Strictly Business Lincoln - October 2021 by Strictly Business - Lincoln & Omaha, Nebraska

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LINCOLN • OCTOBER 2021 TM

Dave Benscoter

BIM Manager/Senior Designer

Kristy Cimino

Zane Benscoter

Project Administrator

Korbyn Behrens

Electrical Design Intern

Rachel Cimino

Marc Behrens

Admin Assistant

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Information Systems & Technologies Manager

BUILDING TOMORROW’S WORKFORCE STARTS WITH FAMILY

ANN AMES

ANDREW CARLSON

TRACI JENKINS

DAN NOVAK

MIKE ULRICH

ZACH BRANDL

Kinetic by Windstream

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

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IT Assistant

Home Care Partners

City Bank & Trust

Heartland Urgent Care

Professional Realty Group of Woods Bros Realty

OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

We’re Backing Nebraska. We’re Backing Nebraska. Since 1910, City Bank & Trust has been providing Lincoln and surrounding areas with reliable, trusted banking services for life’s Since 1910, City Bank & Trust has been providing Lincoln and most important moments. Trust is in our name. surrounding areas with reliable, trusted banking services for life’s most important moments. Trust is in our name. Pine Lake Main Bank 2929 Pine Lake Rd NE 68516 PineLincoln, Lake Main Bank 402-420-2002 2929 Pine Lake Rd Lincoln, NE 68516 East Lincoln Branch 402-420-2002 4225 Lucile Dr NE 68506 EastLincoln, Lincoln Branch 402-474-1030 4225 Lucile Dr Lincoln, NE 68506 402-474-1030 2 Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

Downtown Branch

Crete Branch

940 P St 1135 Main Ave Lincoln, NE 68508 Crete, NE 68333 Downtown Branch Crete Branch 402-474-1030 402-826-2144 940 P St 1135 Main Ave Lincoln, NE 68508 Crete, NE 68333 Loan Production Office 402-474-1030 402-826-2144 7101 S. 82nd St (Suite A) NE 68516 Loan Lincoln, Production Office 402-420-2339 7101 S. 82nd St (Suite A) Lincoln, NE 68516 402-420-2339

www.CityBankandTrust.com

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OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

Fourth Quarter is Here, Time for EOY Spending and Holiday Planning Happy Fall, y’all! This is truly my favorite time of year in Nebraska. I love this weather and the changing colors all around. Of course, the Husker football season brings a lot of excitement to the area as well—and business! You know how my mind works. I'm always thinking about how local businesses are faring. It's been great being downtown and in the Haymarket to tailgate, seeing so many people having fun and supporting the restaurants, bars, retail stores, etc.

This is exactly what makes Strictly Business such a strong marketing partner for businesses of all sizes. We help them tell their stories through original and compelling content creation with an impressive local distribution, both in print and online. You can see this for yourself when you flip through the magazine. I'd love the opportunity to meet with you if you're interested in learning about how Strictly Business can help you tell your story. Let's talk about your 2022 marketing plan and how my team can create content for you that you can use and share long-term.

This time of year is also when I really encourage businesses to consider their holiday party planning! As a business owner myself, I try to always do something special with my team for the holidays. Maybe it's a white My biggest advice in this elephant gift exchange and our rule is that we have to buy from a local business (bonus area is to look at the points if it's a client!), or maybe it's inviting content that you’re currently our friends and families to come with us to a establishment for a fun outing. I hope outputting to your audience. client's you and your teams find something enjoyable Ask yourself how you are to do with each other here in Lincoln during the holidays. It's truly a time of cheer and telling your story. gratitude!

I'm a little in denial that this year has flown by so fast. It's hard to believe that it is already the last quarter of the year and the holidays are at our doorstep. Not to mention 2022 will be here before we know it as well! This is the time businesses need to think about end-ofyear spending. I'm talking about that "use it or lose it" money. The end of the year is the prime time to take a good look at your goals, strategies, growth patterns, etc. A big part of that is reassessing your marketing efforts. Do you feel that what you are doing is working for you? Is your money being well spent? Are you confident in your advertising decisions?

My biggest advice in this area is to look at the content that you're currently outputting to your audience. Ask yourself how you are telling your story. Content creation and distribution should not be overlooked—they are key foundational aspects of every powerful marketing strategy. In an article published on Column Five (www. columnfivemedia.com) titled 10 Smart Ways to Spend Your Extra End-of-Year Marketing Budget by Katy French, she notes that "Great content can provide value long after it’s been published. More and more...clients produce evergreen content with long-tail distribution plans to keep leads, traffic, and impressions flowing for months and even years."

CONTENTS NEWS 4 Business 27 Personnel

35 Nonprofit 47 Health

SPOTLIGHTS 50 The Residency at Gramercy

Speaking of gratitude, I want to extend a big thank you to everyone who attended our 9th Annual Party in the Garden fundraiser on September 10 to benefit Domesti-PUPS. It was such a fun evening, and we couldn’t have done it without the help of all the amazing volunteers, donors, and sponsors. Check out page 34 to see who all of those people and businesses were. Also, stay tuned for the November issue when we’ll be able to officially announced how much we were able to raise. So Go Big Red, Happy Halloween, and good luck to all of you in the final quarter of the year. I am personally looking forward to the weeks and months ahead of goal setting as we creep up on a new year! 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.

ASK THE EXPERT 19 ComPro Insurance COLUMNS 20 Star City Six

52 Usher Custom Cabinets 54 Top Spot Cleaning & Solutions Too 56 Nebraska LTC Pharmacy

51 53 55 57

FEATURE STORIES 58 Women-Owned Businesses

Strictly Business Magazine

62 Whole Body & Mind Health 70 Holiday Planning 74 Resell Remodeling 4

Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

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

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 BUILDING TOMORROW’S WORKFORCE: STARTS WITH FAMILY In a time where the workforce seems to be spread thin and employers are finding it hard to hire new employees, Farris Engineering, Inc. has been able to keep it in the family. For over 23 years, Kristy Cimino has worked for Farris as a Project Administrator. In that time, she has also raised a couple of children—one of whom currently works as an Admin Assistant for Farris. Rachel Cimino started working at Farris a couple years ago to help her mother with various projects throughout the office. “Rachel has known the company and some of the employees since she was a baby. The small work environment brings a sense of closeness and a supportive family atmosphere,” Kristy said. Not only is Rachel helping her mom, but she is also gaining valuable experience in the areas of multitasking, time management, critical thinking, working with a variety of individuals, and technical experience with exposure to the engineering and construction fields. This experience can be used as she builds her career currently at Farris and in the future. As the company continues to grow, Marc Behrens, Information Systems & Technologies Manager, also found the need to hire someone to help. “I had a number of new equipment changes, servers and phone system that needed updated,” said Marc. “It was a great opportunity for my son Korbyn to get the experience of working for a company in his field of study.”

“I thought he might get lost in the shuffle of a big box company. Farris is a great place to teach the basics of business by learning how to ask the right questions and work together to get the job done,” Dave said. Zane will start school in the spring at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in the engineering department. The internship at Farris allows him to explore a career path in engineering, network with professionals in the field, gain confidence, and develop and refine learned skills. As an 100% employee-owned company, Farris really acts like one big family. So, bringing in talent from Farris’ extended family at an early stage and developing it makes sense. They are building tomorrow’s workforce one family member at a time. Farris Engineering, Inc. is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering since being founded in Omaha in 1967. The employee-owned company provides value added expertise with employees versed in LEED AP, fire protection, geothermal and lighting design, sustainability and energy conservation, and commissioning. Farris is headquartered in Omaha with four additional offices in Lincoln; Sidney, NE; Colorado Springs, CO; and Kansas City, MO. For more information about Farris, please visit one of their offices, log on to farris-usa.com, or call them at (402) 330-5900.

With an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Cyber Security, Korbyn is also helping with content and compliance so Farris can obtain a Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification for government work. “Although I’ve only worked here for a couple months, I’ve developed some great working relationships with my co-workers,” said Korbyn. “I’m glad to not only get experience in my field of study, but also more about how Farris runs on a daily basis.” Dave and Zane Benscoter also are a father-son duo who work for Farris. Dave is currently the company Building Information Modeling Manager and Senior Designer while his son, Zane, works as an Electrical Design Intern. “I originally wanted to be an architect but didn’t enjoy the classes. Over the years I have learned basic design material from my dad and it peaked my interest,” said Zane. He enjoys expanding his knowledge in engineering and learning new information.

FARRIS-USA.COM | 402-477-6163 PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor/Operations Hannah Hundley – Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Dillon Crawford – Design@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Writer Devyn Sanderson - Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com

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OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Route 8 Introduces Lobbly, AI Made for Small Businesses

Agemark Senior Living Listed Among Best Workplaces for Fourth Consecutive Year

Route 8 is excited to announce the launch of Lobbly, an AI virtual phone assistant for small businesses. It can be used to answer incoming customer calls and texts, or to handle overflow calls when staff is busy. Lobbly provides remote check-ins for appointments to make it easier for customers to stay in their cars during the pandemic. It can also take appointment requests, answers business information questions, and provides transcripts of the conversations it has with customers.

Great Place to Work® and FORTUNE have once again honored Agemark Senior Living as one of the 2021 Best Workplaces for Aging Services. Agemark was named the 12th best place to work in senior housing for the small/medium company division. The ranking considered feedback representing 220,000 employees working for Great Place to Work-Certified™ organizations in senior housing and care and at-home care in the aging services industry. Agemark, the parent company of CountryHouse in Lincoln and Omaha and The Meriwether in La Vista, has been recognized for four consecutive years. Great Place to Work, a global people analytics and consulting firm, evaluated more than 60 elements of team members’ experience on the job. Rankings are based on employees’ feedback and reward companies who best include all employees, no matter who they are or what they do for the organization. More than 700 Agemark employees submitted responses. Of those surveyed, 90% mentioned that they were proud to tell others they worked for Agemark and that the company truly made them feel welcome, while 93% mentioned that their work had special meaning and felt like more than “just a job”. Agemark Senior Living has communities throughout the United States, including CountryHouse communities in Lincoln, Omaha, Council Bluffs, Grand Island, and Kearney; The Meriwether in La Vista; and The Kensington in Beatrice and Hastings. If you’re interested in learning more about Agemark communities and their memory and senior care services, visit www.agemark.com.

Gordon Smith and his co-founder saw how the pandemic was affecting small businesses in the Lincoln area and created the idea of Lobbly. Lobbly was originally made in order to help out those service-based small businesses that they saw struggling with the social distancing restrictions which came with COVID-19. The first few test users helped Gordon turn the service into a more comprehensive solution to help them in their day-to-day operations. The goal of Lobbly is to help small businesses do more with the time and staff that they have by helping them to focus on the work that they do best. Route 8 is a two-person start-up company with its first product launch last month. For more information, visit Lobbly’s website, www.lobbly.com or contact Gordon at (402) 413-1460 / gordon@lobbly.com.

ComPro Merges with GTA Insurance Group Brian and Chris McPike are excited to announce that, effective September 1, ComPro has merged with GTA Insurance Group, a fullservice, independent insurance agency that specializes in personal insurance products, commercial insurance, farm and crop insurance, and employee benefits. “Chris and I knew the merger with GTA was the right move because both companies share the same dedication to servicing their clients well.” said Brian “We saw this partnership with GTA as a tremendous growth opportunity for both ComPro and GTA. A definite win-win. We look forward to all that this solid partnership has to offer.” ComPro’s 14-person team is a group of highly-trained, peopleoriented agents and staff motivated by serving others. These individuals now have become part of the GTA team but will continue to work out of their office in Lincoln. “We are grateful for this opportunity to partner with Brian and Chris McPike, ComPro founders, and their amazing team.” said GTA’s President Krae Dutoit. “ComPro’s specialization in employee benefits, individual and family health insurance, as well as Medicare and senior benefits will add resources to our existing health insurance division, broaden our product offerings, and strengthen our competitive edge in the ever-changing and ever-growing health insurance market.” Both ComPro and GTA Insurance Group have been serving clients in their respective areas for over 30 years, and they are looking forward to continuing to do so together through this merger. Learn more at comproins.com. 6 Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

First National Bank of Omaha Awards $20K in Impact Grants in Lincoln First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) announced its second round of Impact Grant recipients for 2021, including a total of $20,000 in grants awarded to two organizations in the Lincoln area. The grants support programs related to education and workforce development. A $10,000 grant to Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties provides funding for Financial Well-Being programs designed to move low- to moderate-income individuals to greater economic stability through the provision of financial education, coaching, and matched savings opportunities for asset-specific purchases. A $10,000 grant to Nebraska Children & Families Foundation supports the LEAP (Learn and Earn to Achieve Potential) program, which provides academic enrichment and other support to help young people with foster care experience successfully complete high school and build paths to careers by earning a postsecondary degree or credential. FNBO awarded a total of $817,000 in Impact Grants to 45 nonprofit organizations in Nebraska, Iowa, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, and Texas. Grants for education and workforce development purposes will enable FNBO’s community partners to provide programming to help bring individuals closer to economic self-sufficiency. First National Bank of Omaha is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $24 billion in assets and nearly 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas. For more information, visit www.fnbo.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Relentless Merch Expands Embroidery Services with New Building and Equipment Relentless Merch has recently expanded on their embroidery services by moving embroidery into a new building and adding six more heads of embroidery, as well as another operator. With their in-house embroidery service, they can take your merchandise to the next level. Whether you are looking for 3-D puff, leather patches, or employee uniforms, you can get everything you need in one stop. Embroidery at Relentless Merch has a six piece minimum. They carry several high-rated brands, including The North Face, Carhartt, Eddie Bauer, Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour. With winter weather soon settling in, now is a great time to get quality embroidered material that will keep you warm throughout the season! Relentless Merch is a screen printing company that has been printing and embroidering for almost a decade. Beginning in a basement with a starter kit and a lot of determination, they have grown into a staff of over 20 and work with companies, bands, and nonprofits all over the country. Made by musicians and artists alike, they’re relentless in finding the perfect design and merchandise for your tour, corporate event, fundraiser, and everything in-between! For more information visit their website at www.relentlessmerch.com or email Matt at matt@relentlessmerch.com.

Ribbon Cuttings Held to Celebrate Lincoln's First Distillery, Sideshow Spirits Sideshow Spirits, a high-end cocktail bar and Lincoln's first-ever distillery, celebrated its grand opening on September 2 with ribbon cuttings conducted by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and the Lincoln Independent Business Association. The event featured drink specials, appetizers, distillery tours, a photo booth, live music by Rascal Martinez, hands-on magic tricks by the talented Chase Hasty, and an all-around good time! Though the speak-easy inspired establishment has been in operation for a year, the Sideshow team was finally able to officially celebrate with the public, along with friends and family. Sideshow Spirits is owned and operated by Broken Bow-based craft beer brewer Kinkaider Brewing Co. At the grand opening, Co-Owner Cody Schmick spoke about the business's upbringing. From Broken Bow, to Grand Island, then to Lincoln, with near-future plans to expand into Omaha, the Kinkaider legacy is growing fast. With the success of that venture, Cody had a vision for a nostalgic, 80s/90s-themed bar in downtown Lincoln. Thus, Boombox Social was born, taking over the building that was previously Green Flash Brewing. Sideshow Spirits is connected to the back of Boombox, with access points that are intentionally discrete. This is a place that offers a unique drinking experience with a focus on craft cocktails featuring in-house distillates. Sideshow focuses mainly on vodka, whiskey, and rum as well as cocktails that will be available by both the can and keg. The menu was handcrafted to perfection, largely thanks to Benton Alexander, and also offers delicious home-brewed ciders. To learn more about Sideshow Spirits or to schedule a distillery tour, visit www.kinkaider.com/sideshow or check out the Facebook page (@sideshowspirits). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

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Krueger Development Partners with Acton Academy to Expand Facilities Acton Academy Lincoln has partnered with Krueger Development to help in expanding their facility to meet the demand of the community, with over 50 students enrolled and waitlists for each of its three new studios (PK-1st, 2nd-5th grade, 6th-9th grade). They are already exploring options for further growth, including moving up their three year plan for a phase two build out to begin this year. More than ever, parents in Lincoln are looking for alternative, independent-private school options to provide the best education for their children. From Acton’s Montessori-based Kinder-Program to middle school apprenticeships, they are reimagining what a 21st century education can be. They exist to empower character-filled human beings for life. Their graduates will be the leaders our country needs to help America finally live up to her ideals, allowing freedom of religion and individual liberties to live on for future generations, and have personal responsibility to return to the home, the workforce, and society as a whole. For more information, contact Co-Founders Zach and Heidi Harsin at (402) 858-5151 / hello@ actonacademylincoln.com or visit www.actonacademylincoln.com. For more than 30 years, the family-owned and operated Krueger Development has contributed to Lincoln’s commercial and residential marketplace by developing communities, retail centers, and multifamily residences. For more information about available commercial spaces, contact Krueger Commercial Property Manager Allison Santana at (402) 423-7377 / asantana@kruegerdevelopment.com. OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business 7

BUSINESS NEWS Robber’s Cave Event Venue Celebrates OneYear Anniversary Robber’s Cave Event Venue is celebrating its anniversary this month, having officially marked one year of festivities on October 1. In the last year, the event venue at Robber’s Cave has given wedding parties, conferences, corporate events, and more the opportunity to experience their affair in an extraordinary setting. Robber’s Cave’s historic tunnels have been in Lincoln since 1864, and the facility that sits above them is excited to continue to enhance their history by providing a unique and beautiful space for events of all shapes and sizes.

THANK YOU

to these community-minded businesses who are helping to meet the need by supporting the United Way/CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive) Campaign by loaning personnel or providing sponsorship for the Loaned Executive program.

2021 Loaned Executives

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402.441.7700 | unitedwaylincoln.org 8

Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

Robber’s Cave is an event venue that is ready to bring history to life. Boasting three indoor spaces along with an outdoor amphitheater, the venue can host events ranging in size and function. Robber’s Cave and its unique atmosphere has been the host for weddings, luncheons, meetings, concerts, cocktail parties, and more. The facility was crafted as a way to execute events in a distinctive and different way than a traditional event space. In addition to the venue, guests are also able to tour and explore the Robber’s Cave tunnels that sit beneath the building. For questions or inquiries about the space, visit www. robberscavelincoln.com or contact Justin Fuchs at (402) 413-2045 / events@robberscavelincoln.com.

LPED Pairs with ALLO, UNL Athletics for JumpStart Challenge Events The Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development (LPED) was proud to announce that this year’s JumpStar t Challenge features collaboration with two distinguished partners from the Lincoln community. JumpStart Challenge 2021 events are presented by ALLO Communications and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Athletic Department. The goal of the JumpStart Challenge is to solve problems for existing businesses and create new, scalable innovative startups in Lincoln. The challenge is open to any creative thinkers, founders, innovators, designers, developers, students, and more. Previous years have focused on industry challenges in fintech, real estate, insurtech, and health care, among others. The JumpStart Challenge Kickoff event was held on September 21. This kickoff event featured a fiber network industry challenge presented by ALLO and a sports tech challenge presented by the UNL Athletic Department. The challenges were revealed, and participants will now choose to pitch a potential solution at the JumpStart Challenge Pitch Competition on October 7 at 5:30 p.m. Each participant will have six minutes to present their solution to the judges. Both events will be held at The Mill, 330 S 21st St., in the Telegraph District. The winner of each challenge will receive a $1,000 cash prize, three months of free coworking at FUSE Coworking or Turbine Flats, a year of free internet from ALLO, and an opportunity to partner with ALLO or the UNL Athletic Department to take their idea to the next level. Winners also have the potential to earn a $25,000 LaunchLNK grant with their solution. More information on this year’s events can be found at www.jumpstartchallenge.com/lincoln. For more information, contact Christina Oldfather at (402) 436-2374 / coldfather@selectlincoln.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS EmployLNK and Center for People in Need to Host Job Seeker Career Fair October 7 E m p l oy L N K , T h e L i n c o l n Par tnership for Economic Development (LPED), and local area agencies are hosting a career fair next month to help match employees with area employers. The Job Seeker Career Fair will be held on Thursday, October 7, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Center for People in Need, 3901 N 27th St. in Lincoln. The Center for People in Need is a co-host of this event, with additional partnerships and contributions from the American Job Center of Lancaster and Saunders Counties and EmployLNK.

The AI Phone Assistant for Your Business T) 402-483-6656 1221 N Street | Suite 800 Lincoln, NE 68508 www.WillekeFinancialGroup.com

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With an unemployment rate that is one of the lowest in the country at 1.9% according to July 2021 numbers, Lincoln-area companies continue to hire in a variety of fields including manufacturing, office, construction, healthcare, youth jobs, and many more. Job seekers will have the opportunity to connect with local employers with direct hire opportunities. The agencies comprising EmployLNK serve over 5,000 Lincoln residents by connecting veterans, adults, and students to employers as they look to hire. For employers looking to have a booth at the Job Seeker Career Fair or for more information, contact Allison Hatch, director of workforce development for the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, at (402) 436-2365 / ahatch@selectlincoln.org. Further details can be found at www.selectlincoln.org/lincoln-life/employlnk.

Lulubee Chocolates Introduces Autumn Bonbon Collection Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates is celebrating local flavors in their new Autumn Collection of bonbons. “Our community is filled with amazing artisans,” shared chocolatier and owner Gaylene Steinbach. “I’m always keen to infuse their ingredients into our handcrafted bonbons.” Peek at Lulubee’s five-piece Autumn Collection: Caramel Apple: With apples from Nebraska City’s Arbor Day Farm Orchards, this bonbon is filled with spiced apple caramel. Sticky Bun: Tucked between a layer of cinnamon ganache and a layer of cinnamon caramel, you’ll find Bennet’s Twin Springs Pecans. Honey Crunch: Artisanal honey from Clarkson’s Fat Head Honey meets artisanal chocolate in this bonbon that has a white chocolate honey ganache, topped with crunchy cacao nibs and a dollop of sweet honey. Cold Brew: This vegan bonbon features cold brew coffee from Lincoln’s Coffee Roaster. The strong coffee pairs perfectly with the bonbon’s dark chocolate and is sure to satisfy coffee lovers. Earl Grey: With organic Earl Grey tea sourced from Lincoln’s Green Leaf Tea Company, this bonbon showcases the dark Ceylon black tea and its hints of Bergamot. At Lulubee Artisanal Chocolate, dabble on the decadent side with their small-batch, handcrafted bonbons, sea salt caramels, toffee, chocolate bars, and more! Their Autumn Collection is available now through mid-November. Order online (lulubeechocolates.com), or visit their store at 5270 Hidcote Dr., STE 101. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Lutz Named a 2021 Top 100 Firm by INSIDE Public Accounting L u t z m a d e i t s fo u r t h appearance on the INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA) Top 100 List, coming in at #83. The list conducts annual financial perfor mance analysis and ranking of the nation’s largest public accounting firms. “Lutz is proud to be a Top 100 Firm and we anticipate continued revenue increases in the future,” said Managing Shareholder Mark Duren. “Our customer’s changing needs continue to challenge our team, which in turn expand our service offerings. We are committed to investing in the development of our employees and provide tailored solutions to help our clients succeed.” IPA Top 100, 200, 300, and 400 firms are ranked by U.S. net revenues and are compiled by analyzing more than 500 responses received this year for IPA’s Survey and Analysis of Firms. This is IPA’s 31st annual ranking of the largest accounting firms in the nation. A full list of the 2021 IPA Top 100 Firms can be found at insidepublicaccounting.com/top-firms/ipa-400. Lutz is the business solutions firm for businesses and individuals seeking a partner to help energize and heighten financial and organizational success. Born and raised in Nebraska, their experienced team simplifies complexities and provides accounting, wealth management, recruiting, M&A, and technology services. They embrace your business as their own to spark the right solutions and help you thrive. For more information, visit lutz.us. OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business 9

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BUSINESS NEWS Meet Marketing Experts at AMA Lincoln’s Monthly Signature Speaker Series For years, Lincoln’s chapter of the American Marketing Association has held monthly Signature Speaker events. Over lunch, attendees get the chance to hear from industry experts and network with other community members (plus, the food is really good). Signature Speakers often come from national or local businesses or agencies, and typically share insights, case studies, or lessons learned about a marketing-related topic. After a switch to virtual events in 2020, AMA Lincoln announced that future Signature Speaker events would be hybrid – so you can now join them virtually or in-person. If you’re an AMA member, in-person tickets for this event cost a discounted $25 and virtual tickets cost only $5. On October 14, AMA Lincoln will welcome Aaron Templer, author of Leading in a Social World and owner of the Denver marketing firm Three Over Four. Aaron will go over some of the insights from his book, and help attendees learn the best way to use social media in their marketing. To register for the October event, or stay up to date on future Signature Speakers, visit www.amalincoln.org/events. The American Marketing Association of Lincoln serves as the resource for area marketers to learn, grow, and connect through opportunities that promote marketing excellence. From high-level strategic planning, to marketing fundamentals, the nationally recognized chapter can enhance your career. To learn more, visit www.amalincoln.org.

Trek CBD Expands with the Opening of New Location in North Lincoln Trek CBD continues to expand from their roots in North Carolina by opening a second Lincoln location at 505 N 27th St. This new location offers more convenience for Trek CBD shoppers, giving them both a north option and south option for wherever they are at in the city. The hours for the new location will remain the same, being open Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. “We are excited to continue to expand in the Lincoln market and provide more accessibility for our customers,” said Owner Scott Brady. “I’m proud to call the Lincoln area home and continue to deliver our promise of Quality, Education, and Value.” The goal of Trek CBD is to empower people with data-driven, science-backed resources to educate. Their products are of high-quality and laboratory tested for safety, quality, purity, and effectiveness. By shopping locally at Trek CBD, you will find that they are able to offer a more personal experience with products specifically tailored to the needs of the local market. They offer a north location (505 N 27th St.) and a south location (8901 Andermatt Dr. STE 103). To learn more information about Trek CBD, visit their website www.trekcbd.com, follow them on Facebook (@trekcbd), or contact Scott Brady at scottbrady@ trekvitality.com / (402) 314-8106. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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AR Solutions Celebrates 16 Years in Business AR Solutions, a locally owned and operated collection agency, marked 16 years in business in September. CEO and Founder Aaron Newell has been in the collection field since 1996. AR Solutions has a division that specializes in healthcare collections and is HIPAA compliant, and all asset recovery specialists are trained on medical billing, medical terminology, and insurance processes which accelerates recovery of receivables due clients. In addition to healthcare collections, AR Solutions also has a division that performs retail and commercial collections. Over the last 16 years, the business has been serving clients as a trusted partner in handling past due receivables. AR Solutions has grown their staff and office size due to their ability to build close relationships that lead to economic growth. They are widely recognized for their professional handling of accounts as well as a success rate of collecting, on average, 2.5 times the national average for clients. With AR Solutions, you can trust that your accounts will be handled with the highest quality service so that you can focus your time and energy on what you do best—running your business. For more information, visit arsolutionsinc.com or call (402) 817-3929.

NAWIC Recaps August Golf Tournament The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Greater Omaha Chapter 116 and the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) held their 2021 golf tournament on August 24 at Indian Creek Golf Course. Two hundred and twelve golfers enjoyed the sellout event, and all proceeds received are used to support construction industry events and educational opportunities, including scholarships. NAWIC is in the middle of a five-year goal to fund endowed scholarships at Metropolitan Community College, The University of Nebraska System, Southeast Community College, and Wayne State. Thank you to the following individuals, businesses, and organizations for their contributions to the 2021 event as sponsors, donors, and volunteers: Sponsors – Contour Construction, Mainelli Mechanical, Interstates, Edward’s Stone, BVH Architecture, Turner Construction, Apache, and Sunbelt Rentals. Volunteers – Co-chair Jody DuRee, Standard Heating & Air; Co-chair Diana Busche, Bland & Associates; Past Co-chair Teresa Wallingford; Karli Meisinger, Boyd Jones; Lori Ruzicka, FNIC; and numerous other volunteers from NAWIC and CFMA NAWIC Chapter #116 has 60+ members working in businesses whose primary focus is construction. For more information, visit www. nawicomaha.com or email nawicomaha@gmail.com. OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS Zeng Granite Employees Complete Training and Certification

SCORE Lincoln to Hold Small Business Workshop on October 9

In August, seven members of the Zeng Granite, Inc. staff took classes to complete training and receive certificates to become powered industrial tr uc k operators. Training consisted of classes and a demonstration of competent understanding of Class V forklift driving skills. Those receiving the Powered Industrial Truck Operating Training are Craig Manke, Connor Worthey, Jennifer Haralson, Noah Conrad, Rylan Gubbels, Ryan Carey, and Keaton Beaudette. These same seven members also joined Zeng Granite team members Tim Zeng, Joel Clark, Wyatt Horner, and Matthew Rodaway in earning a “Certificate of Training” for hoist and crane operation. These trainings and certificates are good for a period of three years. Safety is a core value of Zeng Granite, and the company continually demonstrates this with continued training and updated safety equipment for all the employees. The company has one forklift and two cranes as part of their operations at 3035 N 35th St. Zeng Granite is owned by Tim Zeng, who has built an exceptional reputation in and around Lincoln over the past 20 years. Tim and his team assist customers through the remodel or building process, from color choice to edge finish, integrating countertops with current décor to enhance kitchens, bathrooms, and offices. Raw slabs are purchased from quality wholesalers in Nebraska and all over the world, giving access to hundreds of colors of granite and quartz. For more information about Zeng Granite, visit their website at zenggranite.com.

SCORE Lincoln, the local chapter of the nation’s largest network of expert business mentors, will be offering a workshop titled “What’s Involved in Starting a Small Business” on Saturday, October 9, from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the SCC Entrepreneurship Center, 285 S 68th St. Place. The workshop covers different topics essential for any small business to start and to grow. Topics include business plans, practical accounting, financing your business, legal structures, traditional and online marketing, insurance needs, and tax considerations. All sessions are taught by an expert in the related field, so come get your questions answered by a pro. The full day only costs $49 and includes a boxed lunch. The workshop is offered in cooperation with the Small Business Administration and the SCORE Lincoln Chapter. Visit www.lincoln.score.org to register today. SCORE is a nonprofit organization and partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground and achieve their business goals, SCORE has provided education and mentorship to more than 11 million entrepreneurs since 1964. Some of the services offered by SCORE include mentoring, webinars and courses on demand, a library of online resources, and various local events. For more information about SCORE or upcoming workshops and events, visit www.lincoln.score.org or call (402) 437-2409.

WE MISS YOU “ “ The Monsters Under Your Bed

AT EAGLE RACEWAY

617 S. 238TH ST. EAGLE, NE NEBRASKA'S PREMIERE SCREAM PARK Three terrifying attractions are back for the 2021 season along with Scary-oke, fire pits, and the E.R. Bar. All for one low price!

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BUSINESS NEWS Making YOUR Realty Dreams

JetSplash to Present Second Annual Haunted Tunnel October 27 In an effort to bring some fun and creativity to Lincoln families, JetSplash will be launc hing their second annual Haunted Tunnel this Halloween. JetSplash plans to have it even bigger, better, and spookier than last year, and will be extending the drivethru Haunted Tunnel to four nights, starting October 27 through 30. For a $15 donation, attendees will receive JetSplash’s $20 car wash, complete with a hand-prep, hand-dry, bug-free guarantee, underbody spray, rain repellent, hot wax, rim cleaner, tire shine, total body protectant, mud blasters—the works! JetSplash is proud to support organizations dedicated to helping the people of Lincoln who need it most. They will be donating all proceeds from the Haunted Tunnel to four Lincoln nonprofits: Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach, People’s City Mission Lincoln, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln, and Santa Cop. Last year, JetSplash had 1,058 cars and raised $16,293 in donations for three local nonprofits, with $5,431 going to each charity. This year, they are planning for an even better outcome! Come to enjoy a few screams, a few scared-laughs, some goodies...and a super clean car at the end. JetSplash has been helping Lincoln shine since 2003 with speedy, spotless car washes. They utilize the latest, energy-efficient equipment and only use products that are eco-friendly and 100% biodegradable. JetSplash takes pride in their community and strives to give back through donations and fundraising opportunities. For more information, visit jetsplash.com.

Talent Plus Launches New Website Talent Plus, Inc. has launched its new website at www.talentplus.com. “At the center of this initiative is the moral of our story, ‘We make the greatest impact when we put our natural talents to work.’ This new website makes it easier to share the positive impact of our colleagues, clients, communities, and candidates,” offers Talent Plus President Makenzie Rath. “This new website really allows us tell our story.” Raschelle Casebier, Talent Plus Creative Director, sees the images that move Talent Plus’ brand: “This site allows us to reinfuse our brand. Part of that is the reintroduction of the plus as an art piece. The plus is a huge part of our brand symbolizing relationships since the inception of Talent Plus in 1989. It is relationships that bring us together and allow us to deploy The Science of Talent.” The site does a good job of introducing the concept of Talent Plus’ approach—Recognize, Engage, Accelerate, and Lead, or REAL. “The journey of our website is around the moral and the story of Talent Plus," offers Kate Wilson, corporate director of branding and marketing. "The premise of the work we’ve done on this website is a foundation of 30+ years of studying human potential and how to maximize it." Talent Plus, Inc. is the premier human capital and talent management consulting partner. As experts at each critical inflection across the talent lifecycle, their solutions scientifically assess, select, onboard, develop, coach, engage, and retain the right people with the right talents to grow and gain a profound and sustained competitive advantage over industry peers. Visit www.talentplus.com or call 1-(800) VARSITY (827-7489) to learn more. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

Commercial & Industrial Remodeling Tenant Improvements New Construction Services Additions Office Remodels 402-858-5155 | info@brownbrothers1.com 14

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BUSINESS NEWS

N E W ! Half-Day

Preschool Options

Home Builders Association of Lincoln to Host Fall Parade of Homes October 3-10

for kids 3 - 5 yrs old

The Home Builders Association of Lincoln’s (HBAL) Fall Parade of Homes is the week of October 3-10. Every spring and fall, HBAL organizes a Parade of Homes for the public, offering potential home buyers a great opportunity to walk through brand new homes and meet the builders. From Sunday, October 3 through Sunday, October 10, homes will be open weeknights from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m. The event is free and will feature a number of local home building companies at various locations around Lincoln. The Fall 2021 guidebook is available on the HBAL website.

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The Home Builders Association of Lincoln is a visible, effective, and respected trade association which promotes home building through professional education, member communication, and civic participation, and which represents builders and associated professionals in community, government, and industry forums. For more information about HBAL and the Fall Parade of Homes, visit hbal.org.

Kinetic Business Encourages Protection during Cybersecurity Month October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and Kinetic Business by Windstream is encouraging businesses to ensure that they are protected. Cybersecurity attacks have surged due to an increase of online traffic for businesses, and hackers have refined their skills. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency shared four ways to ensure your business is cyber secure, and Kinetic Business offers products and services to help accomplish these steps. #BeCyberSmart. Kinetic's Internet Security helps you run safely with the speed and protection you need. Safeguard your data, website, devices, and more with multilayered Internet security and online threat management. Fight the Phish. Trust your gut. Educate your employees. Send out regular reminders to employees with Cyber Smart tips to ensure proper cybersecurity precautions are being implemented both at work and at home. Explore. Experience. Share. Cybersecurity professionals play a vital role in ensuring security. With Kinetic’s DDoS Mitigation Service, customers benefit from access to a secure service portal for visibility into real-time alerts, traffic data, and mitigation activity.

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Cybersecurity First. Protecting your livelihood with a multilayered network security that detects and mitigates real-time attacks before they reach you is crucial. Kinetic’s Managed Network Security does just that, and you can count on Kinetic to manage the entire network for you. Kinetic Business by Windstream has been building a network to better serve Lincoln residents and businesses for years. For more tips on finding the right business solutions, tune into the Connecting Business Podcast to hear business experts discuss real solutions in a post COVID-19 environment. Follow @GoKineticBiz on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn, or visit their website at www.GoKinetic.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS 1776 Grounds Maintenance Celebrates 20 Years in Service

Center Sphere Members Connect Nationwide in Collaborative Opportunity

September 2021 marked the 20th year in business for 1776 Grounds Maintenance. They started out in Des Moines, IA in 2001 and then moved to Lincoln in 2008 to continue to offer lawn care, landscape maintenance, and snow removal services.

As one of The Network’s newest initiatives, Center Sphere’s Master mind Collaborative groups continue to connect members from across the country on a monthly basis. These virtual meetups, representing groups of similar interests from real estate to nonprofits to women in business, allow active members to build relationships with one another while tackling some of their most current shared challenges. This opportunity is available to active members of Center Sphere as a part of their membership and all details can be found on the Center Sphere HUB.

Owner Roger Berte grew up on a grain farm in northern Iowa and has worked with weather, soil, plants, and products his entire life. This knowledge and experience turned into owning and operating 1776 Grounds Maintenance. Roger’s wife, Angie, joined the company in December 2019 as the office manager/company representative. She assists with office management, hiring, and building and maintaining connections and relationships. Both Roger and Angie are Veterans via the United States Air Force and United States Army National Guard (Nebraska). 1776 Grounds Maintenance continues to learn and innovate new processes to improve the grounds care industry. They provide grounds care services such as lawn care, landscape maintenance, weed control, and snow removal to commercial properties and acreages in or near Lincoln. They are committed to performing excellent grounds care for the Lincoln area, year-round. 1776 serves commercial properties and acreages, are licensed and insured, and have the experience and equipment to do the job right. For more information, visit 1776gm.com or contact Roger at (402) 217-2314 / roger@1776gm.com, or Angie at (402) 699-5073 / angie@1776gm.com.

“There is such power in having conversations with multiple perspectives,” says Center Sphere President Erin Pearson. “We wanted to give our members a way to engage in these types of discussions with people who are not necessarily in their office or right down the street. When we expand our horizons, the creative possibilities and growth opportunities are endless.” Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. The Lincoln Network is currently made up of nearly 50 chapters and has access to members nationwide. For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event, visit www.CenterSphere. com or connect with Lincoln Area Director Ronda Armstrong at RondaArmstrong@CenterSphere.com or (402) 450-8611.

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BUSINESS NEWS SP Group, P.C. Offers Payroll and Tax Filing Services for Small Business Owners SP Group, P.C. is letting small business owners know that they offer local and personalized payroll services. Their team can help small businesses by taking away payroll headaches for owners and giving them back time to focus on doing what they do best—taking care of their customers and growing their business. Do-it-yourself may be fine when it comes to a small home improvement project, but DIY for payroll processing and payroll tax returns can be frustrating and expensive. Did you know the average penalty for an incorrect payroll tax filing is $845? Handling your own payroll has the potential to result in discontented employees, costly penalties from tax authorities, and hours of time that could be better spent running your business. In addition to providing payroll processing and tax filing services, SP Group also assists business owners with implementing deductions for retirement savings plans and health insurance, and navigating the onboarding of new hires with all the proper forms. Don’t wait any longer—let SP Group help you with these accounting needs! SP Group, P.C. is a growing entrepreneurial accounting firm that serves growth-oriented companies and talented individuals in the Midwest. To discuss a payroll plan for your business with a member of the SP Group team, contact their office at (402) 420-7758 or by email at info@spgrouppc.com. Follow SP Group on Facebook (@SP Group, P.C.) or Twitter (@SPGroupPC), or visit www.spgrouppc.com.

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UNICO Looks Back on UNITEL’s 2021 Executive Summit In July, UNITEL, a division of UNICO, hosted their annual Executive Summit for the third year in a row. Key industry leaders were invited to their curated platform for fostering innovative ideas and strategies. These ideas and strategies were focused on the growth and development of the attendees’ organizations and the communication sector as a whole. As designed to educate and inform UNITEL’s colleagues, they offered two uniquely focused tracks designed specifically for risk management administrators and c-level executives. This year’s industry experts ranged from up-and-coming service providers and national associations to accounting, consulting, and legislative advocates. Experts were handselected to create an informative, well-rounded program. Since the inception of the Executive Summit, UNITEL has wanted to create a place where leaders and decision makers could make new and lasting connections with businesses adjacent to the communications industry. “Our vision of creating a forum for networking with all types of different communications leaders over a three day event truly came together beyond our belief,” said Matt Gilbert, UNITEL risk advisor. UNITEL, a division of UNICO, is dedicated to providing innovative risk solutions for the communications industry. When you partner with UNITEL, you are connected with insurance and risk management experts that are committed to helping you protect your world. UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance broker headquartered in Nebraska. They offer a consultative and relational approach to their customized solutions for clients nationwide. For more information, visit www.unicogroup.com or call (402) 434-7200. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS NUFCU Named Among the Best Credit Unions in Nebraska by Forbes

Eagle Hollow Haunts Opens for Spooky Season on Weekends, October 8–30

Forbes Magazine recently released its list of Best-In-State Credit Unions for 2021, honoring the top 3.6% of credit unions nationwide. The University of Nebraska Federal Credit Union (NUFCU) is proud to announce that it was included as one of the just three credit unions on the list for the state and the smallest financial institution to make the list in the nation. “It’s an incredible honor to receive this recognition from our members and it speaks to how dedicated our staff is at placing the needs of the member first,” said NUFCU President and CEO Keith Kauffeld. “We strive to be our members’ trusted financial partner. The high survey scores we received specifically on the questions addressing trust and financial advice tells us we are achieving our mission.” To create the list, Forbes and partner Statista surveyed 25,000 people in the U.S. about their banking relationships. The consumers were asked survey questions about their financial dealings with banks and credit unions rated on overall recommendations and satisfaction, as well as six subdimensions (trust, customer service, terms and conditions, branch services, digital services, and financial advice.) University of Nebraska Federal Credit Union was chartered in 1937 to serve the faculty members of the University of Nebraska. Today, membership is open to all University of Nebraska faculty, staff, volunteers, students, alumni, and their families. The University of Nebraska FCU has over 11,000 members and over $140 million in assets. To learn more, visit www.nufcu.org.

Eagle Hollow Haunts, the "scariest haunt in Nebraska", is opening back up for spooky season on October 8. The scream park will welcome the bravest of souls through their gates from 7:30 to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays through October 30. Eagle Hallow has three attractions: Luminon, an exciting alien world; Darklands, a perilous one-way journey into the haunted woods where dark and evil things lurk about; and Night Terrors, where you'll delve into the surreal fears of the subconscious. The park also has concessions for food, an E.R. where adults can go for Emergency Refreshments, fire pits to rent out for your group, and Scaryoke—Shower Tunes Music Karaoke—to keep you dancing with your friends or to help you serenade the crowd with your spooky favorites! Eagle Hollow Haunts is located at Eagle Raceway 617 S 238th St., in Eagle, NE. Regular admission tickets are $25 (access to main grounds and one entry to each of the three haunted attractions). There are also a limited number of VIP tickets available for $40, which include a fast pass to the three attractions so you can avoid waiting in lines. If you are only wanting admission to the main ground (fire pits, Scaryoke, The E.R., and concessions), the cost is $5. There are also special discounted nights for high school and college students. For more details, visit eaglehollowhaunts.com or email eaglehollowhaunts@ gmail.com to inquire about group outings.

Medicare Annual Election Period: October 15 - December 7 Switch, join or drop your Medicare Health Plans • Appointments are filling up!

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BUSINESS NEWS Local Kitchen Tune-Up Attends Franchise Reunion, Joins Home Franchise Concepts Jason Krueger and Ron Thackery of Kitchen TuneUp Lincoln recently attended the annual Kitchen Tune-Up franchise reunion and training in Charlotte, NC from September 8-12. As part of the conference, franchise owners participated in learning sessions on kitchen trends, product training, innovations in kitchen remodeling, and more. This year, franchisees were also introduced to the new national franchise owner, Home Franchise Concepts, a subsidiary of JM Family Enterprises. Earlier this year, Home Franchise Concepts entered into an agreement to acquire Kitchen Tune-Up, an impressive and growing franchise company specializing in affordable kitchen updates through its network of 135 individual franchisees in 202 territories across the U.S. JM Family and Home Franchise Concepts are focused on empowering the experienced team at Kitchen Tune-Up to continue to grow and provide value to its franchise network. This sale will provide Kitchen Tune-Up with additional resources such as expanded operational, technology, and marketing support to continue to grow its reach while surpassing customer expectations. Kitchen Tune-Up becomes the fifth brand in the Home Franchise Concepts portfolio, joining Budget Blinds, Tailored Living featuring PremierGarage, Concrete Craft, and AdvantaClean. Founded in 1988, Kitchen Tune-Up specializes in five ways to update kitchens and cabinetry. Services include its signature 1 Day Tune-Up, cabinet painting, cabinet refacing, cabinet redooring, and new cabinets. Locally, Jason and Ron are committed to providing a level of customer service that leaves a lasting good impression with everyone they work with. To learn more, visit kitchentuneup.com or call Jason at (402) 340-0008.

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Clearwater Counseling Champions for Bullying Prevention National Bullying Prevention Month takes place each October, offering a special time to focus and raise awareness on bullying and prevention. Clearwater Counseling encourages people to get involved in the conversation and work to end bullying. Bullying, an unwanted and aggressive behavior among school-aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance, is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated over time. Bullying can include actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and excluding someone from a group. The purpose of Bullying Prevention Month is to work to transform a society that accepts bullying into a society that recognizes that bullying must be addressed through education and support. It's also important to note that those who have been bullied often benefit from mental health services in order to recover from the inflicted trauma. Clearwater Counseling works with clients in the Grand Island and Omaha area who are struggling with a variety of mental health diagnoses including depression, relationship issues, stress, grief/loss/trauma, addiction and recovery, co-dependency, anxiety and phobias, parenting problems, sexual abuse and incest, physical abuse and violence, and various others. To learn more about staff, services, or resources, visit clearwatercounselingpc.org. To schedule an appointment with Clearwater Counseling, or for more information about mental health services, please call (308) 210-8487 or email info@clearwatercounselingne.org. You can also learn more online at clearwatercounselingpc.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Women in Sales & Business to Host Next Monthly Meeting on October 13 The next Women in Sales & Business (WISB) monthly meeting will be held Wednesday, October 13, from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. The meeting will be hosted at Venue Restaurant & Lounge in the Lancaster/Nebraska room, located at 4111 Pioneer Woods Dr., STE 100. They will first hold their regular business meeting, followed by a presentation from Diane Mendenhall. Diane currently serves the Lincoln area through her work with the Lincoln Community Foundation and will be bringing her experience and expertise to her presentation: ROR "The Key to Success in Business & Life." Artificial Intelligence may dictate much of the future, but during these changing times, success in our professional and personal lives will hinge on the power of our relationships. The presentation will draw upon the two paradigms of thought, the third level of emotional intelligence, the Law of Abundance, and more. Guests are welcome and current members are encouraged to attend with a guest. The cost to attend in-person is $16 for members with lunch, $10 without lunch, and FREE for first-time guests. All women attending should be prepared to make a brief introduction of themselves and their business. Please register on the Women in Sales and Business Facebook page (@wisblincoln). Women in Sales & Business is dedicated to promoting their growth through the accumulation and sharing of knowledge, and they are always looking for new members to join their group! To learn more call (402) 472-8675 or visit www.wisblincoln.org.

Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

Heartland International, Inc. Invites Roofing Contractors to Attend Training Seminars Heartland International, Inc. invites current and aspiring roofing contractors to learn more about the Conklin Roofing Systems at the upcoming Metal Roofing System Training and Advanced Roofing Systems Training seminars taking place in Kansas City, MO. The one-day Metal Roofing System Training will be held from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on November 18 at the Hilton Kansas City Airport. It will not only cover the application process of a Conklin MR® System, but also provide an overview on how to get started as a Conklin contractor and strategies for making sales calls, quoting a roof, presenting proposals, and working with building owners. The three-day Advanced Roofing Systems Training will provide a more in-depth coverage of Conklin Roofing Systems and give contractors a chance to participate in a hands-on construction of the systems, utilizing industry-standard tools and materials. Attendees of this training must have completed the one-day Metal Roofing System Training program as a prequalification for this advanced three-day program. Check out the next Advanced Roofing Systems Training programs October 20-22 and November 3-5, both from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Conklin Kansas City Headquarters. For more information about Heartland International, Inc. and upcoming trainings, please visit thesecureroof.com. Contact President Dennis Nun at (402) 430-7727 / DennisLNun@gmail.com with any questions.

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

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by Chris McPike Vice President/Agent

Open Enrollment for Individuals Open enrollment for individuals and families begins November 1 and continues through December 15. Nebraskans will have many new options in 2022 for their health insurance. There are two new companies that will be offering health plans – Ambetter and Oscar – along with changes in networks and plan options. The American Rescue Plan Act was passed in March 2021 and remains in effect throughout 2022. The new law increased the amount of Premium Tax Credit that each person is eligible to receive and eliminated the maximum income that someone can earn and remain eligible for a Premium Tax Credit. The bottom line is that many more people are eligible for lower health insurance premiums. Even if you have not qualified in the past, you should find out if you qualify now. Example: Two adults, age 40, plus two children with a household income of $150,000 will qualify for a Premium Tax Credit (PTC) of $1,174 per month. At $200,000 income, the PTC is $820. These figures are based on 2021 rates. The Health Insurance Marketplace (healthcare.gov) offers health insurance coverage to those under the age of 65 that do not have access to employer-provided health insurance or government- sponsored health benefits such as Medicaid or Medicare. Self-employed individuals, early retirees, and those whose employers do not offer health insurance will typically be eligible for Marketplace coverage. Many health insurance plans are advertised with low premiums. Most of the time, these are plans with limited benefits, and your eligibility for coverage may be based upon your health history. A policy through the Marketplace meets all of the requirements of the Affordable Care Act and will always cover pre-existing medical conditions, preventive care, mental health, and maternity. A Marketplace-certified agent will make the choice of plans far less complicated, especially for 2022. Health insurance benefits are much different than even three years ago. The most critical factor is understanding the network of doctors and hospitals that can be used. Most plans are an EPO – Exclusive Provider Organization. This is not the same as a PPO or HMO. With an EPO you have access to selected doctors and hospitals within a limited geographic area. If you see a provider that is not in the network and it is not an emergency, your health insurance plan will not cover it. It will be your financial responsibility. This never applies to emergency care. You can always seek treatment from the closest facility and it will be considered in the network. The lowest priced plan may not be your best choice. The ComPro Team has been working with healthcare.gov since it began and can be trusted to guide you through the whole process.

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OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

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ANN

Ann Ames

KINETIC BY WINDSTREAM

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STAR CITY SIX

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Meet Ann Ames, vice president of state government affairs at Kinetic by Windstream. Tell us a little about your business. - Kinetic by Windstream is a privately held communications and software company. Kinetic provides premium broadband, entertainment, and security services through an enhanced fiber network and 5G fixed wireless service to consumers and businesses primarily in rural areas in 18 states, including Nebraska. The company also offers managed communications services, including SD-WAN and UCaaS, and highcapacity bandwidth and transport services to businesses across the U.S. We have longstanding roots of providing service to the Lincoln area. How did you get started in the business? - I am new to the telecommunications industry after five years in local government and more than 15 years working in nonprofits. I’m very excited about working for Kinetic and helping to bring broadband internet to rural customers. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Balancing my career and motherhood. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - While working for Lancaster County, they gave me the opportunity to focus in more on employee development. I was able to create a Leadership Academy to help develop upcoming County leaders, help create succession planning, broaden County relationships and networking, and give back to staff. Tell us a little about your family. - I have one daughter, Maddie, who is attending UNL as a freshman. We have a very large extended family that all live close by. We also have three Labrador Retrievers. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Completing my Master of Public Administration Degree from the University of San Francisco and going into government work. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spending time with my daughter and checking out the best finds at Home Goods. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I volunteer for a group called Lasagna Love that makes home-cooked lasagnas for people in need of a meal. Who inspires you? - My Aunt Sally because of her constant kindness, concern for others, and commitment to be a public servant. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - "Silence can never be misquoted." – Calvin Coolidge. This has helped me to be careful and thoughtful during heated discussions. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Compassionate. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Floral design. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Catholic Social Services, especially St. Gianna Women’s Home. The services they provide are critical to underserved people in our community. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? -The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. What is your favorite movie? - The Blind Side. What is your favorite local restaurant? – MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - St. Mary Magdalene. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 436-5044; ann.ames@windstream.com; kineticbusiness.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

ANDREW

Andrew Carlson

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

HOME CARE PARTNERS Meet Andrew Carlson, managing partner of Home Care Partners. Tell us a little about your business. - The caregiving services we provide help seniors maintain independence and give their families peace of mind. We support seniors in independent residences, assisted living, long-term care, and hospice. Seventy percent of working family caregivers suffer work-related difficulties due to their dual roles. Many caregivers feel they have no choice about taking on caregiving responsibilities. Thirty-nine percent of family caregivers leave their job to have more time to care for a loved one. We allow family members to maintain a parent/child relationship. Everyone is very busy. I feel it is very valuable to spend quality time with someone that is experiencing declining health and allowing professional caregivers to help with the daily tasks and personal care needs. How did you get started in the business? - My own family experience of being the caregivers for my aging grandparents showed me how much stress was reduced when we hired a professional caregiving team for my grandmother after she had a fall and she was completing her therapy in her home. The caregiver was with my grandmother to help her with her daily tasks including meal prep, reminding her to take medications, and bathing and dressing. This help allowed my parents to continue to run their business and raise their young children while having the peace of mind that my grandmother was safe and cared for. I have worked in healthcare for the last decade. I have focused on helping hospitals and health systems to improve their patient-centered care. We saw the need in Lincoln to provide senior care with a higher level of customer service, person-centered care, and care management oversight.

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What has been your most important achievement professionally? - It has been an honor for our team to be recognized locally the last several years with awards for being one of the best home healthcare providers. Our company is a locally owned small business that has thrived during difficult times. Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Kristin is a CPA and works at Labenz & Associates accounting firm. We have a nine-year-old daughter named Addison and a four-year-old son named Ethan. We moved to Lincoln about 20 years ago and have made our home here. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Taking the leap to start a business. There are many entrepreneurs in Lincoln that have been helpful to us and have provided mentorship along the way. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I am a member of a few European car clubs. I really enjoy talking to others that have a passion for keeping these older cars on the road. We have a few scenic drives annually, and I make a few trips with family and friends. I bring my kids on trips to go find a rare car, and it is fun for me to involve them to try and raise another generation of car enthusiasts.

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What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” – Franklin Roosevelt If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Warren Buffett. I relate to his longterm thinking of running a business, and he has been a great steward with all that he has been entrusted with. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 780-1211; andrew@homecarepartnersofnebraska. com; www.homecarepartnersofnebraska.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

402.904.6648 501 West A Street, Lincoln NE 68522 asiantastethairestaurant.com OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

TRACI

Traci Jenkins

HEARTLAND URGENT CARE

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Meet Traci Jenkins, a certified family practice nurse practitioner at Heartland Urgent Care. Tell us a little about your business. - Heartland Urgent Care is a full-service clinic with two locations in Lincoln; one at 27th and Capitol Parkway and another in the Piedmont Shopping Center. We offer X-ray, laceration repair, and lab services to help meet the healthcare needs of the Lincoln and surrounding community residents. We provide on-site treatment for acute medical illnesses that are not serious or life threatening. We listen to patients’ concerns, diagnose and treat, and follow up with a phone call after their visit to ensure all is well. Since opening in April 2010, we’ve seen over 18,000 patients a year. How did you get started in the business? - I started in urgent care approximately 10 years ago in Omaha and followed the owner of that clinic to Lincoln. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? COVID-19 and continuing to meet the community’s needs. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Being able to impact nurse practitioner students in the urgent care setting that I love. Tell us a little about your family. - I am a mother of three, two daughters and a son, who are all wonderful adult children that make me thankful every day. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - When not working or teaching you can generally find me on the lake somewhere or camping. One of my greatest loves is the outdoors; fall in particular. Sweatshirts, chili, and bonfires are some of my favorite times! What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - In addition to urgent care practice, I am undergraduate faculty for bridging nursing students and precept nurse practitioner students. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Determined. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The ability to fall asleep instantly. I am super jealous of those who can do that! What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - One talent that I have, or rather that I enjoy, is drawing. I do not get much time to do this but when I do, I love it. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would love to live on a lake and run or own a grocery store/bar and grill for the lake. I'd have live entertainment, volleyball, and family nights. What is your favorite movie? - Twister. I cannot even tell you how many times I have seen it. I can actually quote along with the movie and have been to "Twister Hill" in Pilot Mound, IA, one of the filming locations. What is one talent you would most like to have? - I would love to be able to hold a tune and sing. I love music, but I cannot carry a tune to save my life. I have family members and friends who play and sing and I love to listen to them. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you've ever received? - The best advice I ever got was from my grandmother. She told me that, in order to love others, you have to love yourself first. I think we forget to love ourselves and appreciate the talents and gifts that we each uniquely have. Learn to love yourself and the rest won't be so hard. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 477-3505; smkjenkins@gmail.com; www.heartlandurgentcare.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

DAN

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

Dan Novak

PREMIER VISION Meet Dan Novak, optometrist and owner of Premier Vision. Tell us a little about your business. - Premier Vision is a new optometry office conveniently located at 84th and Firethorn Lane, just south of Van Dorn. We will offer the most advanced diagnostic equipment and optical products that will help my patients achieve their best vision possible. I will also offer a service/product called Myopia Management that demonstrates the ability to slow the progression of near-sightedness or blurry vision in children. We are proud to offer a unique selection of frames to our patients. We carry both boutique and global brands in a wide range of styles and prices. We also offer an extensive range of lenses. My goal is to make all patients feel welcome and comfortable while providing a best-in-class patient experience. How did you get started in the business? - I’ve always wanted to be in health care. As I’ve had glasses and contacts since childhood, I understand the frustration and importance of vision and how it can affect a person’s life. I want to provide my patients with the care they need to alleviate the worry about their eyes. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - While the opportunity to open my own office is the most exciting point in my career, it is also the most nerve-racking and stressful decision and process I’ve had to make during my career. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - The opening of my own office is the most important professional achievement. I am looking forward to the opportunity to serve my patients the way in which I feel is best. I also look forward to building a business that will gain a reputation as the best eye care facility in Lincoln.

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Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Sarah helps raise our active children, Olivia (8), Grant (6), and Drew (3). What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - We are members of Firethorn Golf Club so when I do have a day off, I try to golf or be at the pool. Who inspires you? - Honestly, my family inspires me. I want to work hard and build a great practice so they can have an enjoyable life and we can share our gifts with others. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Super vision obviously! Kidding—I'd probably go with the ability to fly. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Professional golfer. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am a member of my local Knights of Columbus. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I’ve read all the Jack Reacher novels by Lee Child. What is your favorite movie? - Caddy Shack. What is your favorite TV show? - Seinfeld. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Honest Abe’s. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 986-7856; dnovak@premiervisionlincoln.com; premiervisionlincoln.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

MIKE

Mike Ulrich

CITY BANK & TRUST

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Meet Mike Ulrich, CFO/chief lending officer at City Bank & Trust. Tell us a little about your business. - City Bank & Trust is a bank based out of Lincoln with a branch in Crete and a loan production office in Seward. We consider our bank to be a relationship-based bank which has local ownership. The bank is currently growing at a good pace which is due to our lending, retail, and mortgage departments implementing good banking products along with our great customer service. How did you get started in the business? - I started in banking as a teller after I graduated from college. This allowed me to learn the basics of banking which allowed me to advance to the credit and lending area of the bank. I have been in banking a total of 30 years.

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What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest challenge for me is keeping up with bank technology and bank compliance. These two areas continue to change and evolve in the banking world. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I assisted the ownership group that acquired City Bank & Trust three years ago. The transition has went well and I enjoy working with the City Bank employee group. Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Ashley and I have two sons and two daughters. Will (18), Cece (16), Kemper (13) and Edie (10). My wife, Ashley, started her own small business which is healthcare marketing company. My oldest son, Will, is a freshman at Eastern Illinois and plays D1 tennis. Cece is a junior at Pius high school and is very active in tennis and golf. Kemper and Edie are also both active in tennis and attend St. Peters in Lincoln. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy going into Chicago and watching the Chicago Cubs play baseball. Our family also does an annual summer vacation to Snowmass, CO and the last couple of years we have started to also take in a skiing trip over winter break. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - This quote came from my dad: “When the going gets tough, the tough get going." If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I am from a farm background and have an agribusiness degree, so I would be interested in Ag Marketing and Ag Management. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - My family and I are involved with St. Peters Catholic Church and school. Also, Ashley and I are involved with the Woods Tennis Foundation. What is your favorite movie? - Wall Street (1987). What is your favorite TV show? - I enjoy watching the Food Network. I like to grill and cook, and I am always looking for new ideas.

Jennifer Larabee

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Kevin Harrington

MKAVAN@FUMAINSURANCE.COM | FUMAFINANCIAL.COM

Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - I have a few— Valentino's, Lazlo's Brewery & Grill, and LeadBelly. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Warren Buffett. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 413-6583; mulrich@citybankandtrust.com; www. citybankandtrust.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

ZACH

Zach Brandl

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month First 3 months @ $4.95/mo. Meet Zach Brandl, REALTOR® at Professional with installation cost of $149; after introductory period, rental is $23/mo. Realty Group (PRG) of Woods Bros Realty. Tell us a little about your business. - PRG helps clients buy and sell Shop and compare at ilovemywater.com residential and commercial properties in Lincoln and the surrounding iLoveMyWater.com areas, as well as industrial, land development, and new construction. TEMS We also do some leasing selectively. Our team has sold apartment WAT E R S OF N E R S · DRINKING SYS TE complexes, commercial buildings, and land. The team is led by Ben and Andrea Bleicher. We have a strong network of connections and resources within the world of Lincoln real estate. Keep Your Computers & Networks Performing How did you get started in the business? - I started out in2020AquaSystems_3_68x2_41.indd the 1 3/19/20 10:58 AM With Your Small Business Technology Experts business as a property manager right out of college. I had the opportunity to learn the investment side of things and how investors ASSIST business growth look at properties versus how renters do. I also got to help a few investors find rentals and then help lease them out. I then decided EDUCATE business owners to get my real estate license and do sales full time. PROVIDE guidance and support What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I faced the challenges of being one of the youngest in the industry With High-Value, Low-Cost Tech Solutions! when I first got in it. I had to prove myself through hard work and dedication to my clients' needs. Darren E. Lichty Contact Panology Today! Founder What has been your most important achievement professionally? - The second year that I was considered “full-time”, I ended up doubling my production which has been a huge success in my years of doing real estate. www.PanologyInc.com What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Anytime I have a day off I enjoy being outside. This entails camping, boating, working in my yard/garden, and sitting on the patio. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I raised a few dozen chickens on my parent’s farm when I was in high school. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” – Benjamin Franklin If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Driven. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - "Running Down a Dream" by Tom Petty. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - I would love to be able to teleport. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - My greatest talent is I have an open communication line with clients, vendors, and others involved in my business dealings. Communication is 100% my top priority. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I grew up wanting to be an architect and design spaces for more urban areas. I love designing and incorporating this aspect A Thoughtfully Designed Community into my current business. I think this would be a pretty neat profession. What is your favorite TV show? - It’s a close tie between Ozark and Yellowstone. Retirement done right - it’s what we do best. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Hacienda Real. Celebrating 35 years of If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past Senior Living Experiences. or present, who would it be? - Hands down, Melissa McCarthy, because she is just hilarious. 6800 A Street, Lincoln | (402) 483-1010 If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 802-2341 (call/text); zach.brandl@woodsbros.com; Reserve your tour at theresidenceatgramercy.com zachbrandl.woodsbros.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business 27 * *FIRST 3 MONTHS @ $4.95/MO. WITH INSTALLATION COST OF $149; AFTER INTRODUCTORY PERIOD, RENTALS START AT $25/MO.

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Employing Lincoln DONT MISS OUT ON OUR QUARTERLY EMPLOYMENT FEATURE It’s time to let people know why your company is a great place to work. Strictly Business will be featuring a host of local businesses in our QUARTERLY EMPLOYMENT FEATURE (February, May, August, November) to highlight great places to work in Lincoln. This quarterly feature is a special opportunity for companies to get their name and branding in front of the best possible pool of recruits in the area by sharing their mission statement, talking about their team culture, and highlighting employment opportunities.

Employing Omaha At Strictly Busine ss, we think it is so Life” here in Nebra important to suppo rt local nonprofits! across our state. ska. Charitable groups and Nonprofit organ their These organizatio what they love while ns also create jobsstaff, along with volunteers and izations play a vital role in maint touching lives and donors, provide in our community, essential services aining the “Good truly making a differ allowing many peopl As businesspeople, and resources all ence. e to fulfill their great we are invested in the effort er purpose by doing relationship buildi s of our local nonpr ng. One of the keys leaders often under ofits stand better than to engaging local communities because they allow us to cultiva receive enough anyone the needs is to understand te an environment suppo rt to lift them the of the community opportunity. Often they’re in and theissues that affect them the most,of support and times, their reach up to the decision-making infras and nonprofit best ways extends beyond city limits to maketructure here in Omaha, they to meet them. When our nonprofits Here in the Grea can catalyze positiv ter Omaha area, an impact at the for the greater good, state, national, and/o you’ll find many e growth and people working to protect our enviro r global level. that understand together to nment here in small ands the importance of giving back , and to make our city the best care for one another, to give a place hand and places a lot large businesses of value in it, you’llto live and work it can possib up to those in need alike. ly be. In a comm There are many also find it to be unity reasons why a busine a big part of corpo deductions and free ss should make charit rate culture able giving as well, you open publicity, it increases networking the door to meet opportunities! If a part of their corporate structu touched by the organ many you sponsor a fundra re. Not only does ization’s efforts. other people from around the ising it result in tax event and show community who either It doesn’t requir also support the your support by attending e a huge organization or corporation with giving. There are have been an expendable budge hosting a donationa variety of ways to support the valuable work t to make a difference. Mone drive, volunteering supporting a nonpr tary ofit that aligns with time and skills, participating that our nonprofits are doing everydonations aren’t the only form in specia the values of your of day Since our local nonpr business will gener l events, helping to raise awarethroughout the year, such as ate positivity aroun ness, and so on. part of the world ofits do their part to help every Ultima d your tely, brand. Nonprofits featur a better place for all—we want one in our community lead happi logos, and missioe and sharing their exciting news to do our part to bring aware er, healthier, and more fulfilli whether it’s througn statements of the nonprofits with all our readers throughout ness to their efforts. We do thisng lives—making our tiny highlighted h your business, referr the year. We encou throug rage our readers h our Supporting al/tips group, memb in this feature. Keep them As consumers, we to flag the in mind ership-based associ ation, or it’s sometwhen considering ways to give names, make an effort need to be conscious of our purch to hing you choose to support nonpr to do on your ownback, mission of an organ ofits in the comm asing decisions, staying inform time. getting others involvization that you are passionateunity. This is something we can ed, and choosing to do busine ss with companies all do. Leveraging ed. about has a ripple that resources to furthe effect, as does Thank you to all setting an exam r reinforce the the ple, follow participating in ing nonpr to make Omaha events, and the best place to ofit organizations for all the amaz live, work, and play. #PrintProudDigita ing work you do here in the Omah lSmar t a area! Together, we can continue JANUARY 2020 Stric

tly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Krueger Development Welcomes New Tenant Rexius Nutrition to Lincoln Trade Center Krueger Development recently welcomed Rexius Nutrition as a new tenant to the Lincoln Trade Center, located at 5930 S 58th St. Rexius opened their doors for business in January and invited the public to celebrate with them through a ribbon cutting held on January 19. The new location is quickly growing in popularity, bringing more business to the Lincoln Trade Center. Rexius Nutrition is a Nebraska-based and founded supplement company that focuses on the highest product quality, customer satisfaction, and internet-based pricing. They are a growing company with 26 locations all across the Midwest. They continually strive to exceed expectations in product quality and service. Rexius Nutrition has two locations in Lincoln located at 3111 O St. and 5930 S 58th St. Visit www.rexiusnutrition. com to learn more. For over 30 years, Krueger Development has contributed to Lincoln’s residential and commercial marketplace by developing residential and commercial communities, retail centers, and multi-family residences. Family owned and operated, Krueger Development strives to bring long-term value to its clients and community. Street design and dirt moving, structural design and construction, finish design including painting and carpet installation, and finally, landscape design and planting are all completed with their staff of 40. To learn more, visit www. kruegerdevelopment.com or call their office at (402) 423-7377 for information on leasing commercial space at the Lincoln Trade Center.

The Nebraska Club Releases Exclusive Valentine’s Dinner Menu The Nebraska Club has released a special dinner menu exclusively for Valentine’s Day. With seating beginning at 6 p.m., guests can enjoy a four-course meal that begins with a first course of chicken-fried sweetbread with white gold gastrique and progressive course options such as garden lover’s gazpacho with Dungeness crab, butter-poached halibut with fennel-roasted heirloom carrots and bliss tomato risotto, and a delectable serving of traditional tiramisu for two. Dinner is $50 per person or $80 per couple.

Jordan Yurth 402-617-6317 jyurth@clearent.com

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

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SCC Receives Investor of the Year Award from Falls City Group

Southeast Community College (SCC) was presented with the 2019 Investor of the Year award from the Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise (EDGE) on January 8 at the EDGE Annual Banquet. SCC received the award for “supporting the economic development mission of EDGE and exhibiting a high degree of excellence and vision.”

If you’re looking for a special place to take your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day or maybe a girl’s night out, the Nebraska Club is the perfect spot for lovers and friends. Start off with a complimentary glass of champagne. Enjoy the culinary experience of a delightful four-course meal carefully designed by the Nebraska Club’s passionate chef. Gaze over the city from 20 floors up in a warm and elegant space. Be serenaded by live piano tunes customized to suit the ambiance of the occasion. The Nebraska Club has it all—even a cut rose to take home at the close of the evening. While Nebraska Club is a private dining club, they love opening their club to non-members by issuing them a one-time guest pass. Simply call and make your reservation today and they’ll file the guest pass in their system at the end of your visit. To make a reservation, call (402) 476-3228 or email Annie at annie@nebraskaclub.net. Visit their Facebook (@thenebraskaclub) or website at www.NebraskaClub.net for details on the menu and pricing. Reservations required. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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SCC President Dr. Paul Illich and members of the Board of Governors Kathy Boellstorff and Keith Hammons accepted the award, along with Falls City Learning Center Coordinator Holly Carr. Last September, SCC opened a new 9,500-square-foot learning center on the north edge of Falls City. The building includes four classrooms, a large manufacturing space, and a health sciences area. Credit and non-credit classes are offered, as well as business and industry training. SCC’s learning centers are part of the College’s strategic plan to better serve the educational needs of the communities within the College’s 15-county service area. Falls City is one of six centers, with others in Hebron, Nebraska City, Plattsmouth, Wahoo, and York. The mission of Falls City EDGE is to encourage economic development and improve the business conditions of the greater Falls City/ Richardson County area. To learn more, visit www.fallscityedge.com. Southeast Community College prides itself on offering more than 50 excellent programs of study on campuses in Beatrice, Lincoln, and Milford. For more information, go to www.southeast.edu. Contact SCC by calling (402) 471-3333 (Lincoln) / (402) 2283468 (Beatrice). 7 FEBRUARY 2020 Strictly Business

COST TO PARTICIPATE: Nonclients - $300*/Feature Clients - $200/Feature *Nonclients that participate will be given

1 FREE PRESS RELEASE

Participants will also get their open positions promoted on our social media platforms!

to run at any time throughout the year. Each press release is normally valued at $250! A press release is a write-up (200-240 words) with logo/photo about a newsworthy announcement. Newsworthy topics include new hires, upcoming events, anniversaries/milestones, new products/services, etc.

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PERSONNEL NEWS HoriSun Hospice Welcomes Susanna DesMarais HoriSun Hospice is pleased to announce the addition of Susanna DesMarais, MDIV as a spiritual care provider to its team. Susanna is an ordained Episcopal priest and has served churches in Nebraska and New York (state) since 2003. Originally from California, she has made Lincoln her home and even married a Lincolnite. Susanna is currently semi-retired and continues her journey of care for others at HoriSun. Prior to her life in ministry she had careers as a medical librarian in the hospital setting, as a stay at home mother for two sons now grown, and as an import broker. Her academic life included a masters in divinity from Church Divinity School of the Pacific, as well as a masters in business administration and a masters in library science. HoriSun Hospice believes that hospice care affirms life. Their mission and promise to the community is simple—to provide the best care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all whose lives are affected by a life limiting illness or condition. Comfort, compassion, and caring are their guiding principles. For more information, visit www.horisunhospice.com or call (402) 484-6444.

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Executive Director of Community Action Vi See Announces Retirement Following over 13 years of ser vice at Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties, Vi See, executive director, has announced her plan to retire. Her last day at the agency will be in October. Community Action has a longstanding history within the Lincoln community. Born from the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 and established in Lincoln the following year, the agency has seen much growth and change. Throughout her tenure, See collaborated with five separate board presidents to enact Community Action’s mission to empower people living in poverty to reach economic stability. Under See’s leadership, the agency realized significant growth and success, including establishment of three high-quality early childhood education centers in Lincoln, expansion and addition of new programs, an agency re-brand, and increased partnerships within the community, among many other accomplishments. Community Action was also named a “Best Place to Work” four years in a row during See’s tenure.

Do I have a problem with money? Or do I have a problem with gambling?

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In 2020, Community Action provided 107,854 poverty-fighting services to 17,940 individuals. See has overseen provision of the agency’s 17 programs within the impact areas of Early Childhood Education, Homelessness Prevention, Financial and Family WellBeing, and Hunger Relief and Healthy Food Access.

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

Every year, Community Action serves over 17,000 individuals in Lancaster and Saunders Counties. To learn more about Community Action, or to volunteer or give, visit www.communityactionatwork.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

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

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OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

PERSONNEL NEWS John Soukup Joins Catholic Social Services as New Development Officer

McGill Restoration Hires Dakota Schriner as Finance Executive

Following more than a decade of working in the development and financial services industry, John Soukup of Lincoln is now the development officer for Catholic Social Services (CSS) of Southern Nebraska. Soukup will pursue and manage aspects of donor prospecting, cultivation, and stewardship in accordance with the mission of CSS.

Dakota Schriner is excited to be the newest member of the McGill Restoration team as a finance executive. Dakota is a Nebraska native from Kearney and attended the University of NebraskaOmaha where he received two Bachelor's of Science degrees in accounting and management information systems (MIS). He is currently a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and a licensed CPA in the state of Nebraska.

“I have been blessed to have opportunities in my professional career to serve the community in a variety of ways. I pray that experience will contribute to the important work of Catholic Social Services,” said Soukup, who most recently worked as a field agent for Knights of Columbus Insurance for nearly nine years. Prior to that, he was station director for Spirit Catholic Radio in Lincoln. “When you trust God and His will for your life, anything can happen. I am honored and humbled to follow His gentle tug in this direction.” Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska provides food pantry services, emergency services including rent and utility assistance, disaster relief, refugee and immigration services, St. Gianna Women’s Homes, and a clinical and family counseling program. Founded in 1932, CSS serves all individuals across the 24,000 square miles in southern Nebraska, regardless of faith. For more information, visit www.csshope.org or call (402) 474-1600.

Dakota started his career in public accounting with Lutz, the largest locally owned accounting firm in Nebraska. He recently served as IT/finance manager for a national exterior maintenance company. Outside of work, Dakota loves to golf and spends his time volunteering at CityLight Church. McGill Restoration is an industry leader in concrete and masonry repair, restoration, and construction. From highway surface treatment and parking garage repairs to industrial painting to masonry repair, McGill Restoration is ready to help you with just about any construction needs. Learn more about McGill Restoration online at www.mcgillrestoration.com or by calling (402) 558-7989 in Omaha / (402) 438-4110 in Lincoln.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Berry Law Welcomes Criminal Defense and Personal Injury Attorney Renee Mathias

Cause Collective Hires Kayla Kremke as Projects Coordinator

Berry Law is pleased to announce that Attorney Renee Mathias has joined the firm’s Omaha office, located at 1414 Harney St. Her areas of practice are Criminal Defense and Personal Injury cases. Mathias’ notable wins include a not guilty verdict following a five-day jury trial for a client facing a mandatory minimum 13 years and a not guilty verdict on a four-day federal jury trial in 2015. Mathias is a native of Omaha, earning her undergraduate degree from Creighton University in 2001, and her Juris Doctor from Creighton University School of Law in 2004. She is a daughter of a Korean War Veteran and chose Berry Law because of the firm’s commitment to Veterans and its vision and involvement in the community. Mathias is passionate about volunteering for The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. When she isn’t volunteering or practicing law, she spends time with family and friends. The proud owner of a German Shepard, Mathias also enjoys being outdoors and riding her bike. Berry Law Firm was founded in 1965 by legendary attorney John S. Berry, Sr. With over 250 years of combined legal experience and 300 years of combined military service, the team at Berry Law is well equipped to handle the most serious legal needs. The firm has expanded to offer Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and Veterans Law. If you would like more information, please contact Chad Collins at (402) 466-8444 / marketing@jsberrylaw.com or go online to jsberrylaw.com.

Cause Collective is excited to announce their new addition of Kayla Kremke, who joined as the projects coordinator beginning in early August. This new position will help organize many of the services Cause Collective provides to Lincoln nonprofits, primarily the educational trainings. She will also help promote their board matching page, where community members can find local nonprofit board openings to help serve the community. “Kayla will be a great fit to our team, and her excitement and positive attitude has already become infectious,” said Jason Varga, executive director. “We are happy to welcome Kayla aboard!” Kayla is currently a senior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she received a Regents scholarship. After graduation, she would like to pursue a career in government or local nonprofit work. Cause Collective strengthens nonprofits to better serve the community through collaboration, education, and advocacy. They have 130 nonprofit members throughout Lincoln and Lancaster County. Cause Collective not only supports their members by helping them more efficiently run their business and better serve the community, but through working together so that the Lincoln nonprofit community can support each other to boost morale among their peers. For more information, visit www.causecollectivelincoln.org or reach out to Jason Varga at (402) 441-4399 / director@causecollectivelincoln.org.

Farris Engineering Hires Beth O’Brien as Marketing Coordinator Farris Engineering, Inc. is adding to its business development team with the hiring of Beth O’Brien as marketing coordinator. O’Brien brings a wealth of business-to-consumer and business-tobusiness expertise and experience with a local Fortune 500 company in the areas of marketing, communications, public relations, advertising, special events, writing, editing, and publishing. O’Brien received a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism with an emphasis in public relations and advertising from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She also brings over 25 years in customer service, having worked with companies and individuals throughout North America. As marketing coordinator, O’Brien will assist in the development of marketing materials, qualifications, and proposals. She will be responsible for planning client events, meetings, and trade shows in addition to assisting in advertising and sponsorship opportunities for Farris. Farris Engineering, Inc. is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering since being founded in Omaha in 1967. The employee-owned company provides value added expertise with employees versed in LEED AP, fire protection, geothermal and lighting design, sustainability and energy conservation, and commissioning. Farris is headquartered in Omaha with four additional offices in Lincoln; Sidney, NE; Colorado Springs, CO; and Kansas City, MO. For more information about Farris, please visit one of their offices, log on to farris-usa. com, or call them at (402) 330-5900. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

PERSONNEL NEWS West Gate Bank® Promotes Jennifer Wheeler

True North Technologies Gains Megan Hartman as Sales Associate

T h e We s t G a t e B a n k ® B o a r d o f Directors has elected Jennifer Wheeler to commercial loan officer. A native of Alma, MI, Wheeler graduated from Hillsdale College with a bac helor’s degree in financial management. She joined West Gate Bank in June 2016 as a credit analyst I and was promoted to credit analyst II in October 2018. As a commercial loan officer, Wheeler will assist customers with their business financing needs, including real estate lending. She will be available to council customers on different credit options and utilize West Gate Bank resources to help them meet many other business needs.

True North Technologies, a Lincoln-based business launched by Renee Sobotka, recently brought Megan Hartman onto the team as sales associate.

Wheeler volunteers with Tabitha Meals on Wheels and participates in various bank-supported community and volunteer activities. She is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Rd., and can be reached at (402) 853-7213 or jwheeler@westgate.bank. West Gate Bank® is a family-owned community bank with 10 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. The newest West Gate Bank branch is under construction at 177th and West Maple Road in Omaha and is expected to open in mid-2022. Visit westgate. bank for more information.

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Megan is always up for an adventure, which is what originally led her to find True North Technologies. As a former college athlete, she was thrilled to join True North’s summer softball team and share in their competitive spirit. Megan graduated from Peru State in 2018 with a degree in business marketing and later ventured off to live in Clearwater, FL, before returning to her roots in Nebraska. With strengths like competition, self-assurance, and activator, Megan never shies away from a challenge. She has always enjoyed technology and has experience managing her college and club social media accounts and working for a major telecommunications company. She is eager to put her skills, strengths, and expertise into practice alongside distinguished colleagues at True North. In her spare time, Megan stays busy planning her upcoming wedding and embracing her role as fur-mom to her huskies, Archer and Harley. True North Technologies makes technology simple with website and mobile app development, branding, TapOnIt, MMS texting, digital advertising, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and social media marketing. Learn more online at www.go-tnt.com or call (402) 420-5101.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Pemberly Place Welcomes Craig Gilsdorf, New Maintenance Director

Tomahawks Axe Throwing's General Manager Elena Settell Celebrates 1-Year Anniversary

Pemberly Place would like to extend a warm welcome to their new maintenance director, Craig Gilsdorf. Craig is from Lindsay, NE and went to college to study criminal justice. After college, he worked for the State of Nebraska for 22 years in the Department of Corrections as a warrant officer, handling prisoner transport and fugitive recovery. Due to the increased stress and demand, Craig decided he needed a change and found Pemberly to be a great fit!

Elena Settell, general manager for To m a h a w k s A x e T h r ow i n g i n t h e Haymarket, is proud to be celebrating one year at Tomahawks Axe Throwing. Elena has over 12 years of bartending experience and is also the co-owner of The Upside Bar & Lounge. "Elena has been such a key asset to our company, especially the way she was able to keep staffing in place through the pandemic," said Shane Kearns, cofounder of Tomahawks Axe Throwing. "Most importantly, over the past year, she has turned Tomahawks into a place much more than just a place to go throw axes—she has put Tomahawks on the map as a bar by making sure that we have one of the biggest beer selections in the Haymarket." Tomahawks Axe Throwing prides itself on delivering a warm, inclusive, and vibrant atmosphere where people can be social and have a blast being themselves. No previous skill level is required to participate—the act of throwing axes at a wooden target is just like a larger version of darts! Tomahawks is a great place to host a birthday party, corporate event, and much more. Additional information can be found online at www.tomahawkslnk.com or by contacting (402) 782-4452 / Booking@tomahawkslnk.com.

Craig currently lives in Waverly. He has been happily married for over 18 years and has a 13-year-old son. In his spare time, Craig loves to spend time with his family and friends, barbecue, fish, complete woodworking projects, and coach his son's baseball team. Craig’s goal at Pemberly Place is to become a valued team member that residents or staff can feel comfortable to go to for help. Craig lives by a special quote: "I believe you can inspire/lift up others by being the person that brings out the best in someone.” Pemberly Place is known throughout Lincoln for their creative service planning and attention to each resident’s individual needs. Their care is designed to meet and exceed the quality benchmarks set by the National Center for Assisted Living. Locally owned, the Pemberly Place community offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care options. To learn more, call (402) 4139770 or visit pemberlyplace.com.

Aceso Total Health, P.C. Hires Talia Wagner Aceso Total Health, P.C. recently brought on Talia Wagner as the clinic office coordinator and phlebotomist. Talia joined the team in August, and has since worked diligently to coordinate office activities, assist Dr. Todd Alan Roberts, M.D. and manage patients. “We are growing and very excited to welcome our newest team member, Talia Wagner, as clinic office coordinator,” said Marcia Roberts, business manager. “With her strong background in healthcare, we will continue to provide the best quality of care for our patients.” Talia is originally from Scottsbluff, NE and moved to Lincoln around three years ago. She started her phlebotomy career two years ago at a plasma center before getting a job at a hospital and working her way up to where she is now. In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time outdoors. Aceso Total Health, P.C. is a modern approach to medicine. Under the direction of Dr. Todd Alan Roberts, M.D., they combine natural and traditional therapies to help their members achieve total health. Aceso offers integrative healthcare services including acupuncture, hormone replacement therapy, massage therapy, yoga and movement therapy, lifestyle coaching, and traditional health services. Their philosophy is built on building a healthy lifestyle that prevents chronic disease rather than simply treating symptoms after they occur. To learn more, visit www. acesototalhealth.com or contact Business Manager Marcia Roberts at info@acesototalhealth.com / (402) 817-4117. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS American Heart Association Hires Ella Salem, New Development Director

Home Care Partners Welcomes Lesa Bonicatto as Office Manager and Care Coordinator

The American Heart Association in Lincoln recently hired Ella Salem as their new development director. She joins them from Sanford Health Profile where she served as the director of partnerships. Salem is highly experienced in corporate wellness, healthcare relations, public health, behavioral health, and community wellness initiatives. Her work leading numerous successful local, regional, and national health initiatives span multiple industries, including nutrition, fitness, and healthy living. Prior to creating community impact through her 10+ year career in health-minded business development, Salem was a founding Peloton cycling instructor and former ballerina in New York City. Salem prides herself in her very personal connection to the American Heart Association, which began when her mother survived a large hemorrhagic stroke at the young age of 59. Salem cares deeply about living the mission of being a relentless force for longer, healthier lives.

Home Care Partners has hired new Office Manager and Care Coordinator Lesa Bonicatto. Lesa joined Home Care Partners at the end of August after years in customer service and healthcare. In her new position, she will be responsible for Home Care Partners’ office operations and client care scheduling. Through ongoing collaboration with family members, management, the Home Care team, and others, Lesa provides experience helping caregivers and clients to make sure everyone has a balanced work and home life.

Ella lives in Lincoln with her husband Chris and their two children Hudson Christopher (age six) and Prudence Kate (age four). In her down time, she enjoys tennis (Go Knights!), Pilates, gardening, volunteering, cycling, quality family time, and healthy cooking and baking with her two bite-sized sous' chefs.

Home Care Partners embodies a culture of caring to serve seniors in and around our community. They are an affordable and comparable alternative to independent and assisted living, and provide additional support when needed for those already living in a senior community. For more information, visit www.homecarepartnersofnebraska.com or call (402) 780-1211. You can follow them on Facebook and Instagram (@homecarepartnersofnebraska).

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. To learn more information, visit www.heart.org/Lincoln.

“Nothing is more important to me than to have clients safe, well cared for, and involved in living. Life can be so hard and difficult for the ill and aging. We need to bring sunshine to them,” says Lesa. Her goal is to build relationships at Home Care Partners by providing open communication to clients and team members to ensure that a “culture of caring” exists.

CONCRETE

I’ve worked with McGill Restoration on two award-winning parking garage projects. They definitely know how to get the job done. — ERIN PETERS, INTERNATIONAL PARKING & MOBILIT Y INSTITUTE SR ANALYST, FACILIT Y PROJEC T MANAGEMENT

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M A SO N RY

Omaha, NE 402.558.7989

WAT E R P R O O F I N G

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PERSONNEL NEWS

A Full-Service Commercial Real Estate Appraisal Firm

AOI Hires Account Manager Lisa Peterson AOI would like to introduce their new Account Manager, Lisa Peterson. Lisa comes to AOI with extensive knowledge of the contract furniture industry. She utilizes her comprehensive knowledge of consulting, operations, and previous business ownership to negotiate and provide a quick response. Lisa acts as a liaison between the manufacturer and clients to provide the best possible solutions for the built environment. Lisa is a Certified OSHA Ergonomic Evaluator and understands the importance of functionality. She has extensive experience with multiple vertical markets in the Omaha Metro and surrounding areas. Financially, she has worked on wide range of projects, from $200 to $500,000 , all with the same professionalism and responsiveness. Her strong work ethic places equal importance between all of her clients. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, exercising in the gym, and being a part of her church community. She loves attending outdoor concerts or simply watching a movie with her dog by her side. AOI offers solutions for the built environment through their construction, furniture, and pre-manufactured construction groups. Products and services are available individually or combined as part of a holistic approach developed in close collaboration with their clients and their design teams. For more information, contact Becky Costello at (402) 896-5520 / rcostello@aoicorp.com or visit www.aoicorp.com.

Oasis Senior Advisors Welcomes Christy Michel to the Team Oasis Senior Advisors recently added Christy Michel to their team as senior living advisor and community liaison. Christy brings with her 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, most recently in hospice and dementia care. She earned her bachelor’s degree in family financial management with minors in psychology and sociology from UNL. Christy’s goal is to treat each client and family with the respect and dignity that they deserve and to help them thrive wherever “home” may be for them. She looks forward to utilizing her passion by providing Lincoln families with assistance in senior living options and being a trusted resource in the community.

Now offering property tax and litigation support appraisal services.

Thomas W. Kubert Owner

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

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Christy and her husband Phil enjoy spending their free time with family, friends, and their two dogs. They have two sons who keep them busy with football and baseball games. Christy loves to travel and explore new places, and is compassionate about supporting local businesses. Oasis Senior Advisors is owned and operated by Beth Friesen, certified Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care trainer, certified dementia practitioner, certified senior advisor, and registered nurse. Beth works with families, offering them a free service in order to assist them in identifying the best senior living options to meet their needs. She spends time educating and counseling families directly affected by the various forms of dementia and other challenges of aging. For more information about Oasis Senior Advisors, visit OasisSeniorAdvisor.com/Lincoln. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

T H A N K YO U!

9 Party in the th

The 2021 Party in the Garden was held on September 10, with all proceeds benefitting Domesti-PUPS.

Annual

Thank you to all of the sponsors, donators, and attendees—the event was a great success and we could not have done it without you!

Garden

Benefitting Domesti-PUPS

SPONSORS

FOOD & DRINKS

PA R T N E R S

Tam O’Shanter Restaurant & Pub | Cornhusker Bottle

LIVE MUSIC PROVIDED BY MIKE SEMRAD AND GUNTER VOELKER Auction items provided by: Herrick Service, Morrow Collision, Earl May Garden Center, Rhonda & Doug Obermeier, Craft Axe Throwing, Petco, Mazzyco Collars, Lincoln Stars Hockey, Los Margaritas, Sun Valley Lanes, Bob & Cindy Terwilliger, Christine Doell, Grow24, Ascend Chiropractic, Larry Pickerell, Smash-It, Walker Tire, Elder Jewelry, Costco, Star City Dental, Massage for Health, Larry & Ruthann Rivers, Patina Jo, Susan Schenk, Paula Harre & Dan Duncan, Elsie & Leon’s Wardrobe, Jet Splash, Jesse Pigman, Scarlet Raven, Christine Doell, Graduate Lincoln, Valentino’s, Creighton University, Dillards + Wine, Ty Smith Tattoos, TopGolf Omaha, Prairie Dental, Steckelberg Dental, Paws 4 Fun, Meadowlark Coffee & Espresso, West Gate Bank, Camp Bow Wow, Wilderness Kennels, Kansas City Royals, T C Dharma, Maize Popcorn, Woodland Hills Golf Course, American Nails, Marriott Residence Inn, 88 Tactical, Outdoor Solutions, Cabi - Ashley Curtis, Landscapes Unlimited, Lincoln Inflatables, Mugshot Skincare, The Kindler Hotel, Ashley Shai, and many friends of Domesti-PUPS.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Angels Among Us, Scooters Coffee Partner to Provide Free Coffee at Hospital Angels Among Us and franchise owners of Scooters Coffee in Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, Kelli and Mark Dudley, are partnering to be sure no in-patient pediatric cancer family pays for their coffee by setting up a charge account. This program, called Caleb’s Coffee, will allow any in-patient cancer family, with a proper hospital badge and special Caleb’s Coffee travel mug, to receive free hot-brewed coffee as often as they please. Angels Among Us will cover all costs on behalf of the family as a small way to provide comfort during their family’s journey. Caleb’s Coffee was started in memory of Caleb Friesen, a fun-loving, five-year-old boy who was diagnosed with cancer in 2017. He and his family spent many days at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, and one of the activities he loved the most was going with mom and dad down to the coffee shop to get coffee. Caleb’s Coffee is a way for Angels Among Us and Caleb’s family to provide a cup of comfort during a chaotic and challenging time.

Live

Angels Among Us is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to pediatric cancer families living in or being treated in Nebraska. To learn more and get involved, visit www.myangelsamongus.org. Please contact Aly Theilen, director of community relations/development with any questions at (402) 934-0999 or alyssa@myangelsamongus.org.

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Lincoln Aiding Angels Annual Golf Tournament Raises Over $35K

Business

The 13th annual Golfing for a Reason Tournament raised a record setting total of over $35,000 to benefit the Aiding Angels Foundation. They would like to say thank you to their Title Sponsor Jim Schueth of Saving Seniors Money. The tournament would not be possible without the following sponsors:

3705 S. Coddington Ave. • Lincoln

www.YankeeHillBrick.com

LIN C OLN

Flag Sponsor – Nelnet Dinner Sponsor – HoriSun Hospice

Enhance brand awareness

Hole Sponsors – Nebraska Hematology; Butherus Maser Love; HBE; Wolfe Snowden; Advanced Medical Imaging; Brent and Patti Hillier; Union Bank & Trust; Universal Pure; DuTeau Chevrolet; UNICO; Hofeling Enterprises; O'Neill, Heinrich, Damkroger, Bergmeyer & Shultz; Inspire Rehabilitation; Pine Ridge Dental; Star Digital Print; Infinity Promotions; Maideasy Software; Maid To Please

Develop new relationships and strengthen existing ones

The winners of the tournament included the following: Women’s first place — Tina Baker, Carmen Manhart, Christy Saum, Noel Jacquot; Couple’s first place — Steve Barnard, Kim Barnard, Sam Barnard, Jim Dockery; Men’s first flight first place — Chad Kearns, Connor Kearns, Caden Kearns, Ed Schulenberg; Men’s second flight first place — Tom Novotny, Bob Balfany, Sam Clinch, Pat Spethman Aiding Angels is a local, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing free, professional house cleaning 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. All that is needed is a note provided by the doctor’s office stating the individual is going through cancer treatment. It is not cancer specific or financially need based. For more information, go to www.aidingangels.com or call (402) 434-2472. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

FREE Lincoln T-Shirt (while supplies last) Enjoy a craft beer tour!

FREE ADMISSION We’re Back!

LIVE LCOC.COM

October 13 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Pinnacle Bank Arena

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NONPROFIT NEWS Fresh Start to Present Project Funway November 12

Foster Care Closet Ready for Colder Weather with Season Changeover

Project Funway by Fresh Start will showcase the work of local designers and students from the Department of Textiles, Merchandising, and Design in the College of Education and Human Services at the University of NebraskaLincoln for a "Project Runway" style design contest on Friday, November 12. The event will take place at The Cornhusker Marriott Hotel and will raise money and support for the Fresh Start Home, an agency that helps women experiencing homelessness get back on their feet and on the path to independence.

The Foster Care Closet is committed to helping restore dignity to children entering foster care with brand new clothing to assist in the transition. They continue to show this support to families with foster children through their Season Changeover, which occurs twice a year. The Foster Care Closet staff has been working hard to put summer in storage and bring out the fall apparel. Their store is completely stocked with new and in style seasonal clothing. They invite families with children in foster care to come shop for five new outfits free of charge, as well as socks, shoes, underwear, and hygiene items twice a year. The Season Changeover is completely donor funded. The Foster Care Closet has established partnerships with clothing manufacturers and local vendors. These connections help multiply the value of every donor dollar. To shop in the store, appointments must be made in advance and can be done by contacting The Foster Care Closet at (402) 853-9990 or on Facebook (@ FosterCareCloset). The mission of The Foster Care Closet of Nebraska is to help restore dignity to children entering foster care. They allow them to enter their new foster home fed, clean, and clothed. To learn more about The Foster Care Closet of Nebraska, visit www. fostercarecloset.org.

For Project Funway, designers create fashionable clothing that will be modeled on a runway walk. They take thrift-store and cast-off clothing and make it into one-of-a-kind, glamorous outfits. A panel of three judges will vote on the most innovative, best use of materials, and best of show. Guests will be able to vote on their favorite designs. This Fresh Start event will include silent and live auctions for donated items, such as a week’s stay at a condo in Winter Park, CO, catering for 50 from Tacos Azteca, 2022 Salt Dogs tickets, and a basket from Lululemon Athletica. General admission tickets are $50 per person and VIP tickets are $75 per person and include reserved seating and an event pre-party. Tickets can be purchased online at freshstarthome.org or by contacting Audrey Back at (402) 4757777 / audreyb@freshstarthome.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Nebraska Community Foundation Survey Friendship Home Launches Series to Raise Indicates Promising Future for Rural Places Domestic Violence Awareness Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF), in partnership with the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research (CPAR) and local school districts, surveyed 1,047 middle and high school students between January and May of 2021. Participating communities included Albion, Bassett, Bruning, Burwell, Byron, Cedar Rapids, Chester, Davenport, Deshler, Grant, Hebron, O’Neill, Sidney, St. Edward, Stuart, Taylor, and surrounding areas. Students’ dream communities look a lot like where they live now. 64% said their ideal community is small, like their hometown—a significant increase from 47% in 2020. When asked whether a stigma accompanied staying in or returning to their community, 76% said no—up from 70% last year. Like last year, students placed considerable importance on safety, ranking it at the top of a list of important factors when imagining their ideal community. Fortunately, more than 90% of respondents said they feel safe in their hometowns, and other answers indicate they value others’ safety as well. Almost 80% said they were likely to act to stop unfair treatment of others, and 61% said they were likely to be an advocate for embracing diversity and inclusion in their communities. Through a growing grassroots network of volunteers who hail from every corner or the state, Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, Friendship Home of Lincoln is launching a series of blogs and videos to bring awareness to domestic violence and Friendship Home’s mission. This awareness series will be published on Friendship Home’s Facebook page and at FriendshipHome.org during the month of October. In Lancaster County, one in four women have experienced domestic violence at some point in their life. Through crisis services, emergency shelter, and transitional housing, Friendship Home helps victims and their children gain insight into their trauma and guides them to use their strengths to rebuild their lives—free from domestic violence. This powerful series will help you learn more about Friendship Home’s services, including the impact domestic violence has on women’s health, the children that experience and witness this abuse, and how you can take a stand against domestic violence. Friendship Home started in 1978 to support, shelter, and advocate for victims of domestic violence and their children. They want 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. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the Friendship Home crisis line (402) 437-9302. It’s staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. To learn more, visit www.friendshiphome.org.

Christian Record Services Announces 2021 Anne Lowe Scholarship Recipients Christian Record Services, Inc. is pleased to announce the six collegiate recipients of the Anne Lowe Scholarship for the 202122 school year: Brandon Butzberger, Kwaku Darko, Meghan Downing, Nicholas Fucciolo, James McSheffery, and Grace Patterson. The Anne Lowe Scholarship is awarded to college students and is based on academic achievement, citizenship that is supported through reference letters, and verification of blindness. The scholarship is distributed in two parts during the school year. Tom Lowe established the scholarship in 1989 in the memory of his wife Anne, who loved education and the mission of Christian Record Services. “Our scholarship committee was impressed with each of our applicants this year and we are thrilled to award scholarships to six outstanding individuals,” said Diane Thurber, president of the 121-year-old organization. “Through the ongoing generosity of donors, we are able to support the education of each of the selected recipients of the Anne Lowe Scholarship.” For more information on each of these outstanding students, please visit www.christianrecord.org/member-services/scholarship. Christian Record Services, Inc. is an international ministry to people who are blind. The nonprofit was founded in 1899 and is headquartered in Lincoln. To learn more, visit www. ChristianRecord.org, call (402) 488-0981, or connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn (@CRSBfriends). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS NCHS Awarded $52K Grant from United Way of the Midlands

Lincoln Community Foundation Awards Over $765K to Support Nonprofits, Students

Nebraska Children’s Home Society (NCHS) is pleased to announce that it was recently awarded a $52,000 grant from United Way of the Midlands (UWM). NCHS will use this grant to continue Pathways to the Future, a critical family support program based out of its Children and Family Center located in North Omaha. Pathways to the Future empowers families towards self-sufficiency by helping them eliminate barriers to success through academic support, career planning, and parenting education. The program offers flexible one-on-one assistance to help participants progress towards personal goals and access resources to meet identified needs. Through the Pathways to the Future program and support of UWM, NCHS is able to improve education and further the access of resources to families so they can provide and raise their children at their best. United Way of the Midlands has served the Omaha-Council Bluff’s metro for more than 95 years. UWM invests donor dollars to fund basic needs, education, and financial-stability programs at local nonprofits, creating a circle of support for people in need. For information, visit unitedwaymidlands.org. Nebraska Children’s Home Society is a nonprofit organization established in 1893 that serves children and families throughout Nebraska. Through three core services, adoption, foster care, and family support, NCHS strives towards its vision of “a safe and loving family for every child.” For more information, visit www.nchs.org or call (402) 451-0787.

To date this year, Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) has distributed more than $765,000 in Open Door Grants to local nonprofit organizations and scholarships for students. Launched in 2020, Open Door Grants are the successor to the Community and Quick Response grants previously administered by LCF. They support efforts by nonprofits in Lincoln and Lancaster County to meet existing needs or address challenges and opportunities facing the community. Grants may be applied to operations, programs, or capital projects and will include (but are not limited to) areas of arts and culture, community improvement, education and youth, environment and animals, and health and human services. These grants are made possible by contributions from the Lincoln Forever Fund and LCF donor endowment funds. In addition, LCF awarded upwards of $565,000 in scholarship funds to more than 300 students. These scholarship funds are supported by generous donors of LCF, who have established more than 80 scholarship funds that benefit students in Lancaster County and across the state of Nebraska. 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 $168 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. For more information, visit www.LCF.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Goodwill and Gateway Mall to Host Halloween Events in October Goodwill and Gateway Mall are collaborating for another spooktacular Halloween by offering three free events to the Lincoln community. First, on Saturday, October 9, they will host a Make & Take Workshop where attendees will receive craft kits to create a Halloween item. This workshop is made possible by Goodwill’s Bits and Pieces section in their stores that meet all crafting needs from jewelry and utensils to ribbon and glue. Then, on Saturday, October 23, furry friends are invited to the Howl-O-Ween Pet Costume Contest. Prizes and treats will be awarded. Finally, on Sunday, October 31, join them for a safe and fun Halloween at the L’il Monsters Trick-or-Treat event. Participating stores will hand out treats to all kids ages 12 and under. Reusable tote bags will be available to collect candy. During the event, enter the DIY Costume Contest to win a prize. All events are located in the common area behind Scooter’s at Gateway Mall.

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For 89 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. For more information about the Halloween events or how to register, or to learn more about Goodwill, visit www.lincolngoodwill.org or follow them on Facebook (@LincolnGoodwill).

Honey Sunday Benefitting The Arc of Lincoln Set for November 7 The Arc of Lincoln’s annual Honey Sunday fundraiser will take place on Sunday, November 7. The Arc will be selling 12 ounce honey bear bottles for $6, or a case of 12 honey bear bottles for $65. The honey sold is locally produced in Lincoln and comes from Valhalla Bee Farm. The Arc will accept cash, Venmo, or check for payment. Honey Sunday is a national fundraiser for Arc chapters around the United States, and the funds raised will go to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in the Lincoln and Lancaster County areas. The Arc of Lincoln hopes to have volunteers selling honey at several retail locations in Lincoln for Honey Sunday, and they encourage you to visit their Facebook page for specific stores as the date draws closer. Starting October 15, those who would prefer to order honey ahead of time can email Michelle Johnson at director@arclincoln.org. The Arc will deliver honey bears to those who place an order for two or more. Incorporated by a group of parents in 1967, The Arc of Lincoln encourages and provides opportunities for those with developmental disabilities to lead productive lives and achieve their full potential. Their vision for the future is to live in a caring, inclusive community where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are embraced and offered encouragement, support, security, and opportunity. For more information, visit advocacypartnership.org or contact Michelle Johnson at (402) 421-8866. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS CBMC Sponsors A Time to Pray Online Event During October CBMC USA is sponsoring a special, focused time of prayer for the marketplace and the nation during September and October. A Time to Pray is an online, on-demand guided prayer program focused on four key areas for prayer: family and friends, coworkers and businesses, local communities and churches, and our nation. The 30 minute program is free and open to anyone to participate. It includes an online video and resources on prayer, and can be found at connect. cbmc.com/pray. CBMC was formed on a foundation of prayer in 1930 during the Great Depression. One of their goals is to continue to make prayer a vital element in their ministry. If you believe in the power of prayer and want to see the next great revival happen in the marketplace during our lifetime, then join CBMC for A Time to Pray. CBMC Lincoln is part of a global ministry in over 100 countries that encourages men toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others. For further information, visit lincoln.cbmc.com, call (402) 540-1093, or connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne).

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Malone Center Introduces New Program to Empower Youth In partnership with Centered Counseling Services, the Malone Center has created and implemented fun, developmentally appropriate programming for young people. This program is productive and constructive, designed to empower youth ages K-12 with practical and meaningful skills that will help them improve their social and economic conditions.

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Physical and mental health initiatives are also included in the program. This is done by incorporating physical and mental health into daily activities in the form of self-love, athletic, gardening, culinary clubs, one on ones, and other group settings. The Malone and Centered Counseling Services are committed to improving the community by expanding and accelerating their approach in areas of community engagement, health, and development, as well as education, life skills, and empowerment. The Malone and Centered Counseling services look to continuously provide resources and opportunities for our community and families. In doing so, they diligently work to create and implement programs designed specifically to meet the needs of these individuals. These programs range from the programs mentioned earlier, to Maternal Wellness, Early Achievers Academy, Take Pause and Hold Cops Accountable both in Partnership with Lincoln Police Department, Teen Leadership, Minority Health Initiative, CLC at Culler Middle School, and so much more. The Malone Center started in 1955 as a community center in the midst of the civil rights era as a platform for creating racial and socioeconomic equality. For more information, or to learn about their programs, visit www.malonecenter.org or contact them directly at (402) 474-1110 or Laura.McCulley@malonececenter.org / centeredcounselingservices@gmail.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln Invites Local Businesses to Host Recruitment

SCIP to Sponsor Presentation on the Impact of Marijuana Use on Youth

TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln is seeking local businesses that would like to host recruitment presentations for their staff. While TeamMates currently has over 1,200 active matches, hundreds of additional students await a mentor. TeamMates provides youth in grades 3-12 with a one-to-one adult mentor who provides support and encouragement. In-person and virtual mentoring are available depending on the student and mentor’s circumstances. “Our partnerships with businesses are fundamental to our success as an organization. We have some great partners, but would love to add more this year,” said Jim Bennett, director of Lincoln TeamMates. “Businesses benefit from volunteering by uplifting the community, and by doing so, they can demonstrate the mission and values of their company.” There are tremendous benefits to a company’s workforce and productivity, as well. TeamMates surveys participants annually, and results continuously reveal that after their mentoring visit, mentors return to work more engaged, hopeful, and in a better mood. Recruitment chats are offered over Zoom or in person. To learn more information about this opportunity, please visit LincolnTeamMates. org or call (402) 436-1990. TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln makes a meaningful impact in the local community and beyond by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring. For more information, please visit LincolnTeamMates.org.

“But It’s Just Marijuana, Isn’t It?: The Impact of Marijuana Use on Our Youth” will be the topic of the upcoming Promoting Healthy Behaviors Community Awareness series on Thursday, October 21 in the Media Center at Schoo Middle School, located at 700 Penrose Dr. Sponsored by School Community Intervention and Prevention (SCIP), Lincoln Public Schools, and Region V Systems, the presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m. and feature Officer Andre O’Conner, a licensed drug recognition expert with the Lincoln Police Department and a former school resource officer. He will discuss marijuana and the effects it has on adolescents, how marijuana has evolved over the years, the signs and symptoms of marijuana use, the difference between nicotine vape pens and marijuana concentrate pens, street drug names and emojis used to communicate about marijuana use and distribution, and stash compartments used to hide marijuana and/or paraphernalia. School Community Intervention & Prevention is a program designed to bring together families, schools, and the community to support student behavioral and emotional health. They are supported in whole or part by Grant #2B08T1010034 under the SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Treatment and the Nebraska Division of Behavioral Health and monies passed through by Region 4 and Region V to prevention providers ($140,170 or 47%) and $161,100 or 53% from non-governmental entities. For more information on SCIP, visit their website at www.scipnebraska.com or call (402) 327-6843.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Wear Yellow Nebraska’s East-West Groveler Gravel Race October 16 Wear Yellow Nebraska is presenting its third annual East-West Groveler Gravel Race on Saturday, October 16, at 10 a.m. in Ashland. If you’re up for a little competition between friends while supporting a great cause, this event is just for you! Using the Platte River as the divide, register for a team (either East or West, depending on which side of the river you live) by 5 p.m. on Friday, October 15, to participate. Once registration closes, team size will be set by the lowest number of participates signed up for the East or West team. The team with the lowest number of points wins! Finishers receive a point equal to their finish position based on the finishing time. As a bonus for some of their diehard riders, a point will be subtracted for single speed category, fat tire, and, to encourage the ladies to join in on riding some gravel, female team finishers.

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Wear Yellow Nebraska is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a clear focus on niche initiatives that offered cancer survivors support in ways that were not being addressed and for people who would otherwise fall through the cracks, truly caring for an individual’s special circumstances. To learn more about the organization or to register for the event, go to www.wearyellownebraska.org or contact (402) 965-1699 / contactus@wearyellownebraska.org.

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Mourning Hope Grief Center Offers Free Grief Support Groups The Mourning Hope Grief Center invites bereaved children, adults, and families to join others who understand by attending a free grief support group. Each person grieves in their own way, and at their own pace. In peer-based grief support groups, participants come together to offer support and learn from one another. Family Grief Support Group: For children and teens ages K-12 who have experienced the death of someone significant. Youth meet with others their own age for discussion and education, as well as to see and feel firsthand that they are not alone in their grief. Adult caregivers attend a separate group to receive information on how to support a grieving child, as well as grief support themselves.

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Young Adult Grief Support Group: For ages ranging 19 - 30. Share personal experiences with loss and grief, and ask questions of the group as desired. Adult Grief Support Group: For ages 30+. Learn healthy ways to cope with your grief, and find hope and healing. Survivors of Suicide Loss Grief Support Group: For ages 18+ who have experienced the suicide death of someone significant. Connect with others who can share in your thoughts and validate your feelings. The Mourning Hope Grief Center is located at 1311 S Folsom St. All of Mourning Hope’s grief support programs and services are available at absolutely no cost to participants. Complete details and registration for support groups are available online at mourninghope. org/programs/groups.html. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS DSAF to Host Pumpkin Patch, Painting Event October 23 Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF) will be hosting a day of seasonal festivities on Saturday October 23. Starting in the morning, they will take a trip to the pumpkin patch at Roca Berry Farm to celebrate the fall season with their members. Later in the day, they will hold a teen/young adult painting event, with festivities starting at 4 p.m. The event will take place at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N 48th St. The painting will last an hour and is open to the public and those in the community. Join DSAF for an hour of fun painting and good company! To learn more about the event, contact Rachel at rjanecek014@gmail.com / (402) 650-2773. DSAF is a Lincoln based nonprofit organization that provides support for individuals with Down syndrome and those who share in their lives. The Down Syndrome Association for Families (DSAF) recognizes that every person with Down syndrome is an individual who has a unique purpose and set of abilities. It is their mission to provide support and a positive vision for the future for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, friends, educators, and professionals who share in their lives. For more information about the organization, email director@dsafnebraska.org or call (402) 803-8238.

NAM Announces Topics for Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands Event The 15th annual Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands, presented by the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM), is set to take place virtually on Wednesday, November 3. The event will connect more than 300 regional nonprofits of all missions and sizes with ideas, best practices, and educational resources in the nonprofit sector. It will feature breakout sessions and workshops on a variety of topics, including: • Embedding Equity and Eliminating Bias in Hiring Practices • Making Change: Preparing Your Organization and Community • Gender Economic (In)equity in the Nonprofit Workforce: Real Talk About Salaries, Motivations, Degrees, and Wage Trends • Dare to be Different: How to Implement a 4-Day Work Week and Other Flexible Policies • Perspective Coaching: How to Build Bridges • Power, Privilege, and Cultural Competency Working with Indigenous Communities in the Midlands For more information and registration, please visit www.nonprofitam. org/events. Nonprofit Association of the Midlands is a state association that represents more than 700 nonprofit organizations in Nebraska and southwest Iowa. With NAM’s growing base of nonprofits, the organization is committed to enhancing public recognition of the importance and role of the nonprofit sector; providing access to high-quality assistance and information on effective nonprofit management and practices; advocating on issues that affect the capacity of all nonprofits to address their communities’ needs; and fostering communication and cooperation among nonprofits. For more information, visit www.nonprofitam.org or email Abby Hughes at abby@nonprofitam.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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YMCA Partners with People’s City Mission to Hold Community Coat Drive The YMCA of Lincoln is c e l eb ra t i n g t h e i r 1 5 0 t h anniversary this year by par tnering with People’s City Mission (PCM) to hold a community coat drive from October 1 – 22. Lincoln YMCAs will be collecting new and gently used coats for those in need this winter. Each individual that donates a coat will receive a free pass to “Try the Y” for one week, valid through the end of the year. Current YMCA members donating coats will also be entered into a drawing to win a Free Y Membership for 2022. All coats donated during the drive will be distributed to the PCM shelter residents. “Over the past 150 years, we have stayed true to our purpose of strengthening the community through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility—making sure our neighbors are supported,” said Barbara Bettin, president and CEO of the Lincoln YMCA. Through this effort, the organizations are aiming to collect 10 coats a day at each YMCA location, for 22 days, for a total of 880 coats. Along with the YMCA locations, the PCM Help Center and Shelter will be accepting coats. Two additional coat drives also happening in October will be added to the give-away event. These coat drives will be hosted by Exeter-Milligan FCCLA and Lutheran Schools of Lincoln. After the drive, there will be a kick-off coat distribution at PCM’s Help Center on November 5 at 10 a.m. People’s City Mission was started in 1907 by local churches, offering food and shelter for transient and impoverished men, women, and children. In 1987, PCM moved to their current location and now houses 350 men, women, and children nightly in their emergency shelters and the Curtis Center transitional housing program. For more information, visit www.pcmlincoln.org or call (402) 475-1303. One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA of Lincoln has served the community for 150 years—promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind, and body for all. Today, the YMCA serves the community with facilities in all quadrants of Lincoln through programs including swim lessons, Youth Sports, Camp Kitaki, after school programs, disease management, and more. Everyone is welcome, and Open Doors Financial Assistance is available to those in need. For more information, visit YMCALincoln.org. OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business 47

NONPROFIT NEWS Vision Maker Media Honors Indigenous Peoples’ Day with Film Program

Nebraska Safety Council to Offer OSHA Trainings Throughout October

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a declaration of the rights of Indigenous Peoples and thus serves as and celebrates an International Day of Solidarity among Indigenous Peoples of the Americas. To recognize and celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Monday, October 11, Vision Maker Media is holding a week-long online film program, October 6-13, as part of their 45th anniversary and theme of commUNITY. This year’s film streaming features Return to Rainy Mountain and Words From a Bear. Both films tell the compelling story of N. Scott Momaday, Kiowa essayist, novelist, writer, and 1969 Pulitzer Prize winner. These two films weave together the intricacies of Kiowa art, family, personal memoir, poetic justice, and democracy through Native sovereignty. This event is free and open to the public, however registration is required, which can be done by visiting visionmakermedia.org.

Are you an employer that needs OSHA certification for your employees? Are you a contractor with a crew that needs OSHA certification specialized in the construction industry? If so, the Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) has trainings just for you. Each year, NESC holds two to three OSHA trainings for construction industry and general industry. These trainings generally have the highest attendance rate with limited availability. OSHA 10-hour Construction Industry trainings will be held October 4-5, and 30-hour trainings will be held October 4-7. OSHA 10-hour General Industry trainings will be held October 18-19, and 30hour trainings will be held October 18-21. All trainings will be held in Lincoln, and are open to members and non-members of NESC. Members receive discounted pricing along with several additional benefits. 10-hour trainings are $285 ($199 for members) and 30hour trainings are $715 ($499 for members.) Learn more about the trainings and register online by visiting their website at www. nesafetycouncil.org – Worker Education and Events. For questions or to register over the phone, call (402) 483-2511. The Mission of the Nebraska Safety Council is to provide education and leadership to empower Nebraskans to live safe and healthy. They offer comprehensive programs, training courses, events, and services that are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel, and on the job. To learn more or to sign up for a membership today, visit nesafetycouncil.org, call (402) 483-2511, or email nesc@nesafetycouncil.org.

Vision Maker Media is a nonprofit established in 1976 with support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and Nebraska Public Media. Their mission is to empower and engage Native people to share their stories. Learn more at visionmakermedia.org or follow them on Facebook and Instagram (@visionmakermedia).

HopeSpoke Offers Parenting Tips, Psychoeducational Videos Parenting is rewarding, but it’s also hard work! Especially at the beginning of the school year, after all the changes brought by the pandemic, it can be stressful to re-establish routines, set healthy goals and adapt to constant change. HopeSpoke is here to help. If you’re looking for tips on effective parenting, check out HopeSpoke’s latest psychoeducational video, which can be found on their YouTube channel (@HopeSpoke). Cambria Beirow, MA, PLMHP (they/them) is an Outpatient Therapist with HopeSpoke and has created this video series to provide simple tips for dealing with a variety of individual and family issues. Four essential tips that apply to any parenting situation have been adapted from Dr. Michael Hopkin’s book Active Parenting: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Happy and Successful Children, the basis for this evidence-based parenting curriculum: • Consistency is key • Develop mutual respect between parent and child • Discover family enrichment activities you and your child can enjoy • Don’t forget to take care of the caregiver Watch a short parenting video as part of HopeSpoke’s video series by visiting www.hopespoke.org and clicking the YouTube icon at the bottom right. Other topics in the video series include depression in children and teens, sleep hygiene, distance learning, effective communication skills, anxiety in children, and more. HopeSpoke is here to help everyone achieve hope and healing, with mental health services for youth, families, and individuals across the lifespan. For more information, visit www.hopespoke. org or call (402) 475-7666. 48 Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

Volunteers Needed for Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach’s Huskers Helping the Homeless Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is teaming up with volunteers and donors for the 25th annual Huskers Helping the Homeless to raise money for the organization’s hunger relief and homeless prevention services. Volunteers are needed to safely accept donations from fans before the football game on October 9, sell raffle tickets, hold online fundraisers, and take up a collections at pre-game or tailgate parties. “The money raised during this event supports our operations 365 days a year—even during a pandemic—and brings us closer to our vision of defeating hunger and homelessness in Lincoln,” said Susanne Blue, executive director. Matt Talbot is thankful for current event sponsors which include: HUSKER SPONSORS – Custom Machine & Design, Inc.; Forest Lake Lawn and Landscape; Legacy Retirement Communities; Mainelli Wagner & Associates, Inc.; MBA Apartments; Molex Incorporated; Tuttle, Inc. GO BIG RED SPONSORS – Austin Farm Management; Realtors Association of Lincoln BIG 10 SPONSORS – All Copy Products; Aspen Builders; Casey's General Stores; Eakes Office Supply; Frontier Bank; HOME Real Estate - Woods Bros Realty; Kidwell, Inc.; Runza Restaurants; Sinclair Hille Architects; Willnerd & Associates, LLC; Woodhouse Auto Family Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is a hunger relief and outreach center for those in need. Learn more about the organization at mtko. org. For more information about the event, to sign up to volunteer, and donate, scan the QR code or visit mtko.org/huskers. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

HEALTH NEWS American Cancer Society to Present Making Strides Movement October 17 The American Cancer Society, the nation’s nonprofit leader in the breast cancer fight, is inviting you to join forces by participating in the 2021 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer movement. Making Strides is an opportunity to help save lives and fund the future of breast cancer research and programs that provide the support women need right here in our community. The event is set for Sunday, October 17, at 11 a.m. at Holmes Lake Park. Join them in the fight to end breast cancer! Register for the American Cancer Society’s premier event to fight breast cancer by visiting makingstrideswalk.org/lincolnne. For more information or questions about the event, contact Lisa McClung at (402) 858-4823 or Lisa.McClung@cancer.org. The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of nearly 2 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. To learn more information about The American Cancer Society, or to look into volunteer opportunities, visit www.cancer.org or call (800) 227-2345.

Beyond Vision's Dr. Carla Ericksen Speaks at Lincoln Ladies Night Hosted by Fleet Feet Fleet Feet recently hosted a Ladies Night on September 29 where women had the opportunity to hear from educational speakers about detecting vision problems and risk signs of breast cancer. One of the featured speakers was Dr. Carla Ericksen, owner and optometrist at Beyond Vision. Dr. Ericksen is passionate about helping to detect gradual vision problems in women and how to obtain visual relief to help the entire body. Eyes make up 90% of a person's day and can cause headaches, light sensitivity, physical tension, anxiety, and disrupted sleep if they are not taken care of. Vision problems for women can be gradual and often are quietly tolerated. You can go to Beyond Vision to learn how to get visual relief that can help your whole body. This freewill-donation event included a number of booths, appetizers and refreshments, and a raffle with all proceeds going to the Heartland Cancer Foundation. Booths included Amy Green with the Heartland Cancer Foundation, Lisa Gill with TOSSIBLES, Gayle Hochstein with Provision Chiropractic & Wellness, and Marisa Moseman with Chicory Lane Candles. Dr. Ericksen was also joined by Mary Jane Glade as a speaker at the event. Glade is a nurse practitioner at CHI St. Elizabeth and sole practitioner at the High Risk Prevention and Survivorship Clinic. A main focus of her practice has been advocating for, guiding, and educating women with breast cancer and those at an increased risk of breast cancer. Fleet Feet is a local, family owned and operated store that is part of a network of specialty running, walking, and fitness stores across the country. They are passionate about bringing the community together and making health and fitness a top priority. Learn more at www. fleetfeet.com/s/lincoln. For more information about Beyond Vision and Dr. Ericksen’s commitment to equip people with the freedom and knowledge of good eye-care options so they can #seelife, contact her at (402) 261-8699 / office@ beyondvisionlnk.com or visit www.beyondvisionlnk.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

Otoe 402-873-5151 Nebraska City

HuskerRehab.com

OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

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

Receive an Instant Quote at empire-fence.com 402-682-7658 50

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HEALTH NEWS LIVE Hydration Spa Celebrates Opening of Lincoln Location with Ribbon Cutting

Tailgate Safely with The Bridge Behavioral Health this Football Season

L I V E H yd r a t i o n S p a officially celebrated the grand opening of its first Lincoln location in Lenox Square Shopping Center, 7121 Pioneers Boulevard, on August 27. The Lincoln Chamber and the talented Hydration Spa staff were in attendance to help owners Mandy and Jeremy Brummels welcome this form of IV therapy to Lincoln.

With football season here, The Bridge Behavioral Health is asking the public to be safe while enjoying the big game. Here are a few tips to keep in mind: 1. Keep track of the number of drinks you consume. Use your smart phone notes or a piece of paper and make a note of each drink before having it. This will help you slow down if needed. 2. Measure the amount of alcohol going into each drink. 3. Set a number of drinks for the day. This allows you to enjoy without over-enjoying. 4. Find alternative drinks to enjoy the game. Sparkling water or soda can also be consumed, without the effects of alcohol. 5. Know your ‘no’. Be prepared to politely decline drinks to stay within your limits. 6. Don’t drink and drive. Have a designated driver to make sure you and your party make it home safely. The Bridge Behavioral Health, a local organization that connects people suffering from addiction and related mental-health issues with support and treatment, is raising funds to provide their annual alcohol-free tailgate party for those in recovery on November 20. All additional funds raised will also go to replacing their 18- and 24-year-old vans. Visit thebridgenebraska.networkforgood.com/ projects/137514-tailgate-safe-2021 to learn more about this campaign. Follow The Bridge on Facebook (@TheBridgeNebraska) and Twitter (@TheBridge_NE) for more information.

At LIVE Hydration Spa, promoting better health by means of hydration to enhance the immune system, reduce fatigue, and treat other chronic conditions is what they are all about. They do this through a special IV Therapy that is proven to be one of the most effective ways to improve overall wellness. IV nutrition is beneficial in preventing illness and improving symptoms of those suffering with pre-existing conditions. The Spa also offers other services including Botox, vitamin injections, Lipolean injections, ionic detoxification foot baths, and lab testing. For further information about LIVE Hydration Spa and their services, visit livehydrationspa.com or call the new Lincoln location at (402) 413-2042.

TFLC Prepares to Celebrate the Great American Smokeout November 18 Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC), the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department, and area businesses are once again collaborating to promote tobacco-free living in Lincoln and Lancaster County. #GASOLNK impacted over 8,000 individuals in 2020 and TFLC is hoping to affect even more this year as the event is expanding to include Lancaster County businesses with #GASOLancasterCoNe. GASO, or the Great American Smokeout, has been hosted by the American Cancer Society for more than 40 years on the third Thursday of November. The GASO event challenges people to stop smoking and helps people learn about the many tools they can use to help them quit and stay quit. The theme, ‘Who Do You Know?’, recognizes that while most people don’t use tobacco products, we are all impacted by tobacco use. FREE, ready-to-use resources are available for businesses, schools, and nonprofit organizations across Lancaster County to help educate employees on how to support those wanting to quit tobacco use and promote tobacco-free living. Participating businesses will be recognized and the Tobacco-Free Business Champion will be featured during the event. Tobacco Free Lancaster County works to protect the public by eliminating exposure to secondhand smoke, preventing youth from starting to use tobacco, providing tobacco education to all populations, and encouraging people to quit. Find out more about the program, register for the Great American Smokeout for FREE, and apply to be a Tobacco-Free Business Champion at www. TobaccoFreeLancasterCounty.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

ACCESS TO YOU.

ALL THE TIME.

Dr. Todd Johnson · Access Family Medicine is Lincoln’s first membership based, primary care clinic. · Provide your team with healthcare & peace of mind · Employees will receive all of their primary care needs for one low monthly rate! Krystal Jackson, PA-C Reduced, flat-rate plans available for businesses!

We love what we do, and we think you will too.

Stop by our location in Legacy Square today! 8101 O St., Suite 302 • AccessFamilyMedicine.com • 402-858-1510

OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Enhancing the Quality of Life for Those They Serve At The Residence at Gramercy, they focus on delivering excellence in all they do. They are dedicated to helping you achieve better health by offering an ideal combination of clinical and therapeutic outcomes and personal wellness goals. Their mission is to enhance the lives of those they serve, which means understanding that every situation is different and may require a menu of personalized health care solutions. They are dedicated to providing outstanding living for seniors that heighten patient and resident satisfaction.

Assisted living at Gramercy comes with many benefits and options, including: • Customizable care and services packages • Free cable TV • Well-stocked book and DVD library • Daily fitness activity • Beauty salon/barber shop • Restaurant-style dining with chef-inspired menu selections • Personal emergency response system • 24-hour beverage bar • Activity and party room • Spiritual care • Social programs and events

“What I like about this assisted living facility in particular is the 'home-like' feel! Residents here seem so happy, and love to be involved in the daily activities, such as card games, bingo, and, of course, the wonderful performances they have with talented musicians or entertainers throughout the community!” – Dalton C.

At Gramercy, their CARES values define what they expect from each other and also serve as a benchmark for measuring the work that we do and the quality of care that they provide. Their employees are extraordinary, passionate, and caring professionals who take great pride in their ability to serve in a broad range of health care services, including administrative, therapeutic, and support roles. By committing to the CARES values, their employees hold themselves to a higher standard, which in turn ensures they stay true to their mission – to enhance the quality of life for those they serve. • Character—They will do the right thing for their residents, co-workers, and company. They will not let their residents down. They will not let their co-workers down. • Attitude—They provide a positive, enriching work environment that their team members want to be a part of and that enhances the culture of their communities. • Respect—They extend courtesy, honor, and dignity in their everyday interactions with their team members, residents, patients, vendor partners, and visitors — as well as to themselves. • Excellence—They welcome team members dedicated to achieving personal and professional growth and are committed to providing opportunities that help them master and maintain the skills necessary to be excellent. • Service—They are dedicated to the service of their residents, fellow team members, and community. Gramercy thinks every day in active senior living communities should be rich with possibilities. That’s why they offer their residents freedom of choice and the opportunity to select from a number of options and activities that offer new adventures and experiences. The Residence at Gramercy is located at 6800 A St. and offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments that feature kitchenettes, spacious walk-in closets, and carpeted living rooms and bedrooms. Large windows give residents the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful view of the community’s walking paths and gardens.

6800 A Street, Lincoln | (402) 483-1010 Reserve your tour at theresidenceatgramercy.com 52

Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

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STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS Last Month Recap We had a really great time stuffing our faces with delicious burgers from Honest Abe's last month! We went to the newest location off of 84th and Glynoaks. They have such a variety to choose from, including a rotating menu and featured burger of the week. Plus, everyone drools over their freedom fries! A few of our friends treated themselves with a yummy shake as well. Our group was sat on the Sebastian's Table side of the building. We heard the sad news that Sebastian's has closed but a new concept is in the works—so that is exciting! Honest Abe's and what was Sebastian's are both owned by Ground Up Restaurant Group. They do a fantastic job presenting all their concepts and crafting irresistible menus.

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

402.483.7575

www.pioneerprintinginc.com

Friends4Lunch at Mckinney's Irish Pub on October 12, 11:30 a.m. We are excited to announce that our next Friends4Lunch event will be on Tuesday, October 12, at Mckinney's Irish Pub! It’s been about a year since we gathered at McKinney’s for the lunch. The restaurant's menu features yummy soups, salads, wraps, sandwiches, and other filling entree items like burgers, mac and cheese, fish and chips, and chicken tenders. The Starters menu has all your favorites, such as wings, pretzel bites, Reuben sliders, Irish nachos, quesadillas, and dips. Some may even want to top their meal off with a beer or Irish whiskey. To view the full menu, visit mckinneyspublincoln.com or call (402) 477-0021 to speak with someone at the restaurant.

Friends4Drinks at Tomahawks Axe Throwing on October 28, 4-7 p.m. Are you ready for a different kind of fun? Join the Strictly Business team for a few drinks and some axe throwing on Thursday, October 28, 4-7 p.m. Tomahawks strives to be Lincoln’s first choice for exciting, safe, social entertainment. The team prides themselves on delivering a warm, inclusive, and vibrant atmosphere where people can be social and have a blast being themselves. We're looking forward to welcoming old and new faces to try this out with us while building solid business relationships. RSVP is encouraged for these events. Please let the Strictly Business team know if you plan to attend by calling (402) 466-3330, emailing editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com, or marking yourself as “Going” on the Facebook event pages. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“Youth are not the generation of tomorrow; they are the generation of today." John C. Maxwell Middle & High School Youth face so many experiences and decisions. Identifying who they are, their goals, dreams, values, and how they are wired is key to being and becoming the best version of themselves. Check out a few ways to add value to youth!

Crew Clubs are designed for youth! Middle School and High School options. Crew Club Remix for Youth Grades 3-5. A leadership buffet where you get the best tools to be the best you!

“Go. Change Your World,” A Global Youth Initiative (GYI). John Maxwell Team Members around the world provide free Leadership training opportunities for our Youth.

Scan the QR Code to learn more about each of these offerings!

OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Lincoln's Best Choice in Custom Cabinetry for Over 50 Years Usher Custom Cabinets is a custom cabinet shop in Lincoln that has been around for over 50 years. Owner by Neal Chloupek, Usher's services are mainly focused on residential properties—kitchens, bathrooms, libraries, home theatres, bars, pantries, fireplaces and mantels, entertainment centers, display cases, curios, gun cabinets, and more. Customers are welcome to view hardware samples in-shop at the showroom located at 3521 N 40th St. Whether you prefer styles that are more traditional, contemporary, or casual, Usher Custom Cabinets has got you covered. Every job is tailored for each and every client, and all cabinets are custom-made to last with no limit on detail.

"I have nothing but positive regard for Usher. While outstanding workmanship is their top priority, their service is also top-notch. Neal and his team took the time to get a full appreciation for our needs/vision and provided expertise and creative thinking to ultimately deliver cabinetry that vastly exceeded our expectations. Last year, we worked with a well-known cabinet company in Omaha on a smaller project which resulted in a product that I consider far inferior to what we received from Usher. These guys know how to deliver top quality craftsmanship and quality service, and they deliver on schedule. Overall, we had an outstanding experience with Usher Custom Cabinets!" - Natalie P.

This unique job features a custom home library in a rich emerald green tone. A carefully designed sliding bookcase reveals a hidden pantry. Underlighting throughout the kitchen and pantry spaces adds to the bright light from the windows and skylights, highlighting the warmth of elegant gold hardware.

"Neal does high quality work and is great at customization. He did all the cabinetry in our house including the entrance bench, open shelves, etc. Everything shown is his work. They turned out exactly like the concept photos we gave him." - Kylie F.

This finished project showcases a beautiful contrast with the addition of sleek dark wood cabinetry throughout the kitchen, home office, and coat closet/entry way.

402-466-8749 | www.ushercustomcabinets.com 54

Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE by Wendy Birdsall, President

(402) 436-2350 • www.lcoc.com

Young Professionals Taking Leadership in Lincoln For young professionals today, Lincoln truly is the place to be. In fact, Insurify recently named our city as the best in the country for young professionals—a ranking that follows years of being included as one of the top 10 best by many other publications. I am so proud of our city for fostering a collaborative community enriched with a bolstering economy, connectivity, and endless opportunities for young professionals to flourish. Time and time again, I am reminded of why Lincoln continues to succeed—because of its people, especially its young people. Whether it is being ranked the happiest city in America according to Men’s Health Magazine, seventh-best city for remote workers according to Ownerly, or Storage Café’s 19th-best city for active lifestyles, these rankings reflect a common theme of a city that is attractive to a wide group of people, especially young professionals, that are looking for a place to call home for the long term. Each year, we highlight how our young professionals make their mark on Lincoln and how they continue to shape our future for the better. In celebration of Lincoln’s talented and impactful young professionals, YP Week kicked off on September 27 and concluded on October 1, showcasing popular events and topics that connect young professionals in our community. The series of curated speakers, discussion panels, and networking opportunities remains a popular event for Lincoln YPs from all corners of our community. In its second year, the Young Lincoln Leader Awards Gala recognized the outstanding efforts and contributions of individuals and organizations in Lincoln in seven different categories, including Young Professional of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Young Nonprofit Professional of the Year, Emerging Leader of the Year, Next Generation Workplace, and Diversity and Inclusion Excellence. I applaud all of the exceptional nominees and commend the winners for their ongoing contributions to our community. A full list of the winners can be found at lincolnypg. com/about-YLLA.

WHERE HOME IS... Sharing a laugh with a loved one.

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

402.480.6950 | www.thewaterford.net

Lincoln Young Professionals Group remains one of the largest in the country, serving over 2,000 members. Through educational, leadership, and networking opportunities, there are numerous ways to get involved in the community with fellow young professionals here in Lincoln. Our vision for Lincoln is one which in our community remains a place where young professionals not only engage and take ownership in its future professionally, but also personally and philanthropically. Lincoln YPs are active when it comes to policymaking at the local, state and national levels. Economic opportunities for YPs, community growth, social inclusiveness and diversity, and a balanced living environment are just a handful of public policy topics that Lincoln YPG is involved in. I am proud to say that the future of Lincoln rests in the hands of our capable and engaged young professionals as they are poised to make Lincoln even stronger in the years to come. To join Lincoln YPG or for more details, contact our Lincoln YPG program coordinator, Kayla Meyer via email at kaylameyer@lcoc.com or (402) 436-2369. The Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together. For more information, contact Derek Feyerherm at dfeyerherm@lincoln.org.

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OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Carpet Cleaning and So Much More! Top Spot Cleaning & Solutions Too is a professional carpet cleaning and floor care company serving Lincoln, Omaha, and the surrounding areas in Nebraska. Working in both residential and commercial properties, they clean carpets, rugs, tile and grout, furniture, wood floors, stone exteriors, and more. One of the specialties of Top Spot is sealing wood floors, which is different that sanding and coating. Their wood floor sealer offers permanent protection for the wood. In addition, concrete is always a challenge for businesses and homeowners alike, but Top Spot can repair both interior and exterior concrete corrosion. In many cases, they finish by protecting the concrete with a coating. The coating keeps salt and water from penetrating your outdoor concrete from future deterioration. After over 20 years in the business, you learn a thing or two, and one major thing Doug and his team have learned is that products matter! With Top Spot's experience, they will get you the clean you want by using only the best products available.

INTRODUCING A NEW SUPERIOR AIR FILTRATION SYSTEM Top Spot Cleaning & Solutions Too's air management division recently adopted a new solution for quality air management for hundreds of dollars instead of the thousands people spend to replace or install in-line electrostatic systems. The Sanders Electrostatic Filters are the next generation of room and air filtration. With efficiencies as high as 99.9998%, Sanders containment filters remove sub-micron particles the size of known viruses and bacteria from the air. For the first time, there is a solution that allows NIOSH N-99 Filtration without the need for HVAC system retrofit. Using a simple cut-to-fit pad, these filters can be applied to any current standard HVAC system or on a simple air mover for a quick and efficient “scrub” of the air. The current filters that are used in almost all residential and commercial systems are exclusively used to protect the coil of the HVAC system, providing purely a mechanical function. These filters do little-to-nothing to protect from the sub-micron pathogens that can travel through the HVAC system, possibly infecting people who would never come into contact. Most commercial and residential air filters are rated as a MERV 8 maximum. Even air filters rated MERV 10 are not rated for submicron air filtration which is the size of COVID-19, influenza, colds, measles, viruses, etc. A MERV level 13 air filter which is being discussed as a new minimum standard has only a submicron filtration efficiency rating of less than 50%. This is why Top Spot is excited to introduce Sanders Electrostatic Filters, HVAC air filters with capture rates far exceeding the EPA and ASHRAE indoor air quality guidelines (8-10 MERV). The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter is at trapping specific types of particles. Sanders Electrostatic Filters are rated at 16 MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value), which safely secures facilities and school systems. These high-efficiency particulate containment air filters remove 94% or greater of submicron particulates or more in a single pass, with filtration efficiencies at 0.3 microns (μm). This innovative material represents the simplest, most cost-effective method to achieve HEPA or near HEPA indoor air quality for the first time.

For more information, call Top Spot Cleaning & Solutions Too at (402) 570-4307 to schedule a test of your facility’s air quality.

topspotcleaning.com 56

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION by Bud Synhorst, President

(402) 466-3419 • www.liba.org

Supporting Local Earlier this year, my family and I took a vacation for the first time in over two years, which was refreshing and just what we needed. During the past year or so we have been talking about projects we want to get done around the house, specifically updating our basement. What better time to get a renovation done than while on vacation, right? In preparing for our vacation I started working with some LIBA members to plan the project. The interesting part was figuring out the timing of the project to make sure everything fell in line and was completed during the time we were gone. We ran into a few unexpected hurdles along the way and still got the project completed before we returned to Lincoln.

Resolve Your Pest Problems Quickly & Effectively • Commercial & Residential • EPA-Approved Methods • Fully Licensed & Insured • Results 100% Guaranteed! Environmentally Safe & Responsible Locally Owned & Operated • For a FREE estimate, call today!

Arrow Pest Control Protecting Health and Property

402-435-3747

www.ArrowPestNeb.com

Working with our local businesses for projects such as these is rewarding and knowing the contractors through connections as LIBA members gave us a special sense of trust in the project and opening our home to them while we were 700 miles away from home. We were confident in their abilities to complete the project and we only had a few conversations over text and phone to make sure the project was completed. When we returned home, we rushed to the basement and see how the renovations turned out. It was like children rushing to the tree on Christmas morning. The renovation exceeded our expectations and we couldn’t be happier with the outcome of the project. Only after the project was complete was I able to show the “in process” photos to my wife because I didn’t want to cause extra stress to her during our vacation. Why is this basement renovation story so important? Because we worked with local business owners – the people in our community who are invested in our community and in it for the long haul. I love working with our local business owners each and every day to help them to stay in business for the long term viability of our community. I enjoy the service we get from our local businesses whether it be for a project at home, shopping for and with my family, or shopping for LIBA, we enjoy the service our local businesses provide. I recently saw a post on social media noting we are less than 100 days from Christmas. How in the world has the year gone by so fast that it is time to start thinking about the holidays? As I think about the return we have seen to “normal” activities like concerts, dining out, football games, volleyball games, high school events, and more I think how important it is that each of us commit to making sure we are supporting our local businesses. They have endured the past 18+ months of the pandemic and are fighting every day to continue their business and to serve our community. As we embark on the last stretch until Christmas, I urge you to get out and support our local businesses. Buying gifts from these local businesses or giving gift cards to your local businesses keeps our local economy running here in Lincoln and Lancaster County. These businesses are the ones who constantly step up to support our local organizations with a donation for a raffle or auction. These are the businesses who step up to advertise at our local school events or activities. These are the businesses who are supporting local youth sports. During the pandemic these businesses have “paid it forward” in our community and now is the time for us to pay it back to them. Now more than ever, we need to make sure we shop local! 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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OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

A PHARMACY FOR EVERYONE Nebraska LTC Pharmacy is a concierge-style pharmacy that takes the stress out of managing medications. Founded by Shannon Hammerschmidt ten years ago, she wanted to offer more than the average retail pharmacy and to create something that made a difference for everyone, from patients to doctors to caregivers. They eliminate the need to travel to a pharmacy to pick up prescriptions by offering delivery services, and they help you to keep better track of medications by increasing the adherence of the packaging with easy-to-use blister packs. Nebraska LTC offers free at-home consultations to assess your current medication situation and help sort through current and old prescriptions, disposing of anything that a patient is no longer needing or may be expired. Their goal is to provide unmatched care, customer service, and attention to detail that far exceed that of retail pharmacies. When giving care to an individual taking medications, contact Nebraska LTC to confirm that prescriptions are safe to take together. The pharmacist will do a medication review and contact any doctors involved with a patient’s care to ensure there is understanding all around. When utilizing this service, caregivers do not need to worry that medications are negatively interacting with each other and harming one’s health. Nebraska LTC continues to thrive and succeed while delivering the highest quality of care to their patients by following their set goals. • Provide individualized patient care that increases safety and prolongs patients’ independence • Avoid “poly-pharmacy,” or the concurrent use of multiple medications • Utilize an interdisciplinary care approach by increasing communication among healthcare professionals • Reduce medication errors and hospitalizations by utilizing the adherence packaging • Provide a “small town” level of customer service. No automated systems, just great care! Nebraska LTC Pharmacy provides free delivery in both Lincoln and Omaha, and if you are not in a delivery area, then they will ship the medication to your door. The pharmacy also has a location in both cities.

“The crew at Nebraska LTC has been nothing less than amazing. They work tirelessly to make sure our orders are always on time and correct. They are so thorough and helpful. They do such a great job, and Shannon has been awesome to work with!” – Tanea V.

“Nebraska LTC Pharmacy is the best pharmacy I've worked with in over 20 years of living and working in Lincoln. They are willing to work with me to get what individuals need, even if it's hard, or there's a 'hurdle' which need to be jumped. It's very clear this pharmacy is here to help people. That is their first goal.” – Matt N.

“Shannon is the absolute best to work with! There's no way I could keep track of all my dad's meds by myself! The blister packs are a Godsend!” – Brooke R.

neltcpharmacy.com Lincoln – 3901 Normal Blvd. STE 203 | (402) 328-0231 Omaha – 284 N 115th St. | (402) 916-4501 Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION by Todd Ogden, President

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

Family-Owned for 3 Generations, Melichar 66 is the Place to Tailgate In October of 1969, Bruce Melichar's father started Melichar 66, the landmark Phillips 66 gas station we've all walked or driven by on the corner of 9th and P Streets. More than a gas station, Melichar 66 also specializes in all aspects of vehicle repair and engine diagnostics, servicing all makes and models. Today, Bruce is the owner and his son Jeff is the manager. Bruce worked with his father for a number of years. He even remembers being in grade school when they built the station. The goal has always been to keep it in the family, so Bruce bought his dad out in 1978, the same year Jeff was born. The scores on the marquee started in the fall of ‘69 right when they opened. In January of 1978, the station caught on fire and destroyed most of the place, but not the marquee. “In January ‘89, we took quite a bit of damage,” Bruce said. “We used to have the type of canopy where it was pitched, like a tent, opposed to the modern style we currently have now. The inside changed a bit, and the outside too, but the marquee always stood tall.” People come all-around to tailgate at the station. The Melichar's welcome everyone to come and enjoy watching a good game of football, no matter the team. “For about 20 years now, people have come to the station not just wanting to park here, but wanting to tailgate,” Jeff said. “They bring their truck, a tent or something to put up behind it, and a spread of cold beer and some sandwiches, fried chicken, etc.” Today, it has evolved into something much more. Melichar 66 has become a game day staple. Some visitors rent the spots and bring their five-year-old son to see his first game and experience the environment. Bruce and Jeff have built a community through these tailgates—it's become a sort of football family. A lot of people who rent the spots season after season have gotten close with each other and will coordinate who brings what for the next game. It usually ends up being a big potluck! Melichar 66 is most memorable for the marquee. It is known for displaying quippy phrases about the games and predicts the scores. It’s not uncommon for opposing fans to walk by and take pictures of the marquee. "Picking the scores is always the fun part,” said Jeff. Bruce and Jeff do their own due diligence to calculate the overunder and the point spread of the game by going over all the stats. They ask themselves, how did the team do last year? Who did they play? Who do they win and lose to and by how much? Are there any players injured on the team? Etc. No matter what their stats tell them, though, the Melichars never pick a loss because it jinxes the team. That is their game-day superstition.

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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Jodie McGill is impassioned about supporting women and others who strive for independence, diversity, and recognition. Jodie’s training and experience in Collaborative Divorce are unmatched in the state of Nebraska. Since 2011, she has helped families reach amicable, swift, and peaceful resolutions to their legal issues. Jodie’s mastery of family law and unique understanding of the trauma and stress families can experience with divorce are a few of the reasons why she has been locally and nationally recognized. Jodie founded McGill Law in 2011 so that she could combine her passions, skills, and expertise to help more people. Jodie recently expanded McGill Law and now has an office in Lincoln as well as in Omaha. McGill Law has five highly skilled attorneys and a dedicated support staff who help families achieve the best outcome for their legal issues. They specialize in family law issues including divorce, modifications, adoptions, estate planning and guardianships. Jodie is also now proud to offer the services of McGill Mediation, an alternative dispute resolution method led by a neutral party who facilitates the problem-solving process for all involved.

Learn more about McGill Law and their unique approach at www.mcgilllawyers.com. Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

Passionate about entrepreneurship, Echo Bell is the founder and CEO of Bell Solutions - Lincoln’s CFO on the Go. Serving as a virtual chief financial officer for startups and small businesses, Echo and her team provide accounting, compliance, and strategy solutions to entrepreneurs locally and around the world. Known for her infectious energy and unique leadership style, Echo built a successful career in accounting, business management, and small business development before launching the CFO on the Go model. Echo’s work developing and implementing process, systems, and compliance programs has made her a trusted advisor among small business owners. Recognized as a Premier Certified Intuit ProAdvisor, she and her team have redefined the standard approach to small business compliance and financial management. “I am so proud of the work we have done in the last couple of years, but then again it’s easy to do cool things in our industry when you are always surrounded by phenomenal entrepreneurs,” said Echo. In 2018, Echo took Bell Solutions remote and set fire to the restraints put on women in the workplace. Today, she leads a team of talented accountants, dedicated moms, and all-around brilliant women. To learn more, visit bellsolutions.biz or call (402) 314-8460. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Marcie Young is the owner of Marcia Young & Associates, LLC and is an investment adviser and Regional Vice President for Primerica. With an office in Lincoln, Marcie has over 35 years of investment experience working with clients in Nebraska and throughout the Midwest. Raised in a Nebraska farming family, Marcie infuses the values of honesty, integrity, and pragmatism into her relationships with clients. She finds great fulfillment in helping clients create workable solutions to their personal financial challenges. Marcie works with individuals, families, and business owners, educating them about their financial options for building and protecting wealth. Marcie is committed to delivering financial advice that delivers solutions. Creating personalized investment plans for her clients gives them confidence as they navigate retirement planning and other important life events. You can rely on Marcie to be accessible, to support you in your investment decisions, and to help you implement changes as they become necessary. Services available include financial planning, managed accounts, IRAs, mutual funds, variable annuities, 401ks, term life insurance, and senior care insurance. Contact Marcie for a complimentary consultation at (402) 476-6778 or visit www.brokercheck. com / www.primerica.com.

“Life is an adventure… enjoy the ride!” This is a favorite motto of Mar y Jo Cassner, owner of Transworld Business Advisors of Lincoln. She and her team of brokers and staff have been helping buyers and sellers of businesses connect since 2014. Since this is such a male-dominated business, Mary Jo chose to use her initials “MJ” in the workplace. MJ previously was the owner and director of LearningRx of Lincoln and Norfolk, NE for nearly a decade. When she sold her own businesses, she realized how important having a business broker to assist in the process was. MJ received training from the Transworld Franchise Headquarters in West Palm Beach, FL and has trained brokers under her and sold nearly 100 businesses in Lincoln and the surrounding communities. She has a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction, and is certified to sell franchises as well as businesses. She enjoys assisting and educating people on the benefits of owning a business. “My faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is truly my anchor for success,” said MJ. “I believe ethical standards and compassionate care for people in a vitally transitional time in their lives is crucial for success.” MJ’s passion for excellence in business is evident in her company’s success and contributions to the Lincoln community. MJ can be reached at (402) 413-1095 / mjcassner@tworld.com. If you have considered selling your business or would like to own your own, find out more about available businesses at Transworld.com/Lincoln. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Terri Krolikowski, Mrs. Nebraska 1988, is the owner and health coach of Ideal Health Nebraska with Ideal Protein—a holistic threephase protocol focusing on weight loss, stabilization, and maintenance using one’s own body for fuel to become healthy. This ketogenic diet was developed 30 years ago by French medical Doctor Tran Tien Chanh as a means of preserving lean body mass, including muscles, bones, and tissues while losing fat. With over 30 years of experience in career and management consulting in healthcare and education, Terri has coached countless clients to become their healthiest by assisting them through their own transformation journey mentally, emotionally, and physically. Eating healthy and education are key components for those who suffer from health issues like heart disease, diabetes, depression, and crohn's disease. After losing 65 pounds in six months, Terri became a health coach in 2012. She opened Ideal Health Lincoln in 2017 and Ideal Health North Platte in 2020. Today, Terri has four P's in her life: Purpose, Passion, Perseverance, and Paying It Forward! To learn more, visit idealhealthnebraska.com or contact terri@idealhealthnebraska. com / (402) 430-9754.

“Every woman’s success should be an inspiration to another. We’re strongest when we cheer each other on.” - Serena Williams Farmers Union Midwest Agency provides insurance protection to individuals and business of all sizes across the Midwest. They strive to build better communities by protecting where you work, where you live, what you own, and the ones you love. It is their individual and organizational goal to provide quality products and the highest level of customer service to not just meet their customer’s expectations, but to exceed them! Jennifer Larabee joined Farmer’s Union Midwest Agency in August of 2018. Her insurance career originally started in 2005 at Assurity Life Insurance where she worked in multiple positions for 12 years and then with State Farm for nearly two years. When she was given the opportunity to start an agency at Farmer’s Union Midwest Agency, she knew this was the right fit. “I have always been passionate about insurance,” said Jennifer. “I enjoy helping people find the best coverage that fits their needs and I want to be there for my clients by helping them understand their insurance benefits.” Whether you need help with your individual life or health related needs or need assistance with your employee group benefits, Jennifer is happy to help! She can be reached at (402) 560-0047 or visit www.fumafinancial.com to learn more. OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business 61

Ali Evans and Meg Crawford are kicking off their third season as coowners/directors of Elements Dance Concept Ali and Meg met while teaching dance together and realized how well they worked as a team. Ali has danced recreationally since age three and competitively since age seven. She graduated from Concordia University where she danced for four years, was captain for two years, and then went on to be assistant coach for three years. Ali is also a photographer and loves mixing her love of dance with photography. Meg has danced recreationally and competitively since she was five years old. She earned her bachelor’s in dance in 2015 from UNL, and then her associate’s degree in graphic design from SCC in 2017. Though owning her own dance studio once seemed like a pipe dream, her love for the art motivated her to teach it to others—and her students walk away having learned much more than just dance techniques. Located in Milford, Elements Dance Concept is an award-winning dance studio that offers high-quality dance classes for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds who are looking for creative selfexpression, exercise, and social opportunities through dance. It’s not too late to join classes—enrollment is still open on the website. Visit elementsdanceconcept.com for the schedule and more information.

Kerry Butzke runs her own insurance agency, Butzke Insurance, Inc., and she is also the district sales coordinator for Aflac with two administrators and three agents working for her. Kerry is truly a go-getter. She decided to take a leap and start her own agency not long after she graduated from Midland University with her bachelor’s degree in business administration, double majoring in accounting and business management. It’s been 10 years since then, and Kerry has grown her business tremendously. It must be in the blood as her dad and two brothers also run their own businesses. Insurance isn’t her only job, though. She takes much pride in being a mom to a sweet six-year-old boy named Rhett. He is her joy and the reason she started her business. Kerry wanted to be there for her family when needed while still being able to support them by doing something that directly reflected her work ethic. Kerry helps business owners create a specialized benefits packages tailored to their business. Supplemental benefits are the new “health insurance” and everyone wants these benefits to be offered at their place of employment, especially hospitals. People also want income protection to help if they can’t work and pay their high deductibles. COVID has caused a higher need in these areas, and Kerry is glad she can help provide people with extra protection and peace of mind! Kerry’s administrators provide the BEST service around and will take care of any claims people have, so they don’t have to call an 1-800 number. There is even a specific COVID policy she provides to offer people ease during this time.

Kerry has been described by her clients as efficient, flexible, diligent, and one to take extreme care in explaining and developing benefits that best serve their needs. Connect with Kerry by calling (402) 643-5148 or go to her Facebook page (@ butzkeinsuranceAFLAC). Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning was started by John Henry (Jack) Zohner and his wife Deb Zohner. In August 2019, their daughter Lindsey Reinke took over as one of the owners. Lindsey has been working at John Henry’s for 19 years in different areas to fully understand how the business runs. “John Henry’s has always been my passion. It was started out of our family home, that my husband and I purchased 12 years ago, and I still see my parents working on the business in spaces that we have made our own,” said Lindsey. “Owning a company in a predominantly male industry encourages me to grow it with the same family values that were instilled in me from day one of John Henry’s. Our slogan is “Our Family Serving Yours”, because that is what we want you to feel every time you call us!” Learn more about the John Henry’s family at JHLincoln.com! You can also reach Lindsey at (402) 435-5555 or LReinke@jhlincoln.com.

New Franc hisee Melissa Goodwin is excited to introduce Locals Love Us Magazine to the Lincoln market. She has over 25 years of experience in building new things—from grant programs to medical devices. As a wife and mother of four children, Melissa believes innovation and creativity enable her to be not only a better partner and parent, but a better business owner. She’s always experimenting and trying to think of how to be more efficient and effective. "I believe small business owners and entrepreneurs are the backbone of our country, and I want to support them and help them grow," said Melissa. "Advertising has changed. Consumers are smart and they look to reviews and research for confirmation of what products and services actually work. What I love about Locals Love Us Lincoln is that it's an opportunity to take those word-of-mouth, positive recommendations from the community and compile all the 'best of' in each category into an annual magazine and online presence that residents and visitors can access easily. It's a fantastic resource for the community—it's a way to lift up local businesses, and the annual voting contest is really fun!" Locals Love Us Lincoln starts with local residents voting for their favorite places and businesses. Locals (verified by phone and zip code) can vote for as many businesses as they like in the secure, online survey. Winning businesses earn the opportunity to advertise in the magazine. So the only places that can advertise are those who were first chosen by Lincoln residents. It's advertising you can trust! Learn more at localsloveus.com or email Melissa at melissa@localsloveus.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“Feminism isn’t about making women stronger. Women are already strong, it’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.” - G.D. Anderson

Natasha Salem started Inspiring Homes Design in 2014 and expanded it in 2015. Natasha aspires to offer a p p ro a c h a b l e d e s i g n s e r v i c e s tailored to each clients’ individual needs. Inspiring Homes Designs offers interior design services for new construction and remodeling projects. This includes creating floor plan layouts, 3D renderings, paint selection and furniture selection for projects both big and small. They also offer custom window treatments and furnishings to work with your personal style. Natasha would love to assist in making your home a space you love! You can check out Inspiring Homes Design’s project pictures online at www. ihdne.com or set up a time to visit the studio, located at 4747 Pioneers Blvd., STE 110, for furniture and window treatment ideas. Contact Natasha with any questions or to chat about your upcoming projects. She can be reached at (402) 770-6457 or by email at natasha@ihdne.com.

Shannon Schultz-Hammerschmidt is the owner and founder of Nebraska LTC Pharmacy. Shannon has spent her entire life in Nebraska and has worked in many different pharmacy settings before settling into her passion here at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy. “Here at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy, everything is about YOU,” said Shannon. “We are a locally owned ‘concierge’ pharmacy that specializes in compliance and adherence as well as simplifying the medication process from start to finish. Our attention to every little detail decreases hospitalizations while prolonging our patients’ independence by keeping them at home. We offer a free in home consultation, free blister packaging of medications, and free delivery. We accept all insurance plans, so what is not to love about our program!” Nebraska LTC Pharmacy is off to a great start this year as they approach their 10-year anniversary this spring! There is no better time to join the Nebraska LTC Pharmacy family than now. Learn more online at www. neltcpharmacy.com or call the Lincoln office at (402) 328-0231. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The crazy-creative ladies of Urban Legends Art Studio, located at 232 N 48th St., are celebrating 10 years of being Lincoln's Interactive Art Studio. Owners Anna Alcalde, Cindy Schroeder, and Kay Glenn offer a plethora of art classes from Acrylic painting on door hangers, porc h boards and canvas, to water-color classes, Zen Tangle, and Acrylic pour art. Try your hand at some of the latest popular classes such as Macrame hangers, Fun Fiber Wall Weaving, and Resin Jewelry made easy. They even make wine glass painting easy! New classes are offered monthly. The allwomen staff at Urban Legends Art Studio enjoy taking "art" off the high shelf and teaching artists of all levels. Anna, Cindy, and Kay take pride in creative community involvement in beautiful Lincoln. They teach art therapy group classes at memory care facilities, have worked with positive SmART Talks, and taught at many after school clubs with LPS. They are the 2021 recipient of the Nebraska Girl Scouts "Donna West Award" for teaching and investing in our future young women leaders and Anna Alcalde was awarded a "Mayors Art Award" in 2019 for art lessons teaching empathy to middle school students. Learn more at urbanlegendsart.com or call (402) 470-0331 for parties.

Angela MoranManzitto and Sarah Peter are the franchise partners of the two Clean Juice locations in Nebraska—one in Lincoln and one in Omaha. Both Angela and Sarah have spent a long time in the family health field, so they discussed starting a business together. They wanted to find a healthminded concept to get behind. They looked at a number of franchises, but Clean Juice shined brighter than the rest because of the honesty behind the product and how it was produced. What you see is what you get, made in-store from the top to the bottom. Since opening their first location in Lincoln in 2019, Angela and Sarah have seen how ready Nebraska is for this kind of a shift. Angela, with her experience as a physician assistant at a Lincoln family practice clinic, is more directly involved with the operations of the stores. Sarah handles the marketing side of things. She previously was an Emmy Award-winning television producer for reality TV shows such as MTV's The Osbournes. Clean Juice has a full menu of fresh, cold-pressed juices, the recipes for which are designed to aid in your body’s natural processes. In addition to fresh, organic, expertly formulated juices, you’ll find a full menu of wraps, salads, smoothies, avocado toast, and in colder months, hot and hearty organic soups. To learn more, visit www. cleanjuice.com/locations/ lincoln or call the Lincoln store at (402) 417-0788. OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business 63

WHOLE BODY & MIND HEALTH

When you think about your health, you probably think about the actual physical state you are in, and whether you have illness, disease, or injuries. In this story, we are encouraging you to look at your health from a holistic standpoint – that is, a perspective that looks at your overall body and mind health and considers how your physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social needs interact with and affect each other. Your body works together as a system, and all parts affect each other. For example, as Dignity Health explains on their website, stress is a psychological response, but it can also cause physical symptoms, such as headaches, trouble sleeping, weight gain, and muscle pain. Studies also show that having close friendships can lower your blood pressure and stress levels. These are just a couple examples of how your mental and social needs can affect your physical health. According to the World Health Organization, around 65-80% of the world population uses holistic naturopathic medicine as a primary form of health care. Americans are making more visits to holistic healthcare providers than to M.D.s and spend more money out-of-pocket; recent estimates suggest $30 billion a year. Holistic health practices continue to grow in popularity due to its increasing accessibility and the wide range of ailments that it can treat. Even if you are not into holistic health practices, it is still important to know how each part of our body can affect our overall health, so we spoke to some local experts in various fields about how their business can help you achieve whole body and mind health. From optometrists and dentists to IV therapy and CBD oils, you can find it all in this holistic health story! How CBD Works CBD supplements have been growing in popularity over the years. If you stay involved with news and research about supplements 64 Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

and medicine, you likely know about CBD and some of its benefits. We know that there are still a lot of questions these days about CBD and how it works, so we went straight to the pros to get some answers. CBD American Shaman is U.S. Hemp Authority Certified and carries CBD products made from industrial hemp. Their products range from oils and topicals to candy and tea. They even offer CBD oil for cats, dogs, and horses, which may help with pain, inflammation, anxiety, and joint health. Lance Schroeder, owner of CBD American Shaman, explained to us how CBD works in the body. “We all have an endocannabinoid Schroeder system, which is run by a form of CBD CBDLance American Shaman called anandamide. That system puts our whole body into balance,” explained Lance. “That’s what they call homeostasis. CBD gets those receptors working properly throughout the body, which helps get the body back into balance. CBD is all-natural and non-habit forming.” According to Lance, one of the biggest challenges they face in helping people achieve whole body and mind health is education. At American Shaman, all of their customer service representatives are certified CBD consultants, allowing them to help customers decide which products are best for them. “It’s our goal to educate our customers. Our customer service representatives are certified consultants in the CBD industry, so they can answer the hard questions,” said Lance. “The other major difference between CBD American Shaman and most other companies is our advanced technology and quality control. We #PrintProudDigitalSmart

have a proprietary nanotechnology, which represents the ultimate refinement of hemp oil concentrate. This makes the size of the molecule smaller so that your body absorbs 90-100% of the CBD. At other companies, you will only absorb 10-30% of the CBD. Our 300 milligram water soluble is comparable to other companies’ 3000 milligram standard oil tincture.” One of the struggles that Lance believes society faces today when trying to achieve whole mind and body health is being consistent with our routine. In today’s world, everyone wants instant gratification, he explained, so a regular routine can be harder to fall into when results aren’t seen immediately. He recommends starting slow and setting goals. When you are consistent in your habits and take it one step at a time, practicing self-awareness, you will start to see changes happening in your life. We all know it’s important to get the right amount of sleep at night – but do we all make it a priority? Poor sleep hygiene has been linked to many medical conditions, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and immune function. If you are struggling to get into a habit of adequate sleep, or if you have trouble falling or staying asleep, CBD American Shaman has products that can help you reach your sleep goals. “We carry CBNight to help with sleep support,” Lance shared. “CBNight harnesses the power of CBN, a cannabinoid found in hemp plants, to support healthy sleep cycles. CBNight works with your body’s own endocannabinoid system to reinforce positive sleeping patterns. When you’re ready to go to bed, take CBNight to help you feel ready for sleep, and wake up feeling rested and energized.”

Come experience our natural, proactive approach to medicine. We offer membership-based integrative healthcare services that are proactive and personalized. Our philosophy is built on building a healthy lifestyle that prevents chronic disease rather that simply treating symptoms after they occur. See how we’re evolving health.

Let natural therapies evolve your health. 7160 S. 29th St., Suite 7, Lincoln, NE, 68516

A One-Stop-Shop! There is a clinic in Lincoln that offers access to a medical doctor as well as other healthcare providers, giving you one location for all of your healthcare needs. Visit Aceso Total Health, P.C. for a suite of products and services that encourage whole body health. Offering traditional medical services for preventative medicine, and providing functional medicine and hormone replacement therapy, Aceso presents a wide range of services that include nutrition counseling, exercise counseling, diet/weight management, stress management, yoga and movement therapy, medical massage, acupuncture, and a host of natural supplements. With an integrated model like this, clients can choose the therapies that they believe will most benefit them. “Aceso Total Health is the first in our comm unity to offer an integrated, membership-based holistic health experience, all for the price of a high-end gym membership,” said Dr. Todd Alan Rober ts, MD. “Although anyone may walk-in and use any of our services, we encourage people to make a commitment to their health by becoming members. This will allow them to use all of our services to approach health problems from multiple angles. Dr. Todd Alan Roberts Aceso Total Health, P.C. A surprising number of health problems can be addressed by natural therapies, and Aceso Total Health is one of the few companies to offer integrated holistic services to the public.” Like most things in life, building and maintaining good health is about planning. Everyone needs to work into their schedule a basic plan and an execution of daily behaviors that will maintain and improve their health. However, the most common challenge is that we tend to become stressed, sedentary, or busy, and we do not complete these daily tasks to keep up with our health. Eventually, this catches up to us and we fall ill. At Aceso, they teach their clients to visit a doctor before any problems begin. Dr. Roberts says that while this idea is intuitively simple, it is not #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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currently the practice in traditional medicine. He also touched on what he believes are the four pillars of good health: diet, exercise, lifestyle, and sleep. He believes that these need to be addressed before any other consideration.

elevation of cortisol and insulin, I believe, is responsible for much of the insulin resistance, diabetes, hypertension, and many other common diseases in our society. This constant stress also affects their mental health which results in depression and anxiety.”

“It is ironic how little any of these four get talked about at a doctor’s office,” said Dr. Roberts. “With regard to sleep, many folks do not understand the various stages of sleep. It is at stage III/IV where the restorative/immune boosting/improved health occurs. However, this stage is difficult to get into when there are distractions such as sounds, lights in the room, dogs waking you up, etc. We counsel our patients on good sleep hygiene as well as other natural products to help get truly good rest and restorative sleep.”

Did you remember to take your vitamins today? Make sure you do! In an ideal world, vitamins and supplements would not be necessary and we would simply get the needed nutrients from our diet. However, Dr. Roberts says that the world’s food supply has changed over the last 50 years, and with the advent of highproduction farming, many of the nutrients that we need are no longer in our food supply at adequate amounts.

As for exercise, Dr. Roberts describes it as “the bane of the modern lifestyle.” We all know we should do it, but we just do not get around to it. He says that our evolution suggests that we are made to move, and sitting for 12 to 16 hours a day is not the way we are built. Aceso encourages their clients to start very simply by walking – just to get moving – and gradually build up. They also offer movement therapy through yoga as part of their service. Challenges may get in the way of adding more movement to your daily routine, so it’s a good idea to take a step back and reevaluate how you can tackle these obstacles. Dr. Roberts spoke to us about common challenges, and the consequences that they may have if not addressed. “I think the biggest challenges for people in today’s society are that they do not have enough time, and they are stressed. We all feel like we do not have enough time to get our daily lives in order,” Dr. Roberts shared. “With work, kids, family, shopping, events, etc., many people feel like they do not have enough time, and the first things to be jettisoned are good health practices. Second, since people are constantly stressed, this changes their physiology, raising their cortisol and insulin levels. This constant

“I believe then, that we need to do some form of supplementation to account for the lack of nutrients in our food supply,” said Dr. Roberts. “The problem is, many people go overboard and take handfuls of supplements at a time. There are few supplements that everyone needs in my opinion, such as vitamin D and fish oil, but others should be tailored to the needs of the individual client.” Dr. Roberts believes that someone who is looking to improve their health, but is struggling, should admit to needing some help. It’s okay if you need an extra hand – that’s why Aceso is here, to address all of your health needs! Aceso’s wide variety of services are available to help individuals get on the right track and reach their health goals, and it all starts with the lifestyle you choose to live. “The number one thing to reach whole body health is to adopt the right lifestyle,” explained Dr. Roberts. “Nobody else can choose your lifestyle for you—you must decide what is important. Eating right, exercising, and adopting the right mental attitude, is all up to you. Being educated on the right health practices, and the right way to do things, is essential.”

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The Window to the Soul Did you know, according to the Cleveland Clinic, that an eye exam can reveal underlying health issues? Some of these issues include diabetes, hypertension, inflammatory conditions, and metastatic cancer. It may come as a surprise, but many optometrists can identify issues such as these through an eye exam, including Lincoln’s own Dr. Dan Novak with Premier Vision. “The approach I take to ocular health benefits the entire body,” explained Dr. Novak. “We know that our eyes will usually represent a person’s general health. If a person smokes or is in general poor health with diabetes or hypertension, that will reflect in the eyes. By encouraging more preventative care, such as whole body health – including exercise/diet/supplements – we know that the eyes will benefit as well.”

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Dr. Dan Novak Premier Vision

Dr. Novak says that there is a direct correlation between poor eye health and decreased quality of life, higher prevalence of depression, and increased mortality rate. Screen time is a big factor in eye health, as too much of it can lead to eye strain/fatigue. Dr. Novak reminds us that technology is always developing and improving, but our eyes are staying the same. Premier Vision provides certain products and services that can alleviate some of these issues and allow people to use their eyes more efficiently in our technology-based society. “I often ask my patients how often they use their eyes during the day. Obviously, we use our eyes at all waking times,” Dr. Novak said. “This tends to help patients understand the importance of their eyes and help encourage them to invest in certain products or services that may help them in their day to day life.” William Shakespeare once said, “The eyes are the window to your soul.” Dr. Novak believes this to be true when it comes to holistic health. He said that if we take care of our eyes and vision, it will reflect on all areas of our mind, body, and health. “Premier Vision aims to provide services and products that will allow our patients to achieve optimal eye health and help them to live their best possible lives while not having to worry about their eyes.” Put Your Right Foot Forward According to the Pew Research Center, 69% of adults and 81% of teenagers in the United States use social media. Social media consumption has been connected to a manipulated view of one’s life and appearances, fear of missing out, isolation, depression, anxiety, cyberbullying, and self-absorption. With all of the problems that can be caused by online platforms, one of the biggest health challenges in today’s society is guarding one’s self against the convincing and misleading comments that come from social media. In the exercise world, it can be discouraging to not see results as quickly as you would like, while others online are seemingly dropping pounds or gaining muscle in way less time. This can lead to other issues, such as body dysmorphia and eating disorders – it ultimately becomes a dangerous domino effect that hurts more than just your physical health. We spoke to Jeff Madsen, owner of Right Foot Forward Fitness, about the influence of social media on today’s society. Jeff Madsen Right Foot Forward Fitness

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“Social media in particular can be problematic for our selfperception. There are many people in Lincoln putting out uplifting and affirming content, and I’m thankful for them, but be aware of how your media consumption is making you feel,” Jeff advised. “Something that’s supposed to be motivational shouldn’t be making you feel depressed or diminished in any way. In many situations, the images we’re seeing are not very realistic for the average person. Focus on your journey and find people to support you meaningfully along the way.” If you don’t know where to start on your journey, visit the team at Right Foot. They have personal training and coaching programs designed to address workouts, diet, and food choices, with a focus on mind-set as it relates to your specific fitness journey. They provide their clients with weekly exercise programs, complete with follow-along videos and a digital tracking platform. They can track multiple health inputs, from biometrics to daily sleep, allowing them to assess many factors as it relates to your health. It’s a great program – but Jeff understands that motivation can also be an obstacle in one’s health journey. If you are struggling to find your drive, Jeff suggests taking smalls steps until you find your rhythm. “Slow down and break things into more manageable pieces,” Jeff recommended. “We tend to go from zero to 60 miles an hour when it comes to our health and fitness – and then wonder why we couldn’t maintain it for very long. Remember: small hinges swing large doors. Start with small changes to your diet (such as eliminating pop or alcohol) and small changes to your approach to activity and exercise. Look for accountability (this can be a friend or partner). Your health is all about small daily actions, not heroic efforts.” Jeff says that the best prescription for good health is to consume plenty of whole foods with lots of vegetables, some fruit, and some lean meats or alternate protein sources. He also says that supplements can be a valuable part of staying healthy and making sure that you’re getting the macronutrients you need to stay on track with your health and fitness. Jeff also reminds us that all aspects of our health work together, and it’s good to work a little bit at a time on all areas of our lives. Those activities will compound and support each other! At the end of the day, Right Foot’s main goal is to help people reach their own fitness goals. “We aren’t trying to sell a miracle. Instead, we offer support and a reasonable and achievable plan for improving your life through good food and plenty of functional activity,” Jeff said. “At Right Foot Forward Fitness, we are not focused on ‘beach bodies.’ We are here to help people recapture and keep their health and fitness. We are about camping, days at the lake, bike rides, dogs, playing with the kids and grandkids, holding hands and taking walks…we are about helping people do the things they love to do with the people they love to do them with!” OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business

Open Wide!

Dr. Michael Kotopka Williamsburg Dental

Similar to your vision, your oral health can greatly affect your overall health. It’s time to stop lying to our dentists about how often we floss, and get into a good habit of consistent at-home dental care; poor oral health has been linked to conditions such as endocarditis, cardiovascular disease, pneumonia, and pregnancy and birth complications, according to the Mayo Clinic. We spoke to Dr. Michael Kotopka at Williamsburg Dental about what steps we can take to protect our teeth and gums, and how it can ultimately help to preserve our body and mind.

“When trying to achieve whole body and mind health, it is vital to maintain a healthy oral routine through daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular dental visits,” said Dr. Kotopka. “Simple, consistent efforts make a big difference for long-term oral, and therefore overall, health. Even if you aren’t dealing with tooth pain now, issues could be developing and manifest in the future. Don’t put off necessary dental appointments that could spare you the trouble and expense of treating the problem later.” Dr. Kotopka explained that it’s common for people to only visit the dentist when something goes wrong, such as a toothache or a cracked tooth. While they are happy to help during a dental emergency or to help you rebuild your smile, he wants people to know that most problems can be prevented altogether with regular preventive care, such as professional cleanings, regular checkups, or wearing a nightguard. “Most people don’t think of dental care as contributing to their overall well-being, but even simple services like preventive

cleanings do!” shared Dr. Kotopka. “Our comprehensive restorative and periodontal services keep your smile healthy and strong, allowing you to eat healthy foods and have confidence in your smile. Examples of specific services we offer that contribute to health include preventive checkups and cleanings, dental implants, porcelain crowns, and full mouth reconstruction.” It’s very important to take care of our oral health if we want to minimize the risk of future conditions, according to Dr. Kotopka. He addressed studies that have found that gum disease (which is found in about half of American adults) is directly linked to heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s, just to name a few. Taking care of your teeth and gums promotes your overall wellness by reducing inflammation and harmful bacteria. “Plus, when you’re not confident about your smile or when you have damaged or unattractive teeth, your mental health and self-esteem can suffer because you smile less,” Dr. Kotopka said. “Confidence in showing your smile gives you a mood boost, as well as helps you in your relationships and interactions with others.” Williamsburg Dental is a unique option in the industry thanks to their dental insurance accepted, dental savings plan for those without insurance, comprehensive care for the whole family in one office, nitrous oxide sedation available, and the convenience of having six locations throughout Lincoln. Not a Trend – A Solution Many people have been trying CBD products to soothe pain and stress and boost their overall wellbeing, and while the amount of products and availability has skyrocketed, the quality and availability of information have not. In fact, a lot of people want to try CBD products but feel overwhelmed, confused, or unsure of what they are or where to start. We spoke to Scott Brady, co-founder of Trek CBD, about what his business is accomplishing in the community.

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Scott Brady Trek CBD

“Because we’re a locally owned business in Lincoln, we have the privilege of helping people in our community on their journey to improving their wellness and well-being,” said Scott. “Our goal at Trek CBD in Lincoln is to empower people with data-driven, science-backed resources to educate as well as high-quality, lab-tested products. That’s why we are dedicated to creating a comfortable, safe environment for our customers, a place that’s brightly lit, service-based, and easily accessible.”

On your first visit to Trek CBD, you may be surprised at what you see! Instead of keeping products locked away behind glass or keeping the store dim and dark, Trek CBD wants to showcase their products and make them easy to shop and learn about.

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“After all, groceries and pharmacies don’t keep products in the dark – why should we keep safe, natural supplements that way?” said Scott. Trek CBD has a tasting table and sample bar, where samples are safely available to allow you to get a hands-on experience with their products, including skincare, gummies, and chocolates. This is a great opportunity to test out some products that you have any questions or concerns about. Tinctures are available at Trek CBD, an effective method of ingesting CBD oil due to it being consumed sublingually – that is, under the tongue where many capillaries reside. In this method, the active ingredient of a tincture, in this case, hemp-derived CBD, reaches the bloodstream more quickly and bypasses absorption barriers like the intestines for maximum efficacy. This allows you to get the most out of their products and better treat your condition.

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Here are some of the potential health benefits offered by CBD: for the brain, it can reduce anxiety and depression, stabilize your mood, and offer neuroprotection; for the muscles, it can reduce spasms and offer pain relief; for the bones, it can enhance fraction healing and improve bone growth; for digestion, it can reduce intestine contractions and help with appetite control; for the heart, it acts as an anti-inflammatory, prevents plaque buildup, and strengthens artery walls; and for the eyes, it can reduce intraocular pressure and has retinal neuroprotective properties. As you can see, CBD plays a positive role in so many parts of our overall body and mind health! “CBD is not a trend,” Scott said. “It’s a solution.” Medication Management If you are looking to achieve whole body and mind health, make sure you are in a good habit of taking any prescriptions you may be on. If you struggle with prescription management, or if you are ready to switch to a more customer-oriented pharmacy with a small-town level of service, then give Nebraska LTC Pharmacy a call today. Their pharmacist will complete a review of all your medications and contact any doctors involved with your care to gather the necessary information. This is also when the pharmacist will see if you have any medications that could be negatively interacting and impacting any part of your health. Your medications will then be put in an easy-to-use blister pack, and a courier service will deliver these medications to your door. The services offered at Nebraska LTC are a great way to help you stay on top of managing your medications. Nebraska LTC Pharmacy provides free delivery to the Lincoln and Omaha areas, and if you’re not in a delivery area, then they will ship your medication to your door. They keep up on communicating with your doctors and will help you keep track of your medications. These unique services are free and incredibly easy to sign up for – just give the pharmacy a call! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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The Health Market

Deborah Wyrrick Red Clover

It can be difficult to do healthy grocery shopping, so if you need some assistance, try your hand at Red Clover. Red Clover is a full service health food store offering healthy foods, supplements, body care, and infor mation on improving and maintaining good overall health. We spoke to Deborah Wyrrick, owner, about some of the challenges that come with achieving whole body and mind health, and how her business can help you overcome these obstacles.

“We have become a nation of overfed and overweight people who live largely sedentary lifestyles,” explained Deborah. “This shift started when the industrialization of foods made processed foods the staple of many households. So now, the challenges remain, and the main one is time. Our health hinges on our time. If we want to live healthier lives, I believe it starts in the kitchen.” She understands that time plays a role in our decision to opt for the quick, unhealthy meal over the more time consuming but healthier plate. For an easy and healthy meal that is quick to prepare, she suggested scrambled eggs with feta and tomatoes, sided with a slice of whole grain toast and fruit. When you have extra time to spend in the kitchen, use it to explore new, healthy recipes. “One lesson I’ve learned over time is this: make your first food of the day healthy,” shared Deborah. “Some things I enjoy are avocado toast, dried fruit and cheese, a smoothie with fresh fruits, full-fat yogurt, and a protein of choice, such as whey, collagen, or plant-based. Even just a handful of nuts or seeds with a banana - it is motivating to finish the day healthy when you start healthy.

If you get off track, don’t spend time fretting. Get back to your new healthy way of living and moving!” Deborah also spoke with us about the importance of adequate sleep and exercise. In addition to the things that we already know improve our time resting (avoiding caffeine late in the day, limiting alcohol, keeping bedrooms cool and free of light – including light emitting electronics), she reminds us that managing stress is crucial to achieving a good night’s sleep. “Sounds good on paper, but in real life, we know that we all live with some degree of stress,” said Deborah. “Fortunately, there are plant-based supplements called adaptogens that help keep our bodies from suffering from the ill effects of stress and may help promote a more restful night’s sleep.” As for working out – well, it sounds like work! However, by simply moving, we can improve our health. She suggests doing housework, mowing the lawn, taking the stairs, walking the dog, or taking an evening stroll with your family. In addition to being active, Deborah spoke about the importance of finding the beauty in life in moving towards whole body and mind health. “I would be untrue to my very self if I didn’t speak to the importance of recognizing the beautiful gift that life itself is,” Deborah said. “My worldview is that we are made in the image of God. Our minds are for learning about His character which we do through the study of the Holy Scriptures. Our heart is where our love of God and of others moves us to want the best for those we serve, and our bodies are strengthened in order to carry it out. There is simply nothing that compares to giving one’s mind to this lifelong endeavor.” At Red Clover, they take the time to speak to each of their customers and educate them about their products and the benefits that come with it. Their staff believes that their communication makes them unique in the industry.

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“We take the time to talk to people, to get to know them. It’s the best part of our business.” IV Therapy Intravenous (IV) therapy is another option for building up our whole body and mind health. LIVE Hydration Spa has a variety of IV treatments and packages that can help you feel like the best version of yourself! IV nutrition is much more than intravenous vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other nutrients. The IV nutrition program at LIVE Hydration Spa has consistently been proven to be one of the most effective ways to improve overall wellness. IV nutrition can be beneficial in preventing illness as well as improve symptoms of those suffering from pre-existing conditions. “The benefits of IV nutrition programs have been described as life changing,” said Owner Jeremy Brummels. “While all IV nutrition programs are individually tailored, the programs can be specifically designed for: boosting energy, hydration, immune system improvement, improving circulation, decreasing inflammation, and improving mental focus and concentration.” In IV therapy, nutrients are delivered directly to cells through the bloodstream, Jeremy Brummels making them immediately available for LIVE Hydration Spa your body’s use. Since they are placed directly into your blood, there’s no waiting for the nutrients to pass through the digestive system and the liver. There are several packages available at LIVE Hydration Spa that can help you boost your body’s performance. Below are just some of the packages that are available: • Pizazz, a formulation to help enhance immune system, reduce fatigue, and support optimal thinking, concentration, and function. It provides your body with vitamin C, magnesium, B12 and B-complex • Eradicate, an immune booster that supplies your body with fluids along with zinc, magnesium, and vitamin C

healthcare treatment plans. DPC does not accept insurance, but rather they choose to work directly with the patient, providing wholesale labs, no co-payments, and other cost savings along the way. This helps LIVE Hydration Spa to provide excellent and affordable care to patients that would typically go without healthcare due to rising healthcare and insurance costs. DPC at LIVE Hydration Spa includes: an annual physical with basic labs; unlimited acute visits (UTI, cold, influenza, strep, bronchitis, sinus infection, etc.); virtual visits to cut down on unnecessary office visits; and more! DPC is $80 per month per person, but contact LIVE Hydration Spa to learn about corporate and family rates, so everyone can get in on working towards and maintaining good, overall health! “For those who are looking for that extra boost to their general health or love the idea of being proactive in preventing symptoms of numerous illnesses, IV therapy is a great solution,” said Jeremy. “IV therapy can help those who are suffering from the temporary symptoms of an imbalance of nutrients. Having an imbalance of electrolytes, vitamins, and/or amino acids can make a person feel less than their best self. IV therapy can help relieve some of the unwanted symptoms of common colds, fatigue, and hangovers. Although those symptoms are temporary and can be relieved by oral nutrition and hydration, IV therapy will allow symptoms to be relieved quicker, allowing you to get back to your routine.” Don’t let achieving good health intimidate you – try out some of these suggestions and see how your health changes. Our mind and body work together, and by taking care of each part, you can find yourself healthy and feeling like your best self! If you are looking to achieve whole body and mind health, we recommend utilizing and learning from these experts in Lincoln.

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• Migraine, a formulation that contains rehydrating fluids, antinausea medication, anti-inflammation medication, Toradol, Zofran, and magnesium • Performance, a package for the marathon runner or the individual trying to keep in good physical condition. It provides your body with glutathione, B12, magnesium, and carnitine to boost athletic performance, increase strength, reduce fatigue, and shorten recovery time If you recognized the consistency of vitamins and minerals offered in each package, then you are on the right track to learning what LIVE Hydration Spa is all about, and why IV therapy continues to grow in popularity. “IV therapy is the next step in preventing and alleviating unwanted symptoms to a variety of illness. It is a great way to give your body the best chances to fight off or possibly prevent some illnesses,” Jeremy said. “When taking high doses of vitamins and minerals orally, some people will suffer from cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. IV vitamin therapy bypasses the stomach and intestines, which means no upset stomach or intestinal problems. Through the blood stream, you are able to tolerate larger doses with no significant side effects.” Another great feature at LIVE Hydration Spa is Direct Primary Care (DPC). DPC is a health care model focused on putting the patient first. That means treating them when they need it, never rushing patients through appointments, and being proactive with #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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y a d i l Ho nning a l P Hip-hip-hooray for the holidays! The next three months are sure to spread fun and cheer with exciting seasonal events and celebrations. For this Holiday Planning story, we spoke to some local businesses on ways that they can help you and your family prep for and enjoy the most joyful season of the year. Custom Company Gifts Personalized gifts are always a hit, as they show someone that you put much thought and attention into their present. For easy customization, contact the pros at Relentless Merch. We spoke to Kyle Jensen, who works in sales and design at Relentless, about how their team can help you create great customized gifts for your whole crew this holiday season. “Just like we do all year round, we provide company apparel and branded merchandise that make great gifts for both Kyle Jensen clients and employees,” Kyle explained. Relentless Merch “One special thing that Relentless is providing this year is bundles! It's a really efficient and cost effective way to give out gifts while also spreading a company's brand using merchandise that people will use repeatedly. With a bundle, we work with a client's budget to create a variety of items that they can give out as gifts. For example, a koozie, pens, Bluetooth speaker, a sleeve of golf balls, and a coffee mug. Then we package all that up in a branded custom box, and they are ready to be easily distributed. It makes giving out gifts to employees and clients really easy. The extent of what we can create is huge, and just some of it can be seen at relentlessmerch.com and clicking on promotional products.” To take advantage of this easy and special gift package, or any other customized gifts, Kyle recommends planning ahead to cause less December stress for you and the Relentless production team. After everything is designed and approved, Kyle says the team will want at least three to four weeks to create the products and get everything packed up and delivered in time for the holidays. “Apparel and bundles can be shipped directly to family, friends, employees, and clients nationwide, and we can help with that fulfillment if needed!” Kyle said. “It's a great contactless way to remind the people that are most important to making a business operate that they are appreciated. A little thought goes a long way.” As a business, Kyle suggests to consider what you want to get out of the upcoming holiday season for both yourself and your business. He says that in the apparel and promotional product industry, it’s a great time of year to capitalize on sales. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“Businesses are hosting company parties and giving out gifts and apparel, but also, many clients have a budget that resets at the end of the year, and realize that they have funds left to spend on marketing and advertising,” explained Kyle. “Marketing and advertising expenses are tax write offs, which some companies need from a tax standpoint before the end of the year. Relentless can maximize those dollars so that they promote the business and create more brand awareness and sales to help things get off to a fast start after the holiday season. On the personal side, the planning aspect and not overextending yourself in the busy run-up to the holidays is crucial. The holidays need to be a break from the grind, and planning ahead is essential to being able to unplug from work to spend time with family and friends. It's a needed mental break after a long year, and recharging for January 1 shouldn't be something that people skip on.” Relentless Merch is a unique option for holiday planning because they can take a lot of corporate gift giving stress off of their clients’ shoulders. Kyle encourages those who are interested to contact Relentless Merch as early as possible so that you can remain focused on your business while they work on your great holiday gifts. Keep Warm During the Holidays It’s almost chilly enough that we can start drinking hot coffee again – well, maybe some of you never stopped. Regardless of if you like your coffee hot or iced, made at home or in the shop, or you don’t like coffee at all (where are the tea lovers at?), Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar has a gift for everyone. “Give someone the gift of a nice, warm, seasonal drink at Rock ‘n’ Joe this holiday season!” Owner Dennis Nienhueser encouraged. “We have something for everyone. A gift card is a great excuse to try out a new shop that someone may not have heard of, and it takes the guess-work out of giving because it can be used for anything in our shop. We also offer pre-stocked gift baskets.” Outside of coffee, drinks at Rock ‘n’ Joe include tea, smoothies, artisan drinks, Dennis Nienhueser Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar and artisan roasts so you can “rock at home.” They also offer delicious breakfast and lunch sandwiches, pastries, and salads. One of the unique features of Rock ‘n’ Joe is their tasting room that features craft beer and Whisper Wines tastings all day long! Rock ‘n’ Joe has an atmosphere that caters to drink lovers of all types, so stop by today to experience what they have to offer. Gifts for Everyone Treat everyone on your company’s holiday list with artisanal chocolate indulgences handcrafted right here in Lincoln. Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates’ bonbons, caramels, chocolate bars, and toffee are an elegant treat that’s bound to wow your clients, prospects, employees, and partners. “We take great pride in representing your brand,” shared Owner and Chocolatier Gaylene Steinbach. “Whether we add your logo to handcrafted bonbons, make a special flavor just for you, or customize the packaging, rest assured that the taste, quality, and craftsmanship will represent your brand and make your clients, prospects, and team feel extra special.” Learn how Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates can take care of your gift-giving needs: Gaylene Steinbach • Gift Baskets for Clients - Whether you want Lulubee Artisanal to treat your clients to decadent chocolates Chocolates handcrafted in Lincoln or wow them with a full selection of artist-created bonbons, caramels, and toffee, tell them your budget and they’ll put together gift baskets that’ll make your clients feel like the VIPs they are. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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402-889-3870 Tailoreddreamslimousines.com tailoreddreamslimousines@gmail.com • Indulgences for Prospects - Equip your sales team with a tasty leavebehind, like a bag of their irresistible English Toffee. No doubt this tasty treat will make a strong impression—and, as with all their treats, they can brand the packaging, so prospects remember your company as one that’s committed to providing the best. • Goodie Bags for Employees - They’re the face of your company and they make you look good every day. This year, thank your team with a selection of caramels or chocolate bars. And, to help you save time, let Lulubee’s take care of local delivery. • Favors for Holiday Parties - Welcome partygoers with a branded box of handcrafted bonbons. Whether you want your logo on the packaging or it featured on handcrafted bonbons, you’ll leave each guest with a sweet impression. • Thank-You Gifts for Partners - Whether it’s your trusty printer or delivery partners, let Lulubee’s help you thank your production partners with a big box of handcrafted bonbons or a gift basket so everyone can get a sweet treat. “To make gift-giving even easier,” shared Gaylene, “we’ll take care of the details. From packaging and shipping or delivering, our team will make sure everything’s perfect for everyone on your list. Let’s start working on your customized treats today.” Make the Holidays Unforgettable Holiday events are hosted to celebrate and thank your employees or clients, so it’s important to create an unforgettable experience. Book with Robber’s Cave to show your employees and clients the gratitude you have for them by giving them a night in this exceptional setting. Robber’s Cave boasts a unique and beautiful venue to wine and dine your guests while also adding in the experience of touring the 5,600 square feet of historic Robber’s Cave Tunnels. “Robber’s Cave provides three indoor venues ranging in size and look for all your holiday events,” shared Owner Justin Fuchs. “With capacity options ranging from 50 people to over 300, Robber’s Cave has the perfect location to host company events. We also boast Lincoln’s only underground attraction located right below the event facilities.” When booking with Robber’s Cave, you can treat your staff, clients, and friends to a dose of history by touring the cave tunnels below the venue – the same tunnels that Justin Fuchs Robber’s Cave were used by Jesse James in the 1870s. To take advantage of this opportunity, Justin encourages those who are interested to contact him early. “It may not feel like the holiday season yet, but it approaches fast. Don’t let your ideal date and time get taken!” recommended Justin. “Because holidays are falling on weekends this year, there are less Saturdays available for events. Combined with the lack of events happening in 2020, multiple occasions are starting to stack up this season and dates will be limited.” 74 Strictly Business OCTOBER 2021

Not only can Robber’s Cave give you an unforgettable experience through their unique location and features (such as their catering option from Yes Chef Catering), but it is a great option for holiday events, thanks to their amazing staff and service. If hosting company events is only something you do for special occasions – such as the holidays – then work with the experience of the professionals at Robber’s Cave. “Lean on us to bring some stress relief to your event planning,” Justin said. “We have staff with over 10 years of experience in this area. Working with the best team in the business is truly what sets Robber’s Cave apart from other venues when it comes to planning and executing events.” Branded Gifts Everyone knows that it’s a good idea to get a head start on your Christmas shopping, and gifts for your company are no exception. Flicker Promotions works to customize gifts for a range of employees and clients that are sure to show your appreciation for their service and ongoing business. “Gifts are a great way to show your true appreciation and can be customized with a logo or fun saying to suit your recipients,” said Owner Amy Doele. “Decoration can be understated, such as laser etching on a blanket, or a bigger statement, such as a colorful Yeti tumbler. We can also provide all types of customized napkins, cups, tablecloths, or even signage for your 2021 holiday parties and celebrations.” Amy can help you customize nearly anything for your company gifts or Amy Doele holiday parties. You will be able to make Flicker Promotions personal connections with clients and staff while also giving them something unique that they will appreciate and use. Contact Flicker Promotions today to ignite your brand! Every Party Service in One Spot! If you are looking for a space to host your holiday party, reach out to Matthew Rogge, owner and director of Talon Room. Talon Room has a variety of price ranges to fit any budget and event, and they offer several services to help make sure your holiday party is a success. “I always tell people, we set it up, you make it a party!” Matthew said. “We do in-house and off-site catering with a range of menu options to meet any level of party. From event setup to full-service bar, we can Matthew Rogge meet all your event needs while exceeding Talon Room expectations. As an owner myself, I get the need to go above and beyond to show your employees how much they mean to you and the company, and a holiday celebration is a great opportunity to do just that.” The Talon Room is conveniently located downtown and can accommodate as many as 250 people for stand-up or sit-down events. Services that Talon Room can provide for your event include decorations, tables, and chairs; catering, whether the party is held at Talon Room or at another location of your choosing; bar service; event space from as early as 8 a.m. to as late as midnight; setup and teardown; and cleaning. Pricing for events varies depending on what services are included, the time of week it is being held, and the amount of people attending. Take a Sleigh Ride, Lincoln-Style An alternative to hosting a holiday party at a venue is by renting a party bus from Tailored Dreams Party Buses. Tailored Dreams is Lincoln’s premier party-bus company, known for their friendly drivers and for creating an experience tailored to your particular group. Just reserve your bus ahead of time, tell your chauffeur where you want to go when you arrive for your party, and they’ll get you there and back safely. Party buses offer bumping Bluetooth sound systems, so you can even blast your favorite holiday jingles. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“Tailored Dreams started in March of 2012 with one limo that my husband, Tyler, and I parked in our driveway,” said Owner DeeDee Loomis. “Now our fleet consists of six party buses—including the only Pink Party Bus around! The biggest bus can fit up to 45 people, so you can bring along your family and/or closest friends, employees, and clients to celebrate the holidays. We recommend booking much sooner than later, as we are already filling up the 2022 calendar. Contact us today to celebrate in style!” DeeDee Loomis Tailored Dreams Events for Everyone Party Buses James Arthur Vineyards (JAV) has great options for you to enjoy time with family, friends, employees, or clients, even before Santa comes to town. Throughout October, they are offering ghost tours every Friday night from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, October 23, is their annual World Famous Murder Mystery Dinner, allowing guests to become Sherlock Holmes for an evening and attempt to solve a “whodunit” during a night of fine dining, wine, and murder. Can’t make it that weekend? Come back the following Saturday on October 30 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. for a Halloween Murder Mystery at Billy’s Restaurant. In November, JAV begins to offer more Christmas-themed events, such as Paint a Bottle for the Holidays. On Friday, November 12, you can join JAV and Urban Legends for a fun, holiday-themed night of art-making while sipping your favorite JAV wines! Appetizers will be included and you will be able to take home your new creation. Friday, November 19, is another important date to keep in your calendar: it’s the JAV Holiday Wine Release. JAV’s Christmas wines, SleighBell Blush and Santa’s Secret, will go on sale at 10 a.m. They will be celebrating their release with free live music by Doug and Ellen Dexter from 5 to 8 p.m. The following week, they are celebrating White Friday – the wine alternative to Black Friday! On November 26, JAV will have white wine specials all throughout the day, no reservations needed. If you are looking for a great gift for the holidays, opt for a delicious local wine and take advantage of this fabulous sale. JAV will kick off the biggest holiday month of the year with a weekend Holiday Cabaret. On December 3 and 4, vocalists Judy Anderson and David Claus will perform holiday favorites and Broadway show tunes from 7 to 9 p.m. The Cabaret will continue on December 5 as a matinee from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, December 11, is another opportunity to dig out your magnifying glass and try your hand at a December Murder Mystery at Billy’s Restaurant. Finally, on December 12 and 19, JAV will spread holiday cheer with their Holiday Music Series from 2 to 5 p.m. Some events require tickets, so check online for release dates and prices. There are even more seasonal events JAV is hosting, so make sure to also visit the calendar on their website to check out the other Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas-themed happenings they are excited to share with you! Celebrate – All Year Long! Imagine if you never had to take down your Christmas lights, and you could leave them up year-round, changing the colors to reflect different monthly seasons and celebrations. It’s possible! Halo Custom Lighting offers a permanent solution to all of your outdoor lighting needs. With this option, you can experience worry-free, hassle-free outdoor holiday, game day, and special occasion lighting year-round. “They are maintenance-free and low-profile with a discreet design, and can be controlled through a free mobile app and connect via WiFi/Bluetooth,” said Jen Keller with Halo. “Choose from 4,228,250,625 different color options, including warm white or cool white. You can even control each individual bulb, which allows for a complete customization for everyday accent lighting.” These lights are waterproof, climate-tested, Jen Keller and are rated to last 55,000 hours. Contact Halo Custom Lighting #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Halo Custom Lighting today to light up your home for the holidays and never hang lights again! Throw Together, Grow Together Axe throwing is the newest and hottest form of active entertainment, so give your staff a holiday event to remember by treating them to a night out at Tomahawks Axe Throwing! Their friendly staff, which includes Co-Owners Shad Kearns, Shane Kearns, and Tommy Winn, will help you plan an awesome holiday party at their venue, conveniently located in the Haymarket. Tomahawks can hold up to 120 people, and their bar offers a variety of beers, ciders, and seltzers. If you have a favorite food to serve to your clients and Shane Kearns employees, feel free to cater in a hot meal Tomahawks Axe Throwing at no additional cost. “For corporate events, companies have the luxury of having the entire building and throwing lanes to themselves,” explained Shane. When participating in the axe throwing, teams will take turns lobbing axes at wooden targets and counting up points to see who can score the most bulls-eyes. There’s no experience needed! An instructor will be with you at all times, available to show you how to safely throw an axe and compete against each other. As the Tomahawks team says, teams that throw together grow together! If you are giving the gift of a gift card this year, keep Tomahawks in mind. They are a great option for date nights or outings with family and friends. A gift card is a good way to encourage someone to try something new, and they just might find their new favorite hobby in the process! During the season of giving, remember to give back to the community, too, by supporting local businesses. Whether you are joining in on fun seasonal festivities or doing some holiday gift shopping, your support makes a difference! OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business 75

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If it’s time for you to part ways with your current home and move into a new address, consider doing a little bit of remodeling first. Home renovations can be the difference between “for sale” and “sold.” In this Resell Remodeling story, we spoke to local professionals, both on the remodeling side and the selling side, about the renovation projects you should focus on to boost the value of your home and to make the remodel a piece of cake! The First Step: Get an Inspection Home inspections are an important part of the resell remodel process. Randy King with King’s Home Inspections, LLC strongly recommends a pre-listing inspection to ensure the selling process will go smoothly. “The number one challenge in putting a home on the market is overcoming buyers fear. A pre-listing inspection does that,” Randy explained. “It assures the potential buyer that an independent set of eyes has looked over the house, uncovered major Randy King King’s Home issues, and identified where equipment is Inspections, LLC at in its average service life. It also helps you to review the more seldom-seen aspects, such as insulation levels, foundation condition, and past presence of wood destroying insects and any latent damage they may have caused.” A pre-listing inspection can help you to better understand where the equipment in your home is at in its lifespan, therefore helping you get an idea of where to invest your money during your resell remodel. There’s much more to a resell remodel than creating an eye-catching home; it may attract potential buyers, but impending repairs and replacements could scare them off. “Although a remodeler can put in new cabinets, carpet, and paint, and make the house very eye-appealing, it is still important to know and understand the condition and age of other components in the home,” Randy said. “Equipment such as furnaces, air conditioners, water heaters, and so forth has a life span. Even a “fresh” house with a 15-year-old water or a 25-year-old HVAC system can expect to have some fairly significant repairs or replacements in the first five years of ownership.” The market might be on the seller’s side right now, but that doesn’t mean you should be deferring maintenance on the equipment in your home. A home inspection will show any potential buyers issues from poor maintenance, and though many houses are selling “as-is” with few or no repairs, no one wants to buy a clunker. “Even if it is evident the home will need upgrading, remodeling, or improvement, continuing maintenance on a home is always a good idea,” Randy suggested. “Even simple things can prevent problems, such as cleaning your gutters or keeping long extensions on your down spouts. It moves the water away from the house and prevents #PrintProudDigitalSmart

a wet basement. Changing your furnace filter regularly also helps, as does keeping the A/C unit fins cleaned. Exterior maintenance of plants, shrubs, and lawns keep your property looking nice and gives it good curb appeal. That is quite important when you put it on the market. Regular maintenance to your underground sprinkler system is also important, as it prevents wasting water and can reduce or eliminate the need for repairs, which can be costly. In the winter, keeping drives and sidewalks cleaned also gives the impression of caring for a property, which makes potential buyers less anxious when they can see that it is being cared for.” Experience Matters When completing a resell remodel, you want to get the most value for your home, so it’s a good idea to talk to some local realtors to really understand what the Lincoln market is looking for and which projects you should focus on. Jayson Becker with BancWise Realty offered some insight into what he has been seeing in the market as of late. “Lately, people have been looking for homes that are move-in ready. They want to pull the vehicle into the driveway, turn the key in the front door, and enjoy the new Jayson Becker BancWise Realty home – that’s it,” Jayson said. “A specific feature that I have noticed is growing in desire and popularity is a large amount of garage space. Buyers are looking for garages with four or even more stalls available.” Jayson said that a home that needs projects done to it is one of the biggest turn-offs for homebuyers, further stressing the local market’s wish to have a truly move-in ready home. He also explained that curb appeal is important in the selling process. “Home buying hinges on emotion,” Jayson shared. “When a buyer pulls up to the house and sees green grass, fresh mulch, paint that’s not peeling, gutters that are kept tidy, and so on – that’s what pulls at their emotions and draws them into the home.” Though it is a seller’s market right now, it’s not as big on the seller’s side as it was a year ago, and Jayson wants to remind those who are considering a resell remodel to not defer any maintenance. He understands it’s been allowed in the past when the market was at its hottest point in selling, but in order to get the most value out of your home, it is important to complete any maintenance work and finish all projects. We would suggest taking his advice – Jayson has plenty of experience that relates not only to the “resell” aspect, but also the “remodel.” “My expertise goes back to my experience in construction and remodeling,” Jayson said. “The items that you are buying and investing in to complete your remodel are the same ones I was selling in construction and remodeling for over 20 years. I understand both sides of it, and I want to use that knowledge to help you in your resell remodel process!” Planning Ahead Before you jump headfirst into your resell remodeling project, it’s a good idea to have an idea of what the timeline for the renovation will look like. When you plan ahead, you should know what it is you want to do to your home, when you want to do it, how much it will cost, and be ready to acquire any plans or permits necessary to do the job. All of these aspects will be based off of your day-to-day routine, your ideal time to sell, the time of year, and so forth. We spoke to Ben Bleicher, leader of the Professional Realty Group of Ben Bleicher Woods Bros Realty team, about what goes Professional Realty Group into the timing of resell remodeling. of Woods Bros Realty “Timing the sale of your home to correspond with when market conditions are the most favorable is a wise approach, and then you can set the timeline for projects accordingly,” said Ben. “If you’re able to hang tight until next spring before listing, you’ll have a good window of time to work with, keeping in mind that the average home renovation takes between #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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@jonathancurtisdesign four to eight months. Of course, it depends on the size of project. If you are fully renovating or remodeling your house, chances are it could take up to six to eight months or even more if you are adding large spaces with architectural detail. However, if you’re just doing a kitchen and bathroom with some minor cosmetic changes, then it could be just a couple of weeks or months to complete.” Spring is traditionally home building season, Ben said, resulting in materials and time being a little more costly. However, if you want to install a project such as a deck or outdoor living area, spring is the time of year to do it, as they require hand-digging and the ground is usually softer in the spring. “Roofing projects are often done in summer because roofing materials need certain high temperatures to seal. Summer is also a good time to complete a bathroom or other interior remodeling project, but if you’re willing to have crews in your home during the holiday season then October through December is actually a good time to schedule your remodel because things are slower for contractors and materials may be less expensive. However, shipping may take longer, so work those extra days into your timeframe.” Knowing the Difference There are a lot of factors that a buyer considers when looking for a home, so it’s important to hire a professional realtor to help you through the process of renovating your home for resell. At Lincoln First Realty, they have a lot of professional experience that can help you understand the difference in painting your home brown versus grey, or if you should replace your entire concrete driveway or just make fixes; their ultimate goal is to help you get the maximum value of your home. General Manager and Broker Brad Hulse Brad Hulse spoke about the large role curb Lincoln First Realty appeal plays in buying a home. OCTOBER 2021 Strictly Business 77

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“Curb appeal plays a huge role in the sale of a home!” Brad said. “I like to call curb appeal—or rather the lack thereof—‘the silent killer.’ No homebuyer will quantify a home with the lack of good curb appeal but there will just be something they don’t like. When enhancing your curb appeal, the most important things to consider are related to maintenance. Trimming trees and bushes, painting chipped paint, and fixing broken items, (like shutters, siding, front steps, railings, etc.) will make the biggest difference.” A resell remodel requires you to select items that will appeal to the majority of the market – they might not match your taste, but you have to remember the difference between your preferences and that of the market. At Woods Bros Realty, they can help you understand what designs the market is looking for, and choose materials that will attract more buyers. “When you’re remodeling your home for resale, you have to make sure you are equipping your home with items and materials that will appeal to the masses,” said Deb Wagner, realtor. “You don’t want to spend more money on the remodeling project than your home value can support. I recommend asking a realtor what to spend in regard to Deb Wagner the total home value to get fair returns.” Woods Bros Realty HVAC and Plumbing When thinking of ways you can upgrade your home to boost its resell value, often times the first things that come to mind involve visible remodels. Don’t leave out the HVAC and plumbing system from your decision to upgrade! According to an appraisal estimate in Money magazine, installing a new central air-conditioning system can increase your property value by 10%. The National Association of Realtors also found that HVAC remodels have a higher average return on investment than most other types of remodeling projects, with a return of up to 71%. It may not have the aesthetically pleasing look of brand new countertops and cabinets, but a smooth-working HVAC and plumbing system is critical to have to ensure the sale of your home. We spoke to Joe Joe Reinke Reinke, owner of John Henry’s Plumbing, John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, about what Heating, and Air you should know in terms of your home’s HVAC Conditioning and plumbing. “In the HVAC and plumbing industry, there are many things to take into consideration for new homebuyers,” Reinke explained. “First, HVAC system check. It is always very important to have the HVAC system checked for operation, efficiency, and most importantly, safety. When checking the HVAC system, the things examined are air quality, air filtration, humidification, and dehumidification. Next, you need a total plumbing check. This includes, but is not limited to: water heater, sump pump, fixtures and faucets, visible water piping, drain piping, and gas piping. A special camera can examine the underground sewer piping for any breaks, cracks, or bad sections. Also, look at your water conditioning equipment. A water softener will extend the life of all plumbing fixtures and piping, as well as major appliances.” Updated and move-in ready bathrooms and kitchens are of high importance to new home buyers, and the plumbing, heating, and air conditioning services offered by John Henry’s will help you check every item off of your to-do list. Having been in the business since 1996, they recently celebrated 25 years of serving the Lincoln community and satisfying plumbing and HVAC needs. Pipe Up! When you think of upgrades to add to your home to increase the resale value, make sure plumbing is included in those ideas – there’s so much value that lies within your pipes, it’s definitely something to focus your time and attention on! Some popular plumbing upgrades include #PrintProudDigitalSmart

modernized pipes, pull-out faucets, efficient water heaters, an extra bathroom addition, eco-friendly installations, and adding a floor drain and/or sink to the laundry room. Whether you are planning to just make some repairs or you want to give a room a total remodel, Bob Nohavec Plumbing can help you with all of your kitchen and bathroom needs. Hiring a plumber when you are remodeling a bathroom or kitchen is essential. Not only do they know what they are doing, but they know the local codes and can help with filing any permits that may be necessary. The plumbers at Bob Nohavec Plumbing are confident that they can get the job done quickly, have your plumbing system working properly, and, perhaps most importantly – that they can get the job done right the first time. Some of the plumbing needs that they can complete during a remodel include moving plumbing pipes, moving drain lines, installing a bathroom sink and plumbing lines, adding spa equipment, and installing kitchen sinks and garbage disposals. They are also available to upgrade bathtubs, showers, vanities, countertops, bathroom accessories, onyx, and more. Bathrooms and kitchens are the biggest remodels that buyers are interested in, so take these projects seriously by hiring the experts at Bob Nohavec Plumbing! Bright Ideas Technically savvy buyers are all throughout today’s market, so even small electrical upgrades such as updating outlets and switches can make a big difference when selling your home. Look for electricians that provide a meticulous level of attention to detail, like the team at Oak Electric. Their team is very proficient in troubleshooting, general repair and service, switches and outlets, panel upgrades, and repairs. Matt Collins, master electrician, says that lighting is one of the best upgrades to consider when Matt Collins doing a resell remodel of your home. Oak Electric “If you have or are investing thousands of dollars in updating your kitchen to maximize the resale value of your home, why not invest a little more and install under-cabinet lights to showcase the space?” Matt said. “The same goes with bathrooms. You can install new lighting over the shower or bath area, and you might be surprised how much it showcases your investment.” Another great choice for electrical work is ABC Electric. With more than 85 years of experience in the industry, ABC Electric can provide you with comprehensive electrical services that will keep your home in great condition for potential buyers. If you want to maximize the value of your home for resale, don’t forget to tap into the modern age of lighting. Buyers are well aware of the beauty and benefits that come with LED technology. Jon Eicher, project manager, says the LED lighting industry is continuously evolving, and the demand is increasing for residential lighting remodeling projects that employ Bluetooth technology. It’s changing the resell remodeling landscape with app-based controls. “We have all manners of LED lighting and Jon Eicher controls in kitchens and family spaces,” Jon ABC Electric 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.” Seamless Finish and Service It’s tempting for many homeowners to repaint a room on their own, but hiring a professional has many advantages. First, you know the results are going to be pleasing. Professional painters can more quickly and easily achieve clean lines and straight edges, and the walls will have #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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a uniform, airbrushed look. Hiring a painter is also a huge timesaver, allowing you to focus on other remodeling projects you are working on for resale. We recommend the experts at Walter’s Painting, Inc. They offer free estimates and take care of all prep work, including moving and protecting furniture and completing any drywall repairs. In addition to the interior, Walter’s Painting especially places emphasis on curb appeal when conducting a resell remodel. “The outside of your house is the first thing a potential buyer is going to see when they arrive on the property, so make a good first impression,” said Jeff Walters, owner. “Even if they haven’t yet seen the inside of the home, strong curb appeal will make them believe the interior has value and is well-kept. Get this high appeal by hiring our professionals to do any exterior painting, wood staining, or power washing.” Other services provided are wallpaper hanging and removal, wood work, fences, Jeff Walters Walter’s Painting, Inc. staining and lacquer work, decks and deck sealing, cabinet refinishing, water damage, mildew removal, and more. Give your home a fresh, new look just in time for resale with the crew at Walter’s Painting! A New Kitchen in Five Days – Or Less! Kitchen remodels are most popular among resell remodeling projects, but they can also be intimidating. So much goes into the kitchen, and, if you are still living in your home, you don’t want to be without it for long. Thankfully, there’s a business in our community that can help us with this daunting remodel – the team at Kitchen Tune-Up completes their projects within one to five days! With meticulous planning and multiple methods of updating cabinets, they can give your kitchen a fresh look by the end of the week. They offer a variety of services, including: the original tune-up, which restores wood cabinets to look like-new; cabinet redooring, allowing you to update cabinets without replacing; cabinet painting; cabinet refacing; custom cabinets; countertops; and customized kitchen accessories, such as roll-out trays. “Our mission is to provide our clients with an elevated kitchen remodeling experience,” explained Owner Jason Krueger. “Adhering to the Trustpoints on every project allows our team to Tunify the kitchens and expectations of homeowners across our community.” Kitchen Tune-Up’s Trustpoints are reflective of the customer service they provide. The Trustpoints include: • Listen. They will develop an organized plan and fulfill all of the terms of your agreement. Jason Krueger • Communication. They know communication Kitchen Tune-Up is key, and they will always return your calls within 24 hours. • Respect. They will protect the work area and clean up after themselves daily. • Dependable. They arrive on time. They respect your need for dependable scheduling. • Solutions. If anything comes up that they could not anticipate, they work out a mutually agreeable solution. Don’t let a kitchen remodel intimidate you! Jason and his team at Kitchen Tune-Up know time is of the essence, and they will help you get your kitchen looking brand-new for resale in no time. More Storage! Storage is a huge piece of the puzzle for potential home buyers. For some, there just never seems to be enough storage, so make sure that your home is attracting buyers that need extra space by installing custom cabinetry from Usher Custom Cabinets. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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“We will work with you to design, build, and install cabinets that fit perfectly into your home to best utilize the space, whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom, mudroom, home library, office, pantry, laundry room, or any other room – you name it,” said Owner Neal Chloupek. When it comes to storage, the kitchen is the area where homebuyers are looking for it the most. Other areas where storage is wanted include closets, the garage, and the basement. Mudroom storage is also very popular, as the entryway area can quickly Neal Chloupek Usher Custom Cabinets get messy with coats, shoes, bags, and more without the proper features to store them. Usher Custom Cabinets is an easy way to boost the resale value of your home by adding storage and making it look great! The Great Outdoors Everyone loves a backyard space that has features to allow them to spend quality time outdoors, especially if children are part of the household. Decks, patios, and pergolas are great ways to spruce up your backyard and invite more potential homebuyers, and Jonathan Curtis with Jonathan Curtis Design can help you do just that. Jonathan and his team can help you construct the perfect backyard addition that best utilizes your space, or, if you already have an outdoor area that just needs a little love, they also Jonathan Curtis perform deck repair. Plus, Jonathan’s business Jonathan Curtis Design offers more than just services in outdoor areas. They provide kitchen, basement, and bathroom remodels. “I like to meet in person, if possible, to get a feel for what’s most important to the client,” explained Jonathan. “I try to find ways to accomplish

these things in the least expensive way. I provide drawings and formal estimates/contracts to make sure we’re all on the same page.” Luxury Upgrades If you have an above-ground hot tub that you are planning to leave behind after the sale, or if your hot tub is in-ground, it is worth it to make sure that it is in great working condition to further attract potential buyers. If your outdoor area is looking a little empty and you need ways to utilize it, a hot tub could be the investment you are looking for. Home Innovations Spas can supply your home with a hot tub that will draw buyers in and have them vying for the property! Hot tubs at Home Innovations Spas are equipped with therapeutic water jets, soothing sound systems, tranquil lighting systems, and noise reductions systems to ensure that it is truly a quiet spot for you to enjoy your time in. They also have spas that come equipped with control panels that allow you to adjust the pressure levels of your massage, as well as numerous jet configurations and jet faces with specialized functions to work with your hydrotherapy needs. Swim spas are another luxury available at Home Innovations Spas, providing the privacy and exclusivity of swim training. Swimming is one of the most beneficial forms of exercise, ideal for building aerobic endurance and strength without the impact on joints and muscles. Access to pools can be a challenge, while public and fitness center pools may be too crowded for your training and therapy needs. If you have a smaller backyard or are short on installation time, a swim spa is a great alternative to an in-ground pool. Swim spas are also insulated against the cold and include built-in heaters, allowing the backyard swimming season to be greatly extended. Finally, swim spas are much easier to maintain than a standard pool – a fabulous way to give your home’s next owner the pool they want without the tedious maintenance! The market is still in favor of sellers right now, so if you have been thinking about getting a new place, now is the time to remodel your home and list it to get the most bang for your buck. We recommend these local realtors, contractors, and remodelers for all of your resell remodel needs!

• Kills Bacteria and Viruses on Surfaces and in the Air* • Reduces Allergens, Smoke, Odors, and VOCs • Patented Technology, Third-Party Tested, Validated and Proven

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*Tested by Kansas State University. RGF products are not medical devices and no medical claims are made.

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BENEFIT FROM A FULL RANGE OF SERVICES

Common Illnesses

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Preventive Medical Care

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Coughs, Runny nose, Watery eyes, Fever, Body aches, Sore throat, Ear aches, Infections, Rashes

Cuts, Scrapes, Sprains, Strains, Bruises, Broken bones (fractures)

Flu shots, Sports physicals, COVID-19 testing

Work-related injuries, Drug screens, Flu shots, Tetanus shots, X-Ray services (27th St. location only)

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