Strictly Business Lincoln - April 2020 by Strictly Business - Lincoln & Omaha, Nebraska

LINCOLN • APRIL 2020 TM

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

ALLISON SANTANA

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY DIRECTOR

THE WOODLANDS ENTERPRISE CENTER. • GRADUATION PARTIES • SPRING LANDSCAPING • STARTING A BUSINESS • UNPLANNED LIFE CHANGES CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA ONLINE • JOHN HENRY’S PLUMBING, HEATING & AIR • MOMO PIZZARIA & RISTORANTE

Ryan Kramer

Catherine Horner

Brenda Clark

Justin Kalemkiarian

Dan Marburg

Eric Halsey

The Kindler Hotel

Berry Law

Gramercy Hill

North Risk Partners

Barnwood & Leather

Engineered Controls

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

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APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

Finding Perspective in Times of Distress and Uncertainty What We Can Do to Help Ourselves and Our Neighbors I n l i g h t o f e ve r y t h i n g, I f e l t i t wa s appropriate—if not necessary—to take a break from our usual staff message to address what has been happening in our community in response to COVID-19. I look around and see many who are scared and unsure of the future, from friends and family with existing health conditions to all the business owners and employees affected by the quarantine initiative. These are real concerns that I share as well, but my biggest fear has become fear itself. Not only does fear weaken us physically, it can consume our thoughts and lead to toxic negativity and even panic. Panicking is never a solution.

have been challenging to navigate, I’ve spent more time with my husband, kids, and extended family, and I’ve called friends to catch up. In the midst of a whirlwind of change, I’ve had the chance to slow down and be thankful for the things that really matter. Adversity also teaches us lot about ourselves in how we choose to react. Do we hang our head and grovel, do we play the blame game and get angry, or do we look around for ways to help the situation? Right now, a big way we can help our community is continuing to support local businesses. Many industries are taking a big hit because of social distancing, especially socially driven industries such as food and beverage, event/hospitality, beauty, retail, and many more.

Though it may be a bit longer before you There is a quote by C.J. Redwine that comes to mind: “Losing your head in a crisis is a “God has not given us a spirit can browse the racks at your favorite local boutique or sip a cup of joe at the coffee good way to become the crisis.” We saw this of fear, but of power and of shop around the corner, you can still see if materialize when people rushed to the store love and of a sound mind.” they’re offering online ordering and delivery and stocked up on three year’s worth of toilet or curbside pickup. Businesses are coming paper, leaving the shelves bare for others in – 2 Timothy 1:7 up with creative ways to still operate and some cases. The majority of fear seems to get their products and services to consumers. stem from mainstream media. It’s good to stay Some are even utilizing virtual platforms to informed, but even I find myself on a slippery slope when I keep refreshing my social media for updates. Instead, Shayne and I connect. Nonprofits need your help as well, especially if they had have been turning to prayer for peace and wisdom during this to cancel or postpone one of their main fundraising events of the time. We’re reminded that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, year. We highlight a few of these businesses and nonprofits in but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7 our news section, so keep reading! Aside from avoiding large crowds and frequently washing At the end of the day, we are in this uncharted territory together. your hands, I encourage you to take this time to self reflect. Strictly Business will remain as dedicated as ever to promoting Times of crisis can put things into perspective. When work and and connecting local businesses. I’m confident that with the right entertainment get taken away from you, what do you have? How outlook and necessary precautions, we will get through this. much of your life revolves around those areas? As I ask myself Have faith, not fear. these questions, I’m reminded of what is really important. Running my business, attending social events, traveling, shopping—they Let Strictly Business help you lock in your status as THE EXPERT are all things I enjoy doing, but they don’t hold a candle to my in your industry, utilizing print, the internet, and social media. faith, family, and friendships. While these past couple of weeks Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330.

CONTENTS NEWS 4 Business 26 Personnel

35 Nonprofit 47 Health

ASK THE EXPERT 19 ComPro

SPOTLIGHTS 20 Star City Six

COLUMNS 53 Lincoln Independent Business Association

FEATURE STORIES 56 Graduation Parties

Strictly Business Magazine

50 University of Nebraska Online 52 John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air 54 MoMo Pizzaria & Ristorante

60 Spring Landscaping 67 Starting A Business 72 Unplanned Life Changes 2 Strictly Business APRIL 2020

55 Lincoln Chamber of Commerce 57 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

The Woodlands Enterprise Center

LINCOLN • APRIL 2020 TM

“We have the capability to customize commercial projects for our clients. There are three main components to a THE WOODLANDS commercial project: (1) ENTERPRISE CENTER. the land, (2) the exterior shell, and (3) the interior. With eac h component comes more and more involvement and help from the Krueger Development team. When a client chooses to use Krueger Development for the exterior shell construction, it really optimizes the project. We coordinate the shell construction, bring in utilities, and install all exterior landscaping. When a client utilizes Krueger Development’s drafting team for interior design, they get the true trifecta. Being able to find land, construct a building, and design an interior layout for a business all in one place is a great convenience to clients. We become a one-stop shop for business owners, and I love that we can provide so many different options to our clients.” – Allison Santana, commercial property manager ALLISON SANTANA

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY DIRECTOR

• GRADUATION PARTIES • SPRING LANDSCAPING • STARTING A BUSINESS • UNPLANNED LIFE CHANGES CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA ONLINE • JOHN HENRY’S PLUMBING, HEATING & AIR • MOMO PIZZARIA & RISTORANTE

Ryan Kramer

The Kindler Hotel

Justin Kalemkiarian

Berry Law

Catherine Horner

Gramercy Hill

Dan Marburg

North Risk Partners

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

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

The Woodlands Enterprise Center is an up and coming commercial center on the corner of South 84th Street and Yankee Woods Drive. Just south of Moore Middle School and the Copple Family YMCA, it is right in a hot spot of growth for Lincoln. While Lincoln is growing in all directions, Southeast Lincoln has seen exponential growth in recent years. Owned and developed by Krueger Development, The Woodlands Enterprise Center is a part of the even larger Woodlands at Yankee Hill residential development. The Woodlands at Yankee Hill has over 500 dwelling units and is home to St. Michael’s Catholic Church and School. As the residential neighborhood continues to grow, a demand for commercial space has followed. The Woodlands Enterprise Center sits on a total of 33 acres of land approved for approximately 355,000 square feet of buildable commercial space. 2020 is already proving to be a huge growth year for the commercial center, with four projects totaling over 49,000 built square feet underway. Krueger Development and the Woodlands Enterprise Center offer a unique opportunity for investors and local business owners alike to capitalize in the market. This commercial center is designed to be versatile, for either building to lease or building to buy, with numerous other options along the way—all designed to make the process more convenient and cost efficient for the client. Krueger Development is always aware of the “bottom line.” They understand that cost and long term value are always factors and in the forefront of the client’s mind. If you are in the market for a new location for your business or the very first location for your new business, Krueger Development can help. They provide initial architectural drafting and cost estimates free of charge, with no obligation.

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

Brenda Clark

Barnwood & Leather

Eric Halsey

Engineered Controls

For more information on The Woodlands Enterprise Center or any Krueger Development commercial properties, please contact Allison Santana at (402) 423-7377 / asantana@kruegerdevelopment.com.

www.kruegerdevelopment.com

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

Hannah

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APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Tru-Built Construction Completes Work on Q.P. Ace Hardware’s New Location

Beyond Vision LNK Announces Availability of Virtual Eye Consultations

Tru-Built Construction recently completed construction of a new location for Q.P. Ace Hardware at 901 S 27th St., formerly located in a smaller building directly south of the new location. Both the former and the new buildings are situated in a shopping plaza off of 27th Street and Capitol Parkway. Also in the building and owned by the same owners of Q.P. ACE Hardware is Speedy Pete’s E-Bikes, an electronic bike retailer. Many know the location of the new Q.P. Ace Hardware as the former Ideal Grocery site, which sat vacant for several years before the Q.P. team acquired the property for their new project. The new store is twice as large as the old location and has expanded product offerings. Tru-Built Construction has enjoyed the partnership with the Q.P. team and wishes them well in their new endeavors. This investment in Lincoln shows Q.P. Ace Hardware’s commitment to serve their loyal patrons who support local business. Tru-Built Construction was born in 1999 in the hours between classes at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Since then, the company has grown to be a commercial and residential contractor for new construction and remodel projects. Tru-Built’s reputation has proven that their expert team is dedicated to high-quality work and making people’s visions come true. Contact them through their website at tru-built.net or by calling (402) 477-4663.

Optometrist Dr. Carla Ericksen of Beyond Vision LNK has announced immediate availability of virtual eye consultations, enabling patients to receive eye care and reduce undue stress on ERs and urgent care facilities, decreasing exposure from uncontained viruses, and saving supplies for frontline workers. “Due to coronavirus we stopped eye exams with no complaints; however, we now offer virtual consultations for renewal of urgent prescriptions and urgent eye care issues. Urgent cases constitute incidents including pain; traumatic eye injury; foreign body such as metal, wood, glass, or chemical burn; sudden loss of vision; or extreme light sensitivity,” said Dr. Ericksen. Virtual eye consultation is a new service driven by the uncertainty of coronavirus spread and increased overload to the health care system. Beyond Vision LNK’s commitment to deliver the best direct care and assist other health professionals and rural areas makes this a necessary change in health delivery. Beyond Vision LNK strives to give continued care and access to all patients and is the first direct care optometry location in Lincoln. The company offers a wide range of eye services to maintain good ocular health for you now and as you age. Schedule a virtual appointment by calling (402) 261-8699. More information can be found online by visiting www.beyondvisionlnk.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante Announces New Takeout Menu and Online Ordering For the first time ever, MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante has released a takeout menu, made online ordering available to their guests, and expanded their website to include the purchasing of electronic gift card sales. Many guests have already benefitted from the recent changes, reporting that the carryout is packaged very well and tastes just as fresh as it does in-house. MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante will also be selling a large variety of their bottled wines, with most of their house wines on sale for $20 and available to purchase either in-store or online. MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante is open for takeout only at this time, with curbside delivery as an available option. Hours of operation are Monday–Saturday, 4 p.m.– 9 p.m. You can order online from their homepage at www.momo-pizzeria.com by selecting “Click Here to Order,” or you can call in your order at (402) 261-5966.

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Tomahawks Axe Throwing Utilizes CallJoy’s Advanced Phone Technology Tomahawks Axe Throwing, which launc hed in 2018 as the first recreational axe-throwing venue in downtown Lincoln, has implemented CallJoy’s advanced phone technology in order to provide a streamlined, modern phone experience and the highest level of customer service. Although axe throwing facilities have recently grown in popularity throughout the country, Tomahawks was just the third venue of its kind to open in the state, and naturally, many people had questions about the new activity. Tomahawks became inundated with customer calls asking about everything from safety precautions and promotions to scheduling reservations and parking information. Since Tomahawks only offers axe throwing on weekday evenings and throughout the weekend, it didn’t make sense to have someone working daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. simply to answer the phone. However, when one of the founders received an alert from the company’s Google My Business profile that it was missing up to 100 calls per week, he knew it was time to find a better way to manage the phone line, provide better customer service, and increase bookings. According to Tomahawks’ co-founder Shad Kearns, “CallJoy has been an absolute game-changer for our business. The best thing about it is that it gives me peace of mind knowing that we’re not missing calls, because missing calls meant we were ultimately missing out on revenue opportunities.” With CallJoy, Tomahawks completely eliminated the need to hire an additional employee to answer the phone during weekdays. Management is also able to use CallJoy’s recording and transcription features to monitor how employees communicate with customers over the phone and offer best practices for responding to common questions. Ultimately, CallJoy increases productivity. With 14 custom Call Actions, the CallJoy agent is able to automatically respond to questions about everything from Groupon promotions and nearby parking options to sending callers a link to the FAQ page or to book reservations on the website via the textback feature. CallJoy also filters and deters spam and robo-calls, allowing employees to focus on providing in-person customer service. To learn more, go online to www.calljoy.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS SP Group Goes Bowling for Tax Season Team Builder It’s tax season at SP Group, P.C., which means long days and longer weeks often spent with team members. Recently, the team broke up the dayto-day grind of keystrokes and mouse-clicks and went on an afternoon bowling outing. This team builder not only got them out of the office, but also gave them a chance to show their competitive side. All four lanes were rolling with spares, strikes, some doubles, and even a turkey or two. Oh, and there might have been a few gutter balls. The afternoon peaked when the final two lanes were neck and neck on the scoreboard and a few friendly wagers were thrown down. Quick learner and “ringer” of the group was none other than Jason Hardy. Who knew he had such hidden talents?

Specializing in Food and Pharma Industries

SP Group, P.C., a growing entrepreneurial accounting firm, was founded on these four core values: relationships, the power of team, life/work balance, and competitiveness. They like to win at SP Group, and they believe competitive sports-minded culture makes a firm better at achieving success for their clients. Follow SP Group on Facebook (@SP Group, P.C.) or Twitter (@SPGroupPC). For more information, please call (402) 420-7758 or visit www.spgrouppc.com.

Berry Law Named Most Outstanding Criminal Law Expert by Acquisition International

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Acquisition International recently named Berry Law the “Most Outstanding Criminal Law Expert” in the 2020 Global Excellence Awards. Acquisition International seeks nominations from firms that provide exceptional service that goes above and beyond for their clients. This award is based on merit, not the size of the firm itself. Therefore, firms that have been recognized as criminal law experts can range from a single person practice up to a multi-national corporation. This award proves that Berry Law stands out from the crowd. The award process consists of a nomination, an evaluation, intense research and judging, and selecting a winner for the award. The team that determines who qualifies as a criminal law expert consists of a panel of five impartial individuals that research according to high standards, led by an academic leader with international training experience who is well versed in research, fact-checking, and mediation. Acquisition International is a UK-based publisher that has been in circulation for 10 years. More than 108,000 business professionals from over 170 countries subscribe to the monthly magazine. Acquisition International exists to inform, entertain, influence, and shape the global corporate conversation through high-quality editorial, rigorous research, and an experienced worldwide network of dedicated advisors, experts, and contributors. Learn more at www.acq-intl.com. Berry Law was founded in 1965 by John Stevens Berry, Sr. With over 250 years of legal experience, Berry Law is well equipped to handle the most serious legal needs, providing client-focused and result-driven legal representation. Serving clients throughout Lincoln and Omaha, Berry Law practices in the areas of criminal defense, personal injury, and veterans law. To learn more about Berry Law, visit berrylawfirm. com. For questions, call (402) 466-8444. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Owners of Doorstep Diner Acquire Country Cattle Bank & Trust Opens In-School Branch Sliced Ham, Announce Plans for Renovation at Roper Elementary Laurie Fraser, Chef Jeff, and Chad Klein with Doorstep Diner Catering recently acquired Country Sliced Ham & Cafe, located at 6900 O St., STE 120, in the Meridian Park Shopping Center. The store and restaurant has been a local favorite for 34 years, known for its gourmet hams grown and raised in Webster, IA, and glazed on-site here in Lincoln. In coming months, the new owners plan to completely renovate the restaurant for a fresh and contemporary look. They have also been scheming delicious new dishes to add to the menu alongside beloved classics. In particular, the expanded lunch menu now offers a selection of mouthwatering panini sandwiches, always hot off the grill-press. Other new additions to the menu include fresh soups, salads with organic greens, daily specials, and new grab-n-go desserts—all offered at a reasonable price point. For the upcoming Easter holiday, Country Sliced Ham anticipates to sell out all hams quickly, so anyone looking to add a juicy ham to the family dinner table is encouraged to act promptly. Other convenient and tasty additions to consider are the mix-and-match pan meals (feed family of four for $13) offered through Doorstop Diner Catering from 4 to 6 p.m. Country Sliced Ham & Cafe offers their signature ham, bacon, turkey breasts, and other daily specials as part of their lunch and deli menu. To learn more about menu offerings or to ask about catering options, call (402) 467-2585 or email Laurie at catering@doorstepdiner.com.

LHRMA to Host April Program and Workshop on Baby Boomer Retirement The Lincoln Human Resource Management Association (LHRMA) will host a program titled, “The Future of the Workplace,” with a workshop that covers “Capitalizing on the Advantages of a Multi-Generational Workplace” on Tuesday, April 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lincoln Firefighters’ Reception Hall, 241 Victory Ln. Research suggests that 10,000 baby boomers will retire every day for the next 19 years, leaving an estimate of five million unfulfilled jobs throughout. Come join five Boomer-ANG “Gang” speakers to explore the impact of the “brain drain” as baby boomers begin to exit the workplace. This program will help you identify factors for consideration as you contemplate how to approach those 55+ years in your workplace. The workshop will discuss the five types of baby boomers in the workplace and how this creates a variety of options and challenges for the HR professional. The Boomer-ANG gang will enlighten you regarding the dynamics of the Enthusiasts, The Self-Reliants, The Traditionalist, The Anxious, and the Strugglers. This program will give you a hands-on opportunity to strategize with others about how to approach, with maximum effectiveness, various situations with employees 55+ years. The lunch program is valid for one PDC towards the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP recertification. The workshop is valid for two PDCs towards the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP recertification. Cost for the lunch program is $15 for LHRMA members and $25 for all other attendees. Cost of the workshop registration for all attendees is $35. Student LHRMA members receive free attendance to the luncheon. Students must register through Jenessa Keiser at college.relations@ lincolnhr.org. For more information or to register for the event visit, the event page at lincolnhr.org/calendar. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Three years after opening their first “in-school branch” at Arnold Elementary, Cattle Bank & Trust officially opened a second inschool location on January 30 and began accepting deposits from Roper Elementary students. To commemorate the grand opening of the branch, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce conducted an official ribbon cutting and the school held an assembly to teach students about the benefits of positive financial habits associated with savings accounts. Cattle Bank & Trust, along with Roper Elementary staff, and Tammie Fischer from the University of Nebraska Center of Economic Education, have worked diligently over the last year to plan and organize this new in-school branch. Staffed by 4th and 5th grade student tellers, supervised by Cattle Bank employees, and housed out of a classroom, the branch accepts deposits from Roper students once a week. To help the students get started, Cattle Bank & Trust will match their first deposit up to $5.00. Incentives will also be provided as the students reach various savings goals. The intention of this program is to provide the students with opportunities to learn about how financial institutions operate and how to become “super savers” themselves. Cattle Bank & Trust is a family-owned community bank that is headquartered in Seward, NE, with five locations in Seward and Lincoln. Learn more online at www.cattlebank.com. Questions can be directed to Roger Cattle (402) 420-7400 / roger@cattlebank.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS The Better Business Bureau Warns People to Avoid Business Scams The Better Business Bureau (BBB) recently warned people to avoid business scams after Shark Tank investor Barbara Corcoran told PEOPLE magazine she was scammed out of nearly $400,000. The BBB reports that she is not alone. Business email compromise scams have cost business owners and other organizations more than $3 billion since 2016. Business email compromise (BEC) fraud is an email phishing scam that typically targets people who pay bills in businesses, government, and nonprofit organizations. It affects both big and small businesses, and it has resulted in more losses than any other type of fraud in the U.S., according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Last fall, BBB did an in-depth investigative study on the prevalence of BEC scams and the scope of the problem, who is behind it, and what can be done to stop it. BBB urges businesses and other organizations to take technical precautions, such as multifactor authentication for email logins and other changes in email settings, along with verifying changes in information about customers, employees, and vendors. The report also urges culture and training changes in organizations, namely, confirming requests by phone before acting, and training all securities in internet security. Read more about the scam on the Better Business Bureau’s website, BBB. org/scamstudies, and learn what to do if your business has lost money.

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Adjuvance Technologies Celebrates $20M Investment and New Office Adjuvance Technologies recently received a $20 million Series A investment from Morningside Venture Investments Limited. The funds from the investment will be deployed to advance their first product through a proof-of-concept clinical trial. To celebrate, the Adjuvance Technologies team and representatives from the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce gathered on January 30 in the company’s new office at 1225 L St., STE 600, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. “We are pleased to receive this investment from Morningside,” said Tyler Martin, MD, chairman and CEO of Adjuvance. “They are a top tier life science venture investor, providing important validation of our technology. More importantly, together we have strategic alignment for building our business, and getting innovative vaccines to the people who need them.” Lisa Sypal, Adjuvance Technologies’ director of investor relations, said the company is also appreciative of the local support they’ve received as well: “Our partnership with Nebraska Innovation Campus and the early support provided by groups like the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, Invest Nebraska, and local angel investors have been a key component in our ability to advance our mission.” Adjuvance Technologies, Inc. is a privately held biopharmaceutical company focused on empowering health through fundamental breakthroughs in vaccine adjuvant design and manufacturing. Its lead adjuvant, TQL1055, is in pre-clinical development for multiple indications in infectious disease, oncology, neurobiology, substance abuse, and allergy. More information is available at www.adjuvancetechnologies. com. Further questions can be directed to Lisa at (402) 817-5050 Ext. 1116 / lsypal@adjuvancetechnologies.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS LIBA, Nebraska Retail Federation, Sandhills Lincoln Federal Savings Bank to Host 15th Global Team Up for Online Buy Local Initiative Annual Make-A-Wish Golf Benefit As a result of the economic impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on local businesses, LIBA (Lincoln Independent Business Association), the Nebraska Retail Federation, and Sandhills Global have teamed up to develop an online platform for local business owners to sell gift cards or gift certificates to help infuse cash into their businesses. Businesses are encouraged to sign up for a free listing on shop.nebraskabuylocal.com/signup. Through this initiative, they hope to give the community an easy way to still support local businesses during this difficult time. For questions, contact (844) 775-4779 / feedback@nebraskabuylocal.com.

Women in Sales & Business Cancels April Monthly Meeting The Women in Sales & Business (WISB) has canceled their monthly meeting slated for April 8 at The Venue. WISB will resume meetings based on health and safety recommendations from the CDC. Each meeting starts with lunch at 11:30 a.m. with program following from 11:55 a.m. until 1 p.m. Cost is $16 which includes lunch (cost is $10 if you only attend the meeting). The guest speaker for the April meeting was intended to be Melanie Dawkins on the topic: Using Social Media for Your Business in 2020. WISB looks forward to hearing from Melanie at a later date. Women in Sales & Business began meeting in 1987 to offer business women in Lincoln the opportunity to network within an all-female setting. Please keep up with events online at www.wisblincoln.ning. com or the WISB Facebook page (@wisblincoln).

John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Introduces New Membership Club John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning recently announced that they are now offering service maintenance plans through their new John Henry’s Membership Club, previously known as Service Maintenance Plans. The John Henry’s Membership Club still offers three plan levels, now with improvements and added benefits. Participants in the John Henry’s Membership Club receive the bonus service of having John Henry’s team come out twice a year to perform a cleaning on their HVAC system. Members can also receive a 15% repair discount, 5% HVAC system replacement discount, 24-hour guaranteed service, a duct cleaning discount, complimentary dryer vent cleanings, and extra filters! John Henry’s is now offering monthly payments to make it easy on your bank account while still offering you complete peace of mind, knowing they are only a phone call or text away. John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a full-service plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air quality, duct cleaning, and water treatment locally owned with over 80 team members. Call them at (402) 435-5555 to discuss your HVAC needs or visit jhlincoln.com to learn more. 10 Strictly Business APRIL 2020

Each year, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank puts on a golf benefit for the Make-A-Wish® Nebraska foundation. This year’s tournament will be held on Saturday, June 6, at NuMark Golf Course. This 18-hole, four-person scramble has a shotgun start time of 9 a.m., and registration is limited to 36 teams. Lunch and cart rental are included in the registration fee. Sign up and sponsorships can be found on Eventbrite. Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is proud to support Make-A-Wish Nebraska. Every 34 minutes, Make-A-Wish grants the wish of a child diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition in the United States and its territories. In the midst of uncertainty and demanding treatments, Make-A-Wish brings joy into a child’s life. Lincoln Federal Savings Bank was formed in 1906 and is organized as a mutual holding company. This means that the bank is essentially owned by the depositors of the bank, meaning there are no outside shareholders. This structure allows Lincoln Federal to offer highly competitive rates to customers on both loans and deposits as profits are not distributed to shareholders. Learn more at lincolnfed.com or visit the Facebook page (@ lincolnfederal). Questions about the golf benefit can be directed to Alyssa Rhoades at ARhoades@lincolnfed.com / (402) 4744200 Ext. 211.

Arnie’s Pet Food Store Launches Astro Loyalty Program for Customer Benefits A r n i e ’s Pe t Fo o d S t o r e recently announced that they will be integrating the Astro Loyalty Program, which saves participants money on pet foods and other pet products, giving them access to special deals and promotions not available through big box or online retailers. When participants join the Astro Loyalty Program through Arnie’s Pet Food Store, they become eligible for monthly special manufacturer offers on a full line of all natural 5-star-rated pet foods, treats, chews, and pet health products. Best of all, the pet product purchases at Arnie’s Pet Food Store will be automatically tracked and applied at the time of purchase, which means no more saving UPC labels, receipts, or carrying bulky punch cards to get a discount. Loyalty program participants will be able to keep track of their frequent buyer status, receive monthly special offers, and get notifications on upcoming specials, all through the Astro Loyalty app. Astro Loyalty is committed to empowering pet owners to access quality pet products at phenomenal prices, available exclusively through independent pet retailers like Arnie’s Pet Food Store. There is no pet loyalty like Astro. Arnie’s Pet Food Store is proud to partner with Astro Loyalty to bring their customers great products at great prices. The store is committed to only offering top-rated U.S. sourced pet products, education about the products they offer, and a personal experience for customers. Learn more by visiting Arnie’s Pet Food Store in the Alamo Plaza at 56th and Hwy 2 or go online to www. arniespetfoods.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Xtream General Contracting Furthers Its Commitment to Lincoln Through the Chamber Xtream General Contracting LLC recently joined the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce as a way to further its commitment to being an active member of the business community. To celebrate, the Chamber hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 13. Refreshments and tours of Xtream’s beautiful facility at 1900 Dudley St. were enjoyed by all in attendance. Owner Michael Cubas was surrounded by his team, family, and friends as he addressed the crowd and cut the ribbon. The crew at Xtream has over 20 years of experience serving Lincoln. They provide some of the highest quality craftsmanship to the community. They are also proud to serve the Omaha and Grand Island markets. Xtream General Contracting LLC is a full contracting service, offering tasks from siding and gutters to concrete. Their experienced crew works efficiently and quickly while still prioritizing the customers’ wants and needs. They specialize in residential, commercial, industrial, and interior and exterior improvement and restoration. To learn more about the projects they do, go to xtreamcontractor.com. You can also call (402) 418-0550 for a free estimate.

A1 Automotive Receives 2020 Best of Lincoln Award through Lincoln Award Program A1 Automotive was recently selected for the 2020 Best of Lincoln Award in the Autos category by the Lincoln Award Program. Each year, the Lincoln Award Program identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and the community. These exceptional companies help make the Lincoln area a great place to live, work, and play. Various sources of information are gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The Lincoln Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Lincoln Award program and data provided by third parties. The Lincoln Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Lincoln area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the liability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value. The organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, and other business advertising and marketing groups. Their mission is to recognize the small business community’s contributions to the U.S. economy. To learn more, visit their website at lincoln.bizbestof-information.org. A1 Automotive is committed to providing Always/Honest/Answers to the community that they love to serve with a “customers are always first” attitude. A1 Automotive is acquiring the latest software and specific tooling to maintain your vehicle’s every need. As A1 Automotive works through purchases of OE software in 2020, their capacity to care for every vehicle in your family will increase even more. For more information about A1 Automotive, visit www.a1autolincoln.com or call (402) 477-4660. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Guiderock Commercial Realty Secures Location for Movin’ Up

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup Launches New Water Mitigation Division

Cathy Kottwitz of Guiderock Commercial Realty recently represented Movin’ Up LLC in leasing space 1415 Dahlberg Dr., STE D. Movin’ Up is a new pole fitness studio operated by Sharon Czarnek opening in the spring of 2020. The studio will offer group fitness classes including a variety of basic pole classes as well as yoga, conditioning, and active stretch for pole. Movin’ Up also offers parties for any occasion, incorporating pole and/or chair. “I first became involved in pole fitness living Washington, D.C. because I got bored quickly with my workouts. I fell in love with pole because it’s fun and challenging. Not only does pole build muscle, balance, and grace, but it builds confidence, selfesteem, and provides a close-knit community. My studio is unique in that it is geared specifically towards beginners and those with no dance background,” Czarnek said. “With Movin’ Up as a new fitness concept in Lincoln, Sharon is bringing an exciting new element to the market,” Kottwitz said. “I enjoy working with entrepreneurs as they build their vision and grow our community.” Guiderock Commercial Realty is a Lincoln-based commercial real estate firm providing services for business owners and investors. For more information, visit www.guiderockrealty.com or contact Cathy Kottwitz at (402) 421-7474 / cathy@guiderockrealty.com.

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup is excited to present their new water mitigation division in Lincoln as of January. The harmful effects of water damage can be reduced greatly by the prompt and reliable water damage restoration services from Roto-Rooter. Roto-Rooter’s water restoration services include water damage and sewage cleanup, basement flood clean up, water removal, and emergency flood service. When it comes to cleanup, Roto-Rooter’s extensive process includes the application of anti-microbial agents and deodorizers, as well as air-cleaning utilizing their state-of-the art equipment. Their team is accredited with the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC), and they perform water restoration services in compliance with the IICRC S500 standards for professional water damage restoration, which means you are getting service you can trust. Roto-Rooter’s water restoration vehicles are equipped with state-of-the art water extraction, drying, and moisture testing equipment so you can be confident that water removal process will be completed thoroughly and efficiently. Roto-Rooter will even send the bill for services directly to your insurance company, relieving you of the burden during a very stressful time. Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup water damage experts are available 24 hours a day throughout the year to quickly repair the problem and prevent further water damage. Call Operations Manager Jim Oliva at (402) 489-4801 for your water mitigation needs. More information can be found online at rotorooter.com/lincoln.

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BUSINESS NEWS Leisure Limousine & Sedan Unveils New Limo Barn at Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

COMING SOON

Leisure Limousine & Sedan officially unveiled their slick new limo barn at 2137 Magnum Cir. on January 28 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. Attendees got the opportunity to admire the spacious facility, perfectly suited to hold Leisure Limoâ€™s expansive fleet of stretch limos, suburbans, and Cadillac sedans. Owners Lyndon and Lori Hiebner are proud of this milestone moment in their business. They continue to be personally involved in every aspect of the operation in order to guarantee a comfortable and memorable experience for each passenger. Leisure Limo provides shuttle services for every occasion. From premier corporate transportation to a wedding shuttle, their experienced drivers will make sure that everyone on the ride has a great time. Regardless of size, all Leisure Limo vehicles are clean, state-of-theart, and provide a luxurious atmosphere. They even have interstate authority to cross state lines. To learn more about Leisure Limousine & Sedan, visit their website at leisurelimoservices.com. All booking information is available online, but if you have any questions, feel free to contact (402) 476-8132 / ride@leisurelimoservices.com.

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Gramercy Hill to Host 35-Year Anniversary Celebration May 15 Gramercy Hill, a Capital Senior Living community, is opening up their doors on Friday, May 15, for an all-day 35-year anniversary celebration. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., anyone with a connection to Gramercy Hill or the senior living industry in Lincoln can swing by to enjoy refreshments, entertainment, door prizes, and tours of the newlyremodeled apartments and updated amenities. There will be photos and other memorabilia on display showcasing the growth the community has seen since opening their campus on 70th and A St. in 1985. The management and staff at Gramercy Hill are proud of their solid history of providing affordable independent and assisted living options to seniors in Lincoln, as well as short-term respite stays. Staff members are available 24-hours a day and tailor care plans to the individual to ensure that each person gets exactly what he or she needs. Their homelike atmosphere is appealing to their diverse population. Featuring a number of layouts for all lifestyles, the apartments at Gramercy Hill combine the best safety features with warm and relaxing aesthetics. Residents enjoy a variety of amenities, such as spacious kitchenettes with full-sized appliances, personal laundry service, exercise room, scheduled medical transportation, and so much more. There is also restaurant-style dining with meals prepared by their talented chef, and Gramercy Hill celebrates its residents with special activities, seminars, and more throughout the year. Come congratulate Gramercy Hill on 35 years! Contact Catherine Horner, executive director, at (402) 483-1010 / CHorner@ capitalseniorliving.net with any questions. More information about the services and living options available at Gramercy Hill can be found online at gramercyhill.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Nebraska Community Foundation Offers Free Tax-Wise Charitable Giving Resources

Lied Center Announces 2020-21 Glenn Korff Broadway Series Featuring Les Misérables

Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) offers an abundance of free resources fo r t a x - w i s e c h a r i t a b l e giving. NCF’s website (nebcommfound.giftlegacy. com) explores numerous giving methods like the IRA Charitable Rollover, gifts of grain and livestock, real estate, life insurance policies, appreciated stocks or mutual funds, and more. Online gift planning calculators will help illustrate the income and tax benefits of a variety of gift types. Furthermore, NCF provides the most up-to-date information on new laws and legislation affecting charitable giving. One example of useful current information on the webpage concerns The SECURE Act, effective January 1, 2020, which made several changes to qualified retirement plans that impact charitable giving: 1. The age at which required minimum distributions must be taken was pushed back from 70.5 to 72 years old, but the age at which qualified charitable distributions can be made is still 70.5. 2. The “Stretch IRA” has been eliminated for most heirs, making IRAs an expensive inheritance. NCF works with generous Nebraskans and their financial advisors every day to meet their charitable giving goals. For more information, contact Nebraska Community Foundation’s Office of Gift Planning (402) 323-7330 / info@nebcommfound.org.

National tours of Les Misérables, The Band’s Visit, Come from Away, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Chicago, Madagascar, and STOMP are coming to Lincoln for the Lied Center of Performing Arts’ 2020-2021 Glenn Korff Broadway Series. “The 2020-2021 Broadway series represents one of Lincoln’s biggest Broadway lineups ever with next season’s productions earning a combined 25 Tony Awards®,” said Bill Stephan, executive director and chief artistic officer of the Lied Center. Broadway ticket packages are on sale now and start at $196. Packages include the same seats to all five Broadway productions as well as the first opportunity to purchase tickets for two add-on productions (STOMP and Madagascar the Musical). Show dates are as follows: • The Band’s Visit - October 21–25, 2020 • Chicago - November 13–15, 2020 • Come from Away - January 19-23, 2021 • Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - March 25–27, 2021 • Les Misérables - April 13–18, 2021 • STOMP - February 20–21, 2021 • Madagascar the Musical - February 25–26, 2021 The Lied Center of Performing Arts presents the world’s most iconic artists and major regional, national, and international performances. Tickets are available at liedcenter.org, by phone at (402) 472-4747, or at the Lied Center box office, 301 N. 12th St.

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BUSINESS NEWS Strictly Business to Host Virtual Friends4Lunch Networking Event in April This month, Strictly Business will host their Friends4Lunch networking event virtually on Zoom on Wednesday, April 8, at 11:30 a.m. Order food from your favorite Lincoln restaurant to enjoy during this time. Strictly Business encourages participants to choose from one of their amazing restaurant clients: Villa Amore, The Chocolate Season, Raising Cane’s, Country Sliced Ham & Cafe, Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar, The Venue Restaurant & Lounge, Piedmont Bistro by Venue, Cactus Modern Mexican & Cantina by Venue, Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs, MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante, H.F. Crave, and McKinney’s Irish Pub. This is an opportunity to still connect with other professionals while practicing social distancing. The Zoom link will be posted on the Facebook event page (@StrictlyBusinessMagazine). Strictly Business would like to thank everyone who attended Friends4Lunch last month on March 5 at Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar. The team looks forward to gathering again when it is safe and healthy to do so. Please call the office at (402) 466-3330 with any questions.

Apartment Association Holds Stars of Excellence Night, Honors Quality in Industry On February 21, the Apartment Association of Nebraska held the Stars of Excellence awards night at A View on State, with over 300 attendees. This annual event was created to recognize those in the multifamily industry who are going above and beyond just providing rental homes and apartments to those in our community. The Apartment Association of Nebraska’s primary role is to provide industry education and promote a higher level of service in this industry. This night’s focus is on celebrating the multifamily industry and those who make a positive impact. The winners from the 2019 Stars of Excellence include: • Volunteer of the Year – Ruth Nwaturuocha, Lund Company • Assistant Manager of the Year – Cecilia Korth, Lund Company • Best Curb Appeal – Park Place Apartments, The Goodman Group • Best Lease-Up – The Apartments @ Lux 96, Lund Company • Best Marketing Campaign – Pay it Forward, Lund Company • Community Manager – Kim McIntosh, Seldin Company • Community Team – Dillon Properties • Corporate Support Staff – Customer Care Support, Lund Company • Interior Designer – Gabriel Gianes, Lund Company • Leasing Professional – Tracey Siglee, Pedcor • Luxury Property – 1415 @ The Yard, Lund Company • Maintenance Supervisor – Michael Arroyo, Lund Company • Maintenance Technician – John Applegate, Lund Company • Owner of the Year – Michael Dillon, Dillon Properties • Property Management Company – Orange Management • Property of the Year – Deerfield Clubhouse, Lund Company • Regional Supervisor – Amanda Burchfield, Lund Company • Renovated Property – Southwest Gables, Lund Company • Rookie of the Year Multifamily – Cassandra Summers, Lund Company • Rookie of the Year Supplier – Travis Ward, Artisent Floors • Supplier Representative – Angela Gibbs, RentPath • Supplier Company – RentPath The Apartment Association of Nebraska was founded in 2002 to provide its members with a one-stop resource for all industry information and education, in addition to advocating for members on all Nebraska Multi-family legislative issues. For more information, visit www.aaneb.org or call (402) 333-5331. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS National Association of Women in Construction Announces Fall Conference

OutNebraska Launches Coalition Supporting LGBTQ+, Nebraska Competes

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has chosen the dates and location for the Midwest Region Fall Conference. The Midwest Region, known as the Heart of NAWIC, includes 17 chapters and spans nine states including Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Missouri, and Kansas. The Fall Conference will be held October 16–17 at the newlyrenovated Kahler Grand Hotel in Rochester, MN. The conference focus this year represents the responsibilities members have to themselves, their employers, their families, their chapter, their communities, and the construction industry. NAWIC Chapter #116 is based in Omaha and encompasses Omaha, Lincoln, Council Bluffs, and the surrounding areas. First chartered in 1966, the chapter has approximately 60 members working in businesses whose primary focus is the construction industry. Receiving its national charter in 1955, NAWIC has 3,949 current active members in 118 chapters across the United States. The core purpose of the organization is to strengthen and amplify the success of women in the construction industry. For additional conference details including professional development and education session information, speakers, networking activities, and social events, updates will be posted on the NAWIC conference page at www.nawicmidwestregion.org. Feel free to reach out to media contact Nanci Borg at (402) 671-9435 to schedule a telephone interview with NAWIC Midwest Region Conference Chair Jodi Wiemerslage.

Lincoln YPG and the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce are proud partners of OutNebraska, a statewide, nonpartisan education and advocac y organization empowering and celebrating LGBTQ+ Nebraskans. OutNebraska envisions Nebraska communities that embrace and celebrate the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ people, and so they have launched a new project: Nebraska Competes.

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Abbi Swatsworth speaks at a press conference hosted by Lincoln YPG on March 3.

Nebraska Competes is a nonpartisan coalition of businesses committed to achieving nondiscrimination policies at the community and state levels in order to attract the best talent, to increase business-to-business and business-to-consumer relationships, and to grow Nebraska’s economy. There are 21 states where consumers and employees are protected from being denied jobs, housing, and services based upon perceived sexual orientation/gender identity—Nebraska is not one of these states. Discriminatory laws can drive away the top talent Nebraska needs to fill 21st century jobs. Volunteers working with OutNebraska will be reaching out to businesses in the coming months to join the Nebraska Competes coalition. The coalition will launch a Nebraska Competes website with coalition members in June 2020. Businesses that want to learn more or sign on can connect with Nebraska Competes at info@nebraskacompetes.org or (402) 488-1130.

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BUSINESS NEWS Star City BaconFest 2020 Postponed Until August 23 N eb r a s k a Po r k P ro d u c e r s Association (NPPA) has made the decision to postpone the Star City BaconFest from April 19 to August 23 at Embassy Suites by Hilton Lincoln. Other event details will remain the same, with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. and bacon sampling continuing until 7 p.m. The decision to reschedule came as a response to the CDC recommendations regarding the COVID-19 outbreak. Bacon lovers who have already purchased tickets will receive an email from the NPPA explaining that their tickets will be good for the rescheduled date. Event organizers are halting the sale of tickets for now but plan to start selling tickets again this summer. “We are sorry for the rescheduling, but we want everyone to be safe and stay healthy,” said Jane Stone, the NPPA’s domestic marketing director. Star City BaconFest is an annual event sponsored by the Nebraska Restaurant Association (NRA) and the NPPA. Proceeds go toward scholarships for culinary students in Nebraska. Hormel Foods is providing products for the chefs to use during Star City BaconFest 2020. Admission is $25 for adults, with children 10 and under free. Tickets will go on sale again this summer at starcitybaconfest.com.

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Sun Valley Lanes & Games Hosts 2020 U.S. Open for Bowling Sun Valley Lanes & Games hosted the 2020 U.S. Open for bowling February 16 through 23. The event brought 108 competitors from around the world to compete for the title of U.S. Open Champion. The field consisted of several Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) hallof-fame bowlers, such as Chris Barnes, Norm Duke, Tommy Jones, Pete Weber, and Walter Ray Williams Jr. After bowling 54 games over the course of five days, five bowlers qualified for the finals, which was televised live on FOX. Viewership for the finals topped 1.1 million viewers nationwide. Amateur bowler and Midland University alumni Perry Crowell IV was the crowd favorite, but ended his run at the title by finishing in fourth place with a loss to veteran professional, Dick Allen. The number one ranked bowler in the world Jason Belmonte won the title. This was Jason’s 23rd PBA title, 12 of which are major championships. With the win, Jason became only the second professional bowler ever to complete the “Super Slam,” which means he has won each of the five PBA Major Championships at least once in his career. Sun Valley Lanes is well known for hosting large national and international bowling tournaments. In the past, they have hosted the Intercollegiate Team Championships and PWBA Lincoln Open three times each, as well as the World Youth Championships in 2016. Sun Valley Lanes & Games, located at 321 Victory Ln., is Lincoln’s premier bowling and recreation center. Lane reservations can be made through their online booking system at www.sunvalleylanes. com or by calling (402) 475-3469. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Basic Motorcycle Training Courses Now No Coast Business Advisors Opens New Available Through Nebraska Safety Council Recording Studio, Now Available for Use The Nebraska Safety Council has announced their 2020 basic motorcycle training courses that will run from April 3 and continue throughout the spring, summer, and fall for anyone interested in learning to ride. The course is designed for true beginners, which means students don’t need to have any experience with a motorcycle to participate. This program is a hybrid of online learning and skills practice on the outdoor motorcycle range. Safety and health are a top priority for the council: classes are limited to six students and the instructor. Motorcycles will be assigned to students and properly cleaned and sanitized. The range is a large, outdoor area where riders will be easily able to maintain personal distances of at least six feet as recommended. The Nebraska Safety Council would like to assure the public they would not offer this course unless they were highly confident they can provide a safe and healthy environment for students and instructors. The Nebraska Safety Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Lincoln with a mission to empower people to live safe and healthy lives. For information, visit www.nesafetycouncil.org. Contact Lisa Henning at (402) 483-2511 Ext. 109 / lhenning@ nesafetycouncil.org with any questions.

Strictly Business APRIL 2020

No Coast Business Advisors recently opened their shiny new recording studio, available for use by their clients. The new studio is equipped with the latest advancements in recording technology, including a 4K Ultra HD video camera that offers stunning and clear resolution and an audio recording system that produces professional quality results. Through use of the studio, No Coast consulting and social media clients now have the ability to record and broadcast professional quality videos and podcasts for use in advertising, YouTube, social media, and other mediums. No Coast also has a partnership with a professional video editor for additional services when required. No Coast’s goal is to continue expanding and improving their studio and their services in order to provide their clients with access to the most current technologies and experiences so they can keep a competitive edge in the business sphere and on social media platforms. No Coast Business Advisors operates nationally, assisting both sellers and buyers to reach their goals. Their brokers are trained and equipped to help with valuations, the listing and promotion of a business to its target audience, the selection and presentation of businesses that fit a buyer’s criteria, the closing process, and more. For more information, visit nocoastbusinessadvisors.com. For questions, call (402) 217-3252 or email Jethro at jethro@ncbabroker.com.

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

by Kayla Northrup, Senior Account Manager

Understanding COBRA

COBRA is familiar to many but misunderstood by most. Whether you are an employer or employee, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities related to coverage continuation. Let’s first walk through what COBRA is, who it applies to, and how it works. What is COBRA? — COBRA is a federal law that requires employers with 20+ employees who offer health benefits to allow individuals to continue coverage when it is otherwise scheduled to end. Some examples of COBRA qualifying events are termination of employment or reduction in hours to part-time level. It’s commonly thought that all employers who offer health benefits are subject to COBRA. Not true...20 employees is the magic number. There is a similar program for employers with less than 20 employees. Who does COBRA apply to? — COBRA applies to anyone who was covered on the group health plan on the day prior to coverage termination. This includes employees, spouses, and children. Each person has their own COBRA election rights. COBRA enrollment does not have to match prior enrollment. A spouse or child may elect COBRA while the employee does not. How does it work? — COBRA eligible individuals have 60 days to return election paperwork. Coverage will be effective on the day after coverage is terminated so that there is not a gap in coverage. COBRA premium may seem high. This is because the individual is now paying the full cost of coverage without the employer contribution. Electing COBRA is electing to remain on the employer plan. COBRA is not a totally separate benefit plan. It is choosing to continue prior coverage and prior premiums, though now fully funded by the individual. COBRA can last for 18, 29, or 36 months, depending on the event which caused coverage termination. Employers bear the responsibility of notifying individuals of their COBRA eligibility. There are rules regarding when the notification must take place and allowable methods of communication. Non-compliance can bring significant fines. There are softwares and COBRA administrators that can help ease the burden to employers. Employers should either take the time to become familiar with COBRA/ State Continuation or outsource it to protect the company. As previously mentioned, there is a small employer version of COBRA called State Continuation. While COBRA is federally mandated, State Continuation varies from state to state. State Continuation applies to employers with less than 20 employees. It isn’t nearly as broad as COBRA. Involuntary termination is the only event that triggers State Continuation eligibility. An employee who voluntarily quits is not eligible for State Continuation. State Continuation coverage can last up to six months. Self funded and Level funded plans generally are not subject to State Continuation.

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APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

RYAN

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Strictly Business APRIL 2020

THE KINDLER HOTEL The Kindler Hotel is Lincoln’s first and only independently owned and operated boutique hotel. Ryan Kramer is the chief engineer for The Kindler Hotel. Tell us a little about your business. - The Kindler Hotel officially opened in October of 2019. It has become a unique place that brings people together, whether it’s overnight guests or friends meeting up for drinks and appetizers in the Boitano’s Lounge. The Kindler’s neo-classical architecture and sophisticated accommodations create a boutique hotel experience Lincoln hasn’t seen before. In my position, I get to have my hands in all aspects of the hotel. It’s a behind-the-scenes role, but everything I do ensures the guest has a comfortable and seamless experience. Every day brings something new, so I am constantly learning. How did you get started in the business? - This career landed in my lap when I was looking for a change in what I was previously doing. It was a great opportunity to get back into the hospitality industry, which I thoroughly enjoy. I am a pretty handy guy, and it is a thrill going to work to make sure the hotel is always working and looking its best. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Being able to work for such a wonderful company and a beautiful hotel as The Kindler Hotel. Tell us a little about your family. - I have a lovely wife. Her name is Jodi and we have been married for eight years. I have a beautiful daughter named Josie who is 10 and in the fourth grade. She loves to play basketball. Watching her grow up is one of the greatest pleasures of my life. I also have two fur babies, a pug named Gizmo and a Boston terrier named Fritz. We are currently building a tiny house! What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? When my daughter was born. I have always wanted a child. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Relax watching a movie or playing video games. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have a motorcycle and, during nice weather, I like to take it out for a ride. Who inspires you? - My daughter. Watching her learn and grow as a human is so inspiring. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “It is what it is.” If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Thinker. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Bless The Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - X-ray vision. Which talent would you most like to have? - To be more musically inclined. It would be cool to play the guitar. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Electrical engineering. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman. It is very informative. What is your favorite TV show? - Walking Dead. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - William Shatner. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 261-7800; maintenance@thekindlerhotel.com; thekindlerhotel.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

CATHERINE

Your One Stop Resource For Home Buying & Selling

Catherine Horner GRAMERCY HILL

Gramercy Hill offers residents over 55 years old a place to live independently or with assisted wellness and rehab services in a vibrant, recently-remodeled apartment community off of 70th and A St. Catherine Horner is the executive director of Gramercy Hill. Tell us a little about your business. - Owned and managed by Capital Senior Living, Gramercy Hill allows residents to enjoy menu-style dining, daily life-enriching activities, and access to medical services. This year marks 35 years of serving retired Nebraska seniors at our campus. How did you get started in the business? - In 2014, I began working as a business director and eventually administrator for a newly-opened assisted living community in The Villages, Florida. Prior to that, I had spent many years working at Lied Lodge & Conference Center in administration and human resources. That experience prepared me for managing operations that encompass customer service, dining, sales, housekeeping, and maintenance, all similar departments in a senior community. It took several months of studying to learn about healthcare administration and pass the Florida Nursing Home Administrators exam. Since my children live in Nebraska, I relocated back to Lincoln two years ago and was hired to my current position at Gramercy Hill. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I’ve been given the opportunity to mentor and encourage many employees to set goals and seek the training and education necessary to reach them. When someone tells me that they have done something successful because of advice they received from me, that’s the best compliment I can get and an important achievement for me. Tell us a little about your family. - I grew up outside of Washington, D.C. in Oxon Hill, MD and was raised in a suburban home with two brothers, now both living in Florida. Currently, I’m a single mother of three grown, healthy, successful children who have blessed me with seven little adorable grandchildren, all of whom live in Nebraska. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Marrying someone with ties to Nebraska was a big turning point. I went from city girl life to rural girl life living in a house on 10 acres in the middle of nowhere! It wasn’t long before I was canning vegetables and taking my children to 4-H meetings. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I would love to sleep in but after many years of working, I jump up and start my day early and actually enjoy that. Spending time with family and friends, trying new recipes, taking a walk in the sunshine, working with house plants, and exploring antique stores and estate sales are a few favorite things to do. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I appeared on The Wheel of Fortune in 2012 and won a trip to Jamaica and some cash! Who inspires you? - People who have lived through terrible circumstances and have every reason to be down on themselves, yet choose to be happy and productive in life and actually lift others up. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Having worked many years for the Arbor Day Foundation, I feel passionate about their tree-planting mission considering the impact trees have on our very existence. We have an annual Arbor Day celebration at Gramercy Hill and plant a tree on the property, with local grade school children participating, each year. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I’m currently reading The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven. Very powerful. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 483-1010; chorner@capitalseniorliving.net; gramercyhill.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

JOE COURTNEY

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Strictly Business APRIL 2020

STAR CITY SIX

BRENDA

Brenda Clark

BARNWOOD & LEATHER Barnwood & Leather is a locally-owned home furniture store that features a mixture of rustic and traditional furnishings. Brenda Clark is the founder of Barnwood & Leather, along with her husband Mike. Tell us a little about your business. - Our focus is to work with American-made manufacturers, artists, and craftsmen who provide high-quality products. We carry a beautiful barnwood line made from 100% reclaimed wood, hand-crafted one at a time, that includes dining room pieces, living room accent tables, stand-alone bars, pub tables and stools, and office and bedroom furniture. In addition, we can custom-design barnwood cabinets, and we also carry leather and upholstery furniture with the capability of designing custom-made pieces. Recently, we began working with local Nebraska artists and craftsmen who have their unique pieces for sale in our store, including table and wall art made from textured steel and copper, wood-carved accessory items, rustic furniture, and Nebraska photography. How did you get started in the business? - Our journey as business owners began over three years ago when we were looking for our own home furniture. Our shopping quest led us to some talented people who were offering the exact “look” we had envisioned. They, too, began their careers outside of furniture retail. After meeting them at the Vegas market in 2018 to explore the industry and answer more questions, we came home inspired to pursue our own business ambitions. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - We had developed our concept of what we wanted Barnwood & Leather to be and had a business plan but had much to learn about execution since opening six months ago. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Helping customers find that right piece for their home, whether it’s a small item or a large custom furniture piece. Tell us a little about your family. - Mike and I have three children, two of whom are married. They all live in Lincoln, along with our six grandchildren. We moved to Lincoln from McCool Junction in 1997. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Mike and I were born one day apart in the same hospital in York, NE and delivered by the same doctor—a real-life small-town story! We started dating when we were 16 years old and have been celebrating birthdays together ever since. Who inspires you? - People who persist through all of the ups and downs life throws at them, and those who own up to their mistakes along the way. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - There are two favorites that come to mind. Both are from a book given to me by my school principal titled The Energy Bus. They are #1 and #6 on the book’s “10 Rules for the Ride of Your Life.” #1: You’re the Driver of the Bus. #6: No Energy Vampires Allowed on your Bus. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “The Long and Winding Road” by The Beatles, not because life has been difficult but because it has been a journey! I went back to college in my 30s, changed careers, moved to Lincoln, worked for the public schools and UNL as an SLP…and now Barnwood & Leather! What is your favorite TV show? - This is Us. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (531) 500-4848; mbclark@barnwoodandleather.com; www. barnwoodandleather.com. We are located at 1401 Dahlberg Dr., STE H. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

JUSTIN

Justin Kalemkiarian

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Berry Law is nationwide Veteran’s Benefits practice focused on relentless representation of clients facing criminal and civil battles. Justin Kalemkiarian is an attorney at Berry Law. Tell us a little about your business. - The attorneys and advocates at Berry Law spend all day, every day fighting for the rights of our clients. I do a lot of criminal defense, white collar defense, professional licensing defense, Title IX defense, and provide counsel when there are both criminal and civil implications. I’m proud of the growth and direction of Berry Law and our growing practice areas. How did you get started in the business? - While in law school, I determined I wanted to be in court. After passing the bar, I reached out to the founder of Berry Law, John Stevens Berry, Sr., and asked him for his advice on how to start out. He called me in for a meeting with his son, which I knew immediately was a job interview. I’ve had the privilege of learning from great attorneys, so I got off to a good start. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - For many of our clients, they are facing the most critical fight of their lives, and they’re entrusting this fight to us. It’s a tremendous honor, but it’s also a huge responsibility knowing that we must get the best possible result. There are some cases that are stomach-turning, but my job is to protects the rights of everyone, even those charged with the most heinous crimes. As soon as we decide that the Constitution doesn’t apply to certain crimes, we might as well get rid of it.

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What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Anytime a client thanks me for saving his or her life, that’s an achievement. More specifically, I have won a couple of cases that have been used by attorneys around the state. I’m proud of those results. Outside of the courtroom, I have been involved with some nonprofits, including NextGen Lincoln, Downtown Rotary 14, and the Nebraska Criminal Defense Attorneys Association. Lincoln is a great city to be involved with nonprofits! Tell us a little about your family. - I was born and raised in Lincoln but left for college in my 20s. After moving back, I dated a bit before meeting my wife Taylor who was living in Kansas City at the time. She moved to Lincoln and we got married this past August. We live in a house not far from where I went to middle school and enjoy the company of two fantastic miniature schnauzer watchdogs. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Moving back to Lincoln and reaching out to Mr. Berry set in motion the past six years of my life, both personally and professionally. I’m thankful for the opportunities I’ve been given. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Golf, socialize, attend events, and visit the KC area with my wife. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I’m proud of my Armenian heritage. I’ve been to the country twice, including a summer internship with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Feedback is a gift. It’s not always the gift you want, but it can be what you most need. What is your favorite local restaurant? - DISH or MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 466-8444; justin@jsberrylaw.com; berrylawfirm.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

1-5 DAY

DAN

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Strictly Business APRIL 2020

North Risk Partners provides businesses with solutions for group health, life, and disability insurance needs, as well as support to navigate all of the healthcare changes happening today. Dan Marburg is a risk advisor for North Risk Partners. Tell us a little about your business. - For me, managing risk is about helping clients gain control through understanding. Business owners are often frustrated with insurance, because you can’t control something you don’t understand. As a part of North Risk Partners, I’m able to work with our clients to identify, understand, and manage the risks their business faces every day. By making businesses better managers of risks, we give back control and make them more attractive in the insurance marketplace. Traditionally, agents have focused on selling products to businesses. Our process allows us to approach the relationship differently, focusing on selling businesses to potential insurance carriers in the marketplace. Rather than trying to focus on simply minimizing the annual spend on insurance as a commodity, our process helps companies take a longer-range view of risk and improve their bottom line. How did you get started in the business? - Prior to getting into the risk management business, I spent seven years selling equipment and supplies into meat processing plants and slaughterhouses. I also spent several years selling welding supplies and equipment, industrial gases, and cryogens for a variety of industrial applications. While I was finishing my MBA, a friend who was the president of the large local agency suggested I look closely at commercial property and casualty. I’ve never looked back, and I am truly grateful for his suggestion and the opportunity he gave me. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - We all get the same 24 hours in a day. Making the most of this time is the ongoing challenge. Really understanding that time is the commodity, rather than prospects being the commodity, has changed the way I plan and prioritize. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - My father Jerry passed recently. After escaping Nazi Germany and coming into this country as a refugee, he became a citizen, an Army veteran, and spent his entire career in personnel management for the Veterans Administration. He was a great lover of the English language and American history. (He was especially fascinated with the Lewis and Clark expedition.) Most of the things he taught me and the example of the way he lived his life can be summed up by the poem “If–” by Rudyard Kipling. Look it up. Read it. Share it with your kids. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty. As the song says, “You can stand me up at the gates of hell, but I won’t back down!” If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Helping people realize and reach their potential. Flight would be pretty cool too! What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - There is a Judaic phrase—Tikkun Olam—which roughly translates as “repair the world.” Since returning to Nebraska after college 30 years ago, I’ve had many opportunities to volunteer in this spirit. I’ve been involved with the National Eagle Scout Association, Swim Omaha, the Anti-Defamation League, Temple Israel, Leadership Omaha, Habitat for Humanity, the Tri-Faith Initiative, and others. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 905-9054; dan.marburg@northriskpartners.com; northriskpartners.com. I am on LinkedIn as well. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

ERIC

A Full-Service Commercial Real Estate Appraisal Firm

Eric Halsey

ENGINEERED CONTROLS Engineered Controls is a building technology company whose goal is to make buildings more efficient, comfortable, secure, and convenient for its occupants. Eric Halsey is a sales engineer at Engineered Controls. Tell us a little about your business. - My primary focus is commercial sales of Parking Access and Revenue Control Systems, Video Surveillance Systems, and Access Control Systems. We sell, install, and service these turnkey solutions for our customers. Not a lot of people know what I mean when I say “Parking Access and Revenue Control Systems.” These are the ticket machines, gate arms, and the cash or credit card payment machines that you see in parking garages and parking lots. I am often called “the parking guy” when being introduced to new people around the office. How did you get started in the business? - I’ve always had a knack for repairing and tinkering with electronics, so it made sense to pursue a degree in electronics technology. After college, I spent a few years repairing variable message LED displays, installing video surveillance systems on city transit buses, and providing telephone technical support of audio and video systems on motor coaches. A friend who was already employed with Engineered Controls thought I would fit in well with their new, at the time (2007), security division team. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Technology is constantly changing, so staying current with all the different products offered to us is very challenging. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - The relationships that I have developed and maintained with all of my customers. Tell us a little about your family. - My beautiful wife Kathi is an esthetician at a local day spa in Omaha. We will be celebrating our 10-year wedding anniversary this April. We have three amazing kids: Willa (6), Hattie (4), and Jasper (2). We love watching our kids grow and making memories with them. We also have a boxer named Bo. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Becoming a dad. It is a great feeling! What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spending time with my family and friends, watching a Nascar race, or being on the lake in Okoboji. Who inspires you? - My wife and kids inspire me every day. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “You gotta keep on keepin’ on, life’s a garden, dig it.” – Joe Dirt If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Honest. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Teleportation. It would make traveling faster and safer. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Watchers by Dean Koontz. What is your favorite movie? - Grumpy Old Men. What is your favorite TV show? - Yellowstone. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Dale Earnhardt Jr. I enjoy hearing people’s stories, and I feel like Dale Jr. has some good ones to tell. I’m also a huge Nascar fan. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 339-1300 Ext. 211; ehalsey@engineeredcontrols.com; www. engineeredcontrols.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

PERSONNEL NEWS McGill Restoration Brings on Jon Connealy to Sales Team

CHAD Welcomes Ellen Grady as Director of Communications and Marketing

McGill Restoration is proud to add a valuable member to their sales team with the hiring of Jon Connealy. Jon brings with him 20 years of experience in the construction industry, with 10 of those years spent representing concrete materials and accessories. In his previous role, Jon partnered with contractors, design professionals, and manufacturers to provide solutions to challenges faced in various phases of design, construction, maintenance, and repair by way of material sales and technical support. Jon’s primary areas of expertise are commercial concrete repair, waterproofing, and building envelope systems.

CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive) is pleased to announce the hiring of Ellen Grady as its new director of communications and marketing. Grady has a background in marketing, nonprofit development, and journalism. The death of her mother in 2012 inspired Grady to leave a corporate position and become involved with several charities supported by CHAD.

Also, Jon continues to serve as the Region 5 director and secretariat for the International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) and will continue to serve the American Concrete Institute (ACI) of Nebraska as an instructor and examiner for the Adhesive Anchor Installer Certification. Jon was honored by ICRI in 2020, being awarded as a member of this year’s Forty under Forty class. McGill Restoration is very committed to investing in the development and training of their employees. They work hard to keep their employees busy year-round and try not to be a seasonal construction company. If you are interested in starting a career in the construction industry at a company that offers a competitive benefit and compensation package, please apply on the McGill Restoration website at www.mcgillrestoration. com or contact the Lincoln office at (402) 438-4110.

“I saw firsthand the difference CHAD was making for hospice patients, as well as those affected by breast cancer and kidney disease,” Grady said. “I couldn’t have been happier when the opportunity arose to join the CHAD team.” In their spare time, Grady and her husband chase after their daughter, who is thriving after being born with complex medical conditions in 2017. As the mother of a child with special needs, Grady appreciates even more the role of health charities working to improve the lives of Nebraskans. CHAD is a local, donor-designation driven organization that has been raising funds for Nebraska’s premier health charities since 1972. Since its inception, CHAD has raised $58,159,054 for charities who are supporting those in need in the community. For more information on the organization’s achievements, visit www. chadnebraska.org/annual-report.

Disturbance. Disorder. Disarrangement. Many people think these are negatives in the workplace, but Leadercast Live 2020 will show you how disruption is the best way to make positive, lasting changes in your organization and beyond. The speakers who will take the stage are changemakers. They are trailblazers. They face big ideas head-on and take their teams to new heights.

Magic Johnson

Amy Jo Martin

Bozoma Saint John

Dr. Henry Cloud

Matt Wallaert

Thursday, May 7 - 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Jack J. Huck Continuing Education Center 301 S. 68th St. Place, Lincoln

Registration deadline: April 28

Rahaf Harfoush

Richard Montañez

Sangram Vajre

Andy Stanley

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Strictly Business APRIL 2020

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PERSONNEL NEWS HoriSun Hospice Welcomes Nina Lux HoriSun Hospice is pleased to announce the addition of Nina Lux as volunteer coordinator to its team. In this position, Nina oversees the HoriSun Hospice team of dedicated hospice volunteers. She is very passionate about the death and dying process as it is an integral part of the HoriSun team. Nina is an advocate of hospice services for the additional support it brings both individuals and family. She has worked with hospice both personally with family members, as well as professionally. 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, go online to www.horisunhospice.com or contact Becca Henry, community relations coordinator, at (402) 484-6444.

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Union Bank & Trust Promotes Tom Weinandt to President of Operations Union Bank & Tr ust (UBT) recently promoted Tom Weinandt to president of its Omaha operations. Weinandt has been with UBT since 2009 and brings more than 35 years of banking experience to his position within the bank. In his new role as president in Omaha, Weinandt will be tasked with leading the Omaha team and continuing to increase the bank’s market share in both the retail and commercial banking markets. He’ll look for opportunities to grow UBT’s Omaha team, increase its footprint, and expand its products and services within the Omaha community. He’ll also work to continue stressing the importance of first-class customer service and supporting the Omaha community. Weinandt earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 1984. Prior to joining Union Bank, he served as senior vice president/manager of commercial real estate for a large regional bank, where he managed the production staffs of Omaha, Kansas City, and Des Moines. Since joining UBT, Weinandt has served as first vice president and overseen the commercial real estate group in Omaha before being promoted to his new position. Outside the bank, Weinandt volunteers with the Salvation Army, the YMCA, Chamber of Commerce, and United Way, as well as participating in all UBT community involvement activities. He also serves as Trustee for the Business Ethics Alliance and as a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands. Union Bank & Trust is a privately owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services. The bank has 38 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $4.5 billion and trust assets of $27.7 billion as of December 31, 2019. To learn more, visit ubt.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS Makenzie Rath Selected as New President of Talent Plus Board of Directors

CEDARS President Jim Blue Named Distinguished NEBRASKAlander

The Talent Plus, Inc. Board of Directors recently announced that they have unanimously selected Makenzie Rath as the new president. Rath joined Talent Plus in 2011 and has held roles in nearly each business unit. Recently, Rath led Talent Plus’ Leadership Consultants, who analyze senior leaders’ interviews and provide executive coaching and succession planning solutions. Upon college graduation, Rath moved to Singapore to work at Capella Singapore, the epitome of luxury hospitality in southeast Asia. She returned stateside to pursue a master’s degree in organization development (OD) from Pepperdine University. Rath grew up on a strength management journey, becoming familiar with Talent Plus beginning at the age of five as a counselee in the Nebraska Human Resources Institute (NHRI) founded by Talent Plus co-founder William E. Hall in the 1950s. Rath continued in this program through high school. As a collegian, she was the first true-freshman mentor and continues to have mentoring relationships today. Talent Plus, Inc. is the premier human capital and talent management consulting partner. Their solutions pave the way for individuals and organizations to exceed expectations of their clients, markets, and communities. 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. To learn more, visit www.talentplus.com or call 1-(800) VARSITY.

CEDARS President Jim Blue was honored alongside his wife Susanne Blue, executive director of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach, at the 2020 Statehood Day Banquet on February 29 in the State Capitol rotunda. The human services pioneers were selected by the NEBRASKAland Foundation board of directors for their incredible impact on the community. “I know of no one more deserving of this award,” said CEDARS board member and past NEBRASKAlander awardee, Judi gaiashkibos. “Jim’s passion for improving the health and well-being of children and youth is contagious. His exceptional leadership has provided a solid foundation to serve children and their families well into the future.” Since 1991, Jim has served as President of the CEDARS organization, an organization founded in Lincoln by caring community members who saw the tremendous needs that children and their families face every day. Under his leadership, the nationally-accredited CEDARS organization was the first-ever recipient of the Better Business Bureau’s Integrity Award for a nonprofit organization. CEDARS has been supporting children, youth, and their families for over 70 years and remains committed to helping kids in crisis and building strong families. This year, CEDARS will deliver services to over 2,000 children and their families. For more information or to find out how you can help, call (402) 434-5437, or visit www.cedarskids.org.

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PERSONNEL NEWS West Gate Bank Promotes Eric Baumgartner, Margaret Hobelman, HolliAnn Zinnecker The West Gate Bank® Board of Directors have elected Eric Baumgartner to assistant vice president, digital banking officer; Margaret Hobelman to senior vice president/controller; and HolliAnn Zinnecker to customer service officer. Baumgartner started as a part-time teller with West Gate Bank in June 2012. He was promoted to personal banker in July 2014 and electronic banking specialist in October 2016. In his new role as digital banking officer, he manages the online and mobile banking Eric Baumgartner updates and features expansions as well as other digital banking technology initiatives; business analytics for the retail department; and he also provides technology training for digital banking products to the retail staff. Eric Baumgartner is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Rd., and can be reached at (402) 323-8917 or ebaumgartner@westgate.bank. Hobelman began her West Gate Bank career in August of 1999 and most recently served as senior vice president/cashier. As Margaret Hobelman controller, she will prepare the Call Report and internal financial reports, in addition to overseeing the bank’s general ledger, accounts payable, budgeting, correspondent account management, and various other financial responsibilities. Hobelman also serves on the bank’s executive committee. Margaret Hobelman is also located at West Gate Bank Center and can be reached at (402) 4343476 or mhobelman@westgate.bank. Zinnecker began her West Gate Bank career in March 2012 as a part-time teller. In HolliAnn Zinnecker November of 2013, Zinnecker moved to the retail service group and was promoted to manager in April 2016. In August of 2017, Zinnecker became the manager of the newly-formed customer contact center where she oversees in-bound customer phone calls as well as check and debit card production. She is also involved with new bank technology projects, focusing on keeping the customer experience in mind when establishing new products. HolliAnn Zinnecker is also located at West Gate Bank Center and can be reached at (402) 434-4094 or hzinnecker@westgate.bank. West Gate Bank® is a family-owned community bank with 10 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. West Gate Bank is large enough to serve all your personal or commercial banking needs yet small enough to provide the outstanding personal service that only a community bank can deliver. Visit westgate.bank for more information.

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It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You! At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local businessmen and women for their significant awards, promotions, achievements, and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330 or submit your news online via www.strictly-business.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

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PERSONNEL NEWS

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Lincoln First Realty also presented the fourth annual Founders Award of Excellence to Rachel Rentschler. T h i s h o n o r, awarded by a Jill Sysel-Barton Rachel Rentschler vote of her peers, goes to the Lincoln First Realty agent who displays a high level of professionalism, positively interacts with fellow Realtors®, is involved with real estate-related and community activities, and meets production standards.

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Lincoln First Realty congratulates these individual agents and all other Lincoln First Realty agents for their contributions to Lincoln First Realty’s market share growth, and out of the now 50 agents that are affiliated with Lincoln First Realty, several agents also had their best year in real estate of their careers. The dedication and hard work of these individuals is an asset to Lincoln First Realty in its continued growth and expansion. In 2019, Lincoln First Realty agents joined together to support numerous organizations in their community as well including Friendship Home, NeighborWorks Lincoln, Home Buyers’ Assistance Foundation, Meals on Wheels, Salvation Army, The People’s City Mission, and many other local philanthropic activities. Lincoln First Realty has three offices located at 7575 S 57th St.; 5701 S 34th, STE 101; and at 1101 Cornhusker Hwy., STE 200. Lincoln First Realty is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cornhusker Bank and is a full-service, professional real estate company. For more information, please call (402) 434-2222 or connect on Facebook (@lincoln1st), Instagram (@lincolnfirstrealty), and Twitter (@LNKFirstRealty). More information can also be found online at www.LincolnFirstRealty.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS City Impact Recognizes Volunteer Michael Lancaster for Mentorship Work City Impact would like to recognize one of their volunteers, Michael Lancaster, a local businessman and mentor to brothers Eli and Ezra, for his impact in the community. Michael is carefully building a foundation of trust that will help him speak into the boys’ lives as they grow into young men. He embodies City Impact’s mission to mentor, teach, and empower kids to overcome their vulnerable circumstances to live a fulfilling life. Michael meets with Eli and Ezra each week to play games, especially basketball, and to watch movies. City Impact is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to transform vulnerable communities through wholistic youth, family, and neighborhood development. They work with children on reading skills and comprehension, leadership, and faith through classes and mentorships. To learn more, go online to cityimpact.org.

Craig Willeke Named Member of 2020 Million Dollar Round Table Craig Willeke, an agent for New York Life in Lincoln, has earned membership in the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) for 2020. Achieving membership in MDRT is a distinguishing life insurance career milestone, attained only by those who have demonstrated superior professional knowledge, experience, sales excellence, and client service. MDRT membership represents the top life insurance and financial service professionals worldwide. MDRT is an international, independent association of the world’s best life insurance and financial services professionals. In addition, this is the 65th consecutive year that New York Life has dominated the MDRT in the United States. Founded in 1927, Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), The Premier Association of Financial Professionals®, is a global, independent association of more than 66,000 of the world’s leading life insurance and financial services professionals from more than 500 companies in 72 nations and territories. MDRT members demonstrate exceptional professional knowledge, strict ethical conduct, and outstanding client service. MDRT membership is recognized internationally as the standard of excellence in the life insurance and financial services business. For more information, please visit www.mdrt.org and follow them on Twitter (@MDRtweet). Willeke has been a New York Life agent since 2003 and is associated with New York Life’s Nebraska General Office in Omaha. Craig Willeke has a B.S. in psychology from Nebraska Wesleyan University and an M.O.T. in occupational therapy from Rockhurst University. He has also received his LUTCF designation from the American College and CLTC designation from the corporation for long term care certification.

Strictly Business APRIL 2020

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

PERSONNEL NEWS Heroes Lawn & Landscape Welcomes Roy Dos Santos as Head of Irrigation Division Heroes Lawn & Landscape, a company underneath the Heroes Management Services umbrella, recently welcomed Roy Dos Santos as head of their irrigation division. Roy brings over 20 years of experience in irrigation and lawn care/ landscape maintenance. He previously owned an irrigation and holiday lighting company in Chattanooga, TN, which he operated since 2000. Heroes Lawn & Landscape is a fullservice landscaping company based out of Omaha. They provide residential and commercial irrigation turn on, winterization, and mid-season maintenance packages. In addition to Heroes Lawn & Landscape, Heroes Management Services also runs Heroes Holiday Lighting and Mosquito Shield of Omaha. To learn more, visit heroeslawnandlandscape.com or call (402) 405-1732.

UNICO Welcomes Mathiesen, Vetrovsky, and Johnson as Commercial Risk Advisors UNICO Group recently welcomed three new commercial risk advisors: Vagas Mathiesen, Jerod Vetrovsky, and Adam Johnson. Vagas comes to UNICO with over 10 years of experience in the insurance industry. Previously working for a smaller agency in Nebraska, he has built long-lasting relationships while also helping people understand coverages and filling coverage gaps. He has his Registered Workers’ Compensations Specialist (RWCS) designation to provide leading industry education to his clients. Vagas joined the Vagas Mathiesen Omaha team and can be reached at (402) 361-5913 or vmathiesen@unicogroup.com. Jerod is new to the insurance industry but has been in advertising sales for nearly 20 years. His passion for helping clients become successful in their business is what drives him. Jerod is a part of UNICO’s Lincoln commercial advisor team and can be reached at (402) 434-7204 or jvetrovsky@unicogroup.com. Adam brings his extensive experience in the insurance industry, having run an anti-fraud Jerod Vetrovsky investigations unit prior to spending the last four years as an insurance agency owner. He has a desire to help people protect their assets, which is why he ventured into the insurance field. His diverse background allows him to provide a 360° approach to ensure there is peace of mind, knowing there will be no gaps in his client’s coverage. He has obtained his Fraud Claim Law Specialists (FCLS) and Fraud Claim Law Associate (FCLA) designations. Adam joined the team in Lincoln and can be reached at (402) 434-7280 or ajohnson@unicogroup.com. Adam Johnson UNICO Group is a full-service insurance agency with services ranging from commercial insurance, workers’ compensation, and employee benefits, to personal insurance and financial planning. UNICO is dedicated to getting you the best insurance products and services available to protect you, your family, and your business. To learn more, call (402) 434-7200 or visit unicogroup.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

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

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Commercial & Industrial Remodeling Tenant Improvements New Construction Services Additions Office Remodels 402-858-5155 | info@brownbrothers1.com 34

Strictly Business APRIL 2020

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NONPROFIT NEWS Matt Talbot’s “Feeding the Soul of the City” Dinner Postponed to June 4 Based on national and local recommendations regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach’s annual “Feeding the Soul of the City” dinner has been rescheduled for Thursday, June 4 (previously planned for March 26). The fundraising event will be held at the Lincoln Cornhusker Marriott Hotel with a social hour and silent auction from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. followed by dinner and a program. Attendees can plan on the same time, same place, same award winners, and same great mission! This is Matt Talbot’s largest fundraising event which supports continued outreach to the homeless, near homeless, and hungry in Lincoln. Reservations can be made at mtko.org for this special event. Amidst the many closures and cancellations in Lincoln, the needs of those served at Matt Talbot do not stop, and in fact may increase as the economic situation worsens. With schools closed, an increased number of children and families will come to the facility for meals. “We are monitoring what the experts are advising and taking necessary precautions during this public health emergency,” said Susanne Blue, executive director. “Our work serving the homeless and near homeless is ongoing during these uncertain times and we appreciate the community’s support. Together we will get through this crisis.” To learn more about Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach or to make your reservations for “Feeding the Soul of the City,” please visit mtko.org..

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5 - 7 PM Team Building through the Leadership Game

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7-8:30 PM OPTIONAL Team Building through Urban Air

Includes private park rental exclusive to Leadership Game Night teams only - this will include team bandannas, TWO selected team building experiences, mini awards ceremony, bottle of water, and complimentary pair of Urban Air jump socks. The cost is $26.82 per team member (includes tax). Youth under the age of 18 will need a waiver signed by a parent prior to the 27th. Minimum age to participate in the team games is 16 year old.

Final sign up date on April 23 at 11:59 PM! Limited seating/participation available, sign-up soon at www.leadershipharbor.com Questions? Contact grow@leadershipharbor.com or through our website contact page.

Lincoln Goodwill Launches 8th Neighborhood Challenge, Encourages Donations Lincoln Goodwill invites neighborhoods to participate in their eighth annual Neighborhood Challenge. The event, which is a competition among neighborhood associations in Lincoln, encourages neighbors to donate their leftover items from their garage sales or clean-ups. Goodwill will provide convenient and free pick-ups for participating neighborhoods beginning in April and ending in August. Pick-ups can be scheduled any day of the week at a centralized location for everyone in the neighborhood. Each participating association will also receive advertising and marketing materials upon request to aid in organizing and promoting their event. The top three neighborhood associations who collect the most pounds in donations exceeding 2,000 pounds will win a cash prize. In 2019, Goodwill diverted 2.6 million pounds of materials from Lincoln landfills through community donations. Donations directly support Goodwill’s partners, which include the Community Justice Center, Lincoln Literacy, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and YWCA Job Outfitters, as well as Goodwill’s Job Connection and Retail Organizational Employment program. Goodwill’s annual Neighborhood Challenge presents an opportunity to provide a convenient donation location for the community, help the environment, and support employment programming in the Lincoln community. Contact donate@lincolngoodwill.org, call (402) 742-8456, or visit lincolngoodwill.org for further information about participating in the Neighborhood Challenge. NOTE OF RETRACTION: In the March issue, “Stuff the Bus” was mentioned in the Goodwill’s press release. “Stuff the Bus” is not affiliated with the Goodwill. This was a publisher error. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

NONPROFIT NEWS American Heart Association Raises $120K at Lincoln Heart & Stroke Ball

Hy-Vee Partners with JDRF to Support Type 1 Diabetes Research

The American Heart Association’s (AHA) Lincoln Heart & Stroke Ball, chaired by Dr. Matthew and KaCey Johnson of Bryan Health, raised approximately $120,000 on Saturday, March 7, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Lincoln. The black-tie event drew in more than 350 attendees. The funds raised through the Heart Ball will be used to support local efforts to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Themed “Dancing with the Docs: Dancing to a Brighter Future,” the evening focused on healthy outlook for all Nebraskans. Community members participated in both a silent and live auction and enjoyed special featured dances, with an opportunity to take part in a mini dance lesson from the DelRay Ballroom. Those in attendance opened their hearts as they listened to a survivor story and “Open Your Heart Pledge,” then had fun with the Dancing with the Docs competition followed by dancing at the After Party with music provided the The 402. In the past five years, the AHA has funded 23 studies at the following institutions: the University of Nebraska Medical Center–Omaha (18 studies), the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (three studies), and Creighton University (two studies). Funding the studies helps AHA to fulfill their goal of reducing deaths from heart disease and stroke while improving the lives of all Americans. The American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association are devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke. To learn more call 1-(800) AHA-USA1 or visit their website at heart.org.

JDRF is partnering with Hy-Vee from April 1 to 19 to create a world without type 1 diabetes (T1D) by gathering donations. During the campaign, Hy-Vee stores across the Midwest will provide the opportunity for customers to round-up their total at checkout. Donations will benefit T1D research, and the campaign will raise awareness of this chronic autoimmune disease. From funding innovative research to advocating for government action, JDRF fights battles on many fronts to better the lives of people living with T1D. JDRF also gives millions access to free informational guides about T1D and resources for those living with it. Hy-Vee’s corporate giving focuses on the well-being of children in regard to their physical, emotional, educational, and cultural needs. As the leading global funder of T1D research, JDRF gratefully acknowledges Hy-Vee for their continued dedication to its mission. Learn more at JDRF.org.

TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln Meets Recruitment Goals with Community Help Lincoln businesses are helping TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln enlist volunteer mentors to reach their goal of an additional 100 mentors by this spring. Over 800 children and teens in Lincoln are waiting and hoping to be paired with a TeamMates mentor, so the need for mentors is high. TeamMates has held multiple recruiting events recently with various businesses and places of worship across Lincoln. Staff from Allstate, Farmers Mutual, NRC Health, Nelnet, Five Nines, Assurity, and Olsson have signed up to become mentors following presentations hosted by their employers. St. Mark’s United Methodist Church and First United Methodist Church have welcomed TeamMates as well, serving as faith-based partners in volunteer recruitment and donorship. Recruitment visits typically include TeamMates co-founder Tom Osborne sharing the history of the program and the impact of mentoring, as well as TeamMates staff explaining the nuts and bolts of becoming and serving as a mentor. “We deeply appreciate local businesses who see the value mentoring brings to their businesses and encourage their employees to volunteer for TeamMates by adjusting schedules in order to facilitate the hour spent weekly mentoring within a school,” says Jim Bennett, coordinator of Lincoln TeamMates. TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln makes a meaningful impact in the local community and beyond by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring. Matches meet once a week in school during the academic year. Please visit lincolnteammates.org or call (402) 436-1990 for more information about mentoring or hosting a recruitment event. 36 Strictly Business APRIL 2020

Registration Now Open for SCIP’s Annual Fundraiser, “Hop, SCIP, Jump & RUN” Registration is now open for School Community Intervention & Prevention’s (SCIP) annual fundraiser, “Hop, SCIP, Jump & RUN,” brought to you by Family Health & Wellness Center, PC. Due to health and safety concerns posed by COVID-19, the date of this event will be re-evaluated in midApril. The event, set to take place at Antelope Park, will feature music, food, and a one-mile Fun Run which is open to both children and adults. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers. Before and after the run, attendees will have the opportunity to visit booths sponsored by local nonprofits offering a variety of activities, resources, or treats. After visiting a pre-determined number of booths, attendees will be eligible for prize drawings. Prizes range from gift cards to local businesses to free admission passes to the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum. Julie’s Hot Dogs will also be on-site. The one-mile Fun Run is $15 per person. Registrations purchased by May 14 include an event t-shirt. Children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets for the event can be purchased through the SCIP website at scipnebraska.com. Online registration closes on May 28 at 3 p.m. Those wanting to attend but not participate in the Fun Run will be admitted for free. SCIP works with schools throughout Nebraska by providing tools and resources to address behavioral and emotional health issues that impact children, adolescents, and their families. Annual trainings and community forums are offered on a variety of behavioral and emotional health topics like bullying, current drug trends, anxiety, depression, self-harm, dating violence, and suicide prevention. SCIP’s mission is to provide an effective prevention and early intervention process for youth with behavioral health concerns so they may achieve healthy, productive lives. Money raised at this event will help SCIP provide needed resources to schools and families throughout the state of Nebraska. For more information about School Community Intervention & Prevention, visit scipnebraska.com. To learn more about the event, contact Michaela Emmons at memmons@lmep.com / (402) 327-6843. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Habitat for Humanity Invites Women Across Lincoln to “Women Build,” May 2–30

Angels Theatre Company Presents “Shadows & Light: Untold Stories”

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln (Habitat Lincoln) invites women across Lincoln and Lancaster County to get involved in Women Build, May 2–30. Women Build is an annual proj ect that recr ui ts and empowers women of all different ages, backgrounds, and industries to come together to build and repair affordable homes.

Angels Theatre Company is proud to present Shadows & Light: Untold Stories, their newest production. Performances will be held at the Lied Center’s Johnny Carson Theater located on the west side of the Lied Center for Performing Arts, 11th and R Streets, on April 30 and May 1 and 2 at 7:30 p.m. and May 3 at 2 p.m.

Over the month of May, individuals and teams of women will work together to raise funds and provide volunteer labor on Habitat Lincoln build sites. No construction experience is needed. Women must be at least 16 years of age to participate. Details and registration can be found at www.lincolnhabitat.org/womenbuild. Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization that brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Alongside future homeowners, volunteers, and supporters, Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln has been helping Habitat homeowners for over 30 years to achieve the strength, stability, and self-reliance they need to build a better life for themselves and their families. To date, Habitat Lincoln has built or repaired more than 170 homes, serving more than 800 local individuals and 125 families globally in need of decent shelter. More information can be found at www.lincolnhabitat.org or by calling (402) 477-9184.

Shadows & Light: Untold Stories is a year-long partnership project of Families Inspiring Families and Angels Theater Company, designed to lift and empower the voices of people in the community through the creative and transformative process of turning personal narratives into live theater. When people who have experienced trauma are invited, heard, accepted, and seen—when they can tell their story in a safe and supportive place—something begins to lift. Through trust, creativity, partnership, community, and voice, and the essential modalities of theater-making, people can begin to move into a new space, expanding beyond any story, to bring about healing. Angels Theatre Company creates engaging theatre to promote artistic growth, foster community relationships, and raise social awareness. Angels’ foundation is built on nurturing and celebrating theatre artists while engaging the community in quality live theatre. They are committed to improving quality of life in the community by providing opportunities for artistic growth. To learn more about this production or the history of the Angels Theatre Company, visit angelscompany. org or contact Judy Hart at (402) 474-2206 / judithhart@gmail.com.

Bright Lights to Host Summer Camps Covering a Variety of Themes and Interests Bright Lights summer camp registration is now open on the Bright Lights website (brightlights. org), and half and full day camp schedules are available to view online for ages ranging from post-kindergarten through eighth grade. Camp themes range from time travel with characters from The Magic Treehouse to French cooking and culture to chess playing to skateboarding or even surviving a zombie apocalypse. Bright Lights’ camps are an ideal way for elementary and middle school students to maximize the fun of summer vacation while secretly allowing parents to know their children are avoiding learning loss. The program weeks are as follows: June 1–5, June 8–12, June 15–19, June 22–26, and July 6–10. Need-based scholarships will also be available this summer and can be applied for during the registration process. Additional information about the scholarship program can be found at brightlights.org/programs/resources/scholarships.html. In addition, Bright Lights is now accepting applications for camp assistants. These volunteer positions are available to high school students, college students, and adults. Assistants will provide support to teachers in each of Bright Lights’ 100+ camps, enriching the experience for campers. Bright Lights is a nonprofit that takes learning beyond the classroom by providing youth with unique hands-on learning opportunities since 1987. For more information about the camp or becoming a camp assistant, go online to brightlights.org or call (402) 420-1115. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS A Novel Idea Bookstore Supports Community Action Head Start Through Children’s Literacy

Angels Among Us Reschedules Perfectly Paired Wine Event to June 7

Community Action Head Start has partnered with A Novel Idea Bookstore to celebrate children’s literacy this spring. As part of their Spring Thank You Tuesdays program, A Novel Idea Bookstore is donating a percentage of its Tuesday sales between March and May to Community Action Head Start. Funds raised will support the program’s ability to provide the highest quality services possible to children and families served.

Angels Among Us has rescheduled their third annual wine tasting event, Perfectly Paired, to June 7, due to changing health and safety circumstances in the community. Angels Among Us has partnered with Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar for this event, and the wine tasting will take place at the Fleming’s location at 140 Regency Pkwy.

Putting the extra “fun” in “fundraising,” A Novel Idea Bookstore will also produce a limited quantity of hand-assembled flip-books inspired by popular recurring “Where’s Charlie?” posts on their social media. Customers will be invited to purchase these fun, one-of-a-kind books, with all proceeds benefitting Community Action Head Start.

The event, formerly known as Uncorked, has been revamped and rebranded for 2020. This year there will be wine stations with nearly 50 different wines. As a perfect complement to the wines, chef partner Rafael Ponce has curated a selection of food pairings. A small silent auction will be available for bidding, and wine will be available for purchase at a discount. Only 150 tickets are available, so those wanting to attend are encouraged to purchase tickets soon. Last year the event quickly sold out.

“Where’s Charlie?” books will go on sale during Children’s Book Week (May 5-9) at A Novel Idea Bookstore on 118 N 14th St. Books can be purchased through book shopping reservations and then delivered or Angels Among Us is a Nebraska nonprofit that provides financial and picked up curbside. To learn more, contact Cinnamon at A Novel Idea emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric Bookstore, at (402) 475-8663 or visit www.anovelideabookstore.com. cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply for financial support. In 2019, Angels Among Us provided Community Action Head Start provides high-quality early childhood financial support to over 120 families, giving over $440,000 helping education services to children up to age five and their families—at with mortgages, rent, and other expenses. For more information no cost to them. To learn more about Community Action Head Start, about events or to get involved, contact Aly Theilen at alyssa@ including how to help, visit www.communityactionatwork.org. myangelsamongus.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Make-A-Wish Commemorates 40th Fresh Start Presents First Annual Spring Anniversary by Celebrating Wishes Granted Fling Picnic Event on May 30 This year, Make-A-Wish ® is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the wish that inspired the founding of the organization in 1980— Christopher Greicius’ wish to be a police officer. For the 40th anniversary, the Make-A-Wish Foundation is going to harness the star power in everyone, celebrating the stars who came before and those yet to come. As they shine a light toward the past and future efforts of Make-A-Wish, they will stay steadfast in their mission to grant the wish of every eligible child. It is their belief that every child deserves a childhood. By helping to grant a wish, you can be a light of hope and joy for a child battling a critical illness in your community today. Every 34 minutes, Make-A-Wish ® grants the wish of a child diagnosed with a critical illness in the U.S. Make-A-Wish serves a unique role in helping strengthen and empower these children and their families during a time often clouded with worry. To learn more about the organization, visit nebraska.wish.org or call (402) 475-9474 (Lincoln office). To help Make-A-Wish grant more wishes, donate at nebraska.wish.org/donate.

Heartland Cancer Foundation Raises $130K for Cancer Patients at Mardi Gras Gala Heartland Cancer Foundation hosted its fifth annual Mardi Gras Gala on February 21 at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. That evening, over 400 guests enjoyed a happy hour, premium auction, raffle, a ballroom dinner, live auction, and after-party. The evening began with a happy hour in the atrium which was transformed into Bourbon Street. It was complete with awnings, caféstyle bistro table sets, and large street lanterns. Vibrant colored jumbo lanterns and string lights were strung across the atrium to Pictured (L-R): Tracie Hrnicek create an unforgettable New (co-chair), keynote speaker Jovan Orleans flare. The program kicked Dewitt (former Huskers special off with a welcome by Jack Mitchell, teams coach), Amy Green (co-chair). host of LNK Today on 1400 KLIN.

Fresh Start will host their first annual Spring Fling picnic event on Saturday, May 30, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Robinette Farms, 17675 SW 14th St., in Martell. Feeling cooped up? Then set your alarm-clucks for a Fresh Start pecknec at Robinette Farms and join them on the farm for a rubber chicken toss tournament, donkey pie bingo, a farm tour, terrible chicken joke contest, and other fun lawn games. This event will raise funds to support Fresh Start’s mission of empowering women who are experiencing homelessness to help them change their lives. The event includes a dinner prepared by Relish Catering featuring locally-grown produce from Robinette Farms. There will also be a celebrity team challenge with KX 96.9 and 10/11 News. Tickets are $40 per person with an additional cost of $5 for participation in the chicken toss tournament. Teams of four are encouraged. Register by April 30 at www.FreshStartHome.org/ events to receive early bird ticket price of $30. Fresh Start is a goal-orientated program designed to assist women through case management to overcome barriers to economic stability. Since its formation in 1991, over 1,700 women have called Fresh Start home. For more information, including team registrations and sponsorships, visit www.FreshStartHome.org, follow on Facebook (@FreshStartHomeLincoln), or call Audrey at (402) 475-7777.

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Jovan Dewitt, former Nebraska Cornhusker football special teams coach, was the guest speaker for the evening. He shared his own personal journey with cancer and the impact that it made on his life. He talked about the importance of having a foundation like Heartland Cancer Foundation that serves local cancer patients and keeps all proceeds local. Proceeds from the event totaled $130,000. This money will financially assist cancer patients in southeast Nebraska with housing, car payments, gas cards, and other expenses not covered by insurance. The mission of Heartland Cancer Foundation is to provide immediate and practical assistance to cancer patients so they can focus on healing. To learn more about Heartland Cancer Foundation or to apply for assistance, make a donation, or join their volunteer guild, visit their website at heartlandcancerfoundation.org. You can also contact them via phone at (402) 261-9974. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Friendship Home Calls for Volunteer Support CEF of Nebraska Offers Sponsorship The Friendship Home relies on Opportunities for Businesses volunteers to stay afloat, and they would like to encourage anyone who is interested in volunteering to reach out. They strive to have each volunteer in a position that showcases their individual talents and strengths. Open volunteer positions include: • Match Volunteer: work one-on-one with a child currently staying at the Friendship Home once a week for an hour. Having positive adult role models in their lives has proved extremely beneficial for the children Friendship Home serves. • Children’s Advocate Volunteer: needed Monday and Wednesday evenings and/or Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Work alongside children’s advocates to provide nurturing childcare while the parent is receiving the direct support they need. • D onation of frozen meals: feed a family staying in the Friendship Home. • Stuff the Bus: date to be determined. Volunteer opportunity for individuals, families, and companies to provide essential everyday items. The Friendship Home exists to support, shelter, and advocate for victims of domestic violence and their children. They provide crisis intervention services, case management, and emotional support to victims. All volunteers must be 18 or older, and those interested should contact Rainey at (402) 437-9367 / raineyk@friendshiphome.org.

CEF of Nebraska is reaching out to businesses that may wish to sponsor a 5-Day Club ®, an opportunity to give back to the community while providing children with a fun and safe activity. A 5-Day Club is a free, exciting, fun-filled, 90-minute Bible club held each day for five consecutive days for children between the ages of 5–12, regardless of religious background. Parents are welcome to attend with their child. A 5-Day Club is held anywhere children are: daycares, apartment complexes, community centers, homes, churches, and parks. The club is led and conducted by students ages 13 through college who have attended Christian Youth in Action® (CYIA TM). Depending on a business’s sponsorship level, CEF of Nebraska is committed to recognizing that business by encouraging members to do business with them (name on t-shirt and website). A sponsor helps provide a fun, safe, and structured place for children to learn, especially about the Lord. Sponsors assist in helping shape future business and community leaders today! Sponsorship gifts are also tax-deductible. To be a 5-Day Club® sponsor, contact CEF of Nebraska at (402) 4847877 / office@nebraska.org or call Jonathan Musgrave at (402) 525-5305. Learn more online at www.cefnebraska.org/sponsors.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Lincoln Community Foundation Raises $668K Through Lincoln Littles Giving Day The second annual Lincoln Littles Giving Day, held on February 12, Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, raised $668,150 and surpassed last year’s giving day results by more than $30,000. Hosted by the Lincoln Community Foundation in partnership with Nebraska Children and Families Foundation, the giving day raised funds for tuition assistance, allowing more children in need to access quality early childhood education. The fund is inspired by the Prosper Lincoln Early Childhood community agenda goal of increasing accessible and affordable high-quality early childhood education. According to the 2019 Lincoln Vital Signs, 75% of Lincoln’s children under age six have all parents in the workforce. There are currently 3,362 children under the age of six in Lincoln living in households that fall below the poverty threshold, and only 9% of children in poverty are enrolled in early childhood education. The Lincoln Littles initiative strives to create equal opportunities for all children in Lincoln to learn and grow in their early years. Access to high-quality early childhood experiences enables children to be kindergarten-ready and to develop into successful community citizens. Seed funding was granted by W.K. Kellogg Foundation and Buffett Early Childhood Fund. Champions for Children match partners were Acklie Charitable Foundation, Harbor of Dreams, Jim and Penny Krieger Family Foundation, Susan Sehnert Stuart, and Mae Whitmer. Established in 1955, the Lincoln Community Foundation strives to continually enrich the Lincoln community by promoting and achieving perpetual philanthropic support. To learn more, call (402) 474-2345, or visit www.lincolnlittles.org to donate to Lincoln Littles today.

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Ronald McDonald House Charities to Host Annual Golf Tournament May 18 Ronald McDonald House Charities will host their annual golf tournament on Monday, May 18, at The Players Club at Deer Creek, 12101 Deer Creek Dr. The anticipated event plays host to roughly 50 foursomes. The tournament is a perfect treat for clients or just a beautiful day under the open skies. Sponsorship opportunities for the event are still available, providing great exposure for sponsoring businesses, and most importantly, supporting a valuable cause to help countless people receive the help and support they need in difficult circumstances. The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha (RMHC) is to create and operate programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children. The House strives to do so by providing opportunities that strengthen children and families during their most difficult and challenging times. The specific purpose of the Ronald McDonald House Charities is to support access to care, reduce financial burden, provide psychosocial support keeping families together, enhance clinical experiences and outcomes, and help families resume normalcy. RMHC believes that every child deserves to feel hope in an environment designed to heal, regardless of race, sexual orientation, or faith, and as such, delivers programs without the influence of any discriminatory undertones. To support Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha, sign up to be a sponsor, or to register online for the golf tournament, please visit www.rmhcomaha.org/golf. Questions about the event can be directed to Emily Mozer at (402) 346-9377 / emozer@rmhcomaha.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Wear Yellow Nebraska Hosts 17th Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk on August 15 Wear Yellow Nebraska will be hosting their 17th annual Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk on Saturday, August 15, at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland. Registration before May 1 is $40 and $45 after. You can register online until midnight on August 10. The t-shirt cutoff is August 1 at 5 p.m., so be sure to register early! Each registration provides two rides to a fellow Nebraskan in the fight against cancer who does not have adequate transportation to and from their treatments. There will be a variety of routes for participants to take. For those craving roads, there will be 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-mile options. For those who like less formal roads, there will be a 27-mile beginners gravel option as well as a 56-mile experienced gravel riders route. Those on two legs can participate in the approximate 5K run and walk through beautiful Mahoney State Park. Additionally, there will be a variety of events taking place after the event. Riders and walkers/runners are encouraged to stick around after the race for breakfast by the Pancake Man, Wear Yellow’s Legendary Raffle, and dozens of door prizes. Each paid registration will also be given free access to the museum following the race. Non-participants can also enjoy breakfast for $5. If you would like to participate in Wear Yellow Nebraska’s Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk, register online at www.supportwyn.org/17.

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Making Strides Calls for Survivors to Apply for Portrait of Hope Ambassador Program Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Lincoln is looking for survivors to apply for American Cancer Society’s Portrait of Hope Ambassador Program. Applicants need to be willing to share their stories and be an inspiration to others who may be facing a breast cancer diagnosis of their own. Ambassadors are an integral part of the Making Strides event. They provide inspiration, hope, and support for breast cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones.

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The main responsibility of a Portrait of Hope Ambassador is to be a representative of the American Cancer Society and the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event, which will take place October 25. Applicants should be: • A breast cancer survivor who is open to sharing their story • Comfortable with public speaking • Willing to appear on local television and radio • Familiar with the American Cancer Society and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer The American Cancer Society started Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks to unite communities in the fight against this deadly disease. Today, Making Strides is the largest network of breast cancer events in the nation—and they do more than just walk. They raise money to help the American Cancer Society fund groundbreaking breast cancer research and provide patient services like free rides to chemo, free places to stay near treatment, and a live 24/7 cancer helpline. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a Portrait of Hope Ambassador, please contact Christine Bleich at christine.bleich@cancer.org / (402) 260-3287 or learn more at www.makingstrideswalk.org/lincolnNE. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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A1 Automotive Receives 2020 Best of Lincoln Award The Lincoln Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Lincoln area that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value. Focusing on quality not quantity, the program identifies businesses that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community. A1 Automotive is proud to help make the Lincoln area a great place to live, work, and play! â€œWe are overwhelmed with gratitude to receive the Best of Lincoln 2020 award for the Automotive category, the only one given out in Lincoln. Without the support from our customers who allow us to do what we love, this would not be possible. Thank you so much!â€? - Kendall Warnock, Owner

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NONPROFIT NEWS Center for People in Need Seeks Support to Annual Gateway Sertoma Golf Tournament Maintain Services During COVID-19 Crisis to Benefit Tabitha Meals on Wheels The Center for People in Need is calling for members of the community to offer much needed support during the COVID-19 crisis. Each week in 2019, an average of 1,000 families visited the Center for People in Need for food and diapers. Food insecurity does not go away during a pandemic, and many members of the community depend on the Center for People in Need to have adequate food at home. The economic effects of the pandemic mean more people than ever need the Center for People in Need’s services, and they are dedicated to meeting that need. The Center for People in Need has extended their food and diaper distribution hours throughout the week to reduce the number of people on-site at one time. They have also moved to a paperless drive-thru model where food is pre-bagged to reduce contact between clients and center employees. The Center for People in Need is a community-based nonprofit that offers services and training to low-income people to satisfy their basic needs and help them achieve economic independence. Because serving the community through the COVID-19 crisis has stretched their already thin resources, they urge community members to consider making a donation to support the low-income members of the community who could not afford to stockpile food, personal care supplies, diapers, and toilet paper before the crisis struck. Online donations can be made at cfpin. org, or checks can be mailed to 3901 N 27th St., Lincoln, NE 68521. The Center for People in Need appreciates any and all support during this national emergency. Call (402) 476-4357 with questions or visit the website at www.cfpin.org.

CBMC Announces Upcoming Events CBMC Lincoln has announced multiple upcoming events and opportunities for the business and professional community. On June 2, CBMC will conduct a free “Lunch and Learn” event for men to learn about their Peer Advisory Groups. At this luncheon, CBMC leaders will demonstrate, explain, and enable attendees to experience the Peer Advisory Group process. These groups provide Godly counsel, mutual support, accountability, and insights and solutions to business and life challenges. Contact Ed Nix with CBMC with questions at enix@cbmc.com. The 19th Annual CBMC Golf Classic will be held on July 13 at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course. The event includes a luncheon open to anyone who wishes to attend. Gus Gustafson will be the featured speaker. Gus has spoken to over 1 million people during his 20 year speaking career. Event details are on the CBMC website. CBMC also released a notice that the “Work as Worship” simulcast scheduled for Friday, May 15, has been canceled. The event, which was to feature a line-up of nationally-recognized speakers including John Maxwell, Henry Cloud, Stephanie Chung, and Jon Acuff, will hopefully be organized for a later date. For event updates, visit workasworshipretreat.org. CBMC Lincoln is a ministry to business and professional men, encouraging them toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others. All events are subject to the status of COVID-19 conditions at the time. For more information, visit Lincoln.cbmc.com or stay connected with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Grab some friends and join Tabitha for the 18th year of the annual Gateway Sertoma golf tournament on Friday, June 5, at NuMark Golf Course, 8901 Augusta Dr. This four-person golf scramble has a shotgun start time of 12:30 p.m. and features games, hole prizes, food, and drinks. There will be a dinner with awards at the conclusion of event. Sponsorships and team fees benefit 500+ Lincoln friends and neighbors who rely on the hot, nutritious meal and well-being check that Tabitha Meals on Wheels delivers 365 days a year. Team registration is available online (www.Tabitha. org/Golf). As the state’s quality award-winning senior care expert, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully and age gratefully. Supporting friends and neighbors for over 130 years and encompassing 28 Nebraska counties, Tabitha offers a range of services from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home home health care, innovative living communities, and compassionate hospice services. Learn more at Tabitha.org. For questions about the golf tournament, contact (402) 486-8509 / Foundation@Tabitha.org.

HopeSpoke Cancels Upcoming Events, Calls for Support During Community Crisis Due to safety concerns surrounding the COVID-19 virus, HopeSpoke has canceled their Gourmet Comfort Classic event sc heduled for May 8. HopeSpoke is following local, state, and national emergency response directives asking everyone to limit the number of people gathering together. Last year, the Gourmet Comfort Classic raised over $70,000 to support HopeSpoke’s mission of inspiring healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. HopeSpoke is committed to doing their very best to serve the behavioral and mental health needs of those in and around Lincoln. HopeSpoke served 1,700 people of all ages during the last fiscal year. HopeSpoke board and staff members are asking for the help to sustain services now as they make many program adjustments to continue to meet critical mental health needs today and in the future. Everyone is invited to make a gift at this time in lieu of attending a special event. Please consider what you might have spent and/or donated at this year’s event—$75 per event ticket, $150 or more for auction items, or $250 or more as a donation to support their mission. Gifts of all sizes will be greatly appreciated. Please give online now at hopespoke.org/ home/donate, or mail your gift to HopeSpoke at 2444 O St., Lincoln, NE 68510. HopeSpoke continues to support the community through their compassionate services. Go online to hopespoke.org to read their letter to the community thanking this year’s restaurants and sponsors, and learn about their success helping one child and family at a time! Through kind gifts like yours, HopeSpoke will continue playing an invaluable role in providing children and families with the skills to feel empowered and be successful—helping them to heal, be courageous, and find strength to live well. For more information, please contact Jenny Cardwell at jcardwell@hopespoke.org. APRIL 2020 Strictly Business 45

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HEALTH NEWS NCBB Assures Donors Giving Blood is Safe and Now More Important Than Ever

CBD American Shaman Announces New Product, CBNight Water Soluble Supplement

Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB) is taking extra precautions to keep blood donors and staff safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. They’ve assured the public that giving blood remains a very safe process. If you’re feeling healthy and you’re at home looking for a safe way to get out and support the community, they invite community members to consider donating blood. A stable blood supply is a vital part of the community’s emergency preparedness.

CBD American Shaman is now offering a new product at their three Lincoln locations: the CBNight Water Soluble Supplement. CBNight is a groundbreaking new product from American Shaman made with a unique blend of phytocannabinoids from naturallygrown hemp plants. CBNight helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Cannabinol, or CBN, is a heavy hitter which gives CBNight it’s name. CBN’s sleep-supporting properties are enhanced with a mix of terpenes which also gives CBNight its floral flavor. CBNight a history-making product because of its use of minor cannabinoids for their unique effects. CBNight harnesses the power of CBN to bring an effective plant-based product to the $30 billion sleep-aid industry. American Shaman takes it one step further with nanotechnology that radically increases the potency of CBNight. When viewed under a microscope, the cannabinoids in regular hemp oil are locked up in fatty globules, and when this hemp oil is ingested, the body has to break up these globules to “unlock” the cannabinoids. CBD Shaman’s nanotechnology shatters the oil apart, reducing the size of each particle down to the nanometer scale and making CBNight work faster and stronger than any competing CBN oil. To learn more about CBD American Shaman in Lincoln, visit www. cbdoflincoln.com or contact franchise owner, Lance Schroeder, at (531) 500-3672 / lincolnamshaman@gmail.com. Stores are located off of 48th and O St. 27th and Cornhusker Hwy, and 16th and Old Cheney.

NCBB blood drives and donor centers are places where healthy people can make life-saving donations for patients in need. As always, in order to be eligible to donate blood, you must be free from any cold or flu-like symptoms for at least three days. NCBB also takes every donor’s temperature prior to donation, and anyone who feels unwell is not eligible to give blood. Additional screening questions, rigorous cleaning precautions, and social distancing policies have also been implemented, such as cleaning donor beds in between donors and spacing donors out from one another. Get updates about what NCBB is doing to keep donors safe and ensure a stable community blood supply at NCBB.org or 1-(877) 986-9414.

The Better Life Nutrition Opens Third Location, Nutrition & Energy Hub The Better Life Nutrition has opened their third health and wellness bar in Lincoln, the Nutrition & Energy Hub at 8600 S 30th St., STE 130. Serving delicious and nutritious shakes, protein iced coffee, teas, and healthy energizing drinks., Nutrition & Energy Hub can help you turn your life around in a fun, impactful way. Not only do they offer quality products, they do free wellness profiles, online challenges, personal health coaching, and more! When you visit Nutrition & Energy Hub, you can choose from different combos of shakes and teas, which include aloe vera for optimal digestion. The shakes serve as a fully-balanced meal with 24g of plant-based protein and daily recommended servings of fiber and vitamins/minerals. There are almost 50 flavors, including a variety of chocolate-y and fruity blends. There is even a breakfast lovers category! Some of the drinks are crafted with whey protein for post work-out. For anyone wanting to take their health and wellness to the next level, Nutrition & Energy Hub has a three-day trial challenge. The trial pack comes with six healthy meal shakes and six servings of metabolism boosting tea. The goal is to have the shake and tea for breakfast and lunch, and your coach will give you a snack list and dinner guide. The coaches at Nutrition & Energy Hub want to take this journey with you, offering accountability and motivation along the way. For those that want to continue integrating these delicious teas and shakes into their lifestyle, Nutrition & Energy Hub also offers 30-day challenge packs. This is a great thing to do with friends or coworkers! The Better Life Nutrition opened their first shop downtown at 325 S 11th St. Nutrition Tavern, located at 5505 O St., STE 7, is another shop that branched off The Better Life Nutrition. Each location is dedicated to creating a happy, healthy, active lifestyle change—not crash dieting— to reach your optimal weight. Learn more about the new Nutrition & Energy Hub on Facebook (@nutritionandenergyhub) or go online to thebetter-life-nutrition.business.site. Call or text Melinda McQuillin, owner and founder of Nutrition & Energy Hub, at (214) 914-5042 with any questions about starting the 3- or 30-day challenge. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

HEALTH NEWS Lincoln Lymphedema & Occupational Therapy Husker Rehab Opens New Facility in Lincoln Established as First Stand-Alone Clinic in NE Husker Rehabilitation & Wellness Centers Adam Rawson has established The Lincoln Lymphedema & Occupational Therapy, LLC Lymphedema as the first stand-alone lymphedema clinic in Nebraska. Clinic With plans to officially open his doors on May 4, Adam will offer complete decongestive therapy to treat all types of swelling (edema). Treatment modalities include manual lymph drainage techniques, skin cares, application of compression bandages, assessment for daily wear compression, donning/doffing education for compression wear, and education for use of donning/doffing aides. After graduating Creighton University with a doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy, Adam became a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT) through the Norton School of Lymphology. Following certification, he worked full time to develop a lymphedema treatment program. Adam gained invaluable experience in that time while working with many patients with lymphedema and other health care professionals. In August of 2019, he passed the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) board exam to become CLT-LANA certified. Adam is passionate about helping others improve their quality of life. Lincoln Lymphedema & Occupational Therapy, LLC, located at 3940 Cornhusker Hwy., STE 200, specializes in treating all types of swelling with various modalities, from intense outpatient therapy through transition to a home maintenance program. To see a complete list of services and pricing, go online to llotnebraska.com. Contact Adam directly at (402) 904-4474 / adamrawson@llotnebraska.com with any questions or to schedule an initial evaluation.

April is

Parkinson’s Awareness Month

Dr. Daniel Finn Neuroradiologist

AMImaging.com 48

Strictly Business APRIL 2020

is pleased to announce the opening of their newest facility at 4445 S 86 St., STE 100 (86th and Pioneer). They plan to host an open house and celebration during the coming summer months. The move to the new location allows for continued growth and expansion of services, as they have outgrown their previous location at 70th and Van Dorn Streets. Husker Rehab has been fortunate over the last 20 years to develop an integrative medicine network of like-minded individuals and specialists in the fields of spine, orthopedics, craniofacial pain, chiropractic, dental, pain management, OB-GYN, urology and the pelvic floor, vision, and family practice. Husker Rehab’s postural biased and holistic treatment approach to physical therapy serves well in the treatment of a variety of issues and diagnosis of individuals in need of these services. With a satisfaction rate of over 98%, Husker Rehab has patients who understand the value of what they do. Husker Rehab is looking for quality clients in need of physical rehabilitation who can benefit from the help of their excellent therapists: Michael Zalman, MSPT; and Kelli Reilly, MSPT, ATC; along with Halie Trimble, PTA, BSPTA; and Katie Zoucha, PTA. They take a unique look at postural influences in your everyday life activity so a specialized exercise program can be prescribed and return to full functional activity can be achieved. Learn more about Husker Rehabilitation & Wellness Centers at huskerrehab.com or contact Brittany Mendoza, office manager South Lincoln Husker Rehab at (402) 261-4739 / bmendoza@huskerrehab. com with questions.

Parkinson’s Test Available in Lincoln Advanced Medical Imaging is the first and only office in Lincoln offering DaTscan, a test used by physicians to help diagnose parkinsonian syndromes. This test allows radiologists to observe degeneration of dopamine transporters in the brain, a possible sign of Parkinson’s Disease. If you or your loved one is suffering from Parkinson’s symptoms, talk to a primary care provider or neurologist to find out if DaTscan could give you answers. Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms • Tremors • Instability and walking issues • Muscle stiffness • Slowed or loss of voluntary movement • Cognitive impairment • Speech changes • Trouble writing

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

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HEALTH NEWS 9Round Fitness Expands Hours of Operation to Include Sundays at Both Lincoln Locations

Lincoln Chamber Welcomes Aceso Total Health P.C. to Lincoln

Due to increased demand, 9Round Fitness has expanded the hours of operation at their 84th and Adams location to now include Sundays. Sunday hours were also recently added to the 27th and Old Cheney location. The new hours of operation are as follows: Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. with a midday break from 1:30 to 3 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., and now Sundays from 12 to 3 p.m. The expansion in hours came about naturally as popularity for 9Round’s workouts and services has steadily grown since 9Round came to Lincoln in 2016. One thing that differentiates 9Round from other gyms is that they have no class times and all their sessions are individualized. 9Round encourages any who are doubtful about starting a new exercise routine to try their workouts. They facilitate fun kickboxing fitness training through 30-minute full-body circuit workouts. At 9Round, there are always trainers available to take you through the workout. They work with members of all fitness levels and make sure you’re performing exercises safely and correctly. To learn more about 9Round Fitness, visit www.9round.com or contact Todd Vettel at (402) 817-7349 / todd.vettel@9round.com.

On February 4, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce was happy to welcome Aceso Total Health P.C. to the Lincoln business community with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening celebration. Aceso Total Health was founded by Todd Alan Roberts, MD, leading physician, and his wife Marcia who oversees the business management side. The other two members of the team who helped cut the ribbon are Marcy Jimenez, yoga therapist, and Kristin Wiese, medical massage therapist. Dr. Roberts graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and has been in practice for 23 years. A Nebraska native, Dr. Roberts has received training and certification in Medical Acupuncture through the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. He has also been certified in Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy by Worldlink Medical, as well as training Chinese medicine, functional medicine, and other preventative medicine therapies. Located at 7160 S 29th St., STE 7, Aceso Total Health P.C. is a modern approach to medicine. Their membership-based model provides access to a suite of integrative healthcare services including functional medicine, hormone replacement therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, yoga therapy, lifestyle coaching, and traditional health services, all in one location. Their proactive approach allows them to educate their members before rather than after. Go to acesototalhealth.com and find Aceso’s wide variety of FAQs and educational videos. To talk to the team directly, call (402) 817-4117 or email wecare@acescototalhealth.com.

Advanced Medical Imaging Educates Public on Parkinsonian Syndrome Test, DaTscan April is Parkinson’s Awareness month, and Advanced Medical Imaging is educating the public on a highly-advanced test called DaTscan™ that can help in the diagnosis of parkinsonian syndromes. Advanced Medical Imaging is the only Nebraska location west of Omaha to offer DaTscan™, a test that helps diagnose Parkinson’s disease. DaTscan™ is a drug that is administered prior to a SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) scan to help a radiologist in the evaluation of adult patients with suspected parkinsonian syndromes (PSs). Studying both this scan along with a patient’s changes in functioning may help physicians to determine if a patient’s symptoms may be related to Parkinson’s disease. DaTscan™ images, allow a radiologist to assess whether there is a loss of dopamine transporters. These transporters help recycle dopamine, a chemical involved in controlling movement. PSs occur when the brain is not getting enough of the dopamine it needs to perform certain functions. This affects the ability of the brain to control movement and other muscle functions. There are different types of PSs. The most common is Parkinson’s disease, also known as PD. Other types include multiple system atrophy and progressive supranuclear palsy. DaTscan™ cannot distinguish between these different syndromes. In combination with other tests and the clinical assessment of particular symptoms, DaTscan™ may help a physician determine if you are suffering from a parkinsonian syndrome. Patients interested in finding out if DaTscan™ could be helpful with their diagnosis should talk to their neurologist or primary care provider. More information is also available at AMImaging.com/DaTscan. Advanced Medical Imaging is the largest independent radiology group in Nebraska. AMI radiologists serve as the sole radiology providers for Advanced Medical Imaging’s full-service imaging center and surgery center in Lincoln, critical access hospitals across Nebraska, and St. Elizabeth Regional Health Center. To learn more, visit AMImaging.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

BUSINESS SMARTS: EARN YOUR BSBA ONLINE

START INVESTING IN YOUR OWN ROI Because business is broad, the door to its possibilities is open wide. Stacey Schwarz, Online Program Recruitment Specialist for the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK), sheds light on what sets the program apart in helping to meet the needs of so many students and professionals. Experiential learning—Examination of real-world business situations that translate from the online classroom to a business or organization.

After deciding to leave a traditional business administration program, Clinton Zegers spent the next five years working and struggling with addiction. He would eventually make the decision to seek the help he needed to get sober and through the support of friends and family, put himself on a path to recovery that included finishing what he started for his education, only this time online. The University of Nebraska at Kearney’s (UNK) Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) online degree program is ideal for working adults interested in furthering their skills and knowledge in core business concepts. This program is designed to empower students to attain additional marketable credentials and take the next step for their career.

Stacey Schwarz Online Recruitment Specialist

Entrepreneur-friendly courses—Preparation to start, expand, or lead a business by taking courses that best meet the student’s unique business needs. Customizable program options—Consultation with UNK program coordinators to plan out elective and minor program coursework of most benefit to the student. Industry-focused faculty—Instruction from qualified faculty who have extensive professional experience working in business industries. Flexible online format—Ability to fit coursework or the degree into a busy schedule while continuing to work in the industry.

In addition to the university’s accreditation, the online BSBA program is accredited by AACSB International, the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide.

“Obtaining a business degree online from an accredited university helped me get a seat at the table, such as interviews for positions that required a bachelor’s degree,” said Zegers. “Returning to finish my degree was a big fear of mine. I struggled with the fear of failure and learning how to cope with it. I had never completed an online class before starting with UNK. The transition from not being in school for several years to completing my degree online couldn’t have been more seamless.” In the fast-paced world of business, an online BSBA through UNK can help individuals invest in their future on their schedule. The BSBA is a fully online degree, which allows flexible timeframes for coursework. Students can login and complete assignments during the time of day that works best for them. Access and flexibility make it possible for adult students to gain a solid foundation in several aspects of business alongside other responsibilities. “An online program was very beneficial for my lifestyle. Being a non-traditional student working a 40-50 hour a week job while maintaining a social lifestyle, looking back, an online program was probably the only program that would help me further advance my education without having to sacrifice other aspects of my life,” Zegers said. Online classes are very interactive with communication through email, discussion forums and chat groups. Pursuing the UNK BSBA makes you a part of a community you can benefit from. Students work with an adviser, from application to graduation, who helps tailor the program unique to them. Core coursework includes: • Accounting • Business law • Business communications • Finance • Operations and supply management • Social responsibilities • Management information systems Graduates of the BSBA online degree program earn a four-year degree in Business Administration from UNK. The BSBA is a 120 credit hour program with core courses offered each semester and minor courses offered concurrently on a rotating basis. Whether you are a company employee climbing the ladder, a small business owner seeking a competitive edge or a professional changing careers, the BSBA at UNK is helping Nebraskans move forward in their goals. Get started at: online.nebraska.edu/bsba University of Nebraska Online is the University’s collaborative distance education initiative focused on providing greater access for more students to the high-quality courses and program offered online by the four campuses of the university system. In addition to the Business Administration, BS program, the University of Nebraska offers more than 150 online programs. Visit the University of Nebraska Online at online. nebraska.edu to view all programs.

Strictly Business APRIL 2020

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION Count on us for EVERY Season by Todd Ogden, President (402) 434-6900 • www.downtownlincoln.org Exclusive Hype Brings Vintage Streetwear to LNK

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES “TOTAL GROUNDS CARE”

At downtown Lincoln’s newest vintage streetwear store on O street, “look good, feel good” is a phrase to live by. Exclusive Hype began as a way for a group of friends to share their love of sneakers and t-shirts from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s with the Lincoln community. Lincoln Southeast graduates Hunter Shannon, Garrett Atkinson, Tabor Morton, and Keenan Haberlan grew up together and developed a passion for pop culture, sports, skateboarding, and the material culture and fashion that came with it. Searching for vintage jerseys and band tees, Tommy Hilfiger, Polo, Supreme, Nike SBs, and Jordan Retros became something like a lifestyle. “We’re looking for the gold,” Shannon said. “The thrift gold. It’s more luck than anything.”

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Over time, they learned how to spot a fake label and how to tell if a t-shirt is truly a vintage gem (for instance, if the shirt is made with a “single stitch” instead of the two lines of stitching that is made today, it means you’ve hit the jackpot.) Shannon has found sneakers a few times for just over $100 that were worth closer to $1,000. “We’ve just been collecting ever since we were kids, honestly,” Atkinson said. “It kind of turned into a huge collection and then we were sitting back looking at it, and we were like, man, this stuff is worth some money.” Not only had their vintage finds held their value, but they’d gone up over time. In the past five years, similar vintage streetwear stores in larger cities have gained notoriety while 80s and 90s nostalgia and hunting for vintage labels is having its heyday. The four childhood friends began selling through Facebook groups dedicated to vintage and their Instagram page (@exclusivehypelincoln) while also setting up pop-up booths at events like Lincoln Calling. When Shannon’s father (Andrew Shannon of Shannon Formal Wear) decided to move his business from the Gateway Mall to the former Spigot location at 1630 O St., Exclusive Hype saw it as an opportunity to take their online-only collection to a brick and mortar location.

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With the help of any friends that could lend a hand, Shannon, Atkinson, Morton, and Haberlan worked for eight months to transform the back of the building into their now vintage shop. The front of the former O street bar will soon be filled with Shannon Formalwear’s men’s tailoring and tuxedo rentals while Exclusive Hype’s racks of vintage tees and sneakers reside in the back. “We redid the entire building,” Morton said. “The walls were grout, they weren’t brick at all. It was a process.” You can access the shop from the front entrance and walk to the back of the building, but once current construction clears up in the back alleyway, they hope to utilize the back entrance. After a successful grand opening on February 8, Exclusive Hype is excited for the future of the store. They are one of the first to open a high-end, curated streetwear store in Lincoln. 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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APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

When It Comes to Your Plumbing and HVAC Needs... JOHN HENRY’S MEMBERSHIP CLUB IS THE WAY TO GO! When John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning opened their doors over 20 years ago, they had a strong commitment to customer service with the motto of “Quality at a Reasonable Cost.” Today, they are still committed to this philosophy, and one of the ways they carry it out is through their new and improved Membership Club. There seems to be endless options when choosing a plumbing and HVAC company, but John Henry’s makes the decision easy with three different membership level packages available.

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• Silver and Gold Membership Benefits • Complimentary Dryer Vent Cleaning • 5% HVAC System Replacement Program • Quarterly 1” Filter Replacement *Prices per heating and cooling system and include a replacement of a 1 inch filter twice a year. Discount does not apply to equipment replacement. Prices do not include sales tax.

There are so many benefits that go along with becoming a part of John Henry’s Membership Club! You will lower your fuel bills because your system is running at top efficiency. When you properly maintain your equipment, it lasts longer. Plus, John Henry’s fully licensed and insured team will call you to schedule service to take the pressure off of you. They have the ability to spot potential problems before major expenses occur. There is nothing better than having peace of mind with service experts you can trust.

Why search all over town for a plumbing and HVAC company you can rely on? John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning has all of your home service needs covered in one place. Call the team at (402) 435-5555 to discuss your needs today! Or go to www.jhlincoln.com.

Strictly Business APRIL 2020

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION by Bud Synhorst, President

(402) 466-3419 • www.liba.org

A New Normal Recently, LIBA hosted our annual Free Enterprise Celebration and began to celebrate our 40th anniversary as an organization. In preparation for convention, I was able to meet with and talk to some of our founders. They shared a lot of history of the organization. I really appreciate their passion. These founding members have played a pivotal role in business and policy in Lincoln, resulting in an active membership that is passionate about our community. They encouraged members to support other member businesses. All of these are things we continue today. I am reminded of a previous article where I shared my “why” conversation with our middle daughter. In that conversation, I share my passion and love for Lincoln and wanting to help the community to grow and prosper. Now, more than ever, I remain steadfast in the passion for our community and the businesses in our community. With the recent changes in our country related to the pandemic of COVID-19, it is time to make sure we continue to support local business as much as possible. With the ever-changing landscape right now, we cannot predict what will happen moving forward and the affect it will have on local businesses. With the numerous closings happening and events being postponed or canceled, our local businesses will see a great impact. All edges of our community, from the hospitality industry to retail, will feel the strain of this outbreak. Moving forward, we will need to keep in mind that what we considered “normal” a month ago is not normal any longer. We may start talking about the “new normal,” however that may look in the coming days, weeks, and months. The way education is going to be delivered will change. Things will be changing all around us and we will persevere. Now, thinking about all of these changes and the “new normal,” I am reminded of my time in Cedar Rapids, IA in 2008 during the great flood. As the waters of the river rose, we had no idea of the impact it would have on our community. We didn’t know how long evacuations would last or what changes we would see hour by hour or day by day. I believe we are in the same situation moving forward with the COVID-19 virus and the changes it will bring about in our lives. Some days, we will be thinking what is important in the next hour, then the next day, then the next week, then the coming months. Thinking about uncertainty like this can be scary…really scary. Change is never easy and is usually full of uncertain outcomes. As business people in Lincoln, we will need to support other businesses. With the loss of anticipated revenues because of large events, our business owners are going to experience some great unknowns and my hope is, as a community, we will rally to support them. When there would have traditionally been a big event coming to town, maybe consider making an extra effort to get to the local store or restaurant that week to give them a boost and show them we still care about our community and our many local businesses. I would also encourage you to talk with our business owners and check on them—sometimes a caring smile or conversation goes a long way in helping others out. Together, we as a community can help each other understand and cope with whatever becomes our “new normal.” Finally, as you have heard over the past few weeks, we need to practice basic consideration for others—if you are ill or at-risk to become ill, don’t attend events and stay home. The most at-risk right now are those who are older adults and those with underlying health conditions. We can protect everyone by making sure we practice these basic steps. 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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RESTAURANT EXPOSÉ

An Italy-to-Table, Farm-to-Table, Neighborhood Dining Experience It had been far too long since our team dined at MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante, so we decided to go back to check out all the fresh, new dishes on its seasonally-changing menu. The Italian eatery, owned by the delightful Anthony (Tony) Bonelli, embraces an open floor plan with seating that surrounds the massive wine bar at the heart of the restaurant. We love the sophisticated design of MōMō’s interior and the cool-toned decor that enhances the natural light coming in through its large windows. As classy as it is, MōMō maintains that neighborhood feel that lets you unwind as you treat yourself to a few sips and bites. Speaking of sips, MōMō has one of the most well-rounded wine lists in Lincoln, bringing together popular vintages harvested in France, Spain, Italy, California, Oregon, and Washington. The restaurant utilizes the Wineemotion wine dispenser and preservation system, the latest technology in wine preservation capable of preserving wine up to 30 days without altering the wine’s organoleptic properties. Wine lovers can appreciate this when they order one or two glasses for themselves, or they can choose to order a bottle for the table from MōMō’s extensive selection. There is also a house-made sangria that might just become your go-to as the heat continues to roll back in. For the Cabernet fans out there, we recommend the B-Side. It has a smooth taste and perfect balance to it. We chased the red down with a little trivia knowledge from Tony on how the B-Side got its name. We learned that it’s a nod to the 45 records of the 60s, which featured a popular single on the top or A-side of the record and a non-title track on the B-side. Often times, those lesser known songs on the B-side would gain their own following of people who appreciated quality outside of the mainstream. To make sure our wine didn’t get lonely, we ordered a charcuterie board as an appetizer. You haven’t experienced charcuterie until you’ve had MōMō’s charcuterie. Served with lavosh cracker bread and olive oil baked crostini, the board features a variety of fresh meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, and brilliantly selected jams and dips. The red pepper jam really made an impression on our group, and we

thought the balance of salty and sweet notes throughout was well done. From rich honeycomb to bold blue cheese stuffed olives, it was a satisfying assortment. We also ordered the Tuna Crudo which is beautifully served on a block of Himalayan salt to enhance the taste. The five-ounce seared yellowfin tuna loin has that melt-in-your-mouth factor with its freshness and lemon-squeezed flare. In addition, the crab cakes exceeded all expectations. They were dense yet tender and juicy. We were relieved that they weren’t overly battered and breaded. MōMō is well known for their hand-tossed, Neopolitan style pizza, which they bake in a stone hearth, wood-fired oven—honoring the true Italian way. Our group gave the Lobster & Shrimp Hollandaise pizza a try, and none of us have been the same since. This pizza is unlike anything we’ve tasted before. It has a strong toasted flavor that balances out the buttery fresh seafood toppings and melted mozzarella and provolone. The most al-lure-ing entrée to hit our table was the Branzino. MōMō cooks and serves this Mediterranean sea bass whole to retain all the natural flavor. Plus, it makes for a dramatic presentation. The parmesan herb risotto on the side adds a complimentary creamy texture to the plate without taking away from the delicate sweetness of the fish. For dessert, we nibbled on the Flourless Chocolate Cake and the Raspberry Pistachio Bread Pudding, which were both a delight. The no-flour approach to the chocolate cake is different but it works, and we loved the warmth in each bite of the bread pudding. Just like with the rest of the menu, the ingredients used to hand-craft these dessert items are locally-sourced and of the highest quality. Hats off to Executive Chef Jonah King who has been with MōMō since the opening. He is the mastermind behind the unique, evolving menu—keeping us on our toes and our taste buds pleasantly surprised. We also appreciate MōMō’s knowledgeable staff, many who have also been with the restaurant since its inception.

402-261-5966 | momo-pizzeria.com 54

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE by Wendy Birdsall, President

(402) 436-2350 • www.lcoc.com

Time to Participate in the 2020 Census

One of the most important events taking place in 2020 is something many of us might not think too much about. With more than $675 billion in federal funds per year spent on schools, roads, hospitals, public works, and numerous other essential programs, it’s important that Lincoln and every community makes sure they provide an accurate count of its people for not only funding purposes but also to accurately divide political representation. The time to fill out the 2020 Census is upon us with ads already appearing in numerous places and invitations to fill out the census mailed out in March. The census impacts daily life in our country in many different ways. It can be used to determine funding for Medicaid, highway planning and construction, unemployment insurance, business and industry loans and numerous other programs that impact our city and state. It is also used by our local government to plan for new services in our city, such as schools and hospitals. One of the primary sources to fund local roads and bridges comes directly from population numbers from the census. The results from the census will then shape spending decisions for the next decade, coinciding with the current need for improvements to roads and bridges throughout Lincoln and Lancaster County. Those projects directly impact businesses, our schools and ultimately, our quality of life. The Counting for Dollars 2020 Project is one entity that is looking to accurately measure just how much the federal government will use census findings to shape the distribution of funding to states and localities across the country. For the fiscal year 2016 alone, The Counting for Dollars 2020 Project found that Nebraska received just under $4 billion through data collected in the 2010 Census. Needless to say, it is very important to fill out the census and make the participation levels as high as possible. The 2020 Census will also be the first to be widely available online, which will hopefully increase the ability to gain an accurate count and increase participation with its ease of use. There will be reminders sent out in the mail up through April 27 to remind those that have not completed the census. If an accurate count is not obtained and an area is undercounted, it can mean the loss of millions of dollars for these various programs and projects that are important to communities and their residents. Our businesses also use the data collected by the census to decide where to expand businesses with additional jobs, new residential neighborhoods and add stores, offices or plants to further their contribution to local economies. Our local 2020 Census Complete Count Committee continues to work on effective ways to increase participation in the census and the collective effort to make sure everyone is counted. I encourage everyone to take the short time it takes to answer the questions on the 2020 Census when it arrives in the coming months. We need to ensure that all Lincoln residents are counted!

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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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With everything going on in our country and around the world, many events are being cancelled or postponed. While we understand parties may be a little different after the situation improves, it’s still important to host graduation parties and similar events at later dates to celebrate milestones and accomplishments. We need celebrations now more than ever to focus on the good things happening in our day-to-day lives. Whether you’ll be hosting just close family and friends or the entire graduating class, one of your first decisions should be the venue. Will it be a backyard tailgate featuring a corn hole competition, or will you rent out a venue to host more people and set a different atmosphere? More and more, we see graduates wanting to host joint graduation parties to cut the cost but elevate the experience—and with more graduates, there will be more guests. If you’re hosting a backyard or home graduation party but don’t want to fuss about having to cook before or during the occasion, Raising Cane’s® may be the catering option for you. “Nothing says graduation party like a Raising Cane’s tailgate!” said Jennifer Jones, coowner of the Lincoln Raising Cane’s® Franchise. “Graduations are something to celebrate, and the best way to ensure you are spending your time in the moment and out of the kitchen is to partner with Raising Cane’s®. No matter the size of your graduation party, we have options that will work for you. Each tailgate comes with our signature Cane’s® sauce with the option to add on sides—lightly-buttered Texas Toast, creamy cole slaw, or jugs of our Jennifer Jones freshly-squeezed lemonade and brewed Raising Cane’s® sweet or unsweet tea. Our mobile food truck ensures that even if you’re hosting a party with several other families and expecting hundreds of guests, we can still make sure everyone gets their chicken fingers hot and fresh,” she continued. “It’s equipped with a full kitchen and crewmembers so all food will be cooked on-site and as needed. Whether guests arrive during the first or last ten minutes of your party, they’ll have a great experience with great food. And when in doubt, giving your graduating senior a gift card from Raising Cane’s® is the perfect way to show just how proud of them you are.” Another catering option to consider is ordering from any of the excellent restaurants with PILLAR Restaurant Group. From Venue Restaurant & Lounge to Cactus Modern Mexican & Cantina to Goodcents Delish Fresh Subs, PILLAR has something to suit any taste or style and any size gathering, and all of their options are fresh and delicious! For a venue that feels like home but won’t wreck yours, we recommend the Rogers House Inn Bed and Breakfast. They can host up to 60 guests at one time on their main floor, which includes their living room, dining room, sun-room, and backyard. This is the perfect option for those who may not have the available space in their own home for such a large event or simply don’t want to worry about cleaning their own house on top of all the other tasks that come with planning a graduation. We #PrintProudDigitalSmart

spoke to Janel J. Faraci, founder and owner of the Rogers House Inn Bed and Breakfast, to learn more about the location. “The Rogers House has been going through many renovations lately so that we can better host big events like graduation parties!” she shared. “The largest such renovation has been our kitchen. Our new professionalgrade double kitchen has ample space for any size party you may be serving. You can even hire our professional chef! We’ve recently seen trends in graduation parties that favor small plates and light hors d’oeuvres. This is a great option for people favoring an open-house style party. If you’re planning your party on a popular day, such as the weekend before graduation, then it is safe to assume that your grad party will not be the only one most people are attending. Even though this is true, a lack of food can turn an event sour very quickly. This is why we recommend our hosts meet with our chef beforehand to work out logistics to ensure that everyone gets enough to eat.” Rogers House Inn can host up to 60 people at one time. They also allow you to have outside catering/food and drink if you want to bring in food from your grad’s favorite restaurants. Set-up and tear-down options are available for a completely relaxed experience. If you decide to go with a downtown venue, know that there are so many places in Lincoln that offer a unique hosting experience! One location we always recommend is the Talon Room. The Talon Room can accompany up to 300 people for cocktail and dance events. The building features distressed brick walls, exposed industrial ceilings, and a charming antique bar to give an element of rustic, urban charm to any event. Just a few blocks away from the Haymarket, the convenient location will make your grad party a perfect stop on any grad-party hopping trail. Matthew Rogge, owner of the Talon Room, spoke on how he works with party planners to make sure the event goes smoothly. “Our in-house event coordination and catering team can help plan the party from start to finish to make sure parents can actually enjoy this happy time,” he said. “Our team will ask plenty of questions about food, alcohol, decorations, and most importantly, budget. Graduation is a busy time of year for every business, so you need to have a set budget before starting the planning process to make Matthew Rogge sure you don’t go overboard. For example, Talon Room weekend dates tend to be the most expensive with less availability, so make sure to plan accordingly.” Matthew and all the staff at the Talon Room work extra hard to make graduation parties special. They can accommodate any budget and any size party from under 10 guests all the way up to 300 guests, with options for large or small spaces. “We also have great small events catering and bar services,” Matt shared. “We’ll work with you in advance to craft a menu that’s perfectly suited to your tastes and preferences. Our bar services are top-notch, so you can have access to all your favorite drinks with the help of a professional bar tender and servers. A party with the Talon Room is a true party. We know how to make our guests feel comfortable.” On the topic of venues in the Haymarket, it wouldn’t feel right not to mention the Graduate Lincoln. Not only is its name fitting, but since it is located near campus, it is an ideal destination for University of Nebraska grads to host their graduation party. With a name that encompasses their Husker pride, Graduate Lincoln’s Scarlet Ballroom is designed to host medium to large size groups. Boasting 3,000 square feet of space, this room can accommodate up to 210 people when full and can also be divided into smaller rooms to create a more intimate environment for groups of 90 or less. This isn’t the only event space the hotel has, though. There are many options just like the ballroom, each one offering the perfect balance of classy and casual that is a trademark for graduation parties. Booking a hotel as a venue is a good plan for those with a lot of out-of-state family that want to attend graduation! Another arrangement you should think about making beforehand for relatives flying into town is to rent a car or SUV from Rent-A-Van. We asked Manager Dan Haden to tell us more about their service. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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“Around graduation time, many people may be planning on using rideshare apps as the primary means of transportation for incoming relatives, but with the influx of people arriving in Lincoln, prices will spike per ride,” Dan said. “It will be cheaper and more reliable to simply rent a car or SUV that they can use for the entirety of their stay. We have all types of makes and models to fit your needs. We even have wheelchair-accessible vehicles if you should need one! As we understand that having one person drive the vehicle for the entire rental is not always possible, we don’t charge for additional drivers. You can also pick up vehicles the day before, if available, at no extra charge.” Of course, ballroom and event space graduation parties are not for everyone. The most important aspect of a graduation party is making sure that it matches your graduate’s personality. As the friends and family of graduating students, we want to make this day special for them and everyone in attendance. From unique decorations that celebrate the grad’s accomplishments to delicious graduation party food, there are tons of fun ways to make your party stand out. Your graduation party could even be hosted at a bowling alley! The atmosphere and engaging nature of this locale will provide something fun for everyone to do. Jennifer Davis-Korn with 48 Bowl, Inc. informed us that she often has family rent out their facilities for graduation and celebration events. “If you’re planning a graduation party and want an activity that everyone can participate in that won’t get rained out, bowling is a great option,” Jennifer pointed out. “48 Bowl, Inc., which includes Parkway Lanes and Hollywood Bowl, offers a variety of party packages and event spaces to cater to every event. Besides the lanes, we have event rooms that can be rent out to handle your displays and food and beverage service on-site. You can also rent either Parkway Pub or Legends Grill along with or separate from the lanes. We have rates for groups large and small and can work within your budget to provide your group what it needs to make the celebration a success. And when in doubt, a 48 Bowl gift card will be appreciated by stressed-out grads who want to have a little fun before they enter the ‘real world.’”

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If a formal graduation party isn’t really your style, consider a night on the town in a fantastic bus from Tailored Dreams Party Buses! This is mostly directed at college grads because you may as well make one of your last nights being a college student count. Celebrate the transition to your next stage in life by spending a great night with all the people you were able to meet along the way. Because party buses are a hot trend, they should be booked in advance. We talked to DeeDee Loomis, owner of Tailored Dreams, DeeDee Loomis to learn more. Tailored Dreams Party Buses “Make your reservations as soon as you know a date,” she said. “Many people remember to book event halls and hotel rooms in advance, but they may not think about party buses until later in the game. There are a limited number of party buses in our area, and they go fast! We are already booking well into 2021.” Party buses are an increasingly popular experience that combine transportation, great music, and a mobile party scene all in one. Tailored Dreams offers a custom, luxury party bus experience at economical prices. “At Tailored Dreams, we have an unmatched experience,” DeeDee informed us. “Our fleet includes five decked out limousine-style party buses accommodating up to 45 people in our largest bus. Two of our buses are even handicap accessible—the only ones in the region! Our drivers are great and very courteous. They also know how to help you have a good time and turn up the music! Each bus has Bluetooth stereo systems that really thump, air conditioning to keep your party cool, and colorful LED lights for an ultimate clubbing experience.” Graduating is all about preparing for what’s next, and part of that preparation is knowing how to dress to impress in the next stage of

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your life. Gary Novotny with Gary Michaels Clothiers has made a career of helping young men learn just that. From preparing interview outfits to wedding suits, he knows exactly what to wear, down to the socks. We asked him about what trends he expects to see for our upcoming graduating men. “Over the past ten years, we have seen a great deal of graduates dressing up a little more than before,” Gary shared. “For both the ceremony and graduation parties, young men have been choosing a nice pair of casual Gary Novotny Gary Michaels Clothiers slacks and a sport shirt instead of casual alternatives. There has been an increase of sport coats, dress shirts, and even neckwear seen at the commencement and graduation ceremonies. Graduates should keep in mind that this is a life time event and the photos taken will be looked at quite frequently, so dress up accordingly. I have found that the college graduate has more concern about his attire than one graduating from high school. In those extra four years, they seem to have figured out and realized that job interviews are upon them and they need a suit. This is a way to ‘kill two birds with one stone,’ so to speak. That is also the case for a high school graduate who plans to enter a fraternity. They will need a suit for Monday night dinners. They purchase a suit early and also wear it for the graduation. We call this cost effective purchasing, buying for multiple events.” The same can be said for graduating women. While it may have been customary to wear a simple sun dress to high school graduations in the past, young women today are going for a more professional look under their robes. Even more so with university grads, young women want to reflect the start of their professional career in their graduation attire. Similar to young men’s attire choices, these professional clothes come in handy for job interviews, work life, and Monday night meetings. Looking the part isn’t enough without also acting the part. We talked to Kris Peterson with Leadership Harbor about great gifts for grads of any age that are perfectly suited for aligning new grads with a clear vision of the future and helping them live and be their very best. “We have some incredible grad gift ideas for any grad,” she shared. “Gift Certificates for a Leadership Harbor mastermind group are excellent for helping graduates connect with successful individuals who can Kris Peterson mentor them and offer them ideas and Leadership Harbor encouragement. A gift certificate for our Transitions workshop is also an excellent option for discovering your purpose and a greater awareness of who you are. The focus can be on career planning, career transition, life shifts (intentional or unintentional), or preparing for what to do in retirement. Another excellent gift opportunity we provide is the purchase of a great book on leadership and the opportunity to study it with 8 to10 other folks over a period of six weeks in one-hour sessions,” she said. “Each of these gifts can equip graduates with the tools and confidence they need to harness their education and live the life they’ve always dreamed of. We also offer one-on-one coaching sessions that can help you plan how you will live into your dream, grow yourself or your team, unlock communication, or get ‘unstuck’—and some packages even come with a College/Career Impact Report as a free added bonus! Our programs and services can help you change your mindset when you’re feeling stuck, develop yourself as a leader, and learn to live significantly and unlock your potential!” Though life sometimes throws us unimaginable obstacles, it is still important to make an effort to celebrate our accomplishments and host the normal milestone events, even if they are postponed. When it’s safe to celebrate, your local Lincoln experts will be here to help you make the occasion unforgettable! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“I had custom made-to-measure dress shirts done in 10 days.” -Ameer Abdullah 6000 Village Dr. #500 402-423-7848| 402-423-7848|1-800-556-SUIT www.GaryMichaels.com

Life is a Journey, Make it Amazing!

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Spring

Landscaping As yards finally turn green and trees begin to bloom, it’s time to get our lawns in order for the spring. Plus, with all the time we are spending at our homes now, this is a perfect opportunity to start on all the lawn care, landscaping, and decorative projects you’ve been meaning to do in order to make your yard look its best. To get the most use and enjoyment out of your lawn, you will need the right maintenance knowledge and tools before getting started on any projects. Turn to the experts for help! Cleanup The first step towards any landscaping goal should be a thorough cleaning of the property. Your lawn will need to be cleared of all leftover leaves and debris from fall and winter. Be careful of any perennials or bulbs that could be hiding under the leaves—you don’t want to damage or pull them out by accident. Some plants may already be making an appearance, but it’s the ones that haven’t sprouted yet that you need

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to be wary of. For trees and shrubs, prune away winter-killed branches to make room for new growth. At home, these projects are pretty quick and simple to complete on your own. For commercial properties with large landscapes, it’s best to hire a lawn maintenance company that is equipped to take care of the cleanup. 1776 Grounds Maintenance offers year-round commercial grounds keeping services. Spring and fall cleanups are a service they regularly complete to help property owners get over that first boundary keeping them from a beautiful yard. Their crew makes sure to take the appropriate amount of time to complete every job to ensure that nobody gets injured, nothing gets destroyed, and the work is done precisely and efficiently to guarantee a clean and healthy lawn. Healthy Lawn Practices—Mowing, Watering, Aerating It’s important to establish a healthy lawn as the base of any landscape. After all, no matter how much money you invest on retaining walls, perennials, trees, etc. your lawn won’t be at its best without a strong, fertile foundation. Owner of TDK Lawn Care, Lee Schumacher, taught us some of the most important steps to take to ensure a healthy lawn. “Spring is an important time if you want your grass to build up the strength to survive a potentially blistering summer,” he said. “One of the biggest mistakes I see people make Lee Schumacher is cutting their lawn too short. Mowing at a TDK Lawn Care proper height is the best way to keep your lawn healthy. I personally keep my mower set at 3 1/4 inches year round, but keeping it anywhere between 2 3/4 and 3 3/4 inches is fine. Taller grass chokes out weeds and helps your lawn maintain moisture, which will help it prosper during hot summer days in Nebraska. Watering correctly and proper lawn nutrition are important too. Water levels depend on the type of grass and its environment, but a good rule of thumb is adding one inch a week, depending on weather. Aerating is also important. Lawns can be finicky, so if you want one that’s always thriving, come to the professionals. We can give your lawn all the nutrients, water, and services that it requires, while also training it to become more efficient and hardier.” Lawn aeration does wonders in loosening the soil so that water, sun, nutrients, and fertilizers can get to the roots. Larry Svoboda from Ray’s Lawn and Home Care told us what to look for if your yard needs aerating. “If your lawn is a high traffic area, you’re probably a person who should be aerating their lawn,” said Larry. “When soil gets compacted, it inhibits the flow of the essential air and nutrients that support a thicker, healthier lawn. Soil compaction could be Larry Svoboda caused by children playing, animals running on Ray’s Lawn and Home Care #PrintProudDigitalSmart

it, or even if you simply like to entertain outside. An easy way to tell if your lawn may need aerating is to watch and see if rainwater puddles in places where it used to be absorbed. A common myth about aeration is that it will ruin your herbicide barrier, when in reality it doesn’t affect crabgrass control or weed prevention at all. While aeration machines can be rented and it’s possible to do it yourself, it can also negatively impact your lawn if done incorrectly or if it doesn’t need it done. If timed improperly, it can stress out your lawn very easily. Never aerate a dormant lawn. We always recommend having professionals come to check the health of your lawn in terms of nutrients, water need, and soil density before starting any larger lawn projects.” If there are areas of your grass that have turned yellow and died, then you should consider overseeding them after aeration. Aerating opens up the soil and provides a good surface for seed germination. Spring overseeding is best done between April 1 and 30 for Kentucky bluegrass and between April 15 and June 15 for tall fescue. Overseeding will allow fresh grass to grow and re-establish a strong root system. Make sure that your sprinkler system is up and running so that you can properly germinate your new grass. Preparing Your Irrigation System for Spring/Summer A large project that irrigation specialists take on every season is preparing irrigation systems for the upcoming growing season. Heroes Lawn & Landscape, a Heroes Management Services company, recently added irrigation management to their extensive list of lawn maintenance services. “We now provide complete start-up/shutdown packages for clients’ irrigation systems,” Roy Dos Santos, head of the irrigation division at Heroes Lawn & Landscape, informed us. “Each startup package includes a system test, 35-point inspection, adjustment of all sprinkler heads, and programming the controller for the season. Each package is unique to the clients’ property, with discount prepayments available as well!” When setting up a system after a winterization period, it’s important to do it correctly in order Roy Dos Santos Heroes Lawn & Landscape to prevent damage to the system. Here are the main steps you should take: • Prior to pressurizing the system, check your backflow device for damage • Never open the water too quickly to avoid damaging your mainline or valves • Inspect each zone and fixed nozzle for possible wear and tear, obstructions, and other damage • Check to see where each nozzle is spraying, and make sure not to waste money by spraying sidewalks or driveways Once these components have been taken care of, it’s time to program the controller so that the water flow rate does not exceed the soil’s absorption capability. Jeremy Hunt with Hunt Irrigation is very familiar with the local conditions, so he gave us some guidance. “The soil in Lincoln and surrounding communities is mostly clay,” Jeremy noted. “This means the water absorbs slowly and evaporates quickly. Therefore when programming your controller, it is best in this area to program shorter run times and multiple start times. Most controllers Jeremy Hunt are capable of handling three start times. A Hunt Irrigation good start time schedule would be 1 a.m., 3 a.m., and 5 a.m. Scheduling a two-hour break or rest between operations will allow the water enough time to absorb into the ground and reduce run-off.” Jeremy recently completed training on Watertronics’ WaterMax line of horizontal centrifugal pumps and their proprietary well drive systems, making Hunt Irrigation an authorized service and pump start-up company #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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While Saving The Blue This Spring!

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for Nebraska. The WaterMax series provides self-enclosed pumping solutions for varying irrigation needs ranging from small scale condo projects and lake homes to larger commercial, golf, and athletic field applications. Outdoor Equipment Many people already have trusted professionals that they work with while others are in the market for lawn assistance. No matter your circumstance, make sure that you speak with lawn care professionals ahead of time on how you want your lawn to be serviced. Be sure to cover all the bases by speaking up about your preferences and concerns in an upfront manner. You want to make sure that nothing is assumed and you are all on the same page. If you’re already familiar with how to keep your lawn healthy and prefer to tend to it yourself, AKRS Equipment has all the lawn equipment that you could need. Nick Wessel, a turf and commercial equipment sales professional at AKRS Equipment, gave us a quick debrief on what their company offers. “AKRS Equipment is a full service dealer with parts, service, and sales on John Deere and Stihl equipment,” he said. “We offer a Ready-to-Mow service where we come to you to service your equipment. That way, your Nick Wessel machines are ready to go when you are. It’s AKRS Equipment always suggested to service your equipment before the spring season begins.” If you are unfamiliar with how to service your lawn mower or other John Deere or Stihl equipment, you should refer to a professional to make sure that you don’t accidentally damage your own equipment. For example, many people sharpen their mower blades to be extremely sharp, but they should actually be maintained to the original bevel edge. If they are razor sharp, the sharp edge will roll over and dull quickly.

It’s recommended to keep your blades at a .40 millimeter (1/84 inch) cutting edge or less. Common signs that you should see a professional about your equipment include: • Poor cut quality • Leaving a trail of cut or uncut grass • Grass clumping • Poor bagging performance • Uneven cut Landscape Design Other than lawn quality, there are many other aspects of landscaping that can affect how people (including yourself) see your lawn. Between softscapes and hardscapes, you can really transform your outdoor space. “Unfortunately, there are many people who have convinced themselves that they cannot have a beautiful lawn for one reason or another,” Jackie Lienemann from Luxury Landscape addressed. “One common reason is that homeowners convince themselves that if their lawn is small, they don’t have room for a beautiful outdoor space. That is not the case! Actually, it’s the opposite of the case. We have a lot of experience in designing smaller areas that will give the maximum usage without looking overdone. When you utilize Jackie Lienemann the knowledge of a landscaping professional, Luxury Landscape you’ll learn all the dos and don’ts when it comes to planting. You don’t want to plant too much and have an overgrown jungle a couple of years from now when the plants have matured.” Jackie also told us about some current landscaping trends that she’s been seeing lately: “More than ever, our customers come to us looking

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for something totally unique, a landscape that doesn’t look like their neighbors’. That’s why every design we complete is individualized and different. There are so many new hardscape (pavers, blocks, caps, etc.) products coming out this spring that we’re super excited to start using this year!” While you may think you need exotic plants to make your yard look unique, there are actually a large variety of Nebraska-native plants that are just as beautiful as non-native plants. Using native plants ensures that your garden will thrive even through Nebraska’s crazy weather. They also require less watering on average and no chemical fertilizers and pesticides because they’re adapted to the environment, unlike their foreign competitors. Natives also make better environments and food sources for pollinators, especially those that migrate! Exotic plants can sever the food web of your ecosystem and even become an invasive pest. Plants and Perennials To emphasize how important it is to plant local, research by the entomologist Dough Tallamy found that native oak trees support over 500 species of caterpillars, whereas ginkgos, a common alternative native to Asia, host only five species. If you want beautiful butterflies and moths to visit your lawn, it’s important that you provide plants that they can interact with. Here’s a list of native-Nebraska plants that could liven up your garden: • Purple Poppy Mallow • Blackeyed Susans • Coneflower • Beardtongue The easiest way to make your yard look unique is by using a variety of flowers. Jessica Jasnoch from Earl May told us the best ways to incorporate vegetation into your yard. “Using a variety of plants is the best way to ensure that your plants stay healthy and colorful,” she said. “By adding more diverse flowers in your garden, you’ll be helping a declining pollinator population. If you want your plants to be successful, you’ll want to take actions to make sure your ecosystem has the resources that it needs to thrive. Planting Jessica Jasnoch perennial blooming plants with staggering Earl May bloom times will keep your garden colorful all season long. Also, the diversity of flora protects your plants from being wiped out by disease or insect issues. People sometimes shy away from ‘messy’ plants that shed berries or seeds, but they actually invite pollinators to come visit your yard! And those pollinators will be a natural improvement to your environment for generations after this spring since most flowering plants require pollinators. As an added bonus, they are a great way to teach your children to appreciate nature and understand ecosystems!” An easy pollinator to attract is birds. The bird population booms in the summer as they come back from migrating, so they can put a lot of stress on their natural food resources. Setting up bird feeders in your yard is an easy way to have a positive impact on your local ecosystem. Here are some more easy steps you can take to attract pollinators to your yard: • Provide local, native food sources for insects • Provide clean water • Leave some nesting sites like soft dirt, hollow branches, and holes in wood • Reduce or eliminate insecticide and herbicide use Trees and Shrubs When planting, it’s important to consider the plant’s mature size, intent, and function, which relates to the level of maintenance it will require. Working with a landscaping professional will help you navigate these questions. Eagle Nursery is a full-service nursery, landscape, installation, design, and maintenance facility with 70 acres of growing fields. They are proud to utilize Nebraska-grown trees, shrubs, and perennials. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“ YOUR GARDEN, OUR PASSION”

Spring has sprung! Let us help you design your unique landscape that’ll set you apart from your neighbors. Call us today! Ken & Jackie: luxurylandscape.ne@gmail.com 402.430.9430 | 402.640.6034 | luxurylandscape-llc.com

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“The level of care for your basic garden plants versus more serious landscaping investmenttype plants is not the same,” Tom Scharfen, owner of Eagle Nursery, told us. “For example, most trees will require trimming every growing season to avoid fall growth spurts and desiccation burn, while most perennials will not require deadheading (removal of dead flowers) to re-bloom. Make sure you consider the level of maintenance you’re willing to complete when deciding what to plant.” “The best time to plant trees is during their Tom Scharfen dormant period, typically early spring or Eagle Nursery late fall. Trees really are lifelong investments for your property, so it’s important to give them all the resources they require to grow,” Tom added. Unlike flora, shrubs and trees can be trickier to plant and raise, so it’s highly recommend going to a professional with larger plant purchases and plantings. There are many factors that affect tree health—how well suited it is to the planting location, proper planting, follow-up care, soil type, etc. Getting your tree to mature to its full size will provide you with environmental and economic benefits throughout its lifetime. Determining where to plant a tree is not a decision to be taken lightly, and it is definitely recommended to consult a landscaping professional before starting the long process. Tree growth must not interfere with underground or overhead lines. If you accidentally plant a tree too close to your house, you’ll be kicking yourself in the future when falling branches cause property damage or roots interfere with pavement. Proper selection and placement of saplings will help you to improve the appearance of your landscape while also guaranteeing that the tree will not cause you any safety concerns or financial losses. According to research conducted by the USDA Forest Service, energy savings, storm-water runoff reduction, cleaner air, and higher property values lead to trees producing three times more of an economic advantage than their cost. Each large front yard tree adds approximately 1% to the house sales price. Additionally, strategicallyplaced trees can also help house owners save up to 56% on annual air-conditioning costs. Outdoor Structures Early spring is the perfect time to start on those larger, architectural landscaping projects. Whether you simply want to add stonework to your garden or want a new deck, there are many ways to add structure in your landscaping. Outdoor living spaces like patios, pergolas, and water features are extremely popular landscaping projects. That’s why it’s important get into contact with professionals as soon as possible so you can secure a place in their busy schedules. Decks Unlimited takes pride in the projects and the relationships they build through every job. If you’re thinking of adding a patio or deck, we highly recommend stopping in to their new showroom to see all the options for design and resources. “We at Decks Unlimited specialize in building dream decks that blend well with landscapes and surrounding features,” said Dan Waters, owner of Decks Unlimited. “It is important to us to design your deck so it looks intentional as if it’s always been there. Pergolas are also a beautiful addition to your backyard space. With all the new materials on the market there are a lot of options. Cedar is a beautiful natural option but keep in mind the maintenance of staining or sealing every few years. Heartland pergolas is a vinyl-wrapped Dan Waters aluminum pergola that we use outside of the Decks Unlimited traditional cedar pergolas. For decks, using the right product and the right colors mean everything. Timbertech is the best quality product on the market and offers a wide variety of colors and comes with a 25-50 year fade and #PrintProudDigitalSmart

stain warranty. Timbertech composite has a mold guard infused within the product, which for those high traffic flow to the ground areas is very important. We use #1 treated ground contact YellaWood ® lumber for our substructure. It’s important to make sure you’re using quality products so your new back yard space will be around for years of enjoyment, not years of maintenance.” As Dan said, material matters when it comes to building outdoor structures. Aluminum has become a hot trend nowadays for its style and functionality. The new local expert in aluminum builds is Knotwood Central. Not only is Knotwood aluminum beautiful, it’s also very eco-friendly. Metal is one of the most recycled materials on the planet, and aluminum boasts one of the highest recycling rates of any metal. Knotwood is 100% recyclable. Knotwood also uses VOC-free coatings and lead free finishes, leaving a smaller environmental footprint. The material is stain and scratch proof, corrosion resistant, light weight, and easy to install. “By utilizing Knotwood aluminum with its real-wood appearance, you can have the beauty and warmth of wood without the timeconsuming maintenance and expense,” Perry Gillaspie from Knotwood Central explained. “Aluminum doesn’t absorb water or moisture, so it won’t warp and expand when exposed to extremely cold temperatures. It’s also impervious to insects, so no need to worry about termites or ants. We offer battens, fencing, decking, privacy screens, shutters, railings, and balustrades. Knotwood is known Perry Gillaspie for its extremely clean look when used in Knotwood Central fencing and shades. Planter boxes designed with Knotwood are stunning and durable. We also create beautiful pergolas that are a staple in any landscape design. But they don’t just look pretty! Pergolas add shade to escape the heat and aid other lovely landscaping plants like flowers, vines, and ivy. Plant them at the base and they’ll weave themselves up the beams, creating a stunning visual effect.” Metal as a gardening tool may once have been the well-kept secret of many professional landscapers, but recently it’s grown in popularity among amateur home gardens. Slim metal linings create a clean separation between grass, paths, and garden beds while keeping migrating materials like mulch and gravel in place. Also, metal edging is more able to be recycled at the end of its life. It’s stronger than plastic or wood, so it will likely stay in place for a long time. Steel edging is extremely popular because of its strength, durability, and flexibility. With clean lines and minimal intrusion on the vision you’ve created, it also won’t rot or become brittle in the cold. You can easily reshape it if you want to change the setup of your landscape as well. Another way to create more order in your yard is to use a retaining wall on any slope with a run-off soil problem. Retaining walls provide the following: • Functional support for keeping soil in place • Prevention of sink holes and flooding • Reduced yard maintenance and erosion prevention If your yard would benefit from more flat and usable land, less rainwater runoff, or more seating (low retaining walls can also act as benches), then you should strongly consider a retaining wall. Not only are retaining walls extremely useful, they can also be beautiful. When installed by a quality professional with high-grade stone or brick, they can greatly improve the value of your home. Yankee Hill Brick has a wide selection of bricks that are all created in their high-temperature firing kiln. Retaining walls are strong and functional, and they can also be decorative. An easy way to blend hardscape and softscape is to grow creeping vines on your retaining wall. Social distancing doesn’t mean you can’t walk outside and take a breath of the fresh spring air. Use some of the extra time you have on your hands to make your yard healthy and beautiful, and don’t forget to call the experts for help! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

Start your outdoor transformation today! 402-781-9337 | www.EagleNurseries.com

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Starting a Business Have you had the dream of a business startup stirring in your thoughts for a while now? Perhaps you have a business model in mind, but you’ve been holding off until the stars align. There are many people blessed with an entrepreneurial spirit, and they know they have a good product or service to offer, but they don’t feel confident in moving forward because they are unfamiliar with the necessary steps to take to actually start a business. Being knowledgeable of the process is important, especially considering all the various aspects that go into it.

Simplifying real estate for your business

If you’re serious about making your business dream a reality, we’ve gathered helpful information and talked with experts who have their hand in different areas of the business launching process, from the legalities to the commercial lease. Make it Legal and Official Choosing a legal structure, such as an LLC to protect your private assets, is an important initial step to take when starting a business. It’s necessary to go through all the proper channels to fill out paperwork and comply with laws and regulations for getting registered. You will also need to get federal and state tax ID numbers, permits, any necessary licenses, and trademarks, copyrights, or patents, if applicable. Though some of this may be simple enough to do on your own, the total volume of work may be overwhelming, and it’s always helpful to have the knowledge and expertise of a lawyer to ensure that you’ve covered your bases.

233 S. 13th St., Suite 1100 | Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 421-7474 | cathy@guiderockrealty.com

Cathy Kottwitz, CPM

Partnering with a lawyer from the get-go can help protect you from future mishaps and expensive mistakes down the road. Berry Law Attorney Susan Napolitano can help ensure that you start your business on the right track.

Susan Napolitano Berry Law

“When somebody comes in with just an idea, I can teach them how to set up their practice or business as opposed to setting it up for them,” she shared. “That works great for small business owners. Then, as they get bigger, we work to avoid any kind of legal issues.”

Berry Law is well equipped to handle nearly all your business legal needs. Serving clients throughout Lincoln and Omaha, Berry Law can help anyone needing legal assistance at the outset of a new business venture. Partnering with Berry Law is a smart move that can give them the confidence and security of knowing they’re in good hands. The legal needs of business owners vary widely by city and state, but in all cases there are a significant number of services that a local business attorney can provide to help business owners. There are DIY options to sidestep lawyers, but given the tremendous financial consequences of correct legal work it can sometimes be a costly mistake to avoid legal help. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

Secure Good Partnerships In addition to partnering with a lawyer, you may find that there are other aspects of your business that you would benefit by outsourcing to a professional while you focus on your primary area of expertise. For example, it’s recommended for business owners to partner with a CPA in order to comply with the latest policies and legislation that affect their taxes and bottom line. Clint Hlavaty with CS Accounting explained some of the ways he helps new business owners become more Clint Hlavaty secure with their accounting needs, both CS Accounting by providing the direct services and also by offering some educational assistance in learning about changes in accounting policies moving forward. “CS Accounting offers services in bookkeeping, accounting, and consulting,” he said. “We can do your accounts receivables, account payables, payroll, taxes, and set up of your business for all accounting needs. Our goal is to educate you on the accounting world changes and how it affects your business. We are noticing a new trend in the small business world of contracting out services that help your business grow so you can focus on your passion of the business. That’s where we come in! We are also noticing a lot more business owners utilizing cloud storage to access information on their cell phones and manage their businesses on the run. Being able to manage time and resources is very important for today’s business owner, which is partly why outsourcing certain needs is so important.” Since finances are such a private matter, you want to partner with an accountant or financial advisor you can trust—someone who has been in your shoes and knows what you’re going through. SP Group,

When this has passed, we will say that we were stronger together.

P.C. has many entrepreneurially-minded accounting professionals who have experience with small businesses of their own. “Starting a business can be an intimidating process to tackle on your own,” noted Austin Zimmerman, team accountant with SP Group. “Don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted resources within the community for advice. Starting a business can be daunting, so take the opportunity to leverage off of the experience of experts. Sitting down with a CPA with prior expertise can save you a lot of time and money in the long run and keep you on track to accomplish your goals. We strive to alleviate some Austin Zimmerman of the headaches that come with getting SP Group, P.C. started, including business planning, entity selection, payroll management and bookkeeping, and financial statement preparation. Having a trusted CPA firm at your disposal will let you focus your time on the things you truly do best, instead of getting bogged down in the details.” The better you manage your budget and monitor your financial situation, the more successful your business will be. By having an accurate handle on your budget, you can measure performance against expenditure and ensure that resources are available for initiatives that support business growth and development. One of these initiatives that can’t be overlooked in the digital world we are living in is technology. Data is everything. Scott Sunderman, senior accountant at Lutz, emphasized the importance of investing in a good IT system and support when starting a business.

Scott Sunderman Lutz

“Technology is critical to the success of your business operations,” he said. “It’s important to invest in solid IT equipment to help make sure processes are running efficiently. An IT professional can help you assess your business technology needs and recommend the best options for you. Our Lutz Tech team can provide your startup with everything from managed network and IT services, to custom software and application development to help your organization optimally function.” Lutz is designed to be your one-stop service as their expertise extend beyond IT operations. “Partnering with Lutz is always a smart move for businesses,” Scott stated. “Our Lutz Accounting and Financial teams can help you not only manage but optimize your financials so that you can focus on what truly matters—running your business. Our Lutz Talent division can help relieve your staffing burden by searching, vetting, and hiring the top talent your business needs.”

Your Community • Your Future For a better tomorrow, shop local. #StrongerTogether

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If your business structure requires processing large ticket transactions, particularly in regards to credit card processing fees, CurrencyPay, a partner of Sandhills Global has an innovative new solution. CurrencyPay helps you unlock your business potential as the first payment platform designed for buying and selling largeticket items. With CurrencyPay’s payment processing system, you can optimize large-ticket transactions with ease through multiple payment options so your customers always have a way to pay for larger purchases. In addition to traditional payment methods such as credit, debit, and ACH, CurrencyPay allows you to offer your customers flexible financing at the point of sale. There are no longterm commitments with CurrencyPay—you can process payments on your terms so you can focus on growing your business. Finally, CurrencyPay provides exclusive inventory finance programs for you, allowing you to take advantage of a custom-tailored finance #PrintProudDigitalSmart

package based on your business goals, including 0% interest for 90 days and more. Location, Location, Location Ask yourself if your business needs a storefront or a physical location to carry out operations. If so, finding the right location can make all the difference in attracting customers and also allowing you to function efficiently with optimum access to the resources you need to keep your business running. To help you find the right location for your business, it is important to look to experts who know the current real estate market and the best available offerings. Krueger Development excels in helping their clients find locations to suit their unique businesses. Stephanie Krueger Ponce, director of business development at Krueger Development, is continually taking note of trends in the current marketplace and the demands for different types of business locations.

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Stephanie Krueger Ponce “Startups tailored to niche markets are Krueger Development

very common anymore,” she shared. “In the last year, we have worked with: • The Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation and its Float 4 Life training center—an organization specifically focused on water safety education and one-on-one float training for children • Victress—a functional-movement based gym specifically focused on helping women stay fit through all stages of life, including pre, post, and during pregnancy • Triniti Athletics—a youth gymnastics center that also features Ninja Warrior training specifically for adults

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• M ovin’ Up—a pole fitness studio that focuses on fun yet effective full body workouts through pole dance, with supplemental classes to help with conditioning, flexibility, and choreography.” Stephanie explained that Krueger Development makes it a priority to help businesses find a location that suits their needs and preferences, whatever their area of focus may be. “Krueger Development offers commercial spaces that a business can call home,” she said. “Finding home can be a stressful process. Any potential business owner can take advantage of our free commercial space drafting and cost estimating, with no obligation. We cover which of our locations can best serve a business’s needs— including interior design— and at what cost, all before ever asking a client to put down capital. Cost is always the bottom line but oftentimes more so with startups, and we are very conscious of that.” John Linscott with Greenleaf Properties has also observed what an important role cost plays in business startups. John shared that one important service real estate agents offer clients is representing the tenant’s interests during lease negotiations so they are paying a fair price for their business space. “Because of the intricacies of leasing a space, you certainly have to understand what you are getting into,” he cautioned. John Linscott “You need a representative who can help Greenleaf Properties locate the best options available on the market and help ensure you are being leased a space at a fair market rate. One of the most important details in a leasing transaction is who will pay for maintenance and repairs. Unless you deal with leases all the time, you might #PrintProudDigitalSmart

THE SUITES AT PARK ONE 2900 S. 72 ST. | LINCOLN, NE 68506

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APRIL 2020 Strictly Business

not realize, for example, that you are responsible for equipment replacement, which can lead to costs of $5,000 to $6,000 in some instances.” Partnering with an experienced agent can help you avoid expensive pitfalls. Even with the help of a great agent, however, a new business owner is at a disadvantage if they don’t allow sufficient time in advance for finding the best location for their new business. Cathy Kottwitz with Guiderock Commercial Realty shared her experience of working with new business owners to find the best location for their new ventures. “One of my primary roles as an agent is to help clients select a site that aligns with their current needs and future goals,” she said. “Whether that’s finding a flexible space, upgrading to a better location, or moving from a leased space to one the business owns, that’s where I come in. I commonly see business owners not giving themselves enough time to find a location. I typically recommend getting some general ideas for locations and costs about a year in advance and planning to start actively looking six months in advance of projected opening time. This allows time to assess options, negotiate terms, and remodel a space if needed.” Cathy Kottwitz Guiderock Commercial Realty

For business owners who want the benefits of a professional space but are unsure about the costs, HIP Realty offers an excellent alternative to the more expensive and traditional route of leasing or purchasing a standalone location. HIP OffiCenters offered by Holroyd Investment Properties is a very low-risk way of getting your business started. They offer a wide range of lease terms to meet your commitment level.

They have a variety of office sizes and styles, with the option of furnishing the office for you if you desire. Tenants of HIP OffiCenters enjoy the assistance of a full-time receptionist, conference room, and modern office equipment. HIP OffiCenters is a great way to convey a professional image to your clients without the financial commitment of staffing an office yourself. For business owners that are looking for flexible and customizable options, Chateau Development offers move in-ready office suites ranging from 550 to 885 square feet through The Suites @ Park One, a commercial building specifically designed for small businesses and startups. The spaces are ideal for small creative teams or solo practitioners, with short, flexible leasing terms to make it easy to adjust during the early days of business. The offices are ALLO fiber ready, and they are beautifully designed with open floorplans customizable for different business needs. No matter where you carry out your operations, whether that be your home or one of Lincoln’s prime commercial spaces, you will need fast and reliable internet and phone service. ALLO provides internet, TV, and phone services to businesses ranging from coffee shops to large corporations. Their fiber optic network was built to future-proof your business for the constantly evolving world of technology. As your business needs grow, your ALLO connection won’t just keep up, it will stay light years ahead of the curve. Sixteen years ago, ALLO was founded to bring the most modern network possible to people across the Midwest. Since that time, they’ve grown to provide faster, friendlier service to Fort Morgan and Breckenridge, CO, and ten Nebraska communities: Alliance, Ashland, Bridgeport, Gering, Hastings, Imperial, Lincoln, North Platte, Ogallala, and Scottsbluff. Their team is committed to showing the ALLO difference through faster, more reliable service but also with a genuinely caring, local support team, available to you 24/7.

Kinetic by Windstream is another leading provider of advanced network communications and technology solutions for businesses. They’re not just your internet service provider, their employees are your neighbors, friends, church members, and team parents. The Windstream team is a part of the communities they serve and are COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES proud to offer the service that can keep them connected. HELPING YOU GROW: GROW:Businesses, Businesses, Communities, Futures HELPING YOU Communities, Futures

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4021 Lowell Ave- Lease

4800 Lease 4800Holdrege Holdrege St -- Lease 4800 Holdrege Lease 4800 Holdrege StSt-StLease 4800 Holdrege - -Lease 1Ste. Bay @1,750 SF ***Ste. 101: 2,776—Ste. 107:3,228 3,228 101: 2,776—Ste. 107:

* Ste. 101: 2,776 - Ste. 107: 3,228 101: 2,776—Ste. 3,228 **$15.00 $1,100 ** *Ste. Ste. 101:Monthly 2,776—Ste.107: 107: 3,228 $15.00 NNN * NNN $15.00 NNN * $15.00 NNN * Easy access to Hwy 2 * *$15.00 NNN *New Newmixed-use mixed-use building New building mixed-use building * New mixed-use building * New mixed-use building

2930Stockwell Ridge LineAve - Lease 3811 - Lease 2930 Ridge Line -Lease Lease 2930 Ridge Line -subdivided) 24,000 SFLine (can be 2930 Ridge - Lease * *Ste. 5 1,280 SF Retail space ** *24,000 SF (canbebesubdivided) divided) 24,000 SF (can $15.00 NNN * 24,000 (can subdivided) Ste. 6SF 6,500 SFbeOffice space 2930 Ridge Line - Lease ****$15.00 NNN $15.00 NNN Located next SouthPointe Pavillions * $15.00 * Ste. 8NNN 2,273 SFto Dental office space Located next to SouthPointe Pavillions * **24,000 SF (can be subdivided) Located next to SouthPointe Pavillions * Located next to SouthPointe Pavillions

* $15.00 NNN

2930 Line - Lease 235 S. 11th StLease 235 S.Ridge 11th St-StLease 235 11th -StLease 235 S.S.11th St235 S. 11th Lease **1,975-15,500 3,113-24,000 SF Lease *1,975-15,500 SF SF * 1,975-15,000 *1,975-15,500 SF SF SF *1,975-15,500 **$15.00 $15.00 NNN PSF NNN *$15.00 PSF NNN * $15.00PSF PSF NNN *$15.00 NNN **Downtown next tooffice/ SouthPointe Pavilions *$15.00 PSF NNN office/ retailretail space *Downtown space * Located Downtown office/retail space *Downtown office/ retail space *Downtown office/ retail space

5601 5601 SS 59th 59th St St --Lease Lease 5601 59th - Lease 5601 S from 59th - Lease SF ** SF 8,500—60,000 5601 SS59th StSt -StLease SF ranges ranges from 8,500 up to 69,500 *SF ranges from 8,500 up to 60,000SF * ranges SF ranges from 8,500—60,000 Office/ Retail space ***SF from 8,500—60,000 Office/ Retail space 5601 S 59th St Lease SF ** Excellent Office/Retail space * Office/ Retail space visibility from Hwy 22 **Office/ Retail space Excellent visibility from HwyHwy * Excellent visibility from 2 SF * SF ranges from 8,500—60,000 * Excellent visibility from Hwy 2 * Excellent visibility from Hwy 2

* Office/ Retail space

GREENLEAF PROPERTIES Call today or go online for more details. Pavillions * Excellent GREENLEAF Call today or go online for more details. visibility from Hwy 2 300*NLocated 44th St,PROPERTIES Stenext 112 to SouthPointe 402-467-2525

GREENLEAF PROPERTIES Call today online more details. 300 N 44thNESt, Ste 112 402-467-2525 GREENLEAF PROPERTIES Call today or or go go online forfor more details. Lincoln, 68503 www.greenleafproperties.com

Lincoln, NE www.greenleafproperties.com 300 44th St, 112 402-467-2525 300 NN 44th St,68503 SteSte 112 402-467-2525 Lincoln, 68503 www.greenleafproperties.com Information secured from sources we believe reliable. We make no guaranty as to the accuracy of such data. References to square Lincoln, NENE 68503 www.greenleafproperties.com

GREENLEAF PROPERTIES Call or go onlineas for Information from sources we believe reliable. We make no guaranty to themore accuracydetails. of such data. References to square footage aresecured approximate. Information subject totoday change.

footage areSt, approximate. Information subject toreliable. change. We make no guaranty as to the accuracy of such data. References to square 300 N 44th Stefrom 112 402-467-2525 Information secured from sources believe Information secured sources we we believe reliable. We make no guaranty as to the accuracy of such data. References to square footage are approximate. Information subject to change. Lincoln, NE 68503 www.greenleafproperties.com APRIL 2020 footage are approximate. Information subject to change.

Strictly Business

As more companies, both small and large, are transitioning to remote work, Kinetic by Windsteam is the trusted partner to keep business running securely. Kinetic has been building the digital foundation to help small businesses succeed, and also been building a business-grade high-speed Internet network for residential customers, too, to work remotely and stay connected. Businesses can migrate operations to new satellite workspaces with no new hardware purchases or big capital outlays. Windstream’s commitment to their customers remains clear, to keep you living connected to the things that are important to your life, regardless of where you live. Networking and Advertising With your business up and running, it’s important to make continued connections in the community to spread awareness of your brand and build relationships that will grow your business. Center Sphere is one great outlet in Lincoln that provides excellent opportunities for networking and building relationships. Center Sphere is an established network that any business owner, manager, salesperson, account representative, etc. can join. New members are encouraged to visit a few different chapters to find a group, time, and location that works best for them. These chapters are made up of about 10–35 other professionals from different industries. Becoming involved in a chapter is a great way to get to know influential people and begin establishing yourself in the business community. The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is another great connection tool. The chamber is a key player in the efforts to grow businesses in Lincoln. They work with lawmakers and local officials to #PrintProudDigitalSmart

advance important policies affecting the business community and start conversations for needed changes. The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce hosts monthly events to bring business leaders together and ignite collaboration. Through networking opportunities before and after work such as The HIVE and The LNK, members of the business community are given the chance to share their mission and ideas with like-minded individuals. While networking and making personal connections can’t be replaced, it’s impossible to get out and shake all the hands you want to shake while also running other major functions of your business. This is why it is important to invest in a marketing strategy that works for you. Savvy business owners understand that marketing creates brand awareness and gets the business name out to the public. People may not even remember when or where they’ve seen your name, but if you Steve Maly utilize effective marketing and advertising, Maly Marketing they’ll simply know they’ve heard of you, which puts your business in a good position. Steve Maly with Maly Marketing shared how they help new businesses market themselves.

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“Typically we help new businesses starting up with anything from helping to name the new company to establishing a brand, diving into market research, or finding the distinct messaging and visuals to use in the promotion of the company,” he said. “It is important to partner with an experienced marketing agency for the experience they bring to the table. Too many times people fall into the trap of falling in love with a new trend or technology when the tried and true will work even better,” Steve shared. “One great example is TikTok. People are excited about this new social media channel and want to leverage it for their company. However, unless you have a minimum of $10,000 to invest in ads, TikTok won’t allow you to advertise. Also, for most businesses, the audience on TikTok doesn’t match up with who their actual buyers are. At Maly Marketing, we watch rising trends to see what works and what doesn’t. Partnering with us can offer you an edge in your marketing plan.” Ultimiately, you have to figure out what works best for you and your business. Signage and promotional items will forever be great ways to put your name and branding in front of people. Sign Pro of Lincoln has been providing local businesses with the best in signs and graphics for more than 25 years. Many businesses throughout southeastern Nebraska have benefited from the eye-catching signs they deliver. Whether you require something for a one-time event, signage for a construction site, or if you are opening a new business, you can depend on Sign Pro to meet your needs. For promotional items, turn to Flicker Promotions. Locally owned by Amy Doele, Flicker Promotions can keep you stocked with swag. Handing out fun, useful items with your logo on it is a fool-proof way to let people know about your new business. At Strictly Business, we obviously believe in the power of marketing and brand awareness. We have experience working with business startups and helping them maximize their dollars to reach their target audience. We can work with companies that have limited budgets. When we meet with business owners, they are often surprised by how reasonable our rates are, especially considering we go out to over 10,000 businesses in Lincoln every month and have such a strong online presence. We make sure our clients are being seen! Our goal is to present our clients as the experts in their fields. We get to know them and their needs so we can take a personal approach to spreading awareness of their business and the products/services they offer in a way that builds not only name awareness, but credibility. Our community is filled with great people and resources to help you get your business off the ground. Whatever your business dream may be, if you do your research and partner with the best, you can’t go wrong. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Change is never easy. Even when positive change occurs, it may still force us to say goodbye to a former time and way of life. Unwanted and unplanned changes can bring an even greater sense of loss as they pull us away from our comfortable routines and familiar circumstances. Change is often confusing and disorienting. It can move the ground beneath us. For seniors and their loved ones who find themselves unwittingly faced with an unexpected situation, life may become uncomfortable for a time. We recognize the severity of these life-altering events and hope to approach them with care. We believe there is great comfort in human experience and knowing we are not alone in life’s journey. Recent events in the world have brought unexpected challenges to countless communities with the spread of COVID-19, widely referred to as coronavirus. The senior health and living industries in particular have been on the front lines of the crisis as they’ve cared for populations most vulnerable to this threat. We are extremely fortunate in our community to have the help of such knowledgeable and qualified professionals as well as access to the best and latest in health technology, excellent facilities, and medicine.

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We spoke with individuals who spend their days looking to the well-being of seniors in our community for words of wisdom and encouragement to navigate the often turbulent waters that come with unplanned life changes. Across the board, these caring professionals expressed a sense of compassion, concern, and hope for seniors who face difficulties. Here are their thoughts of encouragement for handling unplanned life changes. Anticipate Coming Transitions Many people may not think to look ahead for coming changes, such as an injury or a transition to a senior living community, until the need for change is imminent. This can cause anxiety and panic. On the other hand, anticipating change can help you steady yourself when life does change. Expecting the unexpected may not take away all the pain or difficulty from the situation, but it can ground you. Retirement, relocation, changes in health and physical capacity, and bereavement are common changes everyone—particularly seniors—should mentally anticipate. Dr. Carla Ericksen, owner of Beyond Vision LNK, believes certain changes can be anticipated and prepared for before difficulties arise. In particular, she encourages people to anticipate changes in their vision and eye health and to seek professional assistance. “We know our eyes change as we age,” she said. “This does not need to be unexpected. If you are over 60 years old Dr. Carla Ericksen or have been diagnosed with high blood Beyond Vision LNK #PrintProudDigitalSmart

pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, arthritis, or diabetes, an annual eye exam is recommended.” Because Dr. Ericksen understands that many individuals fear changes such as losing the freedom of driving, impacts on social life, or even the burden they may place on family members if they need to rely on them more, she recommends talking to family early on if diagnosed with macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, or other sight-threatening eye disorders. “Discuss plans for changed circumstances,” she said. “What would you want if you were no longer able to drive? If you are moving, discuss proximity to your favorite places and activities and design the interior of your new home with high-contrast colors and minimal clutter. Take advantage of electronic devices that can enlarge images or provide audio assistance, and incorporate them into your activities now so you know how to use them. More importantly, trust your eye doctor to help you. If you notice shadowing, halos, double images, or other vision changes, report them as soon as possible. The earlier we detect a problem, the more successful our treatments will be.”

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In regards to the COVID-19 crisis, Dr. Ericksen told us how she is staying informed and helping to protect her patients. “I have been getting updates from the AOA, CDC, and HHS directly and can relay that information to you immediately, rather than you waiting for a story to hit press and then be wrong. We have implemented telemedicine to lessen ER overload and assist you with basic and emergent eye needs directly from your home.” Kar la Fr ese, managing par tner at Home Car e Par tners of Nebraska also encourages proactive behaviors, particularly in seniors taking advantage of technology to enhance life and help with many of the changes that come with age. She gave us information on some of the best ways seniors can utilize this technology to improve their lives. “Innovative technology such as Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa, or Google’s Assistant can Karla Frese reshape preventative care through virtual assistants and reminders to benefit those Home Care Partners of Nebraska with cognitive challenges,” she shared. “Smart devices can play an integral part in ensuring seniors are safe and functional at home. There are apps that can help with writing challenges through talk-to-text capabilities; reading through voice assistance and audio books; hearing through Hearables with Bluetooth for answering phone calls; seeing through home security cameras and video doorbells; memory through setting alarms and pairing music to routines; fear of falling through the use of wearables, or products worn on clothing to capture and transmit data…and so much more!” “Integrating wearables and tracking apps into Telehealth allows vitals to be monitored in real-time, increasing accuracy and helping care teams make more informed health decisions,” Karla continued. “Cardiovascular health, early signs of illness, and other health issues can be gauged and monitored much more easily this way, and patients can access online care. CHI Health Virtual Care is a 24/7 health care service available via phone or video chat. You can receive consultations and even prescriptions for minor illnesses from anywhere, currently for free. Our caregivers can assist clients with calling to request a virtual visit to speak to a live health care provider within minutes. Our team has been helping seniors navigate online grocery shopping apps, and running errands, and telehealth visits for those that feel safer staying home. Home Care Partners of Nebraska is always keeping up on the latest and best ways seniors can improve their lives so we can help them access good resources. We encourage anyone with questions to reach out to us today.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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DISCOVER the difference

Clearly, we have a wealth of advanced resources at our fingertips, even with current social distancing practices. Anticipating transitions and utilizing the best and latest resources available can be helpful in preparing for changed circumstances in the future. Take a Proactive Approach to Life

DISCOVER the difference at Gramercy Hill. Offering both Independent Living and Assisted Living, featuring several spacious floor plans and dedicated staff that is available 24 hours a day. Our Community invites residents to enjoy comfort and relaxation while taking advantage of exceptional services. We offer residents a vibrant lifestyle that encourages health and independence through innovative recreational, educational, health and wellness programs. Gramercy Hill is also pet friendly!

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Doing your research ahead of time and having a plan in place before emergencies arise is an important way to create peace of mind and lessen the stress and burden of difficult times. A proactive approach can also help family members to be prepared for times of emergency so they are able to quickly respond when their help is needed. Even if you are unable to anticipate every difficult circumstance that may come your way, having some kind of plan in place can allow you to focus your energies on immediate needs that demand the most attention, knowing that other things will be okay. One proactive measure that can benefit people of any age or situation is looking to spinal health. When the spine is not properly aligned, it can cause painful issues with anything from the success of a sports career to a healthy pregnancy to the ability to walk and stand properly. Express Life Chiropractic specializes in neurologically-based c hiropractic corrective care for the entire family: pediatrics, pre-natal, athletes, and everyone else. Dr. Troy Hayes and Dr. Dr. Ashley Hayes Ashley Hayes have improved the lives of many through their neurologically-based Express Life Chiropractic corrective care. The mission of Express Life is to help the community achieve optimal health naturally, express life, and restore hope through principled chiropractic care as well as encouraging everyone to embrace their non-interfered, God-given, true health potential. “We understand the power a little chiropractic care can have in bringing people’s lives back to a good place and freeing up energy for achieving greater levels of success and wellness,” Dr. Ashley said. “Proactively looking to spinal health in advance can prevent a host of problems in the future.” Rick Carney, family service representative for Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home shared his thoughts on creating a proactive plan for potential life challenges before a crisis occurs. “Unexpected changes can mean angst and stress, but if you research the changes you face and find answers about how to best deal with the change, you will be better prepared and more relaxed moving forward,” he said. “There is so much information available at our fingertips and so many people with specific skill sets that are willing to help. It is easier than ever before to find whatever information you may need.”

Rick Carney Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home

Rick shared how having a plan in place has brought stability to his own life as he has helped his aging parents navigate unexpected challenges. “My parents are both in a care facility, and my mother recently had her leg amputated above the knee,” he said. “Certainly they have seen a lot of change, but knowing there are people to help and equipment available to help her mobility has calmed some of our fears.”

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Rick told us about ways that Butherus, Maser & Love helps people be proactive in planning for end of life arrangements and why this is so important. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“At Butherus, Maser & Love, we have a list of 125 things that should be considered when planning a funeral service,” he said. “The most common comment we hear when people are making their funeral prearrangements is that they ‘don’t want the kids to have to worry about it.’ There is great satisfaction in knowing your family will appreciate and benefit by the actions you take today.”

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Bobby Meyers with Pemberly Place also believes in the power of proactive measures.

Bobby Meyers Pemberly Place

“Taking a proactive stance for any life c hange will definitely decrease the stress that can be associated with life’s unexpected happenings,” she said. “Plan ahead and start downsizing now in preparation for the time you won’t be able to upkeep a big house. Pick the facility you would want to spend time in if you find yourself having to face an expected hospitalization or rehabilitation. You will be glad you did!”

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Pemberly Place is one great option for quality senior living with a goal of creating moments of purpose provided by a welleducated team of caregivers who offer personalized 24-hour care. Pemberly is a premier senior living community with three levels of living, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. They also provide respite (short-term stay) and adult day services in their memory care community. Bobby assured us their team always offers the best care to residents, even during times of crisis such as COVID-19. “The healthcare community is working diligently to meet the needs of Lincoln’s frail and aged,” she said. “We must continue to support each other in these unknown times. The caregivers working in all segments of long-term care have proven they are unsung heroes.” Be Flexible Kim Kallhoff, executive director with Carriage Glen, advises seniors to be flexible while making plans for coming changes. “It is so important to plan, but to be flexible,” she said. “Have a general ‘road map’ of the places or goals you may want to reach, but know that the route may change along the way due to unforeseen circumstances. Knowing you can adjust for those things can reduce your stress as well as the stress of those around you.” Kim understands that a balance between being proactive and flexible enables people to have certain things in place, even if some plans may change because they can’t completely foresee what’s coming.

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“You and your family don’t know when life may throw a curveball at you,” she said. “I always encourage those that tour with me to really think about making a move sooner rather than later. It is less stressful and people can make these transitions more thoughtfully and feel more in control. One excellent option for senior living is Carriage Glen—a great community filled with very involved, vibrant people!” she said. “We pride our community on offering various types of education to keep our residents safe and healthy, including daily and weekly activities for residents. Whenever and wherever they make a move, seniors need to be gentle with themselves. Change can be hard, but it can lead to so many good things. Have a road map of what you would like to accomplish, but know that it may take a while to get there and it may take a few different paths.” Practice Acceptance When life doesn’t go the way we want it to, it is a very natural reaction to dig in our heels and fight back, refusing to accept a new reality. The challenge this brings, especially if it is prolonged, is a lack of progression. Choosing to not accept a new situation is like taking the #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Here for you. Not for proﬁt.

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key from the ignition and sitting in the car. You won’t be able to get very far. Perhaps a period of time is needed just sitting in that car, working through your thoughts—that’s okay!—but know that sooner or later, you will need to move forward and accept the new life ahead of you with all its new challenges and opportunities. Tracy Haefele, senior living advisor at Legacy Estates of Legacy Retirement Communities, advises seniors to ease their difficult situations by accepting what is.

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“Know that even though it is hard, change is inevitable,” she said. “We cannot always stop change, so learning to embrace it and not fight it can make it a little easier. Grant yourself grace and allow yourself to take a little time every day to try and Tracy Haefele find something good in a part of the Legacy Retirement change. As in the Serenity Prayer, ‘Change Communities the things you can, and accept the things you cannot change.’ I would bet if they looked back at their lives, seniors would recognize they have lived through and even flourished after life changes. There may have been expected or unexpected challenges and sometimes even tragedies, but eventually people ‘find a new normal.’” Tracy explained that one common benefit of acceptance is a sense of gratitude, which brings with it a host of other positive side effects. “Many positive psychology studies have shown the benefits behind practicing gratitude, such as fewer physical symptoms, increased sleep quality, lowered depressive symptoms, and more,” she said. “Levels of gratitude are also significantly correlated with vitality and energy. Our residents believe in good health, the company of others, the pursuit of knowledge, and doing good in the community. With these qualities in mind, Legacy Well-being is a program customized to our residents, allowing them the freedom to make choices and challenging them to stay involved through a variety of learning opportunities while also encouraging them to serve others.” List the Reasons You are Grateful As Tracy shared, research has proven time and time again that grateful people are happier, healthier, more able to cope with challenges, and less prone to mental health struggles such as anxiety, depression, and suicide. One study even found that people who practice gratitude experienced decreased levels of physical pain. Robbie Nathan, transition consultant with Bridge to Better Living, shared her thoughts on using gratitude to find the hidden gems in life, even during difficult times.

Senior Living Your Way Call today to schedule your personal tour! Pemberly Place offers Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care. ON-SITE MEDICAL CLINIC Pemberly Place is the only senior living community in Nebraska that has its own on-site medical clinic. Archer Place Medical Clinic, gives residents the healthcare they need without the hassle of leaving home.

Call for a tour! 402-413-9770 | www.PemberlyPlace.com

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“We all need to remember there is so much to be grateful for,” she said. “It’s not what we don’t have; it’s what we still have. Age may decrease hearing, vision, or agility, but the memories seniors have, the life events they’ve experienced, affect how others’ lives evolve. Each person of age should feel valued and certainly know ‘this, too, shall Robbie Nathan pass.’ Do not hesitate to ask questions and Bridge to Better Living do not stop until you have an answer. Be confident there are support groups and experts who will guide you through the complex navigation of aging. You are not the first and you will not be the last to hit a speed bump in life. Bridge to Better Living finds seniors to be inspirational and believes there are others who are in agreement. Let us help.” With the current crisis of COVID-19 present in the community, Robbie assured us helpful people are still doing their good work for others. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“Coronavirus does not stop people from caring,” she said. “Bridge to Better Living has the latest technology and will continue to serve seniors and their loved ones. We are able to conduct consultations and tours virtually and are open for business. Placement with Passion® continues through this pandemic and beyond.” Bridge to Better Living helps seniors navigate the complex world of senior living options by offering a no-cost-to client service to navigate the complexities of senior living options. They help find the most appropriate fit. “A ‘Plan B’ is best formulated before unexpected changes occur, not when,” Robbie said. “Bridge to Better Living visits with families every day regarding the importance of knowing the choices available. Many people believe all retirement communities are the same. We show them how senior living communities may seem to offer the same amenities and services, but they are all offered in different ways.”

Age is an

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Bridge to Better Living’s services provide assurance and stability for seniors facing the transition of moving to a new community.

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Find the Silver Lining Christy Merritt, executive director at The Waterford Communities, shared her thoughts on finding the opportunities in new living circumstances for seniors. “If you’re moving to a new community, look at this as a new chapter in which the focus can be on your health and connecting with friends and family,” she said. “Many of the things that once took up your time are done for you. Take advantage of the assistance and amenities that are offered Christy Merritt and look forward to the gift of time that The Waterford a new community can offer. I think it’s easy Communitites for us all to say what we would do when we haven’t walked in someone else’s shoes. That being said, no matter what your age, you can rarely change what happens to you, but you can control how you respond.”

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“The Waterford Communities are smaller communities with a higher number of staff per shift that really allows us to take an individualized approach to care,” she said. “We are able to accommodate special requests and unique situations in a small, home-like environment.”

In response to the community situation surrounding COVID-19, Christy offered this assurance: “These are uncharted waters for all of us, but the good news is that healthcare workers come into contact with unknown illness each and every day,” she said. “They are trained to look for changes in conditions in their residents and trained on infection prevention. If you have a loved one who is quarantined in any type of eldercare setting, understand they are being cared for by some of the most compassionate and loving individuals possible. If you have a loved one at The Waterford Communities, we are committed to helping our families maintain connections with their loved ones.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

402.429.8891

Beth Friesen, RN, CCM, CSA / BFriesen@YourOasisAdvisor.com

Christy explained what the Waterford Communities offers that makes transition to a new community so comfortable for residents.

Small in comparison to many senior living communities in the area, the Waterford Communities is prized for its size, with their largest assisted living community having only 41 apartments. Residents appreciate the smaller community that offers a more small-town feel that many consider to feel more like a home than a facility. The lower resident numbers also enable the Waterford staff to really get to know their residents and customize care for each person as they help them make the most of their new home.

Because the right place ™ means everything

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Locally Owned & Operated Since 1883

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Picture a Happy, Healthy Life Making big life changes such as moving to a new community or learning to live with physical limitations will test anyone’s strength of character and ability to live a happy life. The good news is that, with practice, any person can create a vision for a happy, healthy life and project it into the future. Jeff Madsen with Right Foot Forward Fitness shared his experience of working with seniors to create a new vision moving forward after experiencing a setback. “My clients who have experienced the most success following physical setbacks take the long view but also get busy today with the business of making themselves better and stronger,” he said. “It’s a balance between understanding the journey back to health and vitality might Jeff Madsen take several weeks or months, but also Right Foot Forward Fitness that the journey needs to start today! For some, daily goals may be quite modest in the beginning, but, nonetheless, making steady progress daily is the key to regaining a healthy lifestyle.” Jeff explained how people working toward goals can create momentum and energy by celebrating their successes: “I think one of the biggest keys to happiness when facing physical challenges is to celebrate your victories. Many people focus on their shortcomings and downplay their victories. My encouragement is to re-channel that energy into action TODAY! Then when the changes and victories start to happen, however small they may seem, celebrate them—with yourself and with other people. You’ll be amazed at how this change of perspective empowers you and creates motivation for further achievement! We love to celebrate with our clients as they achieve new things.”

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Jeff explained what Right Foot Forward Fitness offers to people looking to improve their lives. “We specialize in personal training that is designed specifically for our client’s ability level,” he said. “All exercises can be made appropriate, safe, and, most of all, doable. We focus on designing programs for clients to move toward their goals in a positive and supportive atmosphere.” Find a New Sense of Purpose Aubrey Paulsen, senior living advocate with Tabitha, encourages seniors to find a new sense of purpose after exiting one phase of life and entering another. “Whether it’s volunteering, serving on a committee and sharing your expertise, or working part-time focusing on something you’ve always been passionate about, find your purpose,” she said. “We all need a purpose—it gives us optimism, energy, and guides us to what matters most. It can Aubrey Paulsen uplift us when there are setbacks and life Tabitha is stressful. Studies show that when you lead a purpose-driven life you are more fulfilled and even live longer. You lean in and make the most of each day because you know who you are, where you’re from, and where you’re going.” Aubrey shared that Tabitha’s purpose is to “empower people to live joyfully, age gratefully.” “This concise, uplifting statement is why Tabitha exists and serves as our compass to guide us to what’s next and remain steadfast in caring for and about seniors first,” she explained. “Tabitha offers a continuum of services including results-driven rehabilitation,

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accessible at-home health care, innovative living communities with life enriching programs, and compassionate hospice services. We are industry experts, and my role as a senior living advocate exists to ensure seniors and their families are guided in the right direction. We will listen, learn, and provide expert guidance to best fit your unique situation. Starting with Tabitha will ensure you make informed decisions, and our strong continuum allows us to seamlessly work alongside you as your needs evolve. You can call Tabitha experts with any question, free of charge or obligation. We’ll find the right answer for you, even if that means utilizing a resource other than Tabitha.” Enjoy the Beauty of the Here and Now One potential obstacle in finding a sense of purpose in a new life is the realization that often these transitions separate us from certain beloved aspects of the past—things/people/places we once loved and enjoyed that are no longer a part of the new present reality. While this may hurt, the truth is that the present also holds beautiful people, places, things, and opportunities that were not available in the past. Jennifer Knecht, vice president of marketing and sales for Immanuel Communities, understands this challenge as well as the transformation that comes into seniors’ lives when they discover the gift of the present. “Most of us envision retirement as an easy, peaceful period in our lives,” she said. “In reality, it’s full of transitions like redefining our role in the lives of our now grown children, finding fulfillment without Jennifer Knecht a nine-to-five, seeing friends come and go, Immanuel Communities or even experiencing the loss of a spouse. The transitions can be difficult, but what we’ve learned in working with thousands of seniors in all stages of aging is that you never know what amazing gifts are around the corner. New friends, passions, new outlooks on life are all there if we continue to be open to learning and welcoming them.” Jennifer has witnessed the positive results residents experience when they embrace the beauty of their new circumstances. “At Immanuel, we’ve heard amazing stories from residents who found incredible friendship late in life, and even love after loss,” she shared. “When we experience change, the tendency is to close off and retreat into our environment, but staying active is really important for physical and mental health. Get out there, join groups, be active, and connect socially to find those enriching experiences. The beauty of retirement living is that those experiences are already happening just steps from your door. The social aspect of senior living is a benefit that’s truly priceless, especially during difficult times. Immanuel is deeply committed to ending the senior loneliness epidemic through services and amenities that help seniors thrive.” Don’t Try to Do it Alone Whatever transitions seniors might face, it is important they don’t isolate and try to cope with everything all alone. The loneliness, lack of support and resources, and absence of outside insight caused by this isolation would inevitably compound whatever problems are already present. If seniors are timid about reaching out for help, they can take comfort in knowing there is an abundance of available resources for whatever they may be going through. Even if they don’t initially feel this comfort, they can plant the seeds for peace in the future by remembering that others have gone before them; life eventually returns to a normal state for most people, even if some adjustments are necessary. Having the companionship of friends and caregivers to offer this reminder can be a great source of comfort and stability. Natalie Leon, owner and executive director of Visiting Angels, shared insight into some of the challenges seniors face and the benefit of seeking companionship. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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“Talk through your fears with a trusted loved one or friend,” she said. “One of the top reasons people fear growing older is they don’t want to lose their independence. Companion care provides a great balance between independence and isolation. Here at Visiting Angels, our caregivers not only meet your basic and advanced needs, but our caregivers offer a listening ear and a social connection.” Visiting Angels provides companion care Natalie Leon and personal care services with specialized Visiting Angels programs to foster independent living and enhance quality of life. Their home care services are designed to provide assistance with those activities seniors need help with in order to safely stay at home and still maintain dignity. “Here at Visiting Angels our services are desirable because of the client’s ability to remain autonomous by choosing their own hours and by choosing the services that they want,” Natalie explained. “At Visiting Angels the client is in charge and we are on your schedule. It is our job to adjust to your schedule and see that you remain comfortable in your home. Our care program is flexible and the client can change the plan of care as different needs arise. We also work along with any home health agency and hospice agency that may be assisting your loved ones after a recent hospital stay.” Visiting Angels offers a personalized approach to home care services, treating each client with the utmost respect as they establish a unique, comprehensive care plan. Take Advantage of Available Resources One of the great advantages of living at this point in history is the availability of so many excellent, comprehensive APRIL 2020 Strictly Business 79

resources. Kyle Johnson, owner of Care Consultants for the Aging, talked to us about their ElderCare Resource Handbook for families researching their options. The online edition of their Lincoln handbook is available for free, and physical editions can be ordered for just a few dollars. “Our mission is to provide the elderly and their adult children with assistance in achieving a continued independent living style,” Kyle noted. “We seek to find and refer caregivers and other professionals Kyle Johnson that provide support services. To help Care Consultants families walk through each aspect, Care for the Aging Consultants has designed a free, simple, one-page task sheet to lay out key considerations. These include a handy list of services from medical care, to food and nutrition, companionship, and mobility assistance to help families identify their priorities. As a free service, Care Consultants hopes to refer families to professionals who can meet their individual needs,” explained Kyle. Oasis Senior Advisors is another source of free and important information for seniors. The mission of Oasis Senior Advisors is to positively impact families during a difficult time in their lives. This is done by providing a free, personal, and compassionate service to help families find the right place for their loved ones. Whether the need is for assisted living, independent living, memory care, skilled nursing, or hospice, Oasis consists of dedicated and compassionate advisors with an extensive knowledge of qualified senior living options in the Lincoln area and outlying communities. Oasis functions on a core set of principles, based on confidentiality, honesty, and a belief in everyone’s right to dignity. Services like those offered by Care Consultants for the Aging and Oasis Senior Advisors are invaluable for seniors who are

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Gramercy Hill is another wonderful option for seniors looking for independent living and assisted living services. Celebrating their 35-year anniversary, the community invites residents to enjoy comfort and relaxation while taking advantage of exceptional services. Gramercy offers residents a vibrant lifestyle that encourages health and independence through innovative recreational, educational, health, and wellness programs. Spacious apartments provide peace of mind with thoughtful safety features while also offering residents sought-after amenities and privacy. Sumner Place works hard to create a living environment that continuously enriches each resident’s life, whether it’s through organizing in-house activities or social engagements within the community or offering daily spiritual services. At Sumner Place, they focus on personalized care. Services at Sumner Place include their restorative program, therapy programs, full time dietician, daily spiritual services, morning rounds by their medical director, social outings in the community, and their Dream Weaver partnership. Sumner creates a living environment that radiates love, dignity, and safety while encouraging personal independence.

If your senior loved one is in need of ongoing care for any number of ailments or health challenges, Hospice Community Care offers compassionate and skilled services. They promote dignified end-of-life care that allows patients and their families to live life richly, deeply, and meaningfully for as long as it may last, and to pass on with dignity in the setting of their choice. They offer assistance for patients to find comfort and aid in their final moments of life. Knowing that their loved ones are in good hands also brings peace and comfort to family and other caregivers.

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Whatever changes lie in your future, anticipate that challenges may come your way, determine how you would best like to respond to these challenges, and capture a vision of a balanced, full life in which you are able to navigate challenges with grace and strength. Inspiration is everywhere along with kind people to offer a helping hand!

Visit today!

One senior living provider that offers a wide variety of highlyrated accommodations among their various communities is Hillcrest Health Services. Hillcrest has been providing senior care and senior living since 1967, and is now a leader among providers of aging-related services in eastern Nebraska. Their integrated system of services offers a full continuum of care, including assisted living, memory support assisted living, outpatient therapy services, adult day services, skilled home health and personal care, inpatient rehabilitation, respite care, hospice, and compassionate end-of-life support.

If a senior is in need of rehabilitation and medical care, Lancaster Rehabilitation Center offers both a short-term rehabilitation program and long-term care. The rehabilitation program is designed to promote recovery and help resident patients regain a full range of functional abilities while preventing complications. Lancaster Rehabilitation works with you to develop the right plan for long term success. Their long-term care offers 24-hour health care and assistance with daily tasks, including certified nursing assistants, culinary services, social services, beauty and barber shop services, and attending physician and therapy services.

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searching out their living options. For many seniors, a change in living circumstances becomes necessary at some point. Fortunately, there are so many excellent options for senior living in the Lincoln area. Seniors in Lincoln are not lacking a variety of choices for the years ahead!

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Remember that there are helpful, grounding practices that can make unplanned life changes more smooth and painless. Most of all, remember to seek the assistance of the caring professionals who dedicate their lives to helping seniors live happy, healthy lives—even during times of transition. #PrintProudDigitalSmart