the future for individuals with Down syndrome and those who share in their lives, through networking, advocacy, and support, including: • Parents First Call—Offers support and empathy to new parents upon receiving a diagnosis of Down syndrome. • Medical Outreach—Provides training and accurate information regarding Down syndrome to local medical offices. • Age-Based ‘Stars’ Enrichment Groups—enable members to participate in fun, inclusive activities with family and friends. • Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk—Creates a heartwarming all-ages experience for families, friends, and supporters of individuals with Down syndrome. The annual walk is DSAF’s biggest awareness and fundraising event! DSAF is more than just an association, it is a place of belonging and hope. Get involved. Visit dsafnebraska.org or call (402) 421-1338 to learn more. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 75

CEDARS remains committed to helping kids in crisis and building strong families. For over 70 years, this community has rallied around CEDARS to help them care for kids and families who need it most. In this time of uncertainty, CEDARS vital services are needed now more than ever. Thanks to community support, CEDARS dedicated team of 200 professionals and a network of loving foster parents is able to serve on the front lines to bring safety and stability into the lives of 2,000 kids and families each year. CEDARS is accredited through the Council on Accreditation and the National Association for the Education of Young Children, is a United Way partner, a four-star charity with Charity Navigator, a top-rated charity with CharityWatch, and a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity. CEDARS commitment is to helping children and families has not—and will not—ever waiver. To learn more, call (402) 434-KIDS (5437) or visit CEDARSkids.org.

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln has helped families build strength, stability and self-reliance through affordable homeownership since 1988. Its priority is to work with future homebuyers who would otherwise not be able to achieve homeownership through a traditional mortgage loan. By increasing the number of homeowners throughout Lincoln and Lancaster County, Habitat Lincoln is building neighborhoods and strengthening the community. Habitat Lincoln has partnered with more than 170 local families through the construction of new single-family homes, as well as simple and critical repair projects. Habitat Lincoln serves families whose income is up to 50% of median for the Lincoln area, with the average AMI being less than 40% over the past ten years. It partners with firsttime homebuyers. Many Habitat families are immigrants or refugees, and all are living in substandard housing—whether it be dilapidated, overcrowded, or cost-burdened. Learn more at lincolnhabitat.org or call (402) 477-9184.

Wear Yellow Nebraska provides service, support, and community for Nebraska’s cancer survivors. Their purpose, from the very beginning, is to bring together people passionate about cycling, celebrating life, and being an advocate in the fight against cancer. Since the organization’s beginning days, Wear Yellow Nebraska has continued to grow and cultivate their mission and vision. In 2012, they launched a free transportation program, which has directed more than $150,000 dollars in providing more than 9,300 cab rides to cancer patients in need. The Wear Yellow Cab Ride program, Powered by Lyft, is the primary initiative of the organization and is funded by their signature event, the Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk. Transportation to and from treatment is essential because patients are often unable to drive themselves, which also leaves them vulnerable to additional medical challenges. Even when patients have family and friends who can help, they are not always available and sometimes they just don’t want to ask for one more thing. Wear Yellow Nebraska touches lives in Lincoln, Omaha, and Fremont—help them keep growing! Learn more online at WearYellowNebraska.org. 76 Strictly Business JULY 2020

For over 20 years, Domesti-PUPS has been supporting people in our local, regional, and national communities through the assistance of animals. From therapy dogs in the classroom motivating children to pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living centers, Domesti-PUPS pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. The organization’s service dog teams provide increased independence when paired with a disabled partner. These highly-skilled canines can turn on lights, provide balance and mobility, retrieve dropped items, bring a bottle of water from a refrigerator, respond to medical emergencies such as a seizure or a diabetic high or low, and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide life-saving measures for their disabled partners. Learn more online at www.domesti-pups.org. Through a growing grassroots network of volunteers who hail from every corner or the state, Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Headquartered in Lincoln with employees working from hometowns all across the state, Nebraska Community Foundation provides financial management, strategic development, donor education, and training in partnership with 1,500 volunteers serving 258 Nebraska communities. In the last five years, 44,476 contributions were made to NCF and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $355.3 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330. The mission of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters from home fires to major events such as hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes. About 40% of the nation’s blood needed by patients is supplied by the Red Cross. The organization teaches skills such as CPR and First Aid that save lives. Additionally, the Red Cross provides international humanitarian aid and supports military members, veterans, and their families. Every day, the American Red Cross is active in the community, serving those in need. Visit redcross.org or call 1-(800) RED-CROSS to support Red Cross efforts by volunteering, donating financially or giving blood. Lincoln Medical Education Partnership (LMEP) is a leader in healthcare education, patient care, and behavioral health services through a variety of programs designed to meet community needs. These include the training of Family Medicine resident physicians and the delivery of exemplary patient care through the Lincoln Family Residency Program and the Lincoln Family Medicine Center, exposure to integrative medicine through Lincoln Medical Acupuncture, outpatient mental health and substance use counseling services for adults and children through Stepping Stones, and the provision of training and technical assistance to help schools identify and assist students with behavioral health issues through School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP). To learn more about Lincoln Medical Education Partnership, go online to www.lmep.com or call (402) 483-4581. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

For 88 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 an outlet for recycling unused household items and clothing. The sale of donated items in Goodwill’s retail stores remains the largest source of funding for its programs and services. Goodwill recognizes that services provided by peer agencies prepare people served by Goodwill to better succeed in Goodwill’s employment programs. It is with this understanding that Goodwill provides funding to colleague agencies to help with their own programs that align with Goodwill’s mission of willing workers employed and community resources maximized. For more information about Goodwill and its role in the Lincoln community, visit www.lincolngoodwill.org. DreamCatchers Ride, Inc., is a mentoring organization for youth who wish to develop a bond with horses, but whose families don’t have the means to support one. Studies prove that a relationship with a horse helps youth to develop important physical and emotional skills that they will use throughout life. DreamCatchers provides the opportunity to build that relationship, and develop relationships with a positive adult or older teen role model. DreamCatchers participants exhibit growth in their horsemanship ability, but also grow in confidence, develop stronger friendships, learn to speak up for themselves and others, show improvement in grades, and develop the ability to set and achieve goals. These skills lead to becoming more productive citizens, developing better focus overall, identifying safe and unsafe situations, and learning that every decision made has consequences, whether positive or negative. DreamCatchers can be reached at www.dreamcatchersride.org or on Facebook at DreamCatchers Ride Inc. Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease where a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone needed to get energy from food. T1D strikes children and adults suddenly and is unrelated to diet or exercise; at present, there is no cure. JDRF works every day to change this reality. As the largest global funder of T1D research, their mission is to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat T1D and its complications. You can help make a difference by participating, volunteering, or fundraising. Events: • Virtual coffee talks and happy hours via Zoom. Visit jdrf.org/ nebraska for upcoming dates. • JDRF One Walk, Lincoln – September 20, 2020 Programs: • Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research and policies for affordable and accessible therapies • Get Pumped – Support group for ages 4–18 and their families • Give Back at School – School education and fundraising opportunities • Outreach – Resources and events for individuals and families • Ride – Destination cycling experience for all fitness levels Learn more at jdrf.org/nebraska or (402) 484-8300. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Clyde Malone Community Center was founded in 1955 through a reorganization of the Lincoln Urban league. Initially founded during a time in history when civil rights for African Americans were extremely limited, the league founders, both black and white, were determined to improve social and economic conditions and increase understanding between all races. They believed that enhanced understanding between all groups of people would create a better community. For decades, the Malone Center has served neighboring families, youth, seniors, and the Lincoln community through programs and initiatives that extend well beyond the community center to uphold their mission to end multigenerational poverty. Their holistic community programming reflects their commitment to advancing equality through education, health initiatives, community outreach, advocacy, and leadership development. For more information about the Clyde Malone Community Center, please visit MaloneCenter.org or call (402) 474-1110.

RISE is an innovative “inside-out” program serving incarcerated people through an intensive six-month reentry class inside seven Nebraska state prisons. Additionally, RISE provides reentry services to released program graduates. In-prison programming focuses on character development, job readiness, reentry planning, and entrepreneurship. Reentry programming includes case management, employment aid, transportation, housing support, mental health, and substance abuse resources, and help obtaining basic needs for returning citizens. RISE’s vision is that all people find freedom from cycles of incarceration. When people reenter society well and are supported by the community, public safety increases, people can begin to build wealth for their families, maintain healthy relationships, and break the cycles of incarceration. You can make a direct impact on your community with RISE through volunteering at RISE in-prison events, reviewing program participant resumes online, becoming a RISE Reentry Mentor, volunteering with our policy and advocacy team, and through financial support. To learn more, visit www.seeusrise.org or call (402) 999-8063.

Fresh Start has given a “fresh start” to 1,700 women who were striving to live a better life. In 2019, Fresh Start served 79 women, 21,588 meals and 7,196 nights of lodging. Fresh Start is a transitional shelter for women experiencing homelessness, its 24-bed home shelters women for up to one year. Fresh Start connects women with health services, employment resources and information and referrals geared toward their self-sufficiency. Fresh Start has been in operation since 1991. It houses women without children in their direct care- a population its founders recognized as underserved in Lincoln. It’s a valuable landing place for women facing an array of challenges including escaping abuse, freeing themselves from addiction, or starting over again after incarceration. Donation Needs: Hygiene products, Cleaning Supplies, and Gas Cards. Volunteer Needs: Daisy Thrift Shop Clerks Get involved with Fresh Start by visiting their website at FreshStartHome.org or connecting on social media: Facebook (@ FreshStartHomeLincoln) and Twitter (@FreshStartLNK). To donate or volunteer, Contact Audrey at (402) 475-7777 / audreyb@ FreshStartHome.org. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 77

Established in 1992, The Mediation Center fills a unique and important niche in our community. With staff possessing expertise in conflict resolution and consensus building strategies, along with the commitment of nearly 100 extensively trained mediators, over the years thousands of mediations have benefited thousands of individuals. The Center operates on a sliding fee scale and is dedicated to providing anyone in our community access to professional mediation services regardless of their ability to pay. Mediation is a non-adversarial process for resolving disputes guided by a neutral third party mediator. The Mediation Center is proud of the quality and breadth of their programming and works relentlessly towards achieving a future for our community where mediation is the first option considered to resolve conflict and preserve relationships. Call The Mediation Center at (402) 441-5740 or go to the website at themediationcenter.org for more information or to request services. The Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program at Family Service Lincoln, provides more than just healthy foods. Family Service WIC is a nutrition program that provides healthy foods to eligible families at no cost. Individuals eligible for WIC include: pregnant women, women up to six months postpartum, breastfeeding women up to one year postpartum, infants, and children up to age five. Individuals must also live in the state of Nebraska and meet income guidelines. Participation in other programs such as SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) would automatically meet the income requirement. In addition to healthy foods, WIC provides nutrition counseling, breastfeeding education, and community referrals for additional support. Family Service WIC helps families thrive because we are all family and we are in this together! Family Service WIC is TAKING APPICATIONS TODAY! For more information, visit the Family Service Lincoln website at familyservicelincoln.org/wic-women-infants-children or call (402) 441-8655 for appointments and hours. Educare is a no-cost provider of worldclass early childhood education. Their schools are dramatically changing the life trajectories of thousands of children growing up in families facing the greatest obstacles to success—and changing the way America thinks about early education. Educare is a comprehensive early childhood program aimed at preventing the achievement gap that takes root between children in poverty and their middleincome peers long before they enter kindergarten. Independent research shows that Educare works. Experience also demonstrates that Educare is a powerful catalyst for improving early childhood practice, informing early childhood policy, and cultivating new private and public investments in the first five years of learning. In fact, research shows that children who experience Educare for a full five years arrive at elementary school performing on par with average kindergartners, regardless of socio-economic standing. This success is driven by Educare’s proven model, professional and trained staff, and intentional data-driven partnerships. Each and every day, Educare schools across the country are ensuring that students leave their doors fully prepared for kindergarten and lifelong success. Learn more online at www.educareschools.org/ schools/lincoln-ne or call (402) 458-3171. Educare Lincoln is located at 3435 N 14th St. 78 Strictly Business JULY 2020

The Center for People in Need offers services and training so low-income people can satisfy their basic needs and achieve economic independence. They help members of our community obtain adequate food and household necessities, like diapers, through weekly distributions. The Center also provides training and education through their Tackling Recidivism and Developing Employability (TRADE) and People Obtaining Prosperity (POP) programs. Refugees and immigrants can learn English and basic American laws and culture through the Center’s English Language Learning (ELL) courses. Anyone in need will find an open and welcoming environment at the Center for People in Need. For more information, visit cfpin.org or call (402) 476-4357.

The Pregnancy Center is a nonprofit, faith based organization located in the heart of Lincoln just off O Street. Every month, over 400 young women in our community come to the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need our love and support. Many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center offers complete information about every option available to a woman facing an unintended pregnancy. The Pregnancy Center also provides confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support, parenting classes and character-based relationship education in schools all at no cost to our clients or taxpayers. Call the Pregnancy Center at (402) 483-4247 or visit www. pregnancycenterpartners.org for more information.

The People’s City Mission is Lincoln’s only homeless shelter. Started in 1907, the Mission has helped over a million people over the last 100 plus years. The Mission is much more than an emergency shelter. It feeds men, women, and children three times a day; helps individuals and families find permanent housing; and works with guests to reintegrate back into the workforce. The Help Center gives away free donated housewares, food, and clothing. Daily, the 2.51 shuttle delivers over 100 sack lunches to homeless on the streets. The Mission is growing in its needs, helping over 30,000 individuals every year. It relies on the public for nearly all of the funds that come in. Like Pastor Tom always says, “If we all give a little, we can change a lot!” For more information, please visit People’s City Mission online at pcmlincoln. org or call (402) 475-1303.

CenterPointe began 47 years ago in 1973 as Lincoln Lancaster Drug Projects, also known as Full Circle. Ever since the beginning, CenterPointe has been leading the way in integrated substance use and mental health care. Their mission is to help the individuals they serve get better sooner, for longer. CenterPointe provides 35+ programs including, but not limited to, treatment, rehabilitation, housing, and crisis response. The newest exciting project involves a government grant of $2 million per year for the next two years, which will allow CenterPointe to become a CCBHC (Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic). This enables the organization to integrate physical healthcare with their already existing behavioral healthcare services. As a nonprofit with a wide range of services, CenterPointe is always appreciative of financial gifts that help them keep serving the Lincoln community. The best way to reach them is through the website at www.centerpointe.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Founded in 1932, Catholic Social Ser vices (CSS) of Southern Nebraska is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all individuals regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their services cover 24,000 square miles and touch the lives of nearly 30,000 people annually. Catholic Social Services provides food pantry services, emergency services—which include rent and utility assistance, disaster relief, refugee, and immigration services—St. Gianna Women’s Homes (a program for women and their children escaping violence and domestic abuse), and a Clinical/Family Counseling program which provides psychological services. Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska has offices in Lincoln, Auburn, Hastings, and Imperial. To volunteer, donate, or connect with CSS in bringing Hope in the Good Life, visit www.cssisus.org.

Better Business Bureau (BBB) has been assisting U.S. consumers and businesses since 1912. It is a nonprofit, business-supported 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.

The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 1.5 million volunteers dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer. Their mission matters more than ever. Cancer won’t stop; and neither will they. The needs of people facing cancer continues and so does the work of the American Cancer Society. Cancer patients still need support because cancer research can’t stop. The Society’s 24/7 helpline can’t stop. Where they can, they’re continuing their services to get patients the care and support they need. They are the only organization attacking cancer from every angle, providing support to everyone impacted by cancer, but they can’t do it alone. Volunteers are the heart and soul of the organization and critical to its success at every level. The Society offers a variety of ways to invest your time and talents. They have a role for you, the more people who join in their mission, the more lives they can save. If you’re interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities, visit cancer.org/volunteer or call (800) 227-2345. Incorporated in 2002, the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) started with the goal of helping nonprofits help their communities. CEO Anne Hindery has led the organization since 2008. “We serve and strengthen more than 650 nonprofits of all sizes and missions in Nebraska and western Iowa. By connecting organizations with information, education, advocacy, and collaboration, we help our members representing health and human services, the arts, education and other areas make an impact in the communities they serve,” Hindery said.

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 information. Go to BBB.org or call (402) 391-6712.

NAM’s signature Guidelines and Principles Program provides legal compliance and best practices information in 12 major areas of nonprofit management: communication, evaluation, financial management, fundraising, governance, human resources, information technology, planning, public policy and advocacy, strategic alliances, transparency and accountability, and volunteer management. The National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits, recognizes NAM as the state association for Nebraska. Learn more about NAM at www. nonprofitam.org or call (402) 557-5800.

4-H Helps Youth Grow Skills for Life. 4-H helps young people develop the skills, knowledge and experiences they need to reach their potential—and that creates a greater number of engaged citizens and community leaders. Youth experience 4-H through 4-H clubs, in-school and out-of-school programs, and camps. Lancaster County 4-H Council raises funds to help support these programs. 4-H programs focusing on hands-on, learn-by-doing in areas such as: • Healthy living projects from nutrition and fitness to cooking • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) projects from aerospace engineering and robotics to veterinary science and hydroponics • Agriculture projects from raising livestock to veterinary science • Business and Citizenship projects from entrepreneurship to personal finance and civic leadership • Creative Arts projects from photography and film-making to sewing Regardless of the project area, all 4-H programs include mentoring and career readiness as core elements. For more information, call the Extension office at (402) 441-7180 or go to lancaster.unl.edu/4h. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Lincoln Literacy, an award-winning nonprofit, provides English language and literacy instruction to adults and families in Lancaster County. Thanks to hundreds of trained volunteer tutors, it’s able to offer dozens of free classes a week, as well as one-to-one tutoring. Many in Lincoln’s refugee and immigrant communities, along with homegrown Americans, look to Lincoln Literacy for help. In normal times, it’s a long-term, in-person, mentoring kind of service. When the COVID-19 shutdown hit with just a few days’ notice, Lincoln Literacy had to reinvent itself. Although the staff is highly international, classes have always been English-only, to be fair to all involved. The pandemic changed everything. Lincoln Literacy responded by providing information in many languages, training volunteer tutors in online instruction, infusing classes with tips on how to land jobs in the shattered economy, and adding dual-language online classes to help beginning learners understand what’s going on. Now, Woods Charitable Fund has given Lincoln Literacy a three-year grant to help people attain living wage jobs. According to Lincoln Literacy’s Executive Director Clayton Naff, planning for the coming school year is like driving through a thick fog, but the agency is fortunate to have generous funding, great volunteers, and meaningful needs to address. To learn more, visit www.lincolnliteracy. org or call (402) 476-7323. JULY 2020 Strictly Business 79

Committed to ser ving the c o m m u n i t y, L u L u ’ s o n N , alongside their parent nonprofit Loaves and Fishes, strives to make a difference in the lives of Lincoln’s most vulnerable individuals and families. Since March, 2019, LuLu’s on N has served nearly 15,000 community meals! They have also handed out 300 hygiene kits, almost 200 bags of groceries, and over 25 bus passes—all free of charge. LuLu’s on N never asks for proof of income in order to receive any of their services. If someone is in need, it is their pleasure to help them in any way they can. It is because of generous donors that LuLu’s on N can continue to provide services during these trying times. Coffee, meals, and catering are all available for purchase, and each purchase helps support the nonprofit. Please visit lulusonn. com and click on ‘How To Help’ to learn how you can assist in supporting the mission of LuLu’s on N.

Families Inspiring Families is made up of parents of c hildren and teens diagnosed with behavioral or mental health challenges. Their mission is to walk alongside other parents who find themselves caught in a whirlpool of treatment options, or lack of options, to provide support and advocacy so their child is able to live his or her best life. Their nationally certified peer support specialists have helped parents present their needs and concerns to IEP teams and medication management and treatment professionals, caseworkers, and judges in an effort to acquire all necessary services in order to safely maintain their child in the home. Their services are free and may be accessed by calling them directly at (402) 441-4369 or through the Nebraska Family Helpline at 1-(888) 866-8660. Their service area includes Lincoln and 16 southeastern counties in Nebraska.

The Nebraska Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF of Nebraska) is part of the world’s largest and oldest children’s youth 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 Clubs (GNC) are after school clubs during the school year that primarily meet in local public schools. During the summer, their 5-Day Clubs go where the children are—neighborhoods, homes, and parks.

Heartland Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit organization created with one belief: People with cancer should not fall behind because they struggle to afford their expenses. Their purpose is to encourage cancer patients, help them overcome financial burdens, and give them compassion so they can thrive.

Anyone who is interested in supporting the CEF of Nebraska can join the Harvest Club. In light of the gospel of Luke (chapter 10, verse 2), the Harvest Club is an opportunity to give $10.02 each month to financially support this ministry. In addition, Harvest Club members are encouraged to set their alarm for 10:02 (a.m. or p.m.) to earnestly pray for laborers serving through CEF of Nebraska each day. CEF of Nebraska (cefnebraska.org) brings the gospel of Jesus Christ to children for an opportunity in which to make a life changing decision for Christ in a safe and loving environment. If you would like to know more, please contact Matt Anderson at matta@cefnebraska. org or call (402) 484-7877.

The mission of the Nebraska Safety Council is simple: For more than 60 years, they have provided education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy. The Nebraska Safety Council’s comprehensive programs, training courses, events, and services are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel, and off the job. Their unique Worker 360° approach provides integrated risk management to improve overall worker quality of life and positively impact an organization’s bottom line. Members of the Nebraska Safety Council include organizations throughout Nebraska and surrounding areas, across a variety of industries. There is no one-size-fits-all option. Each company’s safety and wellbeing program is customized for their needs and size. Demonstrate your commitment to employee safety and health by becoming a member of the Nebraska Safety Council. You will receive access to training, guidance, and resources to establish or enhance your safety and wellness programs and policies. The Nebraska Safety Council provides leadership and resources for a safe and healthy workplace and community. To reach their team, call (402) 483-2511 or visit nesafetycouncil.org to learn more. 80 Strictly Business JULY 2020

Many people who come to Heartland Cancer Foundation can’t get to their cancer treatment appointments because they have no way to buy gas. Many people can’t buy the medications and supplies they need to ease side effects. Some lose their cars, some lose their jobs, and some lose their homes. This is what motivates the Foundation to make an impact. Heartland Cancer Foundation provides compassionate assistance so patients can heal with confidence and get back to living a bright future. Support the Foundation in 2020 with a corporate sponsorship or through committed monthly giving. More information is available at HeartlandCancerFoundation.org or contact Heidi Moyer at heidimoyerhcf@gmail.com / (402) 261-9974.

Ja s o n h a d s u f f e r e d years of trauma before serving time in prison. He came to Bridges to Hope with nothing but an apprehensive attitude about anyone giving him a second chance. After leaving with needed items to start fresh, Jason turned his life around and is a very successful, contributing member in the community! Bridges to Hope serves men and women who have been incarcerated through distributing furniture, clothing, and household goods, free of charge, to those recently released. Bridges to Hope receives donated items through generous community members. Bud’s Thrift Shoppe was opened in 2017 as an ongoing fundraiser for Bridges to Hope. Items that are not considered necessity items for the reentrants Bridges to Hope serves, are taken to the store, and sold at discounted prices to the public and 100% of the proceeds goes straight to Bridges to Hope. Bridges to Hope is located at 3107 S 6th St., STE 107 and Bud’s Thrift Shoppe is at 2226 O St. For more information, call (402) 420-5696 / (402) 420-5697 (thrift shop) or go online to bridgestohopene.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart