Issuu

LINCOLN • AUGUST 2019 TM

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

An Innovative Leader in Building Technology Solutions

• BACK TO SCHOOL • SUMMER AUTO CARE • WEDDING PLANNING • BUYING A HOME • BUYING & SELLING A BUSINESS CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • AQUA SYSTEMS • ALL PRO HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING • NEEMANN & SONS • SHEPHERD’S REST GOAT & SHEEP RESCUE

Charles Brewer

Lea Barker

Lance Schroeder

Chris Kyhn

Virginia Cole

Dr. Troy Hayes

Stur 22 Lounge

Ironhide Construction

Lincoln First Realty

Fallbrook Assisted Living & Memory Care

CBD American Shaman

Express Life Chiropractic

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| Copyright Copyright ©© 2019 2019 Talent Talent Plus Plus ®® | Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska Nebraska || 1.800.VARSITY 1.800.VARSITY || www.talentplus.com www.talentplus.com Copyright © 2019 Talent Plus ® | Lincoln, Nebraska | 1.800.VARSITY | www.talentplus.com

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AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

Yes, Direct Mail is Still a “Thing” As many of you know, Strictly Business is direct or organization name and building brand recognition. In McMeekin’s mailed out to over 15,000 businesses in Omaha article, he discussed why direct mail works and when to use it: “In and more than 10,000 businesses in Lincoln addition to its pinpoint targeting advantage, direct mail is tangible every month. We aren’t a subscription-based and has a longer shelf life than email, which users often forget about publication. Our goal is to be in front of every or delete seconds after opening. A piece of mail with a strong offer CEO, business owner, manger, executive, and might sit on a desk or a kitchen counter for days—even weeks—after professional leader in the community. Every time your target first glances at it. Because it can be held and touched, it a member of our team attends a networking conveys emotion and inspires action in a way that screentime can’t.” event or referral group, we are getting new business cards so that we can continue to grow With about a two- to three-month shelf life and strong pass-around and update our mailing list. We also do our best to stay up-to-date readership, we estimate that one copy of Strictly Business is being seen by an average of five people. Multiply that by how many copies with new businesses and faces coming into town. we send out every month...that is a lot of valuable Anyone can access the news we publish online as exposure we are generating for our clients! We are well. There are no pop-up boxes or hurdles to jump “I love getting your very grateful to share their story, mission, offerings, through before you can read our content either— and exciting announcements with all our readers. magazine and ﬂ ipping just relevant, reliable, local news and feature stories we know that not only are we reaching some right at your finger tips. through to see people I Plus, of the most influential businesspeople in the area, Many marketers and businesses are still doubting know and people I would we are also connecting with the biggest consumers in the power of print media and direct mail, but we the market—homeowners, investors, entrepreneurs, like to get to know!” came across a Forbes article published by Bruce shoppers, spouses, parents, party planners and McMeekin that dives into why it is still strong...and hosts, pet owners, people concerned with their getting stronger by the day! health, decision makers for their senior family members, etc. That is why we are a dual B2B and B2C direct-mail news “Integrated with new media, savvy marketers are discovering that source and marketing tool. direct mail is more powerful and return on investment-positive than ever, especially for microtargeting new customers and deepening relationships A marketer’s goal is to communicate to their audience how they can with existing ones.” McMeekin writes. “While communications channel support them in achieving their goals. Print and digital media continue options evolve at a rapid pace, the premise of putting the right offer to be the two undeniable strategies that deliver that message to in front of the right person at the right time never changes.” potential customers, which is why Strictly Business emphasizes reader engagement through more than just an ad. The editorial we publish in For us, it’s not just about throwing ads at people and hoping they jump print and online supports our clients’ message, allowing them to make at the deals. We want our readers to make a personal connection a greater impact and lasting impression on all the people who receive with the businesses that advertise with us. That is why we create and the magazine every month. publish so much free value-added editorial content for them. We hear it again and again, “I love getting your magazine and flipping through Let Strictly Business help you lock in your status as to see people I know and people I would like to get to know!” This is THE EXPERT in your industry, utilizing print, the internet, and social what Strictly Business is about—connecting the face with the business media. Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330.

CONTENTS NEWS 4 Business 26 Personnel

32 Nonprofit 46 Health

ASK THE EXPERT 19 ComPro

SPOTLIGHTS 20 Star City Six

COLUMNS 49 Friends4Lunch

FEATURE STORIES 56 Back to School

Strictly Business Magazine

50 52 54 80

59 62 69 76 2

Aqua Systems All Pro Heating & Air Conditioning Neemann & Sons Shepherd’s Rest Goat & Sheep Rescue

Summer Auto Care Wedding Planning Buying a Home Buying & Selling a Business Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

51 Downtown Lincoln Association 53 Lincoln Independent Business Association 55 Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

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

An Innovative Leader

LINCOLN • AUGUST 2019 TM

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

in Building Technology Solutions

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

An Innovative Leader

in Building Technology Solutions

Established in 1994, Engineered Controls offers a complete turnkey building control solution including system design, new construction, and owner-direct retrofit sales, installation, repair service, and preventative maintenance work for smart buildings. In their 25 years of operation, Engineered Controls has provided innovative and cost-effective building control solutions to over 3,000 satisfied customers.

With offices in Lincoln and Omaha, today Engineered Controls employs over 90 people throughout Nebraska and Iowa, and their employees collectively represent over 850 years of industry experience. When combined with their hands-on experience, this ensures that their clients receive the most cost-effective and professional service. They are a fully-licensed electrical contracting firm in Nebraska and Iowa with journeyman and apprentice electricians on staff.

Charles Brewer Stur 22 Lounge

Chris Kyhn

Ironhide Construction

Lea Barker

Lincoln First Realty

Virginia Cole

Fallbrook Assisted Living & Memory Care

Lance Schroeder

CBD American Shaman

Dr. Troy Hayes

Express Life Chiropractic

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

Pictured on Cover (L–R): Jeff Killeen, Matt Bremer, Roy Goracke, Dan Bartlett, Sam Eiserman, Todd Schmidt, Jake Peterson, Pat Killeen, Rusty Hanley. Photo was taken at Bryan Medical Center, West Campus at 2300 S. 16th St., Lincoln, NE.

As an Authorized Control Integrator contractor for Honeywell, Inc., Engineered Controls provides a very valuable function in bridging the gap between mega technology companies like Honeywell and thousands of commercial customers who use Honeywell building technology products every day. The Engineered Controls team offers a wide range of products and services in the areas of advanced HVAC building controls, building automation systems, facility system integration, energy management, lighting systems, energy metering systems, gas detection and refrigerant monitoring systems, intrusion detection, video surveillance, and access control systems and parking management systems. Their experience in building control technologies extends across a wide spectrum of facility types including commercial offices, health care, industrial, government/ military, hotels, museums, sports/entertainment, educational, and public buildings. For the past 25 years, Engineered Controls has consistently ranked in the top three of Honeywell’s Elite ACI Direct club of advanced building automation contractors. This award is presented annually to only 10 of the top contractors in the nation and its designation is based on a dozen rigorous criteria including reputation in the marketplace, outstanding service to customers, and expert technical knowledge on staff. Additionally, Engineered Controls has been honored to receive Honeywell’s National Contractor of the Year award on four different occasions. At Engineered Controls, their goal is to build strong and lasting relationships with our customers by providing value and experience that is unparalleled in the industry. They strive to excel in all aspects of our business, offering quality services in a timely manner but at affordable rates. Whether your needs are a simple component repair or a fully-integrated building automation system, Engineered Controls is ready to provide you the building control technologies and support you need. To learn more about how Engineered Controls may be of personal service to you, visit www.engineeredcontrols.com or call or stop by their Omaha or Lincoln locations.

For the past 16 years, Engineered Controls has been working closely with Bryan Medical Center’s West campus providing state of the art environmental controls for the building’s HVAC system. The facility’s installed management system uses a Honeywell WEBs system architecture and controls a mixture of mechanical and electrical equipment. Bryan Medical Center West’s 192,000-square-foot facility has 529 beds and is the largest private employer in Lincoln, NE.

Creating efﬁcient, safe, and comfortable building environments. Lincoln 402.434.2110 | Omaha 402.339.1300

PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor Hannah Hundley – Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Katherine Crawford – Design@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Executive Assistant Sarah Young – Ofﬁce@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com

Hannah

Sarah

TO REQUEST A FREE SUBSCRIPTION FOR YOUR BUSINESS...

Email: Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Online: www.Strictly-Business.com/subscribe-strictly-business

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@sbmaglincoln

StrictlyBusinessMagazine

AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Capital Cigar Lounge Attends Vegas Trade H.F. Crave Reopens in Square at 48 Show, Expands Humidor with New Cigar Lines Apartments, Grand Opening August 16–18 Representing Capital Cigar Lounge (CCL) at the Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Trade Show in Las Vegas, June 28–July 2, were Owners Tony Goins and Austin Hillis, along with business development specialist and in-house mixologist, Brylin Brown, and humidor relationship coach, Jeff Fry. This was an excellent opportunity for the CCL team to scope out new cigar lines for their esteemed humidor collection. Capital Cigar has been intentionally slimming down their offerings in order to bring in a fresh selection of brands—an anticipated amount of 100 new facings. Ventura Cigars, which manufacture the Archetype, was the first new brand launched at the lounge in July. There will also be an upcoming special launch party for the new Alec Bradley Gatekeeper cigar at the lounge. Capital Cigar Lounge is the Midwest’s premier cigar lounge. It is a space where friends enjoy friends over fine cigars and specialty cocktails. The unique design of the lounge includes a state-of-the-art ventilation system, which pumps clean air in and out of the lounge every five minutes. To learn more about Capital Cigar Lounge, located at 5505 S. 16th St., visit www.capitalcigar.com or stop by to experience it yourself! Further inquires can be directed to (402) 430-9109 / Austin@capitalcigar.com.

The local American burger restaurant H.F. Crave has recently reopened underneath Square at 48 Apartments located at the corner of 48th & Holdrege. To celebrate, there will be grand opening events the weekend of Friday, August 16 through Sunday, August 18. Attendees will enjoy the same great menu, plus a few exciting additions, cold beer, and live music! The primary source of beef for H.F. Crave comes from Hollenbeck Farms, the family farm of JR and Nikke Hollenbeck. Their family has been raising cattle since 1901 in Elmwood, NE. Their free-range cows are never fed hormones, steroids, or antibiotics—they are truly all-natural from birth. The Hollenbecks believe happy, healthy cattle give you the best burgers imaginable, and they are willing to bet the farm on it! H.F. Crave has taken “fresh” to a whole new level by grinding their beef in house daily to provide the absolute freshest beef possible. Come in and enjoy one of H.F. Crave’s signature burgers, topped with farm-fresh ingredients from Hollenbeck Farms and served on a Brioche bun. The restaurant’s menu includes extensive gluten-free and vegetarian options. H.F. Crave also offers a bar which features a selection of 10 craft beers on tap from local Nebraska breweries! To view the menu and hours, visit hfcrave.com. For information about customizing a catered event, contact Nikke at (402) 480-7399 / hfcrave@gmail.com.

Control Depot Rolls Out New Product, Honeywell CIPer IP HVAC Controllers FREE WORKSHOP

How to write a winning proposal

for government contracting SEPTEMBER 10 | 10 A.M. – NOON SOUTHEAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE LINCOLN, NE

FOR MORE INFORMATION 402.554.NBDC NebraskaPTAC@unomaha.edu

PROCUREMENT TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER

Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

Control Depot is now offering the latest Honeywell CIPer™ IP HVAC Controllers. Take building control to the next level with Honeywell CIPer™ internet protocol HVAC controllers. Whether you need to manage a simple RTU or complex boiler and chiller rooms, the CIPer product family offers a variety of controllers and I/O modules to meet your needs. Supported by the Niagara 4 Framework®, these controllers support BACnet IP, and some support multi-protocols to manage all types of buildings across the building automation industry. From speed and power to expandability, there’s a CIPer controller with the right combination of benefits for your application. Stop into your local Control Depot branch to learn more. Control Depot is a building automation and controls distributor serving Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and South Dakota. As a controls distributor, they sell and support a wide selection of residential and commercial controls and components to contractors and building owners. This includes everything from a simple thermostat to a complete web-based building automation system. At Control Depot, their goal is to build strong and lasting relationships with their customers by providing value and experience that is unparalleled in the industry. They strive to excel in all aspects of their business, offering quality services in a timely manner, but at affordable rates. Please contact Control Depot today for more information on how their team can help you: (402) 934-0078 / sales@controldepotinc.com. Visit www.controldepotinc.com to learn more. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Walnut Radio Launches New Station in Lincoln, KCRO 106.7 FM

Scholarship Golf Scramble Sponsored by Lincoln Chapter #187 of the AFA Monday – September 24, 2018 Wilderness Ridge Golf Course

10:30 am 12:00 pm 5:00 pm

Check in and lunch Shotgun start-scramble format Dinner and awards

Tournament fee: $100 Includes: Green fees, cart, lunch and dinner.

Walnut Radio, LLC has launched a new radio station in Lincoln, 106.7 FM, whic h is part of the KCRO radio network. KCRO a commercial Christian radio network broadcasting Christian teaching and preaching programs including Focus on the Family, FamilyLife Today, Turning Point with Dr. David Jeremiah, Greg Laurie, and many more. KCRO 106.7 also features local church service replays, local church news, national news, local weather and more. Contacts:

Rick Holdcroft Rholdcroft@cox.net 402-350-4097

Lang Anderson lang.anderson1@gmail.com 402-499-1661

Air Force Association, Lincoln Chapter 187 Scholarship

Golf Scramble invite you to participate in the Scholarship Golf Scramble

Chances to win: Hole prizes & more!

Fred Phelan fphelan@drexelhamilton.com 402-480-8897

Mail your check with your name, team members (if any) and contact phone number to : AFA Chapter 187 P.O. Box 84011 Lincoln, NE 68501

(Registration Form on Back)

In addition to KCRO 106.7, Walnut Radio, LLC owns and operates stations KFMT-FM Mix 105.5 and KHUB 98.9/1340 in Fremont, KCRO 660 Omaha, KOBM-FM Boomer 97.3 in Blair, and KOBMAM Boomer 94.5/1420 in Omaha, and KIBM Boomer 106.5/1490 in Council Bluffs. To find out more or to discuss advertising and program rates, contact Brad Leggett at bleggett@walnutradio.com.

Contacts:

Tax ID 47-6032496

Rick Holdcroft 402.350.4097

Lang Anderson 402.499.1661 Mark Messick 402.217.5475

Monday - September 30, 2019 Wilderness Ridge Golf Course Shotgun Start at Noon Contacts:

Fred Phelan fphelan@drexelhamilton.com 402-480-8897 Rick Holdcroft Rholdcroft@cox.net 402-350-4097

Tournament Fee: $100

Lang Anderson lang.anderson1@gmail.com 402-499-1661

Sponsored by Lincoln Chapter #187 of the AFA Monday – September 24, 2018 Wilderness Ridge Golf Course

10:30 am 12:00 pm 5:00 pm

Check in and lunch Shotgun start-scramble format Dinner and awards

Tournament fee: $100 Includes: Green fees, cart, lunch and dinner. Chances to win: Hole prizes & more! Register by September 17, 2018

Sign up by team or individually Mail your check with your name, team members (if any) and contact phone number to : AFA Chapter 187 P.O. Box 84011 Lincoln, NE 68501

(Registration Form on Back)

Tax ID 47-6032496

Includes: Green Fees, Cart, Lunch,Dinner & Prizes

Mail checks to: AFA Chapter 187 | P.O. Box 84011 | Lincoln, NE 68501

Simplifying real estate for your business

Connect with KCRO 106.7, the area’s premier Christian radio station, and check out the full program list, including times and days, by visiting the website at www.kcro.com.

First National Bank Releases Data from 2019 ‘State of Homeownership’ Survey First National Bank released the results of its 2019 State of Homeownership Sur vey, whic h examines Americans’ perceptions and preferences related to different aspects of homeownership. The survey found that 79% of Americans consider homeownership as part of the “American Dream.” In addition, 59% consider homeownership essential to raising a family and 71% view homeownership as a more of a financial investment than as a financial liability. “The results of our national survey prove especially true here in Lincoln,” said Noelle Jacquot, senior manager, mortgage sales. “Being in Nebraska—in the heart of the country—homeownership remains a large part of the American Dream. Strong family values drive many in this market to want to raise their family in a home that is their own.”

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

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Jacquot added that, while owning a home can be expensive, the rental market in Lincoln is high, as well. “There are a great number of families that can own a home for the same monthly payment they had while renting,” she said, “but now they have an investment rather than a liability.” Among the survey’s additional findings: • 94% of homeowners say they are happy they decided to become a homeowner. • 79% of non-homeowners say they plan on one day owning a home. • 53% of homeowners say owning and maintaining a home is more expensive than expected. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $23 billion in assets and 5,000 employee associates. To learn more, visit www.fnbo.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Jennifer Amend | (402) 430-2724 EmrisInternational.com/Jenniferamend AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Home Builders Association of Lincoln Announces New Website

Lincoln Cabinet Named President’s Club Award Winner by Showplace Cabinetry

The Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) is proud to announce the launch of its new website at www.hbal.org. The site will continue to provide the public with information about the Parade of Homes, Tour of Remodeled Homes, and the Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show. It also contains a directory of their member companies who provide services related to home building and remodeling. One new component added to the site is a blog where both members and nonmembers can read about current events in the homebuilding industry, see photos from recent HBAL functions, and learn about upcoming networking opportunities along with ways they can get involved in the community. The site’s overall look was updated as well, giving it a more modern and professional feel. It is also more responsive whether viewing from a desktop computer or mobile device. The Home Builders Association of Lincoln is a 650-member trade association active in the community. HBAL has built 17 Habitat for Humanity homes, supports The Career Academy, Lincoln Children’s Museum, Friendship Home, Lincoln Police Union’s Santa Cop project, and awards scholarships to those entering the construction industry through the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation. HBAL also organizes two annual golf tournaments, along with many other networking activities for members of the association. Learn more online at www.hbal.org or call (402) 423-4225.

Lincoln Cabinet was recently named a 17-year President’s Club Award winner by Showplace Cabinetry. This award places Lincoln Cabinet among the top Showplace dealers nationwide. Showplace Cabinetry offers an affordable offering of custom and semi-custom cabinetry for every room of the home. Showplace Cabinetry is an employee owned company with impeccable quality, craftmanship, and customer service. As a Showplace dealer, Lincoln Cabinet is able to bring this high-quality cabinetry with a large variety of interior accessories to customize any remodel needs. As a remodeler who specializes in custom cabinetry and interiors, Lincoln Cabinet has built their reputation from the ground up. Lincoln Cabinet does this by providing the highest standard of workmanship and service on all jobs and settling for nothing less than the best. They strive to live up to their motto of quality without compromise. Under the ownership of Lori Wellman and Heidi Polacek, Lincoln Cabinet continues to provide superior work and excellent customer service to their clients in the local marketplace. To learn more, visit the showroom at 624 K St., go online to www.lincolncabinet. com, or call (402) 475-0650.

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BUSINESS NEWS

TRUE N RTH TECHNOLOGIES

Graceful In-Home Healthcare Celebrates New Partnerships, Unveils Mobile Ad As Graceful In-Home Healthcare continues to expand their impact in the Lincoln community, they recently announced new partnerships with Greene Place Assisted Living in Seward and Kohll’s Pharmacy. The relationship with Greene Place will give residents access to Graceful’s services, such as transportation, housekeeping, or anything the seniors there may need help with. In addition, Graceful will benefit from Kohll’s Pharmacy’s packaged medicine solutions, which will allow Graceful clients to have their prescriptions delivered to them and organized daily, weekly, or even monthly so that they don’t have to worry about refills, handling multiple bottles, or missing a dose! Graceful also recently unveiled a new mobile ad on their company vehicle, which is used to deliver prescriptions and services in a timely fashion to their clients. The car wrap showcases Graceful’s stylish new logo, branding, and information. Graceful In-Home Healthcare provides personal and senior care, disability care, as well as maternity and postpartum care. Their services include transportation, flight, and other travel companionship, meal preparation, household chores, memory care aid, and more. Graceful caters to your needs, provides professional and friendly staff, and are on call 24/7. Private pay, long-term insurance, and Medicaid are accepted. To learn more about Graceful, please visit their website at www.gracefulinhomecare.com. You can also call (402) 387-7933 or email gracefulinhomecare@gmail.com.

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106.7 KCRO is now in Lincoln! NBDC PTAC Announces Upcoming Proposal Writing Workshop A free proposal writing workshop will be offered by the Nebraska Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), a department of the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) on September 10, from 10 a.m. to noon. The workshop w i l l t a ke p l a c e a t S o u t h e a s t Community College, 285 S. 68th St. Place, Room #213. Attendees will learn the essential components and requirements of writing a successful proposal for government contracting. The PTAC team will cover: 1) where to start, 2) breakdown of the proposal, 3) requirement vs. evaluation criteria, 4) parsing as a writing technique, 5) proposal reviews, and 6) past performance. The Nebraska Procurement Technical Assistance Center* is focused on helping businesses sell their goods/services to government markets, both local and national. PTAC and NBDC serve clients from all over Nebraska, creating economic development for the businesses and the state as a whole. To learn more or register for the workshop, visit the Workshop & Events page on the website (ptac.unomaha.edu) or contact Catherine Walsh, PTAC business development specialist, at (402) 554-6270 / cwalsh@unomaha.edu. *This procurement technical assistance center is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Defense Logistics Agency #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Spreading the Good News! Lincoln’s Christian talk and teaching station, offering 24 hour programming from well-known faith voices and faithbased family talk shows. National Programming Includes: Family Life Today | Insight for Living Thru the Bible with J. Vernon McGee | Turning Point The Narrow Path | Focus on the Family

www.kcro.com | 402-710-9616 AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

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8 024426Lincoln2QSMBConnections75x10.indd Strictly Business1 AUGUST 2019

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BUSINESS NEWS Arnie’s Pet Food Store Warns Against the Dangers of Rawhide Dog Chews According to the experts at Arnie’s Pet Food Store, rawhide bones and dog chews can pose a choking or blockage risk for dogs. If your dog swallows pieces of rawhide, it can get stuck in the esophagus or other parts of the digestive tract and often requires surgical removal. Most rawhide chews are produced in China and Taiwan using toxic mixtures of sodium sulphide, hydrogen peroxide and bleach, titanium oxide, carcinogenic dyes, and preservatives like sodium benzoate. Lead, arsenic, mercury, chromium salts, formaldehyde, and other toxic chemicals have been detected in rawhide dog chews. Arnie’s Pet Food Store carries No-Hide® Dog Chews, a healthy alternative to rawhide dog chews. They are more durable and digestible than any other chew on the market helping to maintain healthy teeth and gums. No-Hides are made from the highest quality human grade products and are one 100% rawhide free. No-Hide Chews are made with American farm-raised meats and wild caught salmon, no added hormones, steroids, or chemicals. The natural proteins have been carefully rolled; cooked and dried in a unique way for a longer-lasting, pleasurable chewing experience. No-Hide® Dog Chews are available in peanut butter, beef, venison, chicken, pork, and salmon, only at Arnie’s Pet Food Store in Lincoln. To learn more about Arnie’s Pet Food Store, located at 5601 S. 56th St., visit www.arniespetfoods.com or call (402) 904-3573.

Leadership Harbor Presents Live2Lead Leadership Training October 11 Leadership Harbor is proud to announce their Live2Lead (L2L) leadership training on October 11, whic h will be held from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (location Hope Community Church, 4700 S. Folsom St., Lincoln). L2L is a leader development experience designed to equip attendees with new perspectives, practical tools, and key takeaways. Tickets are $99 until September 4, and then they will increase to $119 ($197 at the door). There will be giveaways, a light breakfast, and lunch. Attendees will learn from world-class leadership experts in the morning, then from their peers during an ideas-exchange luncheon and workshop. This year’s focus will help you know how to better develop your unique style of leadership to make an impact, how to get other people on board for the long haul with your vision and mission, and how to create a culture that makes your work more than a job. The 2019 speaker lineup includes: • John C. Maxwell - Author and leadership expert • Rachel Hollis - Author of Girl Wash Your Face and Girl Stop Apologizing • Angela Ahrendts - Senior vice president of Apple Retail • Marcus Buckingham - Thought leader and global researcher Visit Leadership Harbor’s Facebook page for more information (@ leadershipharbor) or visit their website at www.leadershipharbor. com/training to purchase tickets. If you’re interested in sponsoring the event, contact Kris at kris@leadershipharbor.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Omaha Fashion Week Kicks Off Fall 2019 Season with New Lineup of Designers Dates are set, designers have been selected, and Omaha Fashion Week (OFW) is thrilled to invite you to be a part of their upcoming season of fashion and glamour, taking place August 18–24 at the Omaha Design Center. New designers have been added to the lineup, which can be found on the OFW’s website, along with the complete event schedule for the week. This season of OFW kicks off on Sunday, August 18 with The Aisle showcase, featuring Omaha’s premier bridal salons and fashion. Shawcases for the rest of the week include: Tuesday, August 20—TERRA Emerging Designer Showcase; Wednesday, August 21—AURA Emerging Designer Showcase; Thursday, August 22— IGNIS Featured Designer Showcase; Friday, August 23—AETHER Featured Designer Showcase; Saturday, August 24—VIP Runway Finale and After Party; and Sunday morning, August 25—Shop the Runway. New this year, guests are invited to party like never before at OFW’s bubbly after party at The Empire Room following the VIP Runway Finale on Saturday, August 24, from 10 p.m. to midnight. There will be fizzy drinks, fluffy cotton candy, music, bubbles, and a chance to take a dip in the ball pit pool! The Empire Room is a new luxury event space in Midtown Crossing, bringing fun and elegance together right in the heart of the city. Omaha Fashion Week has proudly grown into the nation’s fifth largest fashion event, supporting more independent fashion designers than any other organization in the region. Tickets to the upcoming show are on sale at www.omahafashionweek. com. Contact (402) 937-1061 / info@omahafashionweek. com with additional questions. AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business 9

BUSINESS NEWS Ribbon-Cutting Event Celebrates Grand Opening of Wax Buffalo Candle Studio

WISB to Host Monthly Luncheon on August 14

Wax Buffalo Pure Soy Candle Co. was joined by Lincoln Chamber of Commerce representatives on June 7 to commemorate the grand opening of their new studio in the Haymarket district with a ribboncutting ceremony. Founded by Alicia Reisinger in her home kitchen in 2014, the opening of Wax Buffalo marks a major milestone for the company. The studio now employs more than a dozen individuals, can be found in stores nationwide, and has become a staple in the Lincoln community. The new space will serve as both a retail space for Wax Buffalo’s popular candles, as well as the production facility for its rapidly growing operation. Visitors to the retail space will also find a variety of goods from other artists and makers to enjoy. “It’s exciting to be starting this new phase of the Wax Buffalo story,” says Reisinger. “We are looking forward to being a member of the Haymarket district and introducing new audiences to not only Wax Buffalo candles, but to the many other local makers and artisans we’ll be showcasing in our beautiful new space.” Wax Buffalo Pure Soy Candle Co. creates beautifully imperfect pure soy candles, each hand-poured and designed to trigger some of your fondest memories. The company can be found at 727 O St. Learn more online at waxbuffalo.com.

The Women in Sales and Business (WISB) monthly meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 14 at The Venue in the NE/Lancaster Rooms at 4111 Pioneer Woods Dr. from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The speaker will be Kendra Beeman, a humorous storyteller and business woman. Cost is $16 which includes lunch (cost is $10 if you only attend the meeting). According to her biography, Kendra Beeman wants to live in pursuit of being fully herself and encouraging others to do the same. She is a motivational speaker who has performed improv comedy as well as humorous storytelling, and she hopes to use her platform to inspire and encourage women. Kendra is co-owner of Signature Championship Rings, the largest championship ring provider in the United States. A few of her favorite things include pranking her three teens, traveling, and eating tacos. You can learn more about Kendra online at www.kendrabeeman.com or contact her at kendra@ kendrabeeman.com. Women in Sales & Business began meeting in 1987 to offer business women in Lincoln the opportunity to network within an intimate group. Today, their goal is to encourage and develop creative leadership in women. They are dedicated to promoting growth through the accumulation and sharing of knowledge and are always looking for new members to join the group! Learn more or register for the upcoming meetings online at wisblincoln.org / wisblincoln.ning.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS Express Life Chiropractic Celebrates First Year Though it seems like yesterday when hundreds gathered at the new office for their grand opening celebration, this month marks the one-year anniversary for Express Life Chiropractic. Drs. Troy and Ashley Hayes have accomplished a lot in the last year, including growing an amazing family of clients and team members, and they’ve even added one member to their own family! Troy and Ashley were thrilled to welcome their first daughter, Emma Grace Hayes, into the world on June 27, 2019. Drs. Troy and Ashley have improved the lives of many through neurologically-based corrective care. Both Troy and Ashley received their doctorate in chiropractic from Cleveland University-Kansas City where they met and later married. They were brought back to Lincoln because of their love for the city, people of the area, and passion for the Huskers. They are excited to continue to give back to the wonderful people of Lincoln and surrounding communities for years to come! The mission of Express Life Chiropractic is to help the community achieve optimal health naturally,express life, and restore hope through principled chiropractic care and encouraging everyone to embrace their noninterfered, God-given, true health potential. Learn more online at www. expresslifechiropractic.com or call (402) 318-5797.

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Tabitha Recognized for Employee Engagement In June, Tabitha announced that they received the 2018 Survey Solutions Workplace Transformation Award. This annual honor is given to hospitals and health care systems, nationwide, that have made a transformational change in employee engagement. Tabitha is one of just six to receive this year’s award.

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ALLO Summer Concert Series Kicks Off in Telegraph District

Pictured (L-R): Top–Mallory

Mettler, Katie Lechner, Nicole This recognition is a result of Smith, Debbie Winterﬁeld, Robin Tabitha’s outstanding commitment to measuring, understanding, Schoettlin, and Hannah Augustine. Bottom–Tami Ocken, Clarissa and improving the needs of their Hummel, and Amanda Krohn. 1,000+-strong workforce serving in 28 counties throughout Nebraska. As Tabitha has transformed over the years to become the state’s leader in senior care services, so has its human resource department. Now called “Talent & Culture,” this team holds the ever-important responsibilities of recruitment and retention as well as overseeing investment in the growth and career paths of valuable team members.

In 2018, as part of employee engagement survey results, Tabitha introduced a new career-building initiative–the Workforce Development Program. This initiative encourages personal growth and development through continuing education and exploring new departments, roles, and skills. Tabitha also implemented an in-house CPR lab. The lab, which is equipped with voice activated traveling manikins for Tabitha’s regional offices, makes it easy and convenient for nurses and aides to keep up with certification requirements. Key industry trainings over topics such as sepsis, clinical documentation, and lymphedema have been offered to staff as well, ultimately providing optimized quality care to those served. To learn more about Tabitha’s culture and how you can dedicate your time and talents to their mission, view current job listings at Tabitha.org/ Careers today. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

This summer, ALLO Comm unications is partnering again with The Mill Coffee & Tea to host free outdoor concerts in Lincoln’s Telegraph District, an exciting new redevelopment project located on the eastern edge of downtown Lincoln. The concert series kicked off on July 10 and will run through September 18 with a Lincoln Calling kickoff party. Members of the community are invited to enjoy live music from 6 to 8 p.m. every Wednesday, with a lineup of genres that include anything from bluegrass and country to classic rock and R&B. Each week, a different local brewery will be featuring their drinks and a different local band will be playing. Upcoming bands include: Andrea von Kampen (August 7), Tim Javorsky and Jazz Cartel (August 14), The band - Wise (August 21), AM/FM Band (August 28), Spare Change (September 4), and B Street Band (September 11). Attendance to the concert series is completely free, but hot dogs, tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, and other food and drinks will be available for purchase courtesy of The Mill. Not only is this family-friendly event appropriate for all ages, but dogs are welcome as well! Parking will be available for each event in the ALLO parking lot. ALLO Communications is excited to co-host this event for the second summer, with the hopes of bringing the community together and supporting local businesses. Learn more about ALLO online at www.allocommunications.com. AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business 11

At Capital Cigar we are focused on clean air in and outside of our lounge. Below is our one of a kind ventilation system, allowing our lounge to be smoke free, making it the best ventilated cigar lounge in Nebraska. In addition to the inside being smoke free, our HEPA filters also cleans the air before it leaves our lounge. IN SUM WE CARE ABOUT AIR. Stop in today and see for yourself! Our public lounge and conference room are ready to be enjoyed by you!

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

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BUSINESS NEWS HR Nebraska and LHRMA Present 2019 State Conference, The Human Element Human Resources (HR) Nebraska and the Lincoln Human Resource Management Association (LHRMA) invite all human resource professionals and students to attend their 2019 HR Nebraska State Conference, The Human Element, at Embassy Suites Omaha–La Vista Hotel and Conference Center. The two-day conference will begin Thursday, August 22 at 8 a.m. and conclude around 4 p.m. the following day. Tickets are available online with discounted prices for students to encourage full-time students that are not in HR positions to increase their knowledge base. The Human Element will host 500+ attendees. Most of the attendees will include senior HR professionals, supervisors, mangers, and directors currently practicing in the field. The event schedule includes sessions on everything from hiring the formerly incarcerated to planning tips from a productivity consultant. The purpose of LHRMA is to provide for the interchange of ideas, experiences, and methods concerning the relationships between management and employees. They work to promote professional ethics and acquaintanceships among those involved in professional human resource management. To attend the conference, register online today at hrnebraska.org. If you have any questions, feel free to contact hannah.fagan@ neenahenterprises.com / (402) 219-9062.

Le Cupcake Celebrates New Shop On June 27, Le Cupcake officially marked the opening of their new shop at 7101 Kentwell Ln. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. The locally-owned bakery celebrated with special deals and sweet treats to break in their brand new space. As a result of the relocation, Le Cupcake is able to offer a better experience for what they do best—weddings! The new space has a cozy spot to meet with couples for tastings. Another great addition in the new location is a large, see-through window that allows clients to watch the magic happen. Yvonne Loy, the founder of Le Cupcake, poured her heart and soul into building this continuously flourishing little cupcake business. She knew it was what she was supposed to do with her passion for baking and her passion to teach, so she followed that path wholeheartedly. Maria Applegarth has carried on this passion for the last five years as the current owner. Maria’s vision of a bakery that specializes in celebrating life’s moments continues to soar. With cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, French macarons, and other pastry delicacies, Le Cupcake makes special occasions a little sweeter! Maria’s team realizes that their service is not just about the cake but the people as well. They love to get to know everyone who walks through their doors. To learn more about Le Cupcake, visit their website at lecupcake.com or give them a call at (402) 423-2253.

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AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Nebraska Restaurant Association Presents the 25th Annual Golf Classic

Center Sphere Announces Network-Wide August Events

In partnership with the Hospitality Educational Foundation, the 25th annual Nebraska Restaurant Association Golf Classic is set to take place on Monday, September 9 at Hillcrest Country Club. This event is open to restaurant operators to meet peers, share ideas, and discuss current industry topics. The golf tournament consists an 18-hole four–player scramble and awards reception and dinner to follow. Registration begins at 10 a.m. and dinner will wrap the event up at 4 p.m. Tickets are $150 per person and include the golf cart, boxed lunch, contests, prizes, and more. Deadline to sign up is September 4 or until the event is sold out. The Title Sponsor for this year’s golf classic is Coca-Cola. There are a variety of sponsorships still available to support the Nebraska Restaurant Association. They are also still looking for volunteers to photograph the event, collect for the raffle, help at registration, and hand out prizes. The Nebraska Restaurant Association acts as the principal advocate for Nebraska’s hospitality industry. The Hospitality Educational Foundation promotes industry growth and careers available. This is done through educational programs and scholarships for industry members, high school students and teachers, and college students. If you’re interested in golfing, sponsoring, or volunteering for this event, contact Brandy Nielson at (402) 488-3999, Ext. 2 / bnielson@nebraskadining.org or visit www.nebraska-dining.org/nra-fall-golf-classic.

Center Sphere hosts events each month that are open to both members and guests in order to give non-members a chance to learn more about this amazing network. Dates for this month’s public events include: • August 7, 8:30–10 a.m.: Coffee and Connections, hosted by The Referrables at Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar, 5025 Lindberg St. • August 15, 4:30–6:30 p.m.: Social Hour, hosted by Carla Abendroth and Clark Jeary at Immanuel Assisted Living, 8401 S. 33rd St. • August 20, 4:30–6:30 p.m.: Social Event, hosted by Eric Gustafson and Friday Firecrackers Chapter at Adventure Golf, 5901 S. 56th St. • August 21 and 28, 12:30–1:30 p.m.: Meet Center Sphere in Hickman, 9 South CharGrill, 1204 Park Dr., Hickman. Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. The Lincoln Network is currently made up of nearly 30 chapters and 430 members. For more information, visit www.centersphere.com or contact Cheryl Hansen, area director for Lincoln, at (402) 499-2099 / Cheryl@CenterSphere.com. Center Sphere is now available in Hickman plus other rural towns. For more information, contact Lona Anderson, area director for Rural Nebraska, at (402) 416-5700 / Lonaanderson@CenterSphere.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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Lincoln Children’s Zoo’s Largest Expansion Opened May 10 “A New Zoo Experience,” the newest addition to Lincoln Children’s Zoo, opened May 10 to the general public. The newest $23-million expansion is centered around conservation. The expansion added many interactive exhibits like a world-class giraffe feeding experience, an up-close tiger encounter, an indoor adventure area where children can climb with monkeys, and a plaza with a splash stream. The Lincoln Children’s Zoo cares for over 400 creatures including snow leopards, red pandas, penguins, ring-tailed lemurs, camels, and alligators. They are committed to animal conservation efforts that save animals from extinction. The zoo partners with organizations throughout the world that manage captive and wild animals with a goal to create a plan to ensure endangered animals are protected. If you want to learn more about the Lincoln Children’s Zoo’s recent renovation/expansion, or to plan your next visit, visit www.lincolnzoo.org or call at (402) 475-6741.

Save the Date: EventLNK’s Plan On It Conference March 3, 2020 Save the date for the Plan On It Conference presented by EventLNK on March 3, 2020 at Nebraska Innovation Campus, 2020 Transformation Dr. Demand for meetings and events—and talented event planners—is on the rise. Stay sharp with some of the greatest minds in the event management business. Network and connect with leaders and professionals in the industry, learn innovative ideas and bold new concepts, gain knowledge from industry experts, and experience the latest trends. EventLNK brings together Lincoln’s event professionals by providing education and resources to enhance and support professional growth. For more details and to register for the event, visit www.eventlnk.org/ planonit. To learn more about EventLNK, visit www.eventlnk.org or email Jill Mlinar at info@eventlnk.org.

A1 Automotive Undergoes Major Cleaning, Installs New Floor and Lift in Shop This summer, A1 Automotive closed up shop for a few days to undergo major cleaning and renovation projects. Owner Kendall Warnock focused his attention mainly on the floors, removing every piece of equipment and office/bathroom fixture so a company could come in and epoxy the entire shop and install new floors. They even finished it off with red and white flake (GBR!). In addition, A1 Automotive added a 12,000-lb lift to help their team better serve bigger vehicles. “When we moved in, I purposely had the walls in our facility painted white to assure our customers that being a clean automotive repair facility is what we strive for,” Kendall said. “Cleanliness what was we want to attain with every automotive repair, every single day. We have had some customers frown on our floor in the past, so I owed it to them and our team to invest in a new floor that would make the shop feel clean and welcoming to everyone.” At A1 Automotive, located at 1117 L St., is built on small town values, integrity, and honesty. Learn more online atwww.a1autolincoln.com or contact (402) 477-4660 / service@a1autolincoln.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Little King Celebrates 50 Years Little King – Deli & Subs (littlekingsubs.com) can officially say its been around for half a century. To celebrate 50 years, each store offered daily specials and hosted a three-foot sandwich eating contest in May! Bob Wertheim, current owner of the Little King franchise, remembers how his dad, Sid Wertheim, started Little King with one store in Omaha in 1969 and then watched as the chain grew to over 100 locations across the United States. The journey to 50 years wasn’t always easy, though. In the late 90s, Sid sold the company and within one year Little King filed for bankruptcy. Sid bought the company back in 1993 then merged into Jreck Subs Group. Under the ownership of Jreck, Little King continued to give its customers that authentic deli taste its known for, but stores everywhere continued to struggle. Two years after Jreck bought the company, the Wertheims decided to buy back their shares in hopes of turning things around for the restaurant. There were 25 Little King stores at the time and the Wertheim’s goal was to sell off the corporate stores and be a franchise company, and that is exactly what they did. In 2001, Sid Wertheim retired and Bob Wertheim took over running the company. Bob is committed to strengthening the Little King name and growing its regional foot print again. In 2012, Nikhil Mehta and Jose Partida bought into Little King and together with Bob they did a rebrand and enhanced its marketing efforts. The campaign earned an ADDY Award, the highest recognition in the advertising industry. Currently, there are eight Little King stores—two in Lincoln, five in Omaha, and one new store in Grand Island—and five franchise owners. Little King boasts the best New York deli-style submarine sandwiches in the Midwest. Even after 50 years, people all over town still love the delicious taste of bread that’s baked on-site, quality meats, and cheeses sliced right when you order, and soups that are second-in-line to none. When it comes to freshness, flavor, and friendliness, folks know that Little King is the place. “Fresh Rules Here.” To check out the menu and learn about catering options, go to littlekingsubs.com. For questions about franchising, contact Bob Wertheim at (402) 510-8093. AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business 15

BUSINESS NEWS Nebraska Safety Council Adds Motorcycle Training Class to 2019 Schedule

MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante to Host Pooches on the Patio

The Nebraska Safety Council has added another motorcycle training class to the 2019 schedule. The additional class will be offered August 30–September 1. Successful completion of this three-day Beginner Rider Motorcycle course entitles the rider to receive the “M” endorsement on their driver’s license. This course is approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and State of Nebraska, and all instructors are certified. The Nebraska Safety Council, 3270 Folkways Blvd., offers its motorcycle training class between April and October each year. Motorcycles are not required to attend, the Nebraska Safety Council will provide them, and riding experience is not necessary—this is a true beginner’s course. There are only six spots available in each class for an optimal learning experience, so don’t delay in getting signed up! View all available sessions and register online at www.nesafetycouncil.org. The Nebraska Safety Council is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Lincoln that provides education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy. They service the state of Nebraska and surrounding areas through trainings, services, events, and membership. To learn more, visit the website or feel free to contact Laurie Klosterboer at (402) 483-2511 / kloster@nesafetycouncil.org for additional information.

MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante will be popping with puppies on August 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for their fourth annual Pooches on the Patio event to benefi t Dolly’s Legacy Animal Rescue. The main event of the afternoon will be a silent auction. There will also be a best dressed pooch contest, wine ring toss, meet and greet with adoptable dogs from Dolly’s, P O O C H E S O N T H E P A T I O a special visit from Paw Patrol (the kids August MAIN EVENT: SILENT AUCTION cartoon), and more! So put your pup in 24 their favorite outfit and bring them on down to MoMo to stroll 11am-2pm their party room full of fabulous auction items and receive complimentary food and refreshments when you make a donation to this amazing cause. A

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OTHER EVENTS INCLUDE: BEST DRESSED POOCH CONTEST, WINE RING TOSS, MEET & GREET ADOPTION DOGS AND MORE! ALL DONORS RECEIVE COMPLIMENTARY FOOD & REFRESHMENTS

Hosted at MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante 7701 Pioneers Blvd.

Dolly’s Legacy Animal Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that acts as a foster-based animal rescue. Their mission is to save orphaned and abandoned pets from overcrowded shelters and to find them loving, forever homes. Since they do not have a physical shelters, all their adoptable animals are currently living temporarily in foster homes with loving families. If you have any interest in becoming a foster family for a local rescue, go online to dollyslegacyanimalrescue.org to see if you are eligible. MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante is located at 7701 Pioneers Blvd. Go to their website at momospizzeria.com to check out all the delicious choices on their menu, or call (402) 261-5966 to speak with someone on their staff.

Talent Plus Partners with 3 Community Organizations for 2019–20 Fiscal Year At Talent Plus, they promise to be a compelling partner for communities to prosper. To keep this promise, they survey associates and their leadership for input in choosing what they call “Social Responsibility Pillars.” The pillars are the local and national nonprofit organizations that Talent Plus partners with for a fiscal year. Pillars are selected based on these criteria: • Expressed desire to work with an organization from Talent Plus associates • Talent Plus, in partnering with the leadership of the organizations, believes they can achieve the greatest impact by aligning with the organization. Talent Plus is excited to partner with the following organizations as they enter into their 2019-20 year: • CEDARS Youth Services • Child Advocacy Center • Voices of Hope During this fiscal year, Talent Plus wants to continue to align themselves with the community that helped them grow and the organizations that spend every day helping make a significant impact.

Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

Talent Plus has 30 years of expertise in science and research to discover people’s potential and predict performance. Their psychometric assessments are used by 400 clients in 20 countries, delivering interviews in more than 30 languages with a focus on selection, talent discovery, and development. To learn more, visit talentplus.com or call (402) 489-2000. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Czechoslovak Genealogical Society to Hold 17th Annual Conference in Lincoln The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel was selected as the host site for the Czechoslovak Genealogical Society International’s (CGSI) 17th Annual Genealogical/Cultural Conference, October 15–19. Ethnic-focused bus tours of the Lincoln area, live performances of regional music, and special-interest movies are all a part of the CGSI Conference. Hundreds attend this biennial conference to learn about techniques for Genealogical research in the areas now known as the Czech and Slovak Republics, and to explore the history and culture of the people who lived in the area. Programs and registration are available at CGSIevents.com.

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Scratch Bowling Returns to Sun Valley Lanes Mark your calendar because scratch bowling is set to return to Sun Valley Lanes on September 23! This draft-style league will consist of three eight-week sessions on Monday nights at 7 p.m. The cost will be $20 per week. The league is limited to the first 30 bowlers to register, and there’s only a handful of spots left. Every eight weeks, bowlers get assigned a new team based on rankings. Bowlers will be ranked 1–30 by average score. There will be ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’ rankings for the 30 participants. The top 10 will be classified as ‘A’ bowlers and act as captains that will draft from the ‘B’ and ‘C’ pool of bowlers, to form three-member teams. This will be a match point style league, with bowlers earning points within their division and for their team. Payouts for each division and team standings will be awarded every eight weeks. Sun Valley Lanes, located at 321 Victory Ln., is a premier Midwest bowling center, offering 32 “Cutting-Edge” lanes for family, friends, and league bowling. To secure your spot for the scratch bowling league, call Sun Valley Lanes at (402) 475-3469. You can also reserve your spot via their website, www.sunvalleylanes.com.

BBB Announces Hudl’s David Graff as Speaker for Lincoln’s Integrity Awards Better Business Bureau (BBB) Foundation will honor metro Lincoln’s ethical businesses and students at its 21st Annual Integrity Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, October 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Nebraska Innovation Campus Conference Center’s Banquet Hall, 2021 Transformation Dr. in Lincoln. The keynote address will be delivered by David Graff, a founding partner of Hudl, a worldwide software company based in Lincoln that provides video review and performance analysis tools for sports teams and athletes at every level. “BBB invites the entire business community to join us in celebrating Nebraskan values and local entrepreneurship,” stated BBB President Jim Hegarty. “Don’t miss this opportunity to hear David Graff who will provide an opportunity for Lincoln businesses to ‘Hudl for Integrity.’ Come show your support for the wonderful things that make Lincoln a great place to live, work and do business!” To reserve your spot at the luncheon, go to bbb.org/nebraska and click on “2019 BBB Integrity Awards.” This is a ticketless event— your reservation and payment are the only requirements to attend. Please RSVP by Tuesday, October 1. For questions, please call Lincoln Branch Manager Tami Barrett at (402) 476-8822. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Dedicated to guide and advocate for people that are not sure how to navigate senior services and resources.

Stephanie Witt | Owner

Blackstone Builders Features Residential Design in Parade of Homes Blackstone Builders was proud to have one of their residential projects featured in the Home Builders Association of Lincoln’s Spring 2019 Parade of Homes. To celebrate, the company hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on May 10 at the featured home. The home known as “Blacksmith II” was crafted with highquality construction and professional designer services. With over 3,200 square feet, five bedrooms, two 3/4 bathrooms, box beam ceilings in great room, direct-vent gas fireplace, custom cabinetry with granite tops, stainless steel appliances, and more, this property was definitely a highlight along the tour. Blackstone Builders is a “hands-on” residential home building company that strives to give people numerous options while maintaining good communication. In order to ensure high-quality standards, Blackstone Builders are on-site throughout the entire project. They work to make your dream home a reality. Blackstone Builders can help you on every step of the way on building your perfect home from lot selection to floor plan design. They always strive to deliver on their investment. If you would like to learn more, contact Jayson Becker, exclusive sales representative, at (402) 610-1013 or by email at jayson.becker@remax.net. More information about Blackstone Builders’ customizable options, custom homes, and commercial design services can also be found online at buildblackstone.com. AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business 17

BUSINESS NEWS REALTORS® Association Presents 2nd Annual Lincoln Chamber Presents Savor the City, Technology Summit Powered by YPN Showcases Local Restaurants and Caterers On September 27, the REALTORS® Association of Lincoln will be hosting their 2nd annual Tec hnology Summit, powered by their young professional network (YPN). The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hillcrest Country Club. For just $20, members can learn about technology that will benefit your career and enjoy lunch with your colleagues as well! Eight topics will be covered in a small, one-on-one environment. The REALTORS® Association YPN is an organization based on empowering young real estate professionals. It was also formed to create an active and enthusiastic environment of learning, networking, and entrepreneurship. The YPN is meant to foster innovative spirits to grow into shining community members and business people. REALTORS® Association is an organization committed to providing their members with the tools necessary to promote professionalism, ethical conduct, and the value of personal property rights. They’ve been equipping our community with professionals and education since 1923. To learn more about becoming a member of the REALTORS® Association of Lincoln or to find information about upcoming networking events and meetings, go to www.lincolnrealtors.com. You can also give them a call at (402) 441-3620.

“ YOUR GARDEN, OUR PASSION”

On Thursday, August 15, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce will host their tastiest event of the year: Savor the City. From 4 to 6 p.m. at the Nebraska Champions Club, attendees will enjoy one free beverage, fabulous door prizes, outstanding networking opportunities, and the chance to sample a variety of delicious food from many of the best catering companies and restaurants in the Capital City. Participating businesses include: Amigos Catering, Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q, Doorstep Diner Catering, Valentino’s, The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Buffalo Wild Wings, Billy’s Restaurant, Sam’s Club, Yes Chef Catering, Chez SoDo, Noodles & Company, McKinney’s Pub, Wilderness Ridge, Piezano’s, Mellow Mushroom, Buzzard Billy’s/Starlite Lounge, EZ GO Stores, Misty’s, The Waffleman, and Granite City Food and Brewery. The Lincoln Chamber serves as Lincoln’s lead business organization championing our innovative, bustling business community. They are a convener and collaborator who brings all voices together to grow our city and move it forward! Learn more and register for the event online at www.lcoc.com or call the Chamber at (402) 436-2350 with any questions.

Lied Center For Performing Arts Presents Blue Man Group Speechless Tour Lied Center for Performing Arts is thrilled to announce that the Blue Man Group Speec hless Tour, featuring the world-renowned bald-and-blue trio, will visit Lincoln for the first time since 2013. The show, which includes original compositions, invented instruments, and unexpected situations alongside iconic Blue Man Group moments, will be at the Lied Center for Performing Arts January 29–February 2, 2020 for six performances: Wednesday, January 29, 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, January 30, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, January 31, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, February 1, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, February 2, 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale now. Under the helm of visionary director Jenny Koons, in her first-time collaboration with Blue Man Group, the Blue Man characters embark on a fresh journey of discovery through this tour, the result of 27+ years spent observing humanity. Speechless, which features material that fosters communal moments, debuts the evolution of tube-based instruments to support all new music and includes large-scale audience participation.

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

Blue Man Group (www.BlueMan.com) is a global entertainment phenomenon known for its award-winning theatrical productions, iconic characters, and multiple creative explorations. Blue Man Group is owned and operated by Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group. The Lied Center for Performing Arts is “Nebraska’s Home for the Arts.” As part of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, the Lied presents the world’s most iconic artists and offers major regional, national, and international performances designed to educate, inspire, and entertain audiences. To purchase tickets, visit LiedCenter.org, call (402) 472-4747, or visit the Ticket Office at 301 N. 12th St. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

by Chris McPike, Vice President ComPro Insurance

Medicare for All As the 2020 election season moves forward, we are going to hear the phrase “Medicare for All” many times. Here is a quick look at what Medicare for All means. The 116th Congress began in January, 2019 and continues through the 2020 elections until January, 2021. There are currently seven bills in the Senate and seven in the House of Representatives that have been introduced as Medicare for All solutions to replace or change our current systems for accessing health insurance. These bills can be grouped into four categories: • Single Payer: Senator Bernie Sanders and Rep Pramila Jayapal have proposed Single Payer models. Under both proposals the Single Payer plan would be provided by the federal government and offer comprehensive benefits for all US residents. It would be financed primarily through taxes. No premiums would be charged and there would be limited cost sharing for medical services that would be the responsibility of those who are participating. This would replace all private insurance offered through employers, individual coverage through carriers or healthcare.gov, Medicaid, Medicare, and other programs. • Public Plan Option: Eight of the 14 bills that have been introduced in the Senate and the House would be considered Public Plan Options. These bills are generally targeted at offering the Public Plan Option as an alternative to healthcare. gov. The bills vary on whether employer groups could also use this as a resource. However, under all these options, an employer may continue to offer group coverage. Most of the bills also retain current sources of private and public coverage such as individual policies purchased from an insurance company, Medicare, and Medicaid. • Medicare Buy-In: There are two bills—one in the Senate and one in the House—that give adults aged 50 and older the option to buy-in to Medicare before reaching age 65. If these individuals are eligible for subsidies through healthcare.gov, the subsidies could be applied to Medicare as well. Medicare Advantage products would also be available to those who Buy-In. All other private and public sources of health insurance would continue. • Medicaid Buy-In: There are also two bills—one in the Senate and one in the House—that propose a Buy-In option for Medicaid. Medicare is administered at the Federal level while Medicaid is a state-based program. This concept gives each state the option to offer its residents the option to participate in Medicaid and to determine how premiums and cost sharing would apply. Once again, other private and public health insurance sources would continue. Most of the news has been focused on Single Payer models, but most of the legislation is suggesting a hybrid solution where a Public Plan Option is available and “rescues” the Affordable Care Act. This is a highly political issue. Thirteen of the 14 bills have been introduced by Democrats.

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AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

CHARLES

Charles Brewer

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

Stur 22 Lounge is Lincoln’s authentic Caribbean and West African restaurant and night life destination. Trokon (Charles) Brewer is the owner of Stur 22 Lounge. Tell us a little about your business. - Stur 22 is a vibrant, modern, and sophisticated lounge that offers the perfect space for upbeat adults to mingle, network, and socialize over delicious Caribbean and West African cuisine. At Stur 22, guests can always count on exceptional service, tasty ethnic fare, and uniquely refreshing drinks. How did you get started in the business? - Originally, my idea was to have Stur 22 Lounge be a cocktail lounge. There are a lot of bars that cater to college-aged kids, but I wanted to create a place that would help fill the void there seems to be in Lincoln when it comes to adult night life. It wasn’t until later that I decided develop Stur 22 into a restaurant by day and a nightclub by night concept. It’s been a special opportunity for me to share the culture and flavors I grew up with in Liberia with people here in the community. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - In the restaurant industry, there is no consistency. Each day is different. If I were to give advice to others starting out in this industry, it would be for them to throw away their expectations and to be open minded to what each day brings. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Until about 6–7 years ago, I would have never considered myself a chef or cook because I don’t have any formal education in the culinary arts. I’ve taught myself almost everything I know in the kitchen, and I am proud of myself for that. Tell us a little about your family. - I have a very large family. Originally from West Africa, my parents moved to Texas for better opportunities when I was young, leaving me in West Africa with my grandmas. Once they were able to find work in Texas, we moved there to be with them. My parents are both business owners, so it kind of runs in our blood. Here in Nebraska, I have a wife and four children—two older girls and two younger boys. We are a close family and love spending time together. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Moving to Nebraska from Texas in 1999. I was committed to going to college for football at another school, but when that didn’t work out, I came to Concordia University on a football scholarship. I didn’t know anything about Nebraska before coming here. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - My formal birth name is Trokon, an African name meaning down to earth. Charles is my middle name, which is what most people call me. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Instant Karma” by John Lenon. There was an old Nike commercial which featured that song and for whatever reason, those lyrics stood out to me and still do to this day. What local nonproﬁt organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I’m involved with our local chapter of Boys & Girls Club of America. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - He may not have been famous, but I would choose my granddad. He was a cop in Africa and died young. I’m told I am just like him. I would love to be able to meet him. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 805-4579; Email: info@stur22lounge.com; Website: stur22lounge.com. Stur 22 is located at 2110 Winthrop Rd. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

LEA

Lea Barker

W Y U K A ... We’re more than just a Funeral Home

LINCOLN FIRST REALTY Lincoln First Realty is a full-service professional real estate company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cornhusker Bank. Lea Barker is a managing broker for Lincoln First Realty. Tell us a little about your business. - Since Lincoln First Realty was founded in 2007, we’ve experienced steady growth and have become one of the fastest growing real estate companies in Lincoln. I manage brokerage operations for our north office in the Cornhusker Bank building at 11th and Cornhusker Hwy. How did you get started in the business? - Both my parents were licensed realtors, so I grew up around it. I was selling advertising for an Omaha TV station, but it just wasn’t working out. My dad, who owned Hartland Homes at the time, tried to convince me to work for him as a new home sales person. I didn’t want to have anything given to me so I declined. Then he explained that real estate is 100% commission so he wouldn’t be giving me anything, I’d have to earn it. That sold me! In 1994, I got my real estate license and started selling new construction. I got my broker’s license in 2001 and managed the Hartland Homes force until I took over the business with my brother in 2011. I joined Lincoln First Realty in 2016. I was excited to be able to do what I love most, which is help agents achieve their goals. Lincoln First Realty has such a great culture and their agents have integrity. The best part is I can still run Hartland Homes with some great Lincoln First Realty agents helping me. What has been your most important achievement professionally? My business is based entirely on referrals, which means I have done right by my clients throughout the years! My goal in every transaction is to help my clients achieve their goal (home ownership, selling their home, etc.) and have as smooth of ride as possible, which is not easy in real estate. Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married almost 26 years to Bradley. We have two wonderful children, Katie (20) and Camden (16). I also have three fur babies: Bear, a Boston Terrier, and Princess and Lucky, Chihuahua siblings. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - In sixth grade, I had a teacher call me average. I was low-key about school until that point. When I heard the word average used to describe me, I did not like it! From that point on, I have worked to be the very best at everything I do. I learned to focus on my goals and persevere. I graduated with a perfect grade point average in high school and went on to graduate Cum Laude from the University of Missouri. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - There is no such thing as a day off in real estate. In fact, the moment you go on vacation is always when someone wants to buy a home or your listing sells. So, my favorite thing to do is travel out of the country where I am forced to unplug and enjoy the world around me. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The ability to teleport anywhere in the world. Which talent would you most like to have? - I’d love to be quickwitted! The right words never seem to come to my mind quick enough. What local nonproﬁt organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I volunteer for many organizations, but I have a special place in my heart for Junior Achievement (JA). I’ve been going to elementary schools during the school day to teach the JA curriculum since I was in high school. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I’m always reading a book and listening to one while I drive. I can’t just name one book as a favorite, but I love Ken Follet’s historical fiction books. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 434-8688; Email: lea@lincolnfirstrealty.com; Website: www.lincolnfirstrealty.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

LANCE

Lance Schroeder

CBD AMERICAN SHAMAN

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CBD American Shaman is dedicated to bringing wellness to the world through ultraconcentrated, terpene-rich hemp oil derived from all-natural, high-quality industrial hemp. Lance Schroeder owns the three current Lincoln locations of CBD American Shaman. Tell us a little bit about your business. - CBD American Shaman is a brick and mortar franchise dedicated to producing the finest CBD. Our products are nine times more bioavailable to the human body due to their proprietary nanotechnology and water-soluble turnaround. We also have topical products with nanotechnology, which makes the absorption rate fast. CBD is known to help with chronic pain, arthritis, anxiety, and so much more by helping to bring your endocannabinoid system to homeostasis. We carry a full line of skin care products, like our eye serum, lotions, face cream, lip revitalizers, bath bombs, and massage oils. We also have products for pets that struggle with arthritis, chronic pain, anxiety, or other health issues. Bottom line, we have all your CBD needs. How did you get started in the business? - I was introduced to CBD American Shaman a couple years ago when a friend of mine was opening the very first American Shaman store. He called me to try his products for all my chronic pain and lower intestinal colitis to see if it would help. After three weeks, I was pain free, and I no longer needed to take my meds for colitis after four months. We discussed opening some stores to help other people, which took me to Kansas to open my first store. I chose that location because it was where I lived before moving to Nebraska. I opened a couple more stores in Kansas before deciding to buy all the Lincoln franchises. I now have three locations, the first at 27th and Cornhusker and the second at 48th and O St. Our third location just opened in July and is located at 14th and Old Cheney. We have plans for a fourth and a possibly fifth location to come soon. I have a lot of passion for CBD because of the positive results I continue to see. What is the biggest challenge you’ve seen professionally? -It was definitely long, difficult process to open these stores in the beginning. Getting financial institutions like credit card services and landlords on board has been tough since CBD is such a new industry. The biggest challenge is probably educating the consumer. Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Carla and I have been married 40 years this month. We have four daughters, nine grandkids, and one on the way. I love when we can all get together! Who inspires you? -My best friend and wife, Carla! If you had a theme song what would it be? - “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor. If you could have one superpower, what would it be? - To eliminate poverty. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I’ve been self-employed all my life, but I’ve always wanted to be a farmer. What is your favorite movie? - Rocky. What is your favorite TV show? - I don’t watch many shows anymore, but back in the day I loved You Had to Like Dallas. What is your favorite local restaurant? - There are so many good restaurants in Lincoln that it’s hard to pick a favorite, but I basically like anywhere that serves good steak and/or crab legs. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be. - Clint Eastwood. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Phone: (402) 416-3378; Email: lschroeder0561@gmail.com; Website: cbdoflincoln.com.

Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

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STAR CITY SIX

CHRIS

Chris Kyhn

IRONHIDE CONSTRUCTION Transforming metal into modern, Ironhide Construction is a locally owned and operated general contracting and structural restoration company. Chris Kyhn is vice president of field operations for Ironhide Construction. Tell me a little about your business. - Ironhide is a design build general contractor specializing in pre-engineered metal buildings. We also focus on structural steel, industrial facility restoration, and tenant improvement work. How did you get started in the business? - We started out doing residential renovations and small commercial projects around town. From there, we broke into the pre-engineered building market. We quickly recognized that we could do our job more efficiently if we could control the site conditions that we had to build under so the logical move was to become the general contractor. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Consistent rapid growth. We have gone from a company of about 8–10 people to one of 35 in a matter of just a few short years. The biggest challenge in that is developing the policies and procedures to allow for large-scale growth while maintaining the consistency our repeat customers expect. We are constantly adapting to a changing environment, both within our company and in the developing markets we work in. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Creating a culture that has attracted some really great people from within the industry to our team. Tell me a little about your family. - I live here in Lincoln with my wife Chrystal. She works as an engineer for a local electrical design firm. We have a couple dogs and cats. We’ve recently bought an acreage outside of town and plan to start construction late this summer. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Moving back to Lincoln and starting my career with Ironhide. My wife is the sister-in-law of my business partner Troy. If I hadn’t come back to Lincoln, we never would have met. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Work on projects in my wood shop. What are you the most proud of? - With the help of our structural steel foreman, I developed our processes for estimating structural steel. We were able to dial in on the market pretty quickly and are off to a strong start in the industry. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - One of the X-Men has the ability to create duplicates of himself. Having a few copies of myself to get things done would be great! Which talent would you most like to have? - Eidetic memory. There is a lot of information that you need every day to run a business. Being able to hold all of it in the front of my mind would be incredibly helpful! What local nonproﬁt organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Ironhide is a proud sponsor of the Big Red Challenge obstacle race put on by the Marine Corps League. Proceeds go to charities devoted to helping our military men and women transition from life in the military into civilian life. What is your favorite movie? - Monty Python and the Holy Grail. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Nikola Tesla. He was way ahead of his time. I’d like to hear what he would think of where we are today. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Phone: (402) 420-4961 Ext. 107; Email: Chris@IronhideConstruction. com; Website: www.IronhideConstruction.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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STAR CITY SIX

VIRGINIA

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FALLBROOK ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE Fallbrook Assisted Living and Memory Care, managed by MJ Senior Housing LLC, is a new senior community in Lincoln’s Fallbrook district. Virginia Cole is the executive director for Fallbrook Assisted Living and Memory Care. Tell us a little about your business. - Fallbrook Assisted Living and Memory Care provides compassionate care with a focus on maintaining an active lifestyle that best suits the individual. We have a beautiful community, which will soon be home to over 70 residents who will enjoy our fun and practical amenities. Our team will spend the quality time it takes to learn what your preferences and goals are so that you can live your best life, one that reflects your choices. At Fallbrook, we live out the message, “It’s all about you.” Ultimately, we believe that we are people of value who value people. How did you get started in the business? - I have been a nursing home administrator for 28 years. I’ve been fortunate to work in postacute care, long term care, and assisted living. I grew up working in nursing homes and learned to love seniors. It’s such a rewarding industry and so much more to me than just a job.

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Tell us a little about your family. I recently got married in October of 2018. My husband also works in the long-term care industry so he is extremely supportive of my commitment to the people and staff I serve. My children have blessed me with many grandchildren, and they are truly the best part of my life. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - There have been several, but they all involve people who have believed in me and invested in my growth. Because of their example, I am always looking to identify people who I can invest in and help them grow. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I love to play the guitar and ride motorcycles. Who inspires you? - My children. They are wonderful human beings If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Love. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Be Still and Know” by The Fray.

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If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - There is no other profession I would choose. I love the teams I have worked with and the residents I have cared for. What is your favorite movie? - Dead Poets Society. We all need to remember to seize the day!

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If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Katherine Hepburn. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 802-7652; Email: VCole@fallbrookassisted. com; Website: www.Fallbrookassisted.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

TROY

Dr. Troy Hayes

EXPRESS LIFE CHIROPRACTIC Express Life Chiropractic is a neurologicallybased chiropractic corrective care office in Lincoln. Dr. Troy Hayes owns Express Life Chiropractic with his wife Dr. Ashley Hayes. Tell us a little about your business. - Chiropractic care is completely natural healthcare. It can, without drugs or surgery, create optimum function of the central nervous system. At Express Life, we are dedicated to making the Lincoln area one of the healthiest communities and are focused on giving every individual that comes in the best care possible! How did you get started in the business? - Dr. Ashley and I have always had a passion for helping people and too many times when we talk to people, they have little hope of ever getting symptom relief or getting back to doing things they used to enjoy doing. When we opened our doors in August of 2018, we made it a point to instill hope and speak life to every person that comes in. We want to help them achieve their personal goals and ultimately get their “life” back. I grew up in a small town in western Nebraska. After growing up receiving chiropractic care myself, I basically knew from the age of 16 that I was going to pursue it as my profession. I saw the benefits and wanted to share them with others. I graduated from University of Nebraska at Kearney with an exercise science degree and then went on to receive my doctorate in Chiropractic from Cleveland University - Kansas City, which is where I met Ashley. She and I have always had a passion for helping people. Too many times when we talk to people, they have little hope of ever getting symptom relief or getting back to doing things they used to enjoy doing. When we opened Express Life Chiropractic in August of 2018, we made it a point to instill hope and speak life to every person that comes in. We want to help them achieve their personal goals and ultimately get their “life” back. Tell us a little about your family. - We had a new addition to our family on June 27, 2019. Dr. Ashley and I welcomed our first daughter, Emma Grace Hayes, and we couldn’t be more excited to grow our family here in this great community! What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Getting married to my best friend. Ashley is hands down the best thing that God has put into my life. She holds me accountable and makes me a better person. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I really enjoy getting out for a nice round of golf or, during the fall, getting out in the woods and sitting in a tree stand for some archery hunting. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “The gift is in the grind.” To me, this means that the people who are too focused on getting to the end goal forget the process is what shapes them. What local nonproﬁt organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - We do a lot of drives and events in our office where we partner with local nonprofits and different organizations to bless them. Also, it allows us to help create awareness around that specific organization’s needs. What is your favorite TV show? - Last Man Standing. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Stauffer’s Cafe on 48th St. You just can’t beat the customer service and their pie is one of a kind! If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Arnold Palmer. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 318-5797; Email: expresslifechiropractic@gmail.com; Website: www.expresslifechiropractic.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS SP Group Welcomes Amy Windle SP Group, P.C. is excited to welcome Amy Windle to the team as a client specialist. Amy is a fi fth-generation graduate of Neosho High Sc hool in Neosho, MO and received a Bachelor of Science in marketing from the University of Tulsa. Her unique combination of talents, paired with years of experience in customer relations, come together to provide a perfect fit for assisting payroll and sales tax clients. The core values of SP Group are what drew her to join the team, most importantly, the core value of team work. The saying “it takes a village” is the foundation to every endeavor she pursues. Raising her two, very independent, funny, and beautiful daughters, Lucy and Zoe, not only brings her great pride, but are her greatest joy. In her free time, Amy enjoys biking, reading, gardening, doting on her first grandchild, Faye, and trying to love running. She has completed a half marathon, participated in MS150, a 150-mile bike ride benefiting muscular dystrophy, and was on the original crew team at TU. Amy’s ultimate goal would be to complete one 5K a month, even if it involves some travel. The SP Group, P.C. team is confident that Amy will be an asset to both their company and clients. To learn more about SP Group, visit www.spgrouppc.com, follow SP Group on Facebook (@ SPGroup,P.C.) and Twitter (@SPGroupPC), or call the office at (402) 420-7758.

Karla Frese of Home Care Partners Completes Hospice Volunteer Training Karla Frese, managing partner of Home Care Partners of Nebraska, recently earned her certificate of completion for hospice volunteer training. Karla is a part of a group that was trained through Tabitha Hospice and HoriSun Hospice. Hospice volunteer teams provide companionship and support to the patient and family. There are a variety of ways to volunteer. Karla has become involved through song. “I’ve been connected to this service opportunity by joining the Eastridge Hospice Singers,” Karla said. “It is an honor to be a part of the Hospice Singers and the founder, Patty Niemann, has been an inspiration to me and so many others!” The group will sing for anyone receiving hospice care. They are represented by six different church denominations. The size of singing group attending a bedside visit is determined by the space of the room and singers who are available. The length of a visit is 15–45 minutes and music is planned with the individual in mind. For more information on the group, email epc.hospice.singers@gmail.com. Home Care Partners of Nebraska provides quality care services to the aging community and receiving the certificate of completion for Hospice Volunteer Training demonstrates commitment to the healthcare continuum and support through the end of life. If you are looking for home care support in the Lincoln area, please call (402) 780-1211 or visit HomeCarePartnersOfNebraska.com.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Luxury Landscape Welcomes Jessee Puente Luxury Landscape is excited to introduce its newest family member, Jessee Puente! Jessee is originally from Grand Island, but has lived in Lincoln for over 10 years. At Luxury Landscape, Jessee spends his work day digging, lifting, and scooping dirt and gravel…basically, the earth, as he would say! Jessee assists in building retaining and boulder walls, paver paths and patios, and planting beautiful plants and trees. While working with hardscapes and landscaping properties, he holds himself to a professional standard. According to Jessee, he loves making something look better than it did before, seeing the final result when a project is finished. Jessee is motivated to wake up and come to work because of the precedent that Owners Ken Svoboda and Jackie Lienemann have set. He appreciates their passion and work ethic. When Jessee isn’t busy spreading his awesomeness at work, he enjoys music, running, and being outside. Most people don’t know this, but Jessee loves to sing and is good at it! Please join Luxury Landscape in welcoming Jessee to the team! To learn more about the array of services offered by Luxury Landscape, visit www.luxurylandscape-llc.com or call Ken and Jackie at (402) 430-9430 / (402) 640-6034 to schedule an appointment!

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Dr. Rachel Braunstein Joins Advanced Medical Imaging The physicians of Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI) are pleased to welcome Rachel H. Braunstein, M.D., in the practice of Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Radiology. Dr. Braunstein completed her Nuclear Medicine Fellowship and Diagnostic Radiology Residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital, in Miami, FL. During that time, she served as chief resident. Her intern year was also spent at Jackson Memorial Hospital where she worked in Internal Medicine. She received her Doctor of Medicine degree at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and her undergraduate years were spent at the Emory University, in Atlanta, GA. Dr. Braunstein professional affiliations include the American College of Radiology (ACR) and American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS). From 2015 to 2018, she worked as an Assistant Professor of Clinical Radiology at University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She started at AMI during May of 2019. Dr. Braunstein enjoys snowboarding, running, and cycling. Her other business ventures include owning a sandwich shop franchise. She also finds time to volunteer at elementary schools and synagogues. Advanced Medical Imaging is the largest independent radiology group in Nebraska. They serve the Lincoln area and are the sole radiology providers for nearly half of the Critical Access Hospitals in rural Nebraska, and St. Elizabeth’s Regional Medical Center, in Lincoln. Founded in 2001, the practice has tripled in size and is constantly expanding their service area. AMI’s mission is to provide compassionate patient-focused care achieved though regional awareness, advanced technology, unsurpassed operational excellence, teamwork, and leadership. Learn more at amimaging.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

CONSTRUCTION AT • ITS • BEST

Perry Reid Construction is a general contractor located in Lincoln, Nebraska, established in 2017.

MISSION:

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PERSONNEL NEWS West Gate Bank® Welcomes Jeanette Moeller as Executive Vice President, CFO

Dr. Derek Blumenstock Joins Blumenstock Family Eyecare, Follows in Father’s Footsteps

The West Gate Bank® Board of Directors are pleased to welcome Jeanette Moeller as executive vice president, chief financial officer. Moeller has worked in the banking industry for nearly 20 years and has held various finance positions. Prior to entering the banking industry, she worked in public accounting as a financial auditor specializing in financial institutions. As CFO, Moeller will oversee the financial operations of the bank, including accounting, finance, regulatory reporting, financial reporting, and tax and internal audit. Originally from Auburn, NE, Moeller received her bachelor’s degree in business administration and her master’s degree in professional accountancy from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She is a graduate of the Colorado Graduate School of Banking in Boulder, CO. Moeller is a certified public accountant and a member of the Nebraska Society of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Jeanette Moeller is located at West Gate Bank® Center at 6003 Old Cheney Rd. and can be reached at (402) 434-4088 or jmoeller@ 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.

Blumenstock Family Eyecare is excited to welcome Dr. Derek Blumenstock as an independent doctor of optometry. Dr. Derek is the oldest son of Dr. Brad Blumenstock, the founder of Blumenstock Family Eyecare. Dr. Derek is a comprehensive optometrist who specializes in primary vision care, contact lens fittings, pediatric eye care, urgent eye care, dry-eye, glaucoma, and pre- and post-operative care. He received his Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Houston College of Optometry in 2019. During his optometric education, Dr. Blumenstock completed externships at the Hope Eye Clinic in Houston, TX, and the Optometric Indian Health Services in Albuquerque, NM. He also served as a tutor, a teaching assistant, and a leader for the Fellowship of Christian Optometrists group while in optometry school. Dr. Blumenstock is licensed for the practice of optometry by the state examining boards of Nebraska. He is a member of the Nebraska Optometric Association, American Optometric Association, American Academy of Optometry, and Vision Source. Come visit the father/son duo at Blumenstock Family Eyecare, located at 1501 Pine Lake Rd. in South Lincoln. To learn more about the Vision Source products and services available at Blumenstock, go online to blumenstockeyecare.com or call (402) 421-7773.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Steve Langdon Celebrates 14 Years with Community Action Partnership In June, Steve Langdon, human resources director, celebrated his 14-year anniversary at Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties. Langdon embodies Community Action’s five guiding principles: passion, integrity, respect, performance, and community. The excitement around this personnel milestone went hand in hand with Community Action being named one of Lincoln’s Best Places to Work in 2019. It is a true testament to the quality of work culture the organization strives to maintain. In the last 10 years, the number of people living in poverty in Lincoln has grown by 45%. Community Action works to empower people living in poverty to reach economic stability. Their 18 programs focus eliminating the causes and conditions of poverty through 18 programs and services in four impact areas: early childhood education, homelessness prevention, financial and family well-being, and hunger relief and healthy food access. In 2018, Community Action provided 114,450 poverty-fighting services to 19,642 individuals. If you want to learn more about Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties, visit their website at www. communityactionatwork.org or call (402) 471-4515 to wish Steve a happy anniversary!

Optimum Veterinary Medical Group Brings on Dr. Michael Cover O p t i m u m Ve t e r i n a r y M e d i c a l Group, founded by Dr. Lauren Gealow and Jordan Kershner, is excited to welcome Dr. Michael Cover to the team! Dr. Cover comes to Optimum with many years of experience. He developed his passion for caring about animals early in life while growing up on his family ranch, as a fifth generation Sandhills rancher. Dr. Cover received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wyoming in Laramie, a Master of Science degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, a Graduate Certificate in the Master’s Program in Public Health with an emphasis in zoonotic diseases, and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Kansas State University. His main interests in small animal medicine focus on preventive medicine, orthopedic and soft tissue surgery, and nutrition for companion animals. Dr. Cover is also a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Nebraska Veterinary Medical Association. Optimum Pet Health and Wellness Center was founded in 1987 and purchased in 2018 by Optimum Veterinary Medical Group. Dr. Gealow and Kershner opened Optimum Veterinary Clinic in northeast Lincoln within the last year, and they are excited to be growing their team and client base in the area. As a full-service veterinary hospital, the mission of Optimum Veterinary Medical Group is to partner with pet owners in order to provide the best medical care, service, and overall experience to both clients and animals. Take your fur babies to Lincoln’s newest veterinary clinic at 8531 Lexington Ave. or call (402) 466-1383 to learn more about becoming a part of the Optimum family. More information can also be found online at optimumpethealth.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Stur 22 offers a unique and colorful array of cuisines’s incorporating Caribbean and West African flavors. Our cocktail menu features our own hand crafted, signature cocktails. 2110 Winthrop Road, Lincoln, NE 68502 402-805-4579 or info@stur22lounge.com Hours:Tues - Thurs: 4-11pm, Fri - Sat: 11-1am (special events until 2am), Sun Lunch Buffet: 11-3pm, Sun Dinner: 3pm-8pm, Mon: Closed

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PERSONNEL NEWS Nebraska Society of CPAs Recognize Eric Cruise for Recent Promotion

Southeast Community College Introduced New Learning Center Coordinator in Wahoo

The Nebraska Society of CPAs is excited to announce that Eric Cruise has been promoted to tax managing director in the Lincoln office of KPMG U.S. Eric has more than 11 years of experience in tax planning and structuring for private and publicly held companies including assisting companies with federal, state, local, and international tax compliance.

Diana Kerwin-Kubr is the new coordinator for Southeast Community Collegeâ€™s (SCC) Learning Center in Wahoo. A native of Cedar Bluffs, Kerwin-Kubr spent more than 30 years in different positions at Metro Community College in Omaha. She is looking forward to her new role with SCC in Wahoo. Her goal will be to expand programming and continuing education opportunities based on community and employer needs in Wahoo and surrounding areas.

KPMG provides audit, tax, and advisory services and industry insight to help organizations negotiate risks and perform in the dynamic and challenging environments in which they do business. They combine their multi-disciplinary approach with deep, practical industry knowledge to help clients meet challenges and respond to opportunities. The mission of the Nebraska Society of CPAs is to enhance the professional success of the members; to encourage the maintenance of high professional standards; to facilitate relationships among the members; to further the professional knowledge, competence, and performance of the members; to promote a better understanding of services rendered by members; to promote the accounting profession; and to act in a representative capacity for the profession. Learn more online www.nescpa.org.

Kerwin-Kubr lives in Wahoo with her husband Rod. The coordinator position was previously held by Jenna Kettelhake, who moved to Tecumseh. Kerwin-Kubr hopes to take her community college experience and apply it to her new role at the Wahoo Learning Center. The Learning Center at Wahoo opened in April 2018 as part of SCCâ€™s strategic plan to better serve the educational needs of communities in southeast Nebraska. The other learning centers are in Falls City, Hebron, Nebraska City, Plattsmouth, and York. Learn more about Southeast Community College online at www. southeast.edu. Kerwin-Kubr also invites the community to stop by the Learning Center at 536 N. Broadway. She can be reached at (402) 323-5581 / dkerwin-kubr@southeast.edu.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Performance Mountain Welcomes Coach Tom Osborne as Senior Performance Advisor Performance Mountain LLC., a leadership and cultural dynamics consulting firm founded in 2016 by Commander Jack Riggins SEAL (Ret.) and Psychiatrist/High-Performance Mindset Coach Dr. Larry Widman, announced the addition of Coach Tom Osborne. Coach Osborne will join as the senior performance advisor. He will bring his unmatched experience in leadership and mentorship as a three-time national championship coach, athletic director, and congressmen to the Performance Mountain Team. Performance Mountain specializes in developing high performance mental skills in individuals and creating elite culture in groups to win in any sector of business, sport, and life. Performance Mountain was created to transform people and organizations, with expertise in leadership, culture, communication, team dynamics, and elite mental skill development. “Having excellent chemistry within an organization is a critical part of the success of that organization. The best teams that I coached had great unity of purpose and chemistry. I would be glad to help any organization in need of improvement in those areas by reflecting on what has been successful in my previous experience,” said Coach Osborne. Coach Tom Osborne’s addition will deepen and enhance Performance Mountain’s focus on leadership, communication, group dynamics, and education of the skills proven to excel in high-pressure environments in business, sports, and life. Learn more at www.performancemountain.com.

Kaylie Hogan-Schnittker Joins the LPED, Lincoln Chamber Welcomes Baylee Vrtiska The Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development (LPED) is excited to bring on Kaylie Hogan-Schnittker as director of talent strategy. In her position, Kaylie will be focusing on growing, recruiting, and retaining talent in the Lincoln metro area. Her experience includes working for BCom Solutions, the Nebraska Legislature, and various political campaigns and community involvements. With her passion for continued community growth and success, HoganSchnittker is excited for the opportunity to Kaylie Hogan-Schnittker promote the Lincoln metro area. She can be reached at kaylie@selectlincoln.org. In addition, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce has announced the hiring of Baylee Vrtiska to serve in the role of digital marketing specialist. Vrtiska graduated from the University of Nebraska– Lincoln with majors in broadcasting and journalism. Prior to her role at the Chamber, Vrtiska spent over a year at Lincoln Electric System working in the communications department. She also brings experience Baylee Vrtiska working in television news, sports, and nonprofits. She can be reached at bvrtiska@lcoc.com. The Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development is a partner organization of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. As a publicprivate collaboration charged with fulfilling Lincoln›s Economic goals, LPED is committed to supporting the city›s continued success as a place of business expansion, growing talent, and endless opportunities. Learn more online at www.selectlincoln.org or call (402) 436-2350. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Since more than 80% of children do not go to church to hear of the good news of Jesus, Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) of Nebraska is taking the Good News to them through the after-school Good News Club® (GNC). Good News Club is a dynamic Bible club held right where the c hildren are—in churches, neighborhood homes, community centers, apartment complexes, local public elementary schools—just about anywhere the children can easily and safely meet with their parent’s permission. These action-packed clubs meet once a week right after school. Each club features snacks, prizes, songs, an exciting Bible lesson, a missions story, review games, or other activities. They are led by trained teenagers and adults. In 2011, the Supreme Court ruled that the Good News Club should be permitted to offer prayer and Bible reading to students. Since then, GNCs have been held in over 3,500 public elementary schools throughout the USA. Currently, eight GNCs are being held in Lincoln, all in public elementary schools with over 250 children attending! Volunteers and financial partners are always needed, not only for existing GNCs but also for beginning new GNCs. To help make an eternal difference, contact Child Evangelism Fellowship at (402) 484-7877 / office@ceflincoln.org. Learn more online at www.cefnebraska.org.

Air Force Association Lincoln Chapter #187 to Host Annual Scholarship Golf Scramble On Monday, September 30 at Wilderness Ridge Golf Club, Lincoln Chapter #187 of the Air Air Force Association, Lincoln Chapter 187 invite you to participate in the Scholarship Golf Scramble Force Association (AFA) will host Monday - September 30, 2019 their annual scholarship golf Contacts: Wilderness Ridge Golf Course Shotgun Start at Noon scramble. Check-in and lunch Tournament Fee: $100 will begin at 10:30 a.m. with a Register by September 23, 2019 shotgun start at noon. After an Mail checks to: AFA Chapter 187 | P.O. Box 84011 | Lincoln, NE 68501 afternoon of teeing off, there will be dinner and an awards ceremony at 5 p.m. The tournament fee is $100 per golfer and includes green fees, cart, boxed lunch, chances to win hole prizes, and dinner buffet. Participants must register by September 23. Scholarship Golf Scramble Sponsored by Lincoln Chapter #187 of the AFA Monday – September 24, 2018 Wilderness Ridge Golf Course

10:30 am 12:00 pm 5:00 pm

Check in and lunch Shotgun start-scramble format Dinner and awards

Tournament fee: $100

Includes: Green fees, cart, lunch and dinner.

Contacts:

Fred Phelan fphelan@drexelhamilton.com 402-480-8897 Rick Holdcroft Rholdcroft@cox.net 402-350-4097

Lang Anderson lang.anderson1@gmail.com 402-499-1661

Scholarship Golf Scramble

Chances to win: Hole prizes & more!

Sponsored by Lincoln Chapter #187 of the AFA Monday – September 24, 2018 Wilderness Ridge Golf Course

Mail your check with your name, team members (if any) and contact phone number to : AFA Chapter 187 P.O. Box 84011 Lincoln, NE 68501

(Registration Form on Back)

10:30 am 12:00 pm 5:00 pm

Tax ID 47-6032496

Rick Holdcroft 402.350.4097

Lang Anderson 402.499.1661 Mark Messick 402.217.5475

Check in and lunch Shotgun start-scramble format Dinner and awards

Tournament fee: $100

Includes: Green fees, cart, lunch and dinner.

Contacts:

Fred Phelan fphelan@drexelhamilton.com 402-480-8897 Rick Holdcroft Rholdcroft@cox.net 402-350-4097

Lang Anderson lang.anderson1@gmail.com 402-499-1661

Chances to win: Hole prizes & more!

Mail your check with your name, team members (if any) and contact phone number to : AFA Chapter 187 P.O. Box 84011 Lincoln, NE 68501

(Registration Form on Back)

Tax ID 47-6032496

Includes: Green Fees, Cart, Lunch,Dinner & Prizes

Golfers can register by contacting Rick Holdcroft at (402) 3504097 / Rholdcroft@cox.net or Lang Anderson at (402) 4991661 / lang.anderson1@gmail.com. Payment can be made at the registration table on the day of the event. Alternatively, if mailing in a check, please make it payable to AFA Chapter 187 and send with name and contact information for yourself and any other team members included to the following address: P.O. Box 84011, Lincoln, NE 68501-4011. Corporate sponsorships are also available in the amounts of $1,000 for Premier Sponsors (includes special recognition throughout the tournament) and $250 for hole sponsors. This event supports scholarships and recognition awards for local USAF Airman from the Nebraska Air National Guard, ROTC programs, and Civil Air Patrol. They also recognize a Lincoln “Teacher of the Year” and support AFA Cyber Patriot Teams in a nationwide computer defense competition. The Air Force Association advocates for a strong US Air Force. Learn more online at afa.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS

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Matt Talbot Calls Out to Volunteers for Huskers Helping the Homeless Sept 26–29 Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach (mtko. org/huskers) is hosting the 23nd Annual Huskers Helping the Homeless event the weekend of September 26–29. Local businesses, families, and individuals can show their support by volunteering, serving as sponsors, and donating during the event. “The money raised during this event supports our hunger relief and homeless prevention services 365 days a year, bringing us closer to our vision of defeating hunger and homelessness in Lincoln,” said Susanne Blue, executive director. “Our sponsors, more than 600 volunteers of all ages, and the generous community members who donate all bring such a positive community spirit to this event. We are looking forward to a fun weekend!”

Supplemental coverage for all life’s moments - Simply put, Aflac gives you cash to help with expenses health insurance doesn’t cover like deductables, copays, paycheck protection, or you can use the money on groceries. Life moves fast. So do our benefits. Sign up today! Kerry Butzke

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This is a great volunteer opportunity for families, sports teams, scouting groups, youth groups, and work teams. Locations are available downtown on game day or throughout the weekend at local grocery stores and retailers. Learn more about Matt Talbot Kitc hen & Outreac h and sponsorship and volunteering opportunities at mtko.org/huskers. Contact Victoria Oneil at (402) 817-0623 for more information.

Nebraska Community Foundation Celebrates 25 Years Nebraska Community Foundation’s 25th anniversary year has been full of milestones and monumental moments. Momentum is building in over 250 Nebraska hometowns as nearly 1,500 volunteers are leading a statewide grassroots movement to build a brighter future. Growing endowments, especially those that are unrestricted, has been a cornerstone of the Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) approach since they got their start in 1994. Two and a half decades later, the NCF network crossed a major landmark—$100 million in endowed assets. That’s capital that will stay in these communities forever. Forty-three Greater Nebraska communities in the NCF network now have at least $10,000 in annual unrestricted endowment payout. Dozens more are working to meet homegrown challenge grants. Belief in the future of Greater Nebraska and the abundance that can be found here is spreading like a beneficial virus to every corner of the state. In June, one of the biggest community investments in NCF’s history was announced in Keith County—a $7 million anonymous gift to the Keith County Foundation Fund (KCFF) unrestricted endowment. In just a couple of years, KCFF’s granting capacity will increase ten-fold, from $35,000 annually to over $400,000. It’s a huge responsibility and NCF is working closely with local volunteers to make the most of this transformative opportunity. Looking forward to the next 25 years, Nebraska Community Foundation continues to unleash abundant assets, inspire charitable giving, and connect ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS American Heart Association Announces Chairs for Upcoming Signature Events The American Heart Association, the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, has announced the local leaders who will chair its signature events this fall and spring: Go Red For Women, Heart Ball, and Heart Walk. Kirstin Luber, the culture and communications coordinator for Hexagon, a manufacturing company in Lincoln, is chairing 2019 Lincoln Go Red For Women on October 3 at the Embassy Suites Lincoln. She has been with Hexagon for five and half years. Dr. Matthew and KaCey Johnson are chairing the 2020 Lincoln Heart Ball gala on March 7 at the Embassy Suites - Lincoln. Dr. Johnson works all over the state, specializing in cardiovascular disease. Dr. and Mrs. Johnson’s passion for the American Heart Association stemmed from an evaluation of an irregular rhythm Dr. Johnson had in high school.

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Kimberly Barrett, Ameritas’ well-being manager, is chairing the 2020 Lincoln Heart Walk, with the date and location still to be announced. Barrett has served the Lincoln community in the health and wellness field for 20 years in a variety of capacities. Over the last 12 years, she has focused on corporate holistic well-being. For more information about the American Heart Association’s upcoming events, visit www.heart.org/Lincoln or call (402) 8757382. Leadership and sponsorship opportunities are still available.

Heartland Cancer Foundation Opens Legacy Giving Opportunities Heartland Cancer Foundation (HCF) is happy to make public the opening of their Legacy Giving concept. Legacy Giving with HCF means leaving a gift to your community that will make a longstanding difference in the lives of local cancer patients. Legacy Gifts not only create tax incentives for you, but they ensure that all local lowerincome cancer patients have access to HCF’s grants—The Heartland Grant, which provides assistance with transportation; and the Helping Hand Grant, which provides assistance with housing payments, car payments, and medical supplies.

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“Legacy Giving with Heartland Cancer Foundation is simple, fully customizable to you, and you have complete control over what and how you give,” says Development Director Heidi Moyer. “Naming HCF as a beneficiary in your will with one sentence is only one way to leave a legacy gift. Memorials, life insurance, property, securities, charitable annuities, and charitable trusts are also options to consider when determining your planned giving, and no amount is too small to be of value.” Heartland Cancer Foundation is passionate about supporting local lower income cancer patients. Their goal is to provide practical and immediate assistance so they can focus on healing. Helping to reduce financial burdens brings optimism and hope to a patient’s journey. You can find more information about Heartland Cancer Foundation Legacy Giving by calling (402) 261-9974 or at www. heartlandcancerfoundation.org/planned-giving. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS

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NCBB and First Responders Join Forces for Battle of the Badges Nebraska Comm unity Blood Bank’s Battle of the Badges is an annual friendly competition between teams of first responders to raise awareness of the importance of donating blood. The event challenges first responders to bring together the community, friends, and family members in a series of summer blood drives through August 31. Battle of the Badges blood drives will support the Lincoln Police Department and Lincoln Fire & Rescue. The winning department will receive the Battle of the Badges traveling trophy and bragging rights, while members of the losing department will be on picnic shelter clean-up duty with Lincoln Parks and Recreation! Regardless of your allegiance, the real winner will be the many lives sustained through the generosity of our blood donors and volunteers.

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Show your support for the Nebraska Community Blood Bank by stepping up to donate. Learn more by visiting NCBB.org/badges to see participating blood drives and giveaways for Battle of the Badges blood donors.

Angels Among Us Invites Nationally-Known Artist Jeff Hanson to Gala Angels Among Us is hosting its gala on Friday, September 20, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at A View on State (13467 State St., Omaha). This year’s event, presented by the David Spence Cancer Foundation, is themed around art. As a result, Angels Among Us, along with honorary chairs Jeff Kavich and Donna Kush, invited nationallyknown Artist Jeff Hanson to attend. Jeff Hanson (www.jeffhansonart.com) will be live auctioning a piece of his work created specifically for Angels Among Us. Jeff is an awardwinning, philanthropic artist on a mission to change the world through art. Visually impaired since childhood from Neurofibromatosis, Jeff’s acrylic-on-canvas works employ bold color and heavily sculptured texture to create an unmistakable signature style. Self-taught as an artist, Jeff first began painting while undergoing chemotherapy at age 12. Despite his limited vision, he continues to create brilliant artwork—a sight for sore eyes, he calls it. In addition to Jeff Hanson’s incredible work, the evening will include a silent auction of over 65 items, and other incredible live auction items. Angels Among Us is a Nebraska nonprofit that provides financial and emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living-in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply for financial support. In 2018, Angels Among Us provided financial support to 99 families, giving over $355,000, so they were able to remain stable during their pediatric cancer journey. Anyone who is interested in attending the Angles Among Us gala and/or sponsorship opportunities for the event, please contact Alyssa Theilen, director of community relations/development, at alyssa@ myangelsamongus.org. Registration is available online at www. MyAngelsAmongUs.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS CBMC’s 18th Annual Golf Classic Focuses on Down Syndrome Association for Families to Fellowship, Connections, Impact Host Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk CBMC Lincoln hosted the 18th Annual Golf Classic and luncheon on July 9 at Wilderness Ridge. Over 90 golfers and an additional 65 individuals attended the luncheon. The speaker was Roy Helu, Jr., former Husker and NFL running back. Roy shared how his journey of a life focused on himself and gaining success and fame left him in deep depression during his first year at UNL. Despite great success on the field, off the field his life spiraled downward. The trajectory of Roy’s life changed dramatically when he sought help from the team chaplain and became a Christian. Wilderness Ridge provided a great venue for the luncheon and a fun afternoon of golf, along with some great fellowship, team awards, raffle prizes, and a silent auction. CBMC is deeply grateful for the 100+ businesses and individuals who sponsored and donated, along with the many volunteers who make the annual event possible. A video of the talk by Roy Helu, Jr. and event highlights can be found at Lincoln.cbmc.com. CBMC Lincoln is a ministry to business and professional individuals, encouraging them toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others. For information about CBMC Lincoln, visit Lincoln.cbmc.com or call (402) 204-1997. You can also connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne).

On October 5, Down Syndrome Association for Families (DSAF) will host their 18th annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk at Antelope Park. Festivities begin at 8 a.m. and the one-mile walk will kick off at approximately 9:30 a.m. This event is Lincoln’s premier Down Syndrome awareness and education event that celebrates individuals with Down Syndrome while showing the critical role they can and do play in our community. Each year, this even brings out over 1,600 attendees to show their support of friends and loved ones. The walk is DSAF’s primary fundraiser and proceeds support a vast array of programs, partnerships, resources, and networking opportunities that help individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. DSAF formed in 1995 as a way for parents to network and share the accomplishments and challenges of their children. It takes a village and a lot of resources to put on such a large event. To support Down Syndrome Association for Families’ mission by becoming a sponsor, go online to ds-stride.org/dsafstepup. If you’d like to learn more about DSAF, please visit their website at dsafnebraska.org. Further questions can be directed to Mary Sweeney, marketing and development director, at (402) 2020193 / mary@dsafnebraska.org.

West Gate Bank and BBB Team Up for Free Shred Day Beneﬁtting Food Bank of Lincoln West Gate Bank and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) have announced their Free Shred Day, which will be held on Sunday, October 19 from 9 a.m. to noon at the West Gate Bank Center location, 6003 Old Cheney Rd. Free Shred Day is an opportunity for people to bring up to three boxes or bags of sensitive documents for immediate shredding. West Gate Bank and BBB encourage attendees to also bring non-perishable food or monetary donations to benefit the Food Bank of Lincoln. Identity theft continues to be one of the fastest growing forms of consumer fraud. Free Shred Day addresses this prominent and everincreasing threat, and helps to educate Lincoln residents to protect themselves against this threat. The Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) is an organization that helps people find businesses, brands, and charities they can trust. BBB works endlessly to protect and educate the public about red flag businesses. They also go above and beyond to recommend brands that are trustworthy and ethical. Originally founded in Lincoln in 1968, West Gate Bank is committed to providing a strong foundation to build relationships that empower their customers and employees. They’ve decided to team up with BBB to give back to the community that has supported them through over 50 years of business.

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If you want more information about Free Shred Day, visit West Gate Bank’s Facebook page (@WestGateBank), give them a call at (402) 434-3456, or visit any of their Lincoln locations today! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS City Impact Places Among Top 10 for Funds HopeSpoke Calls Out for Fall Season Raised During Give to Lincoln Day Donations Give to Lincoln Day 2019 was a great success for City Impact, and they could not be more grateful for the support they received. Through the generous donations of 167 people, City Impact raised just over $105,000, finishing in 7th place among over 400 participating nonprofits.

Hopespoke has released a list of items they desperately need before or during fall. During the last fiscal year, they served 1,841 c hildren, youth, and adults, and they’d like to increase that number for 2019!

City Impact would like to thank the Lincoln Community Foundation and the additional local sponsors for championing Lincoln nonprofits. This support creates opportunity for under-resourced youth and builds a better community for us all.

• New children’s books and toys that parents and guardians can give for upcoming holidays or birthdays

City Impact is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to transform vulnerable communities through wholistic youth, family, and neighborhood development. They mentor, teach, and empower kids to overcome their vulnerable circumstances and to transform their lives and neighborhoods from the inside out. Learn more at cityimpact. org or contact Lisa Guill at (402) 477-8080 / lguill@cityimpact.org.

Nonproﬁt Association of the Midlands Offers 2019 Salary & Beneﬁts Survey Report The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) is pleased to offer the 2019 Salary & Benefits Sur vey Report. Considering people are the strongest asset of nonprofits, NAM’s goal is to support the regional nonprofit community and their key assets by providing custom, localized, and actionable data on Salary & Benefits trends in the community. This annual survey and report are designed to landscape in which nonprofits operate. The generated each year since 2007 as a way to accountability and effective management of corporate sector.

Items needed:

• New youth books and items that would appeal to youth and the boys in the Therapeutic Group Home • Non-perishable healthy snacks, individually packaged, that can be given to children, youth, and adults who are in need of a snack when they come for therapy • Gift cards to Walmart, Target, Sam’s Club, Costco, Super Saver, Hy-Vee, and other stores for our staff to purchase food, clothing, and other supplies for our programs For more information or to make a donation, contact Jenny Cardwell at jcardwell@hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666. If you want to learn more about how HopeSpoke helps our community, feel free to visit their website at www.hopespoke.org.

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The hope is that these results will help support nonprofit organizations in attracting and retaining top talent. The report answers the following questions: • HOW do I know what are the average salary increases? • WHO offers health insurance and what is the average employer/ employee share? • WHAT are the changes and trends in employee benefits? • HOW do other nonprofit organizations determine bonuses? The 2019 Nonprofit Salary & Benefit Trends Report, sponsored this year by the Harry A. Koch Company, provides an overview of the trends shaping nonprofit salaries and benefits. The report, which utilized 2018 data collected from nonprofits in Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, is a tool to help nonprofit organizations promote transparency, understand trends, and better manage resources. For additional information, visit www.nonprofitam.org/page/ SalaryBenefit2019. Nonprofit Association of the Midlands is recognized as the State Association for Nebraska by the National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits. To learn more, visit www. nonprofitam.org or contact Abby Hughes at (402) 557-5800 / abby@nonprofitam.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Friendship Home Seeks Volunteers to Register for Safe Quarters

Free Bird Walks Offered at Audubon’s Spring Creek Prairie

Over a thousand Friendship Home volunteers will head out on Sunday, October 6 to Lincoln and surrounding neighborhoods for Safe Quarters with the goal of knocking on every household door to collect financial contributions for victims of domestic violence. Safe Quarters is Friendship Home’s largest annual fundraiser. Over $100,000 was raised last year and, as a result, Friendship Home was able to save and change the lives of over 1,500 victims of domestic violence. This will be the 17th year the Lincoln community participates in this event.

The Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center is offering free bird walks the third Tuesday of each month until October. The walks will occur from 8 to 10 a.m. and are completely free to all participants. It is recommended that participants have water, comfortable clothing, durable shoes, and binoculars, if possible (extras Bobolinks. Photo by Lynn Cleveland can be made available if needed). / Audubon Photography Awards. This is the third year Spring Creek Prairie is offering free bird walks. This year, they will be led by two bird experts from Audubon, Kevin Poague and Jason “The Birdnerd” St. Sauver.

Teams of volunteers are needed to walk Lincoln neighborhoods. A team generally consists of 8–12 members and all ages are encouraged to participate. Volunteers will receive t-shirts and collection buckets for the drive. Funds collected during Safe Quarters go towards Friendship Home’s mission to provide safe, confidential shelter, crisis services, and ongoing support for families who have experienced domestic violence and are rebuilding their lives. You can help provide “safe quarters” to someone in crisis. To register a volunteer team, visit www.friendshiphome.org. For questions and/or more information about Safe Quarters, contact Sarah at (402) 4340167 / saraht@friendshiphome.org. To access safe emergency shelter and services, call Friendship Home’s helpline at (402) 437-9302.

“It’s a great way to enjoy birds throughout the year on the prairie,” Jason explains, “from local Nebraska resident birds to tallgrass prairie specialties breeding in the summer like Bobolink and Henslow’s Sparrows.” According to Jason, visitors can expect to get their toes a little get wet. It is a leisurely stroll with there is so much more to experience than just birds—hear their songs, smell the prairie wildflowers, investigate the tall grass insects, and many other encounters with nature can happen on these walks. For more information about the free walks at the Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center (springcreek.audubon.org), call (402) 797-2301 or email scp@audubon.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Fresh Start Extends Hours of The Daisy

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Thanks to Fresh Start’s amazing volunteers, The Daisy thrift store is now open every Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. instead of every other Thursday! The Daisy will continue to be open every Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Daisy is operated completely by volunteers. Along with bringing in new helpful and knowledgeable volunteers, The Daisy raised over $41,000 in 2018 for Fresh Start. This amount was raised even though The Daisy was only open 12 hours a week at the time, so with extended hours, Fresh Start is excited to generate even more funds to go towards their mission. Proceeds from The Daisy support Fresh Start, a goal-orientated program helping women who are experiencing homelessness to overcome barriers to economic stability. Fresh Start provides basic needs, case management, and support. Fresh Start is always looking for more volunteers to join their team and they invite the community to come have a positive experience shopping high-quality clothing at discounted prices. Please visit the shop, located at 6433 Havelock Ave., or contact Audrey at (402) 475-7777 / audreyb@ FreshStartHome.org for more information. You can also connect with Fresh Start online at FreshStartHome.org or on Facebook (@ FreshStartHomeLincoln / @thedaisythriftshop).

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JCMF Children’s Charities Hosts Ribbon Cutting at Float 4 Life Swim Center Opening Green Plains Sponsors American Lung O n J u l y 1 0 , J C M F ( Jo s h u a Association’s Fight For Air Corporate Cup Collingsworth Memorial Foundation) Children’s Charities offi cially opened the doors of their Float 4 Life swim center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. The celebration included an auction, balloon art provided by Shades the Clown, a bounce house from Let’s Party Inflatables, and live broadcasting through KFRX.

Founded by Blake and Kathy Collingsworth, JCMF Children’s Charities is ecstatic to reveal this state-of-the-art swim center and national training facility. In line with JCMF’s mission to stop avoidable drowning deaths, Float 4 Life will teach and promote infant and toddler water safety. Float 4 Life was made possible by JCMF Children’s Charities and the Cooper Branch of the YMCA. The new facility will provide training and accreditation to instructors from across the U.S. JCMF Children’s Charities and the Michael Phelps Foundation announced their partnership in May 2017, and both seem hopeful that swim spas could be a benefit to both early childhood water safety and competitive swimmers. Drowning is the most common cause of accidental death for children under the age of five, so JMCF Children’s Charities tries to educate parents worldwide about water safety. Visit joshtheotter. org for more information about the organization and the new Float 4 Life swim center. You can also contact Shelly Stewart at shelly@joshtheotter.org / (402) 613-5555 with any questions. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The American Lung Association in Nebraska announced in July that Green Plains, Inc. will again be the presenting sponsor of the Association’s Fight For Air Corporate Cup on September 8 at Aksarben Village. This 10K and 2-Mile run/walk benefits the Lung Association in Nebraska with almost 90% of the proceeds going towards help fund local support of education, research, and advocacy in finding a cure for lung disease. As the presenting sponsor for the third consecutive year, Green Plains will invest more than $25,000 in the fight for clean air and healthy lungs. The locally-based company, which produces cleaner-burner fuels, has invested more than $85,000 with the local Lung Association over the last few years in an effort to support local organizations that share in their vision to reduce vehicle emissions. Green Plains’ investment in the Corporate Cup will help fund the Lung Association’s work to reduce air pollution, advocacy efforts to prevent lung disease and educational programs to support the 200,000 people in Nebraska who live with lung disease. Green Plains (www.gpreinc.com) is one of world’s largest producers of ethanol. The company has 17 ethanol production facilities in nine states where they purchase approximately 14 million tons of corn annually to be used in the ethanol production process. Green Plains also has operations related to grain handling and storage, agribusiness, commodity marketing and distribution services, and food ingredients. For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide Seal, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-5864872) or visit Lung.org. To register for the Fight For Air Corporate Cup, go to OmahaCorporateCup.org. AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business 39

NONPROFIT NEWS The Set Me Free Project Partners with FunPlex for Fundraiser August 4

Make-A-WishÂŽ Presents 2nd Annual Wine, Whiskey, and Wishes Event

Please join The Set Me Free Project on August 4 for their Spirit Day Fundraiser at Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides (7003 Q St., Omaha) anytime from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Anyone who says they are with The Set Me Free Project at the gate will receive a 10% discount on their ticket and The Set Me Free Project will receive 20% of all ticket sales as a donation towards their organization.

On September 12, Make-A-Wish Nebraska will host their 2nd annual Wine, Whiskey, and Wishes event at the Hudl Headquarters from 6 to 9 p.m. The event will be for people 21 and over. Tickets are $50 per person before August 15; $60 per person after. There are also options for group pricing. Early bird groups of 10 will be $450 total compared to $550. Attendees will enjoy a live and silent auction, along with wines, whiskeys, and craft beers.

The Set Me Free Project is a nonprofit organization that is focused on fighting sex trafficking through prevention education for youth and families. Their goal is to bring prevention education to every school across the nation. The Set Me Free Project is committed to working alongside other organizations who have a common goal. Joining forces is the only way to achieve individual and collective goals. They teach an informative, interactive, and flexible-reaching curriculum to students, educators, parents, and leaders in the community. Their mission is to stop human trafficking before it starts. If you have any questions about The Set Me Free Project or the Spirit Day Fundraiser, please contact Aruna at aruna@ setmefreeproject.net. For more information about how you can help support the mission of The Set Me Free Project, visit their website at www.setmefreeproject.net or call (402) 521-3080.

From delicious hors dâ€™oeuvres to the legendary Stock the Bar Raffle, which has a prize of $500 worth of spirits and accessories, this event is sure to be another fun and unforgettable evening. Sip, mingle, and, most importantly, help Make-A-Wish grant life-changing wishes for Nebraska children with critical illnesses! 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 purchase your tickets to Wine, Whiskey, and Wishes, go to winewhiskeywishes.com. Contact Emily at emarston@nebraska. wish.org for sponsorship information.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Junior Achievement Moves to New Ofﬁce Junior Achievement of Lincoln (JA) is excited to announce that, as of July 1, they are operating out of a new office space! The organization is now located at 300 S. 68th St. STE 110. After 14 years at Southeast Community College, Junior Achievement is thrilled to have a brand new space so that they can continue to grow and invest in Lincoln’s youth. JA works with almost 31,000 K–12th graders to teach them workreadiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy skills. This school year alone, more than 1,000 community volunteers took the JA curriculum to hundreds of classrooms in and around Lincoln, ensuring the future success and vitality of Lincoln and its surrounding communities. The mission of Junior Achievement of Lincoln is to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy. If you would like to learn more, please visit their website at jalincoln.org. You can also reach the team by calling (402) 467-1010.

Strictly Business to Host 7th Annual Garden Party Fundraiser Beneﬁtting Domesti-PUPS Strictly Business will host the 7th annual Garden Party Fundraiser on Friday, September 6, from Annual 5:30 to 9 p.m. (rain date is set for September 13). The event will take place at the Zutavern Benefitting Domesti-PUPS residence, 9200 Holdrege St. in Lincoln. Attendees will enjoy free food and drinks, a live and silent auction, the chance to build a fairy garden with Earl May, live music throughout the evening, and a firework show, all in a beautiful outdoor atmosphere. Get tickets for yourself, your friends, or your business today! Individual tickets are $50 per person. Tables of 6, 8, and 10 are available for businesses and groups as well. Hors d’oeuvres and beverages are donated by local vendors, including a selection of wine from James Arthur Vineyard and Whispering Winds Vineyard & Tasting Room. Strictly Business would like to thank the following sponsors that have already committed to donating to the event: Union Bank & Trust, Kinkaider Brewing Co., Fields Floral, Flicker Promotions, EMRIS International, Stratum Productions, 5 Elements Massage, Stahla Services, Fresh Thyme, Noodles & Co., Outback Steakhouse, Doorstep Diner Catering, Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Rutabagas, and The Chocolate Season. Businesses are still encouraged to donate auction items (minimum value of $50; anything valued over $500 will be considered a live auction item). Proceeds from this event will go towards supporting the mission of Domesti-PUPS, a local nonprofit that provides therapy dogs, service dogs for persons with disabilities, and trained rescue dogs. The costs to acquire, maintain, and place these highly skilled canines is quite high—veterinary costs alone are over $2,500 a month as Domesti-PUPS has over 40 dogs in their care at any given time. These dogs receive quality care and require extensive testing to ensure they are healthy enough to do their future jobs. To learn more about Strictly Business, Domesti-PUPS, or the Garden Party Fundraiser, please contact (402) 466-3330 / office@ strictlybusinessomaha.com. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite or by talking to anyone on the Garden Party planning committee. Go to the Facebook event page for more information! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Wear Yellow Nebraska Selected as Beneﬁtting Nonproﬁt of Pints for a Purpose in July Wear Yellow Nebraska was selected as the benefitting nonprofit by Pint Nine Brewing Company for their July Pints for a Purpose. Every night in Wednesday last month, a percentage of the total proceeds of the night were donated to Wear Yellow Nebraska. Founder and head brewer of Pint Nine Brewing Company, Jimi Watson, believes it is important to support local organizations. Wear Yellow Nebraska works to provide service, support, and community for Nebraska’s cancer survivors. They are a group of individuals who have all been affected by cancer in one way or another, and they have teamed up to raise awareness, bring change, and raise money to fund local cancer organizations. Wear Yellow Nebraska is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization who operates exclusively in Nebraskan communities. Their purpose is to bring people who are passionate about cycling together to celebrate life and fight cancer. The want to ensure that people fighting cancer have reliable transportation to and from their treatment. Since 2012, Wear Yellow Nebraska has raised over $200,000 to help Nebraskans fighting cancer. If you want to help and join in the fight against cancer, visit Wear Yellow Nebraska’s website at www.wearyellownebraska.org or call at (402) 965-1699.

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NONPROFIT NEWS American Cancer Society to Hold Recruitment Event for New Team Leaders

Kids Chance of Nebraska Golf Event Slated for September 9

The American Cancer Society is hosting a recruitment celebration to invite community members to join their mission of ending breast cancer by becoming a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Team Leader. The event will be held on August 22 at Cornhusker Bank from 5:30 to 7 p.m. A Team Leader recruits family, friends, and others to join their team. Then, they set fundraising goals, organize fundraising activities, and lead their team through a fun walk day.

Kids Chance of Nebraska invites you to save the date for their golf event on September 9 at Iron Horse Golf Course in Ashland, NE. Registration for the four-person scramble will begin at 11 a.m. with a shotgun start at noon. Cost is $125 per person; $500 per foursome. There will be raffle prizes and silent auction items. Kids Chance is currently looking for hole sponsors and auction/raffle donations. The funds raised at this event will support Kids Chance Nebraska and allow them continue their mission.

More awareness and money raised allows the American Cancer Society to educate the public about reducing cancer risk and detecting it early, fund more groundbreaking research, and deliver more crucial services that patients and caregivers rely on every day. The American Cancer Society uses raised funds nationwide to invest in 160 research grants related to breast cancer, provide nearly 48,000 rides to treatment, provide over 477,000 free nights of lodging, and much more. Will you help the American Cancer Society to lead the fight this year by committing to being a Team Leader? Reserving your spot is required, and you can do so by emailing Christine Bleich at christine.bleich@cancer.org. Visit makingstrideswalk.org/ LincolnNE or call (402) 260-3287 for more information.

Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

The mission of Kids Chance of Nebraska is to provide financial support to further the education of the children of Nebraska workers who have been severely injured, totally disabled, or killed as a result of employment-related injuries or occupational diseases. It is the goal of Kidsâ€™ Chance of Nebraska to make a difference in the lives of these children by providing scholarships to help eligible students achieve both their educational goals and their familiesâ€™ dreams. To learn more about Kids Chance of Nebraska, visit www. kidschanceofne.org. For sponsorship information, contact Shawn Wills at (402) 290-8662 / swills@madonna.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Village Inn “Raising Forks for Funds” to Support CEDARS

Wells Fargo Donates Funds to Center for People in Need’s Local Food Program

T h ro u g h a p ro g ra m c a l l e d “Raising Forks for Funds,” the Village Inn restaurant located at 27th and Cornhusker Highway in Lincoln is hosting a monthly dine out fundraiser to support local nonprofit, CEDARS. On the second Thursday of each month through December, diners can mention they are there to support CEDARS and 20% of their sales will be donated to the child caring organization.

Center for People in Need (CFPIN) recently received generous support from Wells Fargo to help fund their Neighborhood Food Program. So far this year, their Food Program has impacted 6,802 individuals within the Lincoln area. CFPIN distributes food four days a week at five locations in Lincoln to people whose income is no higher than 180% of the Federal Poverty Level.

Village Inn manager Dan Carney, who is also a foster parent, says he is passionate about helping children. “I believe in the work CEDARS does. I know they’re doing a lot to help kids and that matters to me,” he says. “If you can help one person, one kid, that’s meaningful.” For over 70 years, CEDARS has been helping kids in crisis and building strong families. Since the beginning, support from caring individuals, families, and like-minded organizations have allowed this work to continue. Every day CEDARS works to build stronger families in the community, which ensures that the children receive the safety and stability they need to thrive and reach their full potential. This past year, CEDARS served 194 families and 2,441 children.

CFPIN is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to providing services to low-income people that address their basic needs and help them achieve economic independence. They address basic needs, including, food, emergency services, language skills, educational opportunities, tuition assistance at Southeast Community College, and employment skills. CFPIN also advocates for policies that help people overcome obstacles to gain economic independence. It is through partners like Wells Fargo that make the mission of the Center for People in Need possible. If you would like to help CFPIN bring light into the Lincoln community, please contact them by calling at (402) 476-4357. To learn more about their philanthropic work, go online to www.cfpin.org.

To learn how CEDARS supports families in the community visit cedarskids.org or call (402) 434-5437.

Habitat for Humanity to Open Homebuyer Program Application Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln’s application period for its Homebuyer Program will open August 15 and close September 5, 2019. Applications can be picked up at the administrative office, located at 4615 Orchard St., Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Additionally, Habitat Lincoln will be hosting three informational sessions throughout the month of August. Attendees will learn more about the Homebuyer Program, the qualifications, program requirements, and be able to pick up an application. Sessions will be held on Saturday, August 17, 10 a.m. at Carol Yoakum Center; Tuesday, August 20, 10 a.m. at ConnectioNPoint; and Wednesday, August 21, 6 p.m. at the Habitat Lincoln Office. Information sessions are free and open to the public. 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 helps Habitat homeowners achieve the strength, stability, and independence 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 775 local individuals and nearly as many globally through Habitat International’s tithe program, serving approximately 1,500 individuals. More information about the organization and their Homebuyer Program can be found online at www.lincolnhabitat.org or by calling (402) 477-9184. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUILDING A DECK? We Work With You

Every Step 100% Of The Way

Customer Satisfaction

We take great pride in every deck we do no matter how big or small, and we truly believe that no job is complete until you are fully satisfied. When you choose Decks Unlimited you choose the best team in town. Whether it is to contract out labor, or consulting on your very own project, we are there for you every step of the way! We are dedicated to using the best products on the market, and going above and beyond when building our projects. We train knowledgeable and friendly carpenters to ensure our customers receive the best experience possible.

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402.601.5091 • Decksunlmtd@gmail.com DecksUnlimitedNE.com • 117 Harwood Ct, Lincoln AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

Now Is The Best Time To Sign Up For A Service Maintenance Plan On Your Cooling & Heating System! Some benefits of a Service Maintenance Plan are: • Lower fuel bills because your system is running at top efficiency • Extends life of equipment when properly maintained • We get a hold of you to schedule service to take pressure off of you • Potential problems are spotted before major expenses occur • Discounts on breakdowns • Peace of mind with service experts you can trust • Customized plans to fit your equipment with discounts on multiple systems

402-435-5555 • www.jhlincoln.com 44

Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

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NONPROFIT NEWS Youth for Christ Announces Traveling Display of Serving Hands Public Art Project To celebrate their 50th anniversary, Youth for Christ sponsored the Serving Hands public art project. For the first time, the project will include a smaller traveling display. The “little treasures,” which are life-sized hands compared to the six-foot sculptures placed around town, have been very popular so far. All Serving Hands sculptures were painted by local artists and funded by local organizations. To find a map of where you can find these beautiful statues around Lincoln and other updates, look on Youth for Christ’s Facebook page dedicated to the project (@ servinghandslincoln). The smaller sculptures will be displayed in seven locations around Lincoln up until their auction on October 24. They’ll even be at the Nebraska State Fair! The auction for the traveling exhibit pieces will take place during Youth for Christ’s Community Event at the Pinnacle Bank Arena. Kids’ activities will begin at 4 p.m. with food and beverages available. This is an opportunity to view all of the larger sculptures before the official auction the following evening on October 25. Event questions for this can be directed to Liz SheaMcCoy, Serving Hands director, at (402) 430-5923 / liz_shea@ windstream.net. Youth for Christ is a non-denominational, nonprofit organization serving youth in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. For more information, visit their website at www.yfclincoln.org or call (402) 420-7475.

TeamMates and Southeast Nebraska Cancer Center Unite for Community Service Project TeamMates of Lincoln is excited to partner with Southeast Nebraska Cancer Center (SNCC) for a special community care initiative. During the month of December, TeamMates mentors and mentees will support SNCC by making 600 soft, fabric hearts, which will be distributed by the Center and given to patients at the beginning of their treatment. SNCC has also generously donated funds to offset a portion of the costs of the 2019-20 TeamMates of Lincoln community service projects.

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Goin’ Fast & Lookin’ Good! DPC Unlimited LLC is a performance diesel and truck accessory outlet. We offer diesel performance parts and tuning required for on and off-road performance for big rigs and light-duty pickups. We also have your chrome and truck accessory needs covered from the front to the back and the top to the bottom.

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SNCC strives to treat their patients with compassion. Dr. Stavas, physician at the SNCC, developed the ‘Heart to Hold’ project to ease the suffering of those battling cancer. Dr. Stavas believes that squeezing the soft hearts releases patients’ nervous energy and holds amazing power by letting them know they are not alone in their battle. When the treatment concludes, they can bring the heart back and transfer it to another patient. Other recipients of TeamMates community service projects for this school year include Bryan NICU, Fresh Start, Whitehall Mansion, Lincoln Libraries, military personnel, the Cat House, and Camp Kesem. Learn more about TeamMates of Lincoln and their work in the community by going online to teammates.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

HEALTH NEWS Lincoln Chamber Welcomes Novo Chiropractic On May 2, Dr. Shane Davidson hosted a launc h party and ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the opening of his new practice, Novo Chiropractic. The celebration consisted of free food, over $2,000 in raffle prizes, and networking with family, friends, and the Lincoln community. The team at Novo Chiropractic also used the event as an opportunity to raise money for Child Evangelism Fellowship. Dr. Shane was born and raised in Lincoln. He attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, IA. After completing his residency out in Grand Rapids, MI, he came back home to Lincoln to open Novo Chiropractic, a state-of-the-art, neurologically-based health center. Dr. Shane has extensive training and experience in pregnancy, pediatrics, athletics, and overall wellness promotion. He has seen results with chiropractic for infertility, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, migraines, sinusitis, arthritis, acute pain, and much more. He has also had the opportunity to watch many children benefit from chiropractic care with health issues such as autism, ADHD, colic, bed wetting, and ear infections. Through Novo Chiropractic, located at 8601 S. 30th St., STE 108, Dr. Shane is excited to educate and support families in Lincoln, enabling babies, children, and adults to live a life of optimal health. To learn more, visit www.novolincoln.com or call (402) 817-7373.

Beth Friesen Publishes Book on Loving Someone with Dementia Beth Friesen, owner of Oasis Senior Advisors in Lincoln, has released her new book: I Love Someone with Dementia...So Why am I Losing My Mind? If you love someone with dementia, then you may find yourself wishing you had a map to better navigate this diagnosis. This book is designed to give an aerial view of this disease and how to navigate it without losing your mind in the process—where to go, who to see, what decisions need to be made, along with discussion questions to help you through this journey. Beth pulls from her own experience of having a mother with Alzheimer’s. Shortly before her death, she challenged Beth to “take good care of your people,” so the book is meant to inform people on what she and her family wished they had known, what they learned, and the resources that truly helped them along the way. “This book is an excellent and practical guide to help you navigate this tough challenge from the beginning to the end.” said Suzy Nootz, MSN, RN, CDP, country house residence for memory care. The book is available on Amazon, and a free e-book version is available at Beth’s website, www.bethfriesenrn.com. Make sure to stay tuned for upcoming book signing events as well!

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

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HEALTH NEWS EMRIS International Offers Luxury Lifestyle Products in Lincoln Jennifer Amend is excited to offer the luxury lifestyle products of EMRIS International here in Lincoln! As a knowledgeable brand ambassador for EMRIS, Jennifer is an advocate for their Synergy Broad Spectrum Hemp Extract Oils, Vida tablets, and Vitality Plus supplements. Unlike CBD-isolate products that only offer CBD by itself, EMRIS has a full spectrum proprietary blend which is rich in powerful terpenes and cannabinoids from American-grown hemp plants to help you experience the “entourage effect” and the true power of hemp extract oil (contains no THC). Synergy by EMRIS 100% made and organically grown in the United States. EMRIS has partnered with some of the largest hemp farms in the entire world in Colorado to produce genetic strains of phytocannabinoid-rich industrial hemp for their products. They are quality tested and lab approved to be free of solvents, pesticides, metals, and unnatural substances.

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UNMC Receives $3.7 Million Grant to Address Shortage of Geriatricians The U.S. Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) estimates a need for 33,200 geriatricians in the U.S. by 2025, but current projections estimate the supply at 6,230, a deficit of about 27,000. One way to solve a looming estimated shortage of 27,000 geriatricians, physicians who specialize in care of older adults, is to expand the access of primary care professionals to resources that assist them in addressing the unique and complex health issues of older adults. Thanks to a five-year, $3.7 million grant from HRSA, the University of Nebraska Medical Center is poised to address this problem. Spearheaded by Jane Potter, M.D., professor in the UNMC Department of Internal Medicine Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Medicine, the goal is to improve the health and health outcomes of older adults in Nebraska by educating teams of health providers in primary care settings to benefit patients, their families, and caregivers. The grant will provide education to teams in primary care using a medical home (PCMH) model. PCMHs use a team of health care providers, including physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, mental health professionals, and social workers, to care for patients as a team when they’re sick, but also keep them well. The grant also includes education and support for caregivers of persons with dementia; addresses the social determinants of health; and educates patients beginning to use opioids on the risks, benefits, and alternatives of these medications. The Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Project will be a fiveyear partnership between UNMC, primary care practices in across the state, the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, and the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter. Learn more online at www.upmc.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

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FRIENDS4LUNCH Last Month: Summer Break! Happy summer from the Strictly Business team! We hope that everyone is enjoying their summer so far. Though we missed seeing all of you in July for our monthly Friends4Lunch event, a summer break was much needed. With vacations, holidays, parties, fundraisers, golf tournaments, you name it...the summer is a busy time of year! Our team has definitely stayed busy, planning client appreciation events, fundraisers, and team outings, among other things. The picture below was taken on June 15 at Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides in Omaha, which we went to for our company retreat!

OMAHA FASHION WEEK August 18th-24th

This Month: H.F. Crave After taking a summer break, Friends4Lunc h is back and we are very excited about this next restaurant! Our entire Strictly Business team invites you to join us for Friends4Lunch on Tuesday, August 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the newly re-opened H.F. Crave! H.F. Crave is a local American burger restaurant that believes better burgers begin with better burgers. Every burger at their restaurant features all natural beef from their family’s farm, Hollenbeck Farms, which has been operating since 1901. Their free-range cows are not fed hormones, steroids, or antibiotics. The burgers are topped with fresh, local ingredients and served on a Brioche bun from Le Quartier Bakery. Stop in and taste the difference for yourself. H.F. Crave’s menu offers a variety of specialty burgers and a build-your-own-burger menu which includes vegetarian options. Along with the burgers, their menu includes salads, sides, and desserts! Another interesting feature about H.F. Crave is their bar which has a selection of local craft beers on tap! H.F. Crave is located at 4800 Holdrege St., STE 100. The restaurant is open Sunday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m., and Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. For more information or to check out their full menu, visit their website at hfcrave.com or go to the Facebook page (@hfcrave). For questions or catering inquiries, reach out to Nikke at hfcrave@gmail.com / (402) 480-7399. Please RSVP to office@strictlybusinessomaha.com or by calling the Strictly Business office at (402) 466-3330. Find the event on our Facebook page (@strictlybusinessmagazine).

August 24th

OFFICIAL AFTERPARTY Friends4Lunch is one of our continued monthly networking events held at one of our favorite local restaurants. The tradition was established in the hopes of offering a casual way to make valuable connections with friends and strangers alike in the area over lunch while supporting our clients and enjoying their amazing cuisine. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

www.omahafashionweek.com/tickets AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Water shouldn’t be hard. At Aqua Systems, we care about your family. We care your water is the safest and healthiest it can be and want to make it easy for you to get there. That's why we're passionate about water softeners and drinking water solutions proven to eliminate your water quality issues, while making buying and owning them simple, clear and affordable. We’ve been pursuing this passion for many, many years.

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Water should be clear. You should know your water is safe and healthy. We provide free water testing and provide in-store demonstrations so you can trust you’re getting the best results.

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Water should be simple. Our water softeners are designed so you never have to buy another system. And we offer home salt delivery and drive-thru services, so your water is not only easy to get, but easy to keep.

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402-466-6800 50

Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION Count on us for EVERY Season by Todd Ogden, President (402) 434-6900 • www.downtownlincoln.org (402) Creamery Churns Up Homemade Creations in the Downtown Haymarket

Tyler Mannix was working at a banking solutions company in Lincoln when he received an ice cream maker for his birthday in 2016.

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By September 2017, he’d opened (402) Creamery, the completely-made-fromscratch ice cream shop on 8th street in the Haymarket. “I’ve always loved ice cream and it’s always been something that no matter how full I was, I always had room for it,” Mannix said. “I was just looking for something that I could do that I would be passionate about and could make a living doing. I said I was either going to love it or hate it, and I fell in love with the process. Next thing you know, I own an ice cream shop.” (402) Creamery has made a name for itself in Lincoln with its product that is completely made in the shop, from the actual dairy ice cream to every single mix-in, which can vary from holiday pies to snickerdoodles to pound cake. Mannix also makes a point to be involved with the community by collaborating with local bakeries and businesses for specialty flavors. The menu is experimental as far as ice cream shops go. Choose between the year-round signature flavors like the popular Monster Cookie or the more classic Sweet Vanilla or Dark Chocolate, or try the rotating seasonal menu, with flavors like “Muffin Compares to This” (brown sugar ice cream, blueberry muffin pieces, and toasted oat streusel) or Mannix’s favorite, “Malty Python” (malted vanilla ice cream, brownies, caramel and chocolate swirls). “Sometimes it’s other people I talk to who come up with good ideas,” Mannix said. “Or sometimes I play off of flavors I’ve liked from other ice cream shops.” Either way, every seasonal flavor always gets a punny name. Creating each batch of ice cream is a two to three day process depending on how busy the shop is. Making ice cream from scratch means there needs to be time to let the base cool overnight and another day to churn before it’s ready to serve. For Mannix, the best part of his ice cream venture has been seeing the business grow in a short period of time, and seeing people try new flavors for the first time. “To be able to have other people enjoy the ice cream as much as I do, that’s what’s awesome about it,” he said. And the secret to great ice cream? “It’s attention to detail and quality products, and a passion for it,” Mannix said. “You try to make it the best you can and make everyone who comes in happy. I love what I do.”

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Visit (402) Creamery at 311 N. 8th St. or go online to www.402creamery.com! 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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FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL

402-610-0523

AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

“Constantine is amazing to work with and does an amazing job! I would not call anyone else. I called and, within a couple minutes, he called back and was at my door in less than an hour. He came in and fixed my heater in 20 minutes. All Pro is a great company with fair prices! Their customer service goes above and beyond any other company I have ever worked with.” - Leah B.

9 THINGS TO DO

BEFORE YOU CALL THE HVAC TECHNICIAN:

1. Check your thermostat settings. Make sure the temperature is set below room temperature and the system is on the COOL position. Make sure the fan is set to AUTO. 2. Lower the thermostat to its lowest temperature setting to try to get the air conditioner to turn on. 3. Make sure all the registers or vents are open and not blocked. It is crucial to check vents, ducts, and grills for blockage as that can be the leading factor of irregular air flow.

Serving the Lincoln area, All Pro Heating and Air Conditioning is available to help with all of your home’s heating, air conditioning, and ventilation needs. Constantine Syiny is the owner of All Pro Heating and Air Conditioning.

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If the problem continues, please give All Pro Heating and Air Conditioning a call!

4. If the airflow seems low, check the air filter. Dirty air filters can block airflow. 1” filters should be changed every month, 2” filters every 2 months, and 4”–5” filters should be changed every 6 to 12 months. 5. Check batteries in your electronic thermostat. 6. Check the power disconnect switch by both indoor and outdoor units. 7. Check electrical panel for the fuse/breaker for both indoor and outdoor units. 8. Make sure the furnace blower door is secure. 9. Check for debris in your outdoor unit. Property owners can utilize a hose to rinse the unit starting from the top to the bottom to remove excess debris once the power has been shut off.

(402) 405-2959 | allprolincoln.com | 3500 N. 44th St. 52

Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (402) 466-3419

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Three New Laws that Move Nebraska Forward in Positive Direction The Nebraska Legislature may have fallen short of its main priority to pass a property tax reform bill this year, but that does not mean the Legislature had an unproductive session. In fact, there were several bills passed this session that LIBA testified in support of that will protect the interests of Lincoln businesses by promoting good governance. One under the radar bill that passed early on in the session is LB103. This bill will provide much needed transparency when political subdivisions set their levies and decide how much in property taxes they plan to take. Oftentimes, political subdivisions will claim that they are not raising your taxes when they keep their tax levy the same, despite the fact that they are receiving more revenue from higher property tax reevaluations. LB103 will put an end to this practice by requiring political subdivisions to automatically reduce their levy a commensurate amount when property values go up. Political subdivisions will still have the option to take the windfall from higher property reevaluations, but they will have to set a public hearing and vote in order to do so, which will put politicians on the record for supporting higher property taxes. Another bill that will have a significant impact on Lincoln is LB616. This bill creates a new build-finance process to accelerate the construction of the South Beltway. It is estimated that LB616 could save as much as $10 million from the project costs for the South Beltway, and move up the timeline for the completion of the project by four years. This is great news for Lincoln. The confluence of commercial heavy truck traffic and local traffic on a stretch of Nebraska Highway 2 with multiple signalized intersections has resulted in serious safety issues. Over the past two decades, there have been 6,101 accidents along Highway 2, and 22 accidents involving one or more fatalities. Of these, five directly involved semi-trucks. Finally, the Legislature scored another victory with the passage of LB184, the Small Wireless Facilities Deployment Act. The wireless industry is planning to deploy hundreds of thousands of small cells across the country to boost the performance of current wireless services and prepare for the introduction of fifth generation wireless technology (5G). However, they have been slowed down by overburdensome government regulations and fees. Wireless companies have to negotiate with individual cities and municipalities to pay varying fees to access rights of way to attach these small cells. The annual small cell fee in Lincoln is $1,995 per device. In comparison, the fees to attach small cells in Des Moines, Denver, and Kansas City are $50 or less per small cell installation. LB184 streamlines the permitting process and caps fees that municipalities can charge wireless companies for access to rights of ways, which will pave the way for crucial investment from the wireless industry and the full benefits of 5G in Nebraska. These bills are just three examples of the positive work the Nebraska Legislature was able to accomplish in 2019. Property tax reform will once again be front and center when the Legislature reconvenes in 2020, but there will still be other opportunities to pass legislation that will improve the lives of Nebraskans. LIBA will continue working with Senators to identify and support bills that will hold the line on property taxes, create a safer environment in Lincoln, and spur private investment. 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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AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Ventilation is Key to Roof Lifespan

How does ventilation extend the life of my roof? Adequate ventilation can help prevent moisture buildup, which can prevent rotting in the wood. It also helps protect against weather related wear and tear, and increases the life of the shingles.

When moisture and humidity build up in your attic, it can cause wood rot and water damage. In the colder months, the moisture buildup can turn in to ice dams, which have the potential to threaten the structure of your roof. Ventilation techniques such as the ones listed below not only help extend the life of your roof, but they can help with the heating and cooling and energy costs in your home. Attic Fans—Not only do they help keep your roof young by ridding the area of excess moisture, but they can also save you tons in energy costs. In many of the warmer months, the fan can be used to cool the whole house. Vents—Adding a few vents to your attic space can help ventilate the area to keep the roof protected. There are multiple kinds of vents that you can use, but the type you use will largely depend on the kind of roof you have and the size and shape of your attic. If it’s time to replace the roof on your home, you can trust your home with Neemann & Sons for professional roofing design, installation, and repairs, using only quality products that fit your budget and exceed your expectations.

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(402) 423-4853 | neemannandsons.com 54

Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE by Wendy Birdsall, President

(402) 436-2350 • www.lcoc.com

Lincoln/Omaha Announce Tech Talent Initiative Lincoln and Omaha have many things in common, especially when it comes to the combined workforce. Boasting over 1.3 million people in the combined metro areas of both cities, there are many advantages we can use to our benefit. One area we’ve seen both Lincoln and Omaha excel in is the recruitment and job offerings for tech talent, and we are all in on capitalizing on this great asset. With our similarities, proximity, and common strengths, it only makes sense to collaborate and potentially turn the area into a super region. That’s exactly what we hope to do with the recent announcement of OPTiN, our new tech talent initiative between the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development and the Greater Omaha Chamber. This partnership to grow our tech talent pipeline will combine not only technology, but also growth and innovation as it shapes up to be the largest collaboration of its kind in Nebraska. As the region tackles the need for tech professionals, naturally it’s in our best interest to focus on the opportunities in tech that both cities provide. In addition to our branding efforts, we’re also launching a new website that lists tech jobs from companies in the region. Optinomalnk.com will feature a job portal that showcases tech jobs at Omaha and Lincoln companies while also building a brand and related messaging that blends the two cities as one tech super region. Our shared message and goals with OPTiN are so important because our tech ecosystem is incredibly strong, diverse, and a vital cog in our workforce development efforts. To attract these tech job seekers, we’re looking to bring in recent graduates, those that have connections to this super region through family and those that have lived here previously and can possibly return or “boomerang” back to the Good Life. The momentum behind our efforts remains strong in our super region, and our national reputation continues to grow as a result. In April 2019, MarketWatch named Lincoln/Omaha as America’s No. 1 New Tech Hot Spot. The resulting article from MarketWatch reads, in part, “Lincoln and Omaha, have both become havens for entrepreneurs seeking a home that’s not only affordable, but extremely supportive of new tech businesses.” Lincoln and Omaha have gained a deserved reputation as a corridor of innovation and a thriving environment for a variety of growing companies that operate at the intersection of technology and disruption. For example, Hudl, a world-renowned sports video software company, announced in May 2019 that they would pursue continued growth plans in the region. Hudl currently has 540 Nebraska-based employees—490 in Lincoln, and 50 in Omaha. Pictured (L-R): Dee Baird, Greater I want to thank everyone involved Omaha Chamber; Pat Haverty, Lincoln in making the announcement Partnership for Economic Development; and continued work on OPTiN, Mike Dunlap, Nelnet; Mindy Simon, including our business partners Conagra Brands; Dan Houghton, Buildertrend; Wendy Birdsall, and other local companies that have helped facilitate this effort. Lincoln Chamber of Commerce; David

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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, please contact Jaime Henning at jaimehenning@lcoc.com.

Back to

School

As summer draws to a close, teachers, parents, and students alike begin their back to school preparations. Whether you’re a parent of a student or you are preparing to continue your own education, this can be an equally stressful and exciting time. There are some basic things on the checklist to do before the school year starts, along with some things that you might not think about. We spoke to a few local professionals who shared some helpful tips when it comes to preparing to go back to school. “Back to school at the Lincoln Running Co. means a lot of cross country runners from all over the state making their way to our store for the right fit for their sport,” said Ann Ringlein with Lincoln Running Co. “You don’t have to be a cross country runner to want a great fitting athletic shoe though. Every Ann Ringlein student heading back to school should get fit Lincoln Running Co. just like the cross country runners do. Having

the proper shoe for PE classes or walking all over a bigger-than-you’reused-to college campus can make the difference in loving your situation or not loving it so much.” According to Ann, feet have a lot to do with your overall comfort. Going in and picking out your own shoes without being measured, fit, or counseled is asking for discomfort! Whether you are a state champion in cross country or you just do a lot of walking across campus for classes, having shoes that comfortably fit and support your feet is essential. Ann shared a few key tips with us: • Always get your feet measured when you shop for a new pair of shoes. Feet can change, even after you are done growing. • Bring in your old shoes, the experts at Lincoln Running Co. can read them like car tires and tell a lot about your gait. • If possible, come in later in the day to try on shoes as that is when your feet are as big as they are going to be. • Be willing to try on several different styles and always go with what feels the best—not which color you like the best.

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification Training

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Wednesdays, Sept. 25-Oct. 30, 6-8:30 p.m., Room 211, Jack J. Huck Continuing Education Center & Saturday, Nov. 2, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Zipline Brewery Co., 2100 Magnum Circle #1, Lincoln (lunch on your own) $360 per person

Tuesday-Thursday, Oct. 15-17, Nov. 19-21 and Dec. 17-19 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Jack J. Huck Continuing Education Center Room 302. $3,550 per person* Registration deadline: Oct. 1 *Buy 2, Get 1! Any organization that registers 2 team members will receive a 3rd seat for only $65! Online registration keyword: Sigma

Nebraska Cyber Security Conference

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Tuesday, Oct. 22, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., SCC Lincoln Campus, 8800 O St. Early Bird Rate (register by Sept. 20): $99 Regular Rate (register after Sept. 20): $119 Education Rate: $79 Online registration keyword: Cyber

Prerequisite: Advanced All-Grain Homebrewing or professional brewing experience. All participants must be at least 21.

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Aside from getting the right pair of shoes, if you or your student need additional athletic ware, Play It Again Sports has a great selection of quality new and used gear at affordable prices. “We’re stocked up with equipment for the upcoming fall sports— softball, football, volleyball, and youth soccer being the main ones.” Diane Hesson with Play It Again Sports informed us. “Shop early so you don’t miss out on the best selection!” Diane also pointed out how important it is for college students to maintain a consistent Diane Hesson exercise plan: “It might be hard to fit in a work Play It Again Sports out while you’re also balancing challenging courses, homework, extracurriculars, meetings, working a part-time or full-time job, a social life, and maybe even having a family to take care of. Especially if you’re a first-year college student, it’s difficult to get used to a new routine. When you have a long to-do list, make sure that your physical health is not last on that list. If it is, all your other commitments will suffer. Most campuses have basketball courts, tennis courts, soccer fields, tracks, gyms, and other areas for recreational sport. Join an intramural team or get a group of friends together to play a game. At Play It Again Sports, we have a collection of gear and equipment for almost any sport. We also buy used gear, so if you’re interested in making a few bucks for equipment that you no longer use or have room for, bring it to our store!” Echoing the importance of physical well being among students was Dr. Ashley Hayes with Express Life Chiropractic. “Taking the time to discuss study habits and stress management is important at the beginning of the school year,” stated Ashley. “Once school begins, we all become busy trying to keep up with school work and the demands of daily life. Developing a plan for transportation, study times, exercise, and meals will help decrease stress.” For families with children in school, Dr. Ashley Dr. Ashley Hayes Express Life Chiropractic recommends starting the year out with a plan for how to adapt to all the stresses that go along with going back to school: “Our bodies are constantly bombarded with different stresses; there’s physical, chemical, and emotional stress in our daily lives, and it adds up! It’s not about what that stress does to our body though, it’s about how our body adapts and responds to that stress.” This is why it’s important to have your student checked out by a trusted chiropractor. The thing about chiropractic care that we need to remember is that our entire body is affected by the condition of our spine and spinal cord. “Your spinal cord is what allows your brain and your body to communicate with each other,” Dr. Ashley noted. “It is the pathway for impulses from the body to the brain, and from the brain to the body. Without the right signals from our brain, our organs cannot function properly. This is why, if any part of this pathway is under stress or disrupted in any way, it will affect other functions of our body. For example, headaches/migraines, trouble sleeping, asthma, allergies, bed wetting, ADHD, low energy, acid reflux...the list goes on and on! This is why neurologically based chiropractic care, what we do here at Express Life Chiropractic, is a vital part of your overall health and beneficial for all ages. If you have a student who is involved in sports or they have some physical concerns in their daily life, or if you are a student yourself and the stress of school is taking a physical toll on your body, come see us! Our team wants you and your family to live your best life.” As the parent of a high school senior, you’ve likely already had many talks about “what’s next.” If your student hasn’t decided what their path is yet, we recommend looking into Southeast Community College (SCC). Higher education is definitely something that needs to be taken into consideration throughout high school, not just the months leading up to graduation. SCC is proud to offer dual credit opportunities to high school students to get a jump start on their post-secondary degree and #PrintProudDigitalSmart

CROSS COUNTRY RUNNING Find The Perfect Shoe For You!

We encourage customers to visit the store for a custom fit and brand for you and your running style. That's the Lincoln Running Co. experience! Stop in to get your new cross country shoes today! 1213 Q St.• LincRunningCompany.com • 402-474-4557

gear up for back to school We Buy, Sell, Trade Quality New & Used Sports & Fitness Equipment

Grab your gear today! • 48th & Vine PlayItAgainSportsLincoln.com • 402.483.7447 Mon-Thurs 10-8 • Fri-Sat 10-6 • Sun 12-5

explore career opportunities while still in high school. Through either the DC Advantage or Career Academy (SENCAP) programs, students can earn both high school and college credit. By completing dual credit courses through either program, students will begin to acquire college credit hours to apply towards a Program of Study at SCC or a fouryear intuition by transferring dual credit hours earned after graduating high school. Dual credit courses are offered in a 16-week format and delivered through a variety of channels: online, distance learning, or face-to-face with a certified dual credit SCC instructor. Classes begin in August and January of every year. It’s good to talk to your student’s high school counselor about these options! If you are looking for a career change or would like to reduce your debt as you pursue a bachelor’s degree, Southeast Community College is the place for you. SCC offers more than 50 Programs of Study, most of which can be completed in 18–24 months. There are online options, including the ability to complete some programs entirely online. SCC also offers hundreds of non-credit classes and workshops in a variety of topics and has eight intercollegiate athletic programs, four for men and four for women. Approximately 9,500 students enroll at SCC annually, taking courses at campuses in Beatrice, Lincoln, and Milford. SCC also offers courses in Lincoln at two off-campus sites, including its Jack J. Huck Continuing Education Center and a downtown satellite campus known as Education Square. SCC also offers Adult Basic Education classes and citizenship classes, and General Educational Development tests for students who have not earned a high school diploma. In summary, no matter where you’re at in your educational career, make your health a priority and be prepared for what’s next— ﬁnancially, mentally, and physically. Find what you are passionate about then prepare yourself to take the necessary steps to reaching your goals, and if you’re a parent, encourage your kids to do the same. AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

When we moved in, I purposely had the walls in our facility painted white, to assure our customers that being a clean, automotive repair facility is what we strived for. Cleanliness was what we wanted to attain with every automotive repair: every single day. We have had some customers frown on our floor in the past, so I owed it to them and our team to invest in a new floor that would make the shop feel clean and welcoming to everyone. We had a company come in and epoxy the entire shop and finish it off with red and white flake (GBR). We also added a 12,000 lb lift to help us better serve bigger vehicles.

Bring on every single manufacturer vehicle, they will all look great on our new floor! Thankful for all the support and always #GBR!

A1 Automotive 1117 L Street, Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 477-4660 A1AutoLincoln.com 58

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Summer Auto Care There are many misconceptions and little-known facts about car maintenance during the summer. Most people are only worried about their car breaking down in the cold, but being stranded out in the heat can be just as bad. Local experts shared their advice with us to keep your vehicle safe and moving through the summer heat. When thinking about how you need to protect your car, it’s important to remember that harsh sun rays can damage the exterior, interior, and even the engine.

your vehicle’s body is damaged, it can effect sensors all over the vehicle, even outside of the damaged area. If those sensors aren’t scanned and updated, both before AND after the repair, your vehicle’s safety devices may be compromised. Tracy’s includes a Safety Sensor Diagnostic as part of their repair process and do it both before and after the repair to be sure that all potential sensor problems have been identified and addressed. Tracy’s Collision Center has been in business since 1969. They

Exterior The exterior of the car receives the most direct rays, which can really do a number on your paint job. The heat from the sun can fade and crack your paint, so it’s important to wash and dry your car about once every two weeks during the summer. Also, remember to give your car a good wax at least twice a year. A good way to test whether or not it’s time for a wax is by splashing a little bit of water on your car. If it doesn’t bead up, it’s probably time to get a new coat. JetSplash offers a Hot Wax on their wash menu as a part of their $35/month membership package, among other washes like rim cleaner, tire shine, rain repellent, underbody spray, door jambs, and hand-dry finishes. All exterior washes include free vacuum use as well! JetSplash’s $40/month membership package also includes a Mud Blasters wash. This is great for after you take your vehicle on dirt roads or find yourself in a muddy situation after it rains. Car owners need to realize how damaging dirt and mud can be to a vehicle. The underside of your car is particularly vulnerable. Mud and dirt, when left in crevices or corners to dry on your car’s undercarriage, can cause rusting. The summer heat causes the mud to dry even faster, so get to one of JetSplash’s five locations in Lincoln right after taking your car through the dirt. A special add-on that JetSplash also offers is Jet Gloss. This “sud stud” of a wash removes itty-bitty dirt and dust from your car’s surface, making for a noticeably smoother, glossier finish. It’s just a $4 upgrade ($3 for members). Your vehicle is the second largest investment you’re likely to make. Preserve its value and your safety by having it repaired and maintained professionally. At Tracy’s Collision Center, they can run a Safety Sensor Diagnostic, which is an electronic scan of the sensors in your vehicle. Today’s vehicles are like computers on wheels, they contain hundreds of electronic sensors that work together to make your vehicle run safely and efficiently. When #PrintProudDigitalSmart

AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

operate two facilities in the Lincoln area and are dedicated to integrity. According to their team, integrity is the difference between a car that performs like new and one that just looks like it.

You have a choice “Thanks Lincoln!” where to take your Call Us Today car after a collision. 1500 Center Park Rd 4538 Cornhusker Hwy So why not take it 402-441-4800 402-441-4820 to the best? www.TracysBodyShop.com

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Interior There’s nothing worse than leaving the hot air of outside just to get in even hotter air inside your car. When your car sits outside exposed to direct sunlight, its metal shell absorbs the heat and acts as an oven, heating the air inside. The air inside your car on a hot day can heat to 140° F or higher! The surfaces of your car, like your seats, seatbelts, and steering wheel, can heat to over 195° F. Here are a few simple things to protect your car’s dash, seats, and other internal components: • Use seat and steering wheel covers • Use a windshield sun protector (they aren’t as scary as they look!) • Keep your dash clean with a microfiber cloth to make sure dust and dirt don’t cause tiny scratches • Park in the shade or anywhere that doesn’t have direct sunlight • If it’s safe to do so, open the windows just a crack to equalize the air pressure and stimulate air flow • Keep leather seats clean and conditioned If not properly protected, the sun can cause some major damage to the interior of your car. Sun damage can lead to fading, cracking, or unwanted spots and stains so make sure to use preventative methods whenever you can. One method that isn’t listed above is window tinting. Tinting windows not only protects your car from sun damage, but it also elevates the safety, privacy, and energy-saving aspects of your car. Window tinting blocks 99% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

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At GP Customs, they can install premium SunTek window tint all the way around your whole vehicle for maximum heat rejection and privacy. Their restyling experts also specialize in other services like paint protection film, wheel painting, brake caliper painting, smoking/tinting tail lights, and dechroming. “With the summer heat here in full force, treat yourself to a cooler car these warm months,” encouraged Robert Peinado, owner of GP Customs. “There is no need to be uncomfortable on your drive to work, home, or even the grocery store. When you have a Tint Job from GP Customs, you can count on your car being a lot cooler when you get into it on these hot days. Window film can cut down on as much as 70% of the heat in your vehicle!” Under the Hood Robert Peinado GP Customs The engine and mechanical components of your car are the most vital. Sun beams won’t simply affect there look, they could potentially cause a breakdown.

We offer a FREE loaner vehicle while your vehicle is in for repairs or maintenance! STOP IN TODAY! 131 Russwood Parkway 402.486.9880 • inmotionautocare.com

Strictly Business AUGUST 2019

It’s always important to fill your engine with high quality fluids to ensure the long life of your vehicle. Always follow manufacturer’s instruction in terms of topping off oil and other internal fluids. For gas, go to a reputable station like Phillips 66. Their gas has three times more detergent than the minimum required by the EPA. Detergent in gas is important to prevent carbon deposits which can build up on your engine’s intake valves, on the piston rings, and in the combustion chamber. Deposits can increase emissions and absorb fuel, decreasing gas mileage. Always make sure to get all your fluids from credible companies to avoid larger problems down the road. In addition, we spoke to Sherri Stock, owner of inMOTION Auto Care, for some tips on how to keep your vehicles in the best condition throughout the heat. Sherri has over 25 years of experience working on automotives under her belt. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Sherri Stock inMOTION Auto Care

“One fact some people often forget is that coolant is equally as important in the summer as the winter,” she said. “It keeps your car from overheating and your engine in good shape. Taking care of small things at your regular appointments will save you so much energy and money in the long run as those tiny issues build to big problems very quickly. For example, do your brake inspections before it causes an issue! Not doing them can not only cause damage to the vehicle, but it can also be a huge risk for you driving.”

i n M OT I O N A u t o C a r e i s n o t o n l y committed to their customers but also to the environment. Their firm commitment to being environmentally friendly drives all the actions in the shop. They pride themselves on recycling as much as possible and hosting a 1,000-square-foot garden behind the shop. Their mechanics will definitely enjoy freshly grown fruits and veggies this summer season! Fleet Maintenance If you’re in charge of a fleet of vehicles, you know that the maintenance of those vehicles is key to the success of your business. Whether you have an established program with specific service providers or not, it’s imperative that you build relationships with your local service provider to keep your vehicle in the best shape possible. We interviewed some local vehicle service providers for the best tips on how to keep your fleet running as smoothly as possible through the summer heat. According to T.O. Haas Tire & Auto Marketing Manager Fred Knight, attention to detail is the best way to care for a fleet of vehicles. T.O. Haas Tire & Auto offers full-service fleet maintenance to help business owners to keep their vehicles on the road and not losing income during timely repairs. “The main piece of advice I have for anyone caring for multiple vehicles is to pay strict attention to the regular interval services that you’ll require like oil changes, tire rotations, or fluid flushes. Also, be sure to follow the recommendations made by the manufacturer in regards to caring for your vehicles. Don’t go overboard or you could potentially spend more money than necessary or even damage your vehicle. One last thing,” Fred added, “not paying attention to the condition of your vehicle can make a small, easily fixable problem turn into a costly, timeconsuming ordeal that would take one of your fleet off the road.” Fred also cleared up a common misconception for us: “Most people know that batteries are killed by the cold, but they’re actually damaged more quickly by heat. Don’t get stranded by getting your battery checked by a professional during your normal oil change and tire rotation.” We also spoke with Kendall Warnock, owner of A1 Automotive, who shared some advice on keeping your fl eet of vehicles out on the streets. A1 Automotive has been providing fl eet management services for local Lincoln businesses since 2005. They provide reliable and fast diagnostics because when it comes to fleet vehicles, time is money. “One of the biggest mistakes I see companies make is a lac k of time Kendall Warnock dedication,” Kendall stated. “It’s hard to give up the fleet vehicles because A1 Automotive that means downtime, but with this downtime we eliminate any and all safety related issues which means keeping your employees safe while getting the job done. Properly maintained vehicles reduce unscheduled repairs and downtime. Preventative maintenance may include oil changes, tire #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Beat the Summer Sun with Automotive Window Tinting INVEST IN YOUR COMFORT AND VEHICLE’S LONGEVITY

Keep Your Interior Cool Protect From Harmful UV Rays CALL FOR AN ESTIMATE Auto • Residential • Commercial 402.421.0888 1501 Cushman Dr. | GP-Customs.com rotation/inspection, and general vehicle safety checks. One thing I specifically want to highlight is the ol’ check-your-tire-pressureregularly speech. We hear about the importance of tire pressure all the time, but often times overlook this important aspect of vehicle maintenance. Tire pressure affects vehicle handling, tire wear, and fuel mileage—all contributing to vehicle and driver safety. Also overlooked is the affect of air temperature on tire pressure with the changing seasons. Instill the importance of checking and maintaining tire pressure with your drivers.” Heated wheels are more at risk for damage from leaks, sharp objects, and slipping. Make sure to check your tire tread to ensure you can safely make it to where you need to be. One easy way to do this is with a penny. Simply insert a penny, upside down, into the groove of the tire. If the tread doesn’t cover the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to head into the shop for some new tires! Also look out for cuts, cracks, or bulges in the sidewall. They’re all red flags that you need new tires pronto. Even if you utilize preventative strategies, there’s still a chance your car could overheat and/or breakdown. Make sure you know who to call if and when that happens. LTR Towing has 24/7 availability and are fully insured. They’re locally operated and have been serving Lincoln, Omaha, and the surrounding areas for 23 years. They want to make sure that you are safe and able to get to your preferred auto shop with as little stress and wait time as possible. From morning commutes to summer road trips, make sure to ensure that your car can stand the heat. Always be sure to do the recommended regular checkups to avoid any major, costly auto issues. Stay cool. Stay safe. Stay moving. AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

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On average, it takes about a year to a year and a half to plan a wedding. Timelines can vary depending on the size, location, and theme of your wedding. There are a lot of things to consider and, sometimes, it can feel a little overwhelming. To help you on your journey to “I do,” we spoke to some wedding experts for some advice on making your special day perfect. The Bachelor + Bachelorette Party The purpose of having a bachelor or bachelorette party leading up to your wedding is to celebrate with your closest friends, have a lot of fun, and basically pay one last tribute to your single life. It is also a time for you to get away from the entire wedding planning stress and to let loose. Planning an engaging bachelor/bachelorette party is important. Some groups choose to “ball out” and travel to an exciting destination like Las Vegas or Nashville, but for those who want to save a dime and keep the festivities local, we have some recommendations for you. The key is to do something different than what you’d normally do on the weekend. If you’re used to going out and hitting up the bars downtown, think of some ways to mix things up. For example, instead of driving yourself or getting an Uber, get a party bus! Tailored Dreams Limousines & Party Buses offers a custom, luxury party bus experience at economical prices. Party buses are fun because you and your group can pregame with some drinks before getting to your destination, jam out to the music that gets you hyped up, and dance your hearts out...all while cruising around town! You don’t have to worry about making a mess at your home or being too loud, all you have to worry about is having a good time. “At Tailored Dreams, we have an unmatched Wedding Package,” DeeDee Loomis, owner of Tailored Dreams Limousines & Party Buses, informed us. “Our fleet includes five decked out limousine-style party buses, two that are handicap accessible, accommodating up to 45 people in our largest bus. 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.” “Wedding parties that book one of our buses DeeDee Loomis for both their wedding and bachelor and/or Tailored Dreams bachelorette party get a discount!” DeeDee Limousines & Party Buses added. “With our Wedding Package, the limousine details are taken care of for you. Our professional chauffeurs will arrive in a tuxedo and literally roll out the red carpet for you, making you feel as special as you are on your day.” The planning of your day is a exciting ordeal. DeeDee recommends that, once you have your ceremony and reception locations set, to make your transportation reservations and plans as soon as possible. “With us being in the transportation industry for 20 years, we have seen #PrintProudDigitalSmart

a change in the amount of time needed to reserve your transportation,” DeeDee shared. “It use to be three to six months before the date. Now, if your date is on a Saturday from April to September in the late afternoon, to early evening, reservations are being made nine to 18 months ahead of time.” Bachelor/bachelorette parties can be a whole weekend’s worth of activities. For the bachelor party, a great place to either start or end the night is Capital Cigar Lounge. They offer a high-quality selection of cigars, whiskey, and atmosphere. Cigars also make a great bachelor or wedding gift! “Capital Cigar Lounge was created to make any experience memorable, personable, and intimate,” said Natalie Drozd, director of marketing for the lounge. “This includes any wedding-related event such as the bachelor/ bachelorette party, all the way to the after party. We can provide spirit options with personalized, themed cocktails, bartenders, and servers. Capital Cigar Lounge is unique because of the unparalleled customer service experience created by our team. On your special day, you deserve to have a team Natalie Drozd who is dedicated, attentive, and truly cares Capital Cigar Lounge about making the event the best it can be.” Natalie told us that she is noticing wedding parties opting for a more intimate experience with fewer guests. This model fits perfectly with the Capital Cigar Lounge philosophy of quality over quantity. The most exciting part of wedding planning is the process of creating an experience to celebrate love with the people who matter most. Capital Cigar Lounge values relationships and will ensure a memorable experience through their efforts on your special day. For a fun bachelorette daytime outing, we recommend calling Burton & Tyrrell’s Flowers and reserving their shop for a DIY floral arranging party! If you love flowers, you will treasure this experience. Your bachelorette party can bring wine and snacks and learn all sorts of tips and tricks on floral design and decorating. This could experience can double as an interactive way to create your center pieces for your wedding day! Chances are, your friends will feel special that they get to help create a part of your picture-perfect wedding. On that note, it’s important to choose a florist who you can trust. We spoke to Gary Tharnish, an expert with 40 years of experience in the wedding industry as a wedding planner and owner of Burton & Tyrrell’s Flowers, to give us an insight on how to plan the most beautiful wedding with the least amount of stress. “One of the most important aspects that a bride and her family need to discuss before starting planning is setting an overall budget. Sometimes, girls come into the shop and have Gary Tharnish Burton & Tyrrell’s Flowers no idea what their flower budget is, which is an issue. Decide what is most important to you, whether that be the dress, flowers, invitations, or whatever, and adjust your budget accordingly,” Gary told us. “If you want to keep costs and stress down, don’t plan your wedding around Mother’s or Valentine’s Day. Your florist will be swamped and the flowers will be more expensive because of cost and demand.” Gary also told us about some of the trends he thinks will stick around for a while: “Lots of greenery! A lot of people are leaning towards flowing greenery with only a pop of flowers as accents. Another thing I’ve noticed are cascade bouquets returning from the 80s and 90s. One common mistake that I want to warn brides about is bringing a picture in from Pinterest and expecting your florist to be able to copy that exactly within your budget. Remember that the photo says nothing about season or cost. The most gorgeous weddings I’ve done is when a bride gives me general parameters and gives me the trust to make it perfect.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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SOUTHPOINTE 2900 Pine Lake Rd Suite C Lincoln, NE 68516 402.420.2244 GRAND ISLAND 3337 W State St Grand Island, NE 68803 308.382.5850 www.sartorhamann.com

AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

Florists need to be hired about eight to nine months before the wedding in order to give them as much time as possible to work with you and accomplish your goals. Before flowers, you’ll need to know your venue in order to decide on what kind of vibe you are going for. You’ll also want to have an approximate wedding size and party nailed down in order to know the number of centerpieces, bouquets, and boutonnieres. Your florist should be one of the first services you book after confirming a venue and guest list. Wedding Gifts When picking out a wedding gift for your friend or family member who is getting married, keep in mind that the presents that mean the most are those that are thoughtful and useful. Going with something off the registry is always a good choice because you automatically know that it is something the bride and groom want and will use. If you’re someone who wants to put a little more of yourself behind your gift with something personally picked out, then here are some creative ideas. Since weddings are such a costly undertaking and transitioning to the life of a newlywed can be stressful, think about a gift that will make life easier for the happy couple in the weeks that follow the wedding...such as a monthly beef box from Nebraska’s Own Ranch-Raised Beef! We spoke to Tyson Cox for more details. “Can’t think of the perfect gift to give the couple to be? We have the solution!” Tyson exclaimed. “Give the gift of ranch raised beef from Nebraska’s Own! We’ve recently Tyson Cox started serving flax fed beef and have Nebraska’s Own noticed an immediate difference in taste Ranch-Raised Beef and health benefits. At Nebraska’s Own, we supplement our cattle with a unique flax seed combination that delivers biologically effective Omega 3 fatty acids. The result is a delicious beef with all the flavor and high quality protein you crave. You notice

Friends and Flowers Upcoming Classes

WITH GARY THARNISH AT BURTON & TYRRELL'S FLOWERS Saturday, August 10 1:00-2:30

Wednesday, August 14 6:30-8:00

Fresh Flower Arrangement Class $50.00 per person You will create an arrangement you can take home.

Fall Silk Flower Wreath Class $65.00 per person You will create a fall wreath that you will take home.

Call and reserve early as classes fill up quickly! Custom bachelorette parties and business team building events available upon request. Call or email Gary. 402-421-2613 burtontyrrells@gmail.com btflowers.com

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that quality difference in our meat, and that’s why our products make a perfect gift for any meat-loving couple!” Another gift idea is jewelry. How fun would it be to surprise the bride-to-be at her own bridal shower with fun accessory, keepsake, or bridal jewelry? Sartor Hamann Jewelers has an amazing new line of stunning, sterling silver, platinum plated, cubic zirconia jewelry at the perfect price point. “Stop by and see our new line of LaFonn Jewelry,” Tami Wilson R.J., sales and design specialist, encouraged. “These pieces make the perfect ‘Congratulations!’ gift for any bride. Select a stunning solitaire necklace, glittering hoops, or fun bangle bracelet that matches the bride’s personality. Choose from many timepieces for men for the perfect groom’s gift also. You can’t go wrong with a handsome watch, and you can get it engraved—with names, initials, date of the wedding, etc.—to make the gesture even Tami Wilson R.J. more meaningful.” Sartor Hamann Jewelers Sartor Hamann is now the official jeweler of the Nebraska Huskers, so that is something to keep in mind if the bride and groom are die-hard Husker fans. Check out their new line of Husker-sponsored jewelry at any of the three Sartor Hamann locations: SouthPointe Pavilions, Downtown Lincoln, and Grand Island. Engagement + Wedding Rings “Jewelry trends change slowly,” explained Tami, who has 35 years of experience as a certified gemologist. “The classic solitaires with or without diamond Halos in white, yellow gold, or rose gold remain in high demand. Sartor Hamann has so many styles to choose from. Even a solitaire is easy to make fun and fresh with the many styles of stack-able bands that we have on hand. Place one on each side for a crisp flank of diamonds or filigree style.” In the wedding planning process, Tami recommends getting a jump on buying your wedding bands, allowing yourself the time and budget to get the ones you really like. Sartor Hamann has a vast selection! Your wedding bands last for the lifetime of the marriage. Thank goodness, Sartor Hamann has easy financing and 10-month, no-interest layaway. “If you’re planning on soldering the rings together, do it before the wedding so you don’t have to spend time away from your rings after the ceremony,” Tami advised. “Our professional jewelers can polish them and make the rings like new so it glitters when placing it on the finger for the special ceremony. You’ll both be guaranteed compliments!” Selecting Your Venue Selecting the venues for your wedding will define a lot of other aspects of the planning process. When you think about all of the different wedding events you’ll need a venue for—bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, the ceremony, reception, etc.—you’re going to have to make decisions based on availability, proximity, cost, personal preference, and likely a myriad of other things. You definitely have to be on top of reservations for all aspects of your wedding in order to get all of the services you and your wedding party require. This is especially important when choosing a venue. You have to tour them, decide if the space will be right for your wedding size and budget, start to plan decorations that will fit the space, try to picture yourself getting married there, and work out dozens of other small details before make a final decision. For your rehearsal dinner, an iconic venue that offers a skyline view, or as close as you can get in Lincoln, is the Nebraska Club. For over 60 years, couples have kicked off their married lives at the Nebraska Club, located on the 20th floor of the US Bank building. The downtown venue can accommodate groups of 15 to 250. Their in-house event planner works with the chef to make sure every special occasion goes off without a hitch. With a well-organized and carefully-designed banquet and private party menu, it is easy to select the food and serving style you want. The Nebraska Club has a wide selection of #PrintProudDigitalSmart

appetizers, entrees, sides, and desserts to choose from. They can also do a themed-dinner buffet, standard buffet, carving board dinner buffet, or plated dinner. Plus, there are a variety of bar packages. Another great venue option is Graduate Lincoln. The Graduate is a perfect place for couples with a lot of out-of-town guests on the invite list. The Graduate prides itself on its playful atmosphere and vintage vibe with the spirit of Nebraska as its core inspiration. Jaylynn Schubauer gave us a rundown on why Graduate Lincoln could be your perfect venue. Jaylynn works with brides on a weekly basis to organize room reservation, menu options, and much more. “Well, to start, we have different ballroom sizes to accommodate most wedding sizes. We have the Ardis Ballroom, which fits 450 guests, the Scarlett Ballroom, which fits 200, and the Legends which can fit up to 100 people. We also have a Bridal Suite for bride’s to utilize to minimize stress on their wedding day,” Jaylynn added. “It’s a great space to do hair and makeup in for the bride and her party. For the groom, we have a Topgolf Swing Suite that gives an immersive golf experience. Most grooms and their groomsmen enjoy relaxing before it’s time to get the show on the road.” Jaylynn also told us how to best assure that you can get your dream venue with the least amount of stress: “The sooner you can contact the reception venue the better! When couples have a variety of date options, let’s say summer 2020, rather than just one day, like June 15, then they can get the most of their experience by guaranteeing every facility they need will be available on their wedding day.” When we spoke to Matthew Rogge at the Talon Room, another popular venue option in Lincoln, he flipped it around and recommended trying to plan things in a short, specific amount of time in order to limit what is available. According to Matthew, having less options is actually better and will make for a less stressful experience. This is good for couples who don’t already have a dream venue in mind. Matthew also talked about how locking down the catering for your wedding goes hand in Matthew Rogge hand with selecting the venue. Some places Talon Room will have full-service catering in house. Others will have more limited options or none at all. Matthew pointed out that Talon Room does both onsite and offsite catering. “If you reserve a rent-to-suit venue that allows outside catering, I recommend bringing the Talon Room to your event with our top-notch food and beverage catering options,” Matthew said. “Our beverage catering is especially popular as we can do any event, anytime, anywhere. For $50/hour, you can have a full-service bar at your event, complete with delivery, bartenders, licensing, and event coordination.” “Our catered wedding special has been the perfect arrangement for many couples as well,” Matthew added. “You can get a two-entree dinner buffet and wedding venue for a reasonable price, which includes full-day event space rental, setup and teardown of tables and chairs, selection of standard length linens, and the bartender and cleaning fee.” The Talon Room can accommodate about 200–250 max in their main event space on the lower level of the old Spaghetti Works building. Talon Room now has a second part to their venue as well, which is the space where Dempsey’s used to be on the building’s main floor. Wedding parties can choose to utilize one or both of these spaces for their wedding and/or reception. The space on the main floor can hold about 85 people. Matthew also pointed out that they host a biannual wedding gala at Talon Room to showcase preferred vendors in Lincoln with free food tastings and specials offered to guests. Stay tuned for information on their winter gala in January. Speaking of preferred vendors, we also want to highlight Venue Events & Catering. Offering five private dining rooms and two large banquet facilities, Venue can meet the needs of your wedding party in more ways than one. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Life is a Journey, Make it Amazing!

402-889-3870 | tailoreddreamslimousines@gmail.com Tailoreddreamslimousines.com

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On top of it all.

Weddings - Receptions Rehearsal Dinners - Showers Gift Opening Celebrations

20th Floor of the US Bank Building Downtown Lincoln 402.476.3228 nebraskaclub.net

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“We have a very talented catering team that can create a custom menu, tailored to what you’re envisioning for your special day,” said Cherie Anderson with Venue Events & Catering. “Being a completely scratch-based kitchen gives us the flexibility to give our clients the flavors they are looking for while keeping the food quality at a maximum. Not only can we serve up to 1,000 people for large wedding receptions, but we can also take care of the catering needs for all of the events leading up to the reception. We have Cherie Anderson private rooms at Venue Restaurant & Lounge, Venue Events & Catering Piedmont Bistro, and Cactus Modern Mexican & Cantina that work perfectly for bridal showers, couples showers, and rehearsal dinners. We also handle all of the catering needs for the Scottish Rite Ballroom and the Jasmine Room, and are a preferred caterer at Glacial Till, Champions Club, and the Wick Alumni Center. We cater all over the city of Lincoln and the surrounding areas. No matter where you decide to have our catering served at, you will be working with an event planner on all of the details to ensure you receive amazing food and excellent service.” Cherie also added that if you book your wedding reception with Venue, they will waive the room fee for your wedding rehearsal dinner or bridal shower in one of their private dining rooms. They also offer day-of wedding munchies/platters for the wedding party prior to the wedding as this is typically an all-day affair. Regardless of where your wedding festivities take place, transportation will always need to be taken into consideration. Think about getting from one venue to the next, especially if the ceremony and reception are at different locations. You don’t want anyone in the wedding party, including parents/grandparents of the bride and groom and other attendants, to have to worry about parking, walking to their vehicle, and risk getting lost or messy on the way. If you’re the bride and your

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bridal party is all getting ready together in one place and then driving over to where the ceremony is help, you just want them to make it there on time and looking their best for pictures and a good time. This isn’t necessarily the time for a party bus, that’s why we recommend renting a fashionable, full-size SUV or conversion van from Rent-A-Van for the day. With a nice, clean vehicle that has ample space, your wedding party can stick together and arrive in style. Ask an acquaintance or neighbor ahead of time to be the designated driver for the day so that your friends and family who are in the wedding don’t have to worry about it. Decorations Picking the right wedding flowers for your big day takes careful planning. Consider all the areas that may be enhanced with flowers, such as bouquets, corsages/boutonnieres, the altar, the archway or canopy, podium or lectern, ends of the pews or aisle itself, the entry, guest book table, dinner tables, buffet line, window ledges, etc. As you research wedding flowers that fit the overall theme and design of your big day, putting together a quick list of wedding flowers you are interested in will help guide you and your wedding florist in making final decisions. According to Sara Sudman, owner of Fields Floral, roses, tulips, and calla lilies are formal and appropriate choices for bridal bouquets. “The bride’s flowers are often larger and more detailed, setting it apart from the bridesmaid’s bouquets,” Sara told us. Sara Sudman “The bridesmaid’s bouquets may also be Fields Floral composed of lighter colors, while the bride’s bouquet is more fresh and vibrant. Typical flowers used for the groom’s and groomsmen’s boutonnieres may include carnations, roses, and orchids. Similar to the bride and main of honor, choosing a unique boutonniere for the best man through a different type of flower, color,

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or size is common. For the ceremony and reception, I recommend freshly picked blooms such as roses and peonies. Roses historically have symbolized love and fertility—this is why it’s a tradition to toss rose petals up in the air as the newlywed couple leaves their ceremony.” The Dress Your bridal gown is the most self-expressive garment you’ll ever wear. The best part of wedding planning is being able to choose your perfect bridal look. That is why it’s easy to put a lot of pressure on this part of the process, but Emmy Gorman, owner of Blush Bridal Boutique, reminds us that this is a fun step in the wedding planning and it should be done with celebration! “Some of our Blush Brides have loved to take advantage of our Signature Appointment at Blush Bridal,” Emmy told us. “This includes Emmy Gorman Blush Bridal Boutique an after-hours try-on session, private for up to 10 guests, and plenty of light bites and bubbly! Our brides love being able to have the wedding gown experience with a little bit of a party too.” “Blush Bridal customizes a majority of bride’s gowns and accessories,” Emmy added. “We have relationships with our designers where we are able to create one-of-a-kind dresses and accessories. In 2017, we acquired Lovebird Jewelry Collective. All of our jewelry is handmade right here in Lincoln! Blush Brides inspire jewelry trends that the rest of the US follows, including Kleinfeld bridal, our largest Lovebird client. We also offer a Sentiments Package exclusively for our Blush Brides, which is a great way to score some discounts and preserve those designs after the wedding day. Emmy also shared some expert tips with us: “Start looking for your gown 9–12 months before your wedding. Your finishing touches will generally be 4–6 months prior to the big day. As far as current trends, I’ve seen a lot of brides opt for sheer bodice gowns, black wedding dresses, and/or ornate halo headpieces. Another neat fad is throwing a rustic motorcycle jacket on with the last name studded on the back—it definitely adds a unique flare to photos.” Hair + Makeup Something that may be thought of as a day-of step is hair, skin, and nails, but in reality you should plan weeks, if not months, ahead for your wedding day look. At Ovation Salon, they help you start the planning process by recommending looks that compliment your hair type, skin tone, and face shape. We asked John Aguirre, owner of Ovation Salon, for more details on how their team of professionals can help wedding parties look the best they can. “Creating a perfect wedding hair-do is a John Aguirre creative, collaborative process that takes Ovation Salon time and thought,” John said. “I always recommend coming in with ideas for a trial run before the actual day of the ceremony and reception. That way, brides can get a general idea of their true desired outcome after seeing it in person.” “Some brides are so focused on their own hair, they completely forget to plan ahead for the rest of their bridal party,” John added. “If brides want everything to be uniform, they need to pick out a hairstyle that will be flattering for all their bridesmaids or something coordinating and flexible. At Ovation Salon, we can also take care of the groom and his groomsmen to make sure they all look great too.” Weddings are a special time full of family, friends, and love. Good planning will let you focus on these things in the moment instead of stressing because everything has been thought through ahead of time and taken care of. That is our hope for you! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Let us execute the event of your dreams. Call Matt today to book your event! 402-641-0943 ∙ www.TalonRoom.com ∙ 230 N. 12th St. #1 Lincoln, NE

PLANNING A WEDDING OR SPECIAL EVENT? Make your special day one to remember! 402.483.4564 | FieldsFloral.com | 3845 S. 48th St. AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

The future of your business starts here.

The Cornhusker Bank Corporate Banking Team wants to help you take your business to the next level. We want to help you take your business to the next level. Wherever you are in your business journey, weâ€™re here to help. With Cornhusker Bankâ€™s team of local experts, you can be confident that you are prepared to reach your business goals.

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Kiann Ridgeway West Gate Bank

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“This is the first step in the process,” confirmed Kiann Ridgeway, mortgage loan officer at West Gate Bank. “Getting preapproved for a loan shows the real estate agent and the seller that you are qualified and serious about making an offer.”

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There are a number of steps to take when buying a home. The first is banking. It may seem obvious, but many buyers don’t give it enough thought. Especially in a seller’s market, it’s important for buyers to be prepared. Sellers are looking for a buyer who is ready to close. If you start looking at homes before you actually have the funds secured for a down payment, chances are it’ll get snatched up by someone else. So, the first thing to do is to visit a financial institution or two and become pre-qualified or pre-approved for a loan.

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So, what do home buyers need to know as they begin their home buying journey? Well, we asked the experts!

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With so many benefits for home and property owners, and a high quality of life for families, people are moving to Lincoln. As a result, more and more homes are being built and put up for sale. The local real estate market sees a number of new construction properties available each week, and more will continue to rise up in this growing city. Buying a home is a significant endeavor in life for any individual or family. As such, it takes careful consideration. As home buyers move closer to homeownership, they will work with realtors, lenders, and other professionals along the way.

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West Gate Bank can assist buyers with their credit pre-qualification, which will help determine how much of a home they can afford and which financing option is best suited for their current financial picture.

“One piece of advice I’d give is to NOT let a bank determine what you can afford,” Kiann shared. “Qualification ratios are liberal in nature with the idea of helping people buy homes. If money is tight and excess funds are not readily available to fix up a home, don’t buy the fixer-upper. Having to live through remodel projects that are a strain on the budget can be both slow and stressful. You are often better off buying a slightly more expensive home in good condition where minor improvements can be made versus full remodeling improvements. When using this as a guide, funds should be available for regular maintenance and upkeep to the home, which will allow the property to appreciate with the general market trends of the area.” Kiann emphasized how important it is to ask questions and compare: “I recently had a borrower that reached out to an internet lender prior to calling me and he thought that option was perfect; however, when we met, he soon discovered the internet lender’s costs were higher than expected and they weren’t giving him the full picture.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

SOUTH 7575 So. 57th St. Lincoln, NE 68516 402-434-2222

NORTH Cornhusker Bank Building 1101 Cornhusker Hwy., Ste 200 Lincoln, NE 68521 402-434-8688

WILLIAMSBURG 5701 So. 34TH St., Ste 101 Lincoln, NE 68516 402-434-6786

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According to Kiann, the current real estate market is very active, so homebuyers need to be prepared to make multiple offers. The first offer might not get accepted or you could get out bid. Make sure you know how much the property is worth before you make an offer, though. Getting an appraisal is recommended to determine the worth or of a property. Lenders normally require an appraisal before they finalize the loan to the borrower after an offer has already been accepted, so getting an appraisal before an offer is not the typical approach; however, getting an appraisal on a home before making an offer on it can put you in a better negotiating position, because you know the market value of the home. Kubert Appraisal Group, led by Thomas W. Kubert, MAI, CCIM, brings Thomas W. Kubert over 27 years of appraisal experience into Kubert Appraisal Group every assignment. “Our clients benefit from our collective experience and professionalism in providing quality real estate appraisal services,” said Thomas. “In addition to general real estate appraisal service, we also provide specialized appraisal services such as appraisal review services, property tax assessment issues, eminent domain valuations, conservation easements, insurance values, estate planning; real estate market and feasibility analyses, and more. The appraisals we do for residential properties include subdivisions, single-family homes, multi-family housing, and apartments from 2 to 200+ units.” An appraiser completes a written estimate of the property’s market value by considering sales prices of other properties in the area and several factors regarding the home, including its overall condition, square footage, location, age, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and architectural features.

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It is also important to get homeowners insurance quotes as soon as the offer is accepted. As the homeowner, you will be able to choose your deductible amount. The full amount of coverage is typically decided by the lender, based on their assessment (appraisal) of the home’s value. Paying the premium up front and before closing allows you to exclude the premium from your closing costs. “There have been quite a few hail storms over the last number of years,” Mike noted. “With that in mind, it is important to know early on #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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When we spoke to Mike Barrett, vice president - mortgage lending, at Cornhusker Bank, he also stressed that buyers need to be pre-qualified and act fast in order to get the home they want. “My best advice to be successful in purchasing a home would be to speak with a loan officer prior to going shopping,” offered Mike. “The pre-qualification process will benefit the potential home buyer in multiple ways and can be completed Mike Barrett online in as little as 15 minutes. Once the application is completed, either online or in Cornhusker Bank person, one of our experienced lenders will educate the applicant on the different mortgage products available through Cornhusker Bank. We will also introduce them to potential grants and loan programs that may be available for down payment assistance. Cornhusker Bank’s lenders will assist in matching the right type of mortgage. Home buyers will also find the amount of house payment that they can afford and the price range in which they should be looking. We will also inform the home buyer of any potential setbacks which could take place during the process. This helps ensure no surprises come up at the last minute. The entire home buying process can move seamlessly when the buyer has all the necessary information upfront.”

Working with Buyers & Sellers Deb Wagner Realtor

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Your One Stop Resource For Home Buying & Selling

JOE COURTNEY 402-304-1583 301 S 70th St., Suite 200 | Lincoln, NE 68510

if the roof of the home you’re interested in is insurable. If it isn’t, that is something to address with the seller early in the process. Having a whole house inspection is a good idea to make sure that there are no issues with the property that could be costly down the road.” Homeowners Insurance Spotlight: Shelter Insurance — Typical homeowners insurance policies offer coverage for the unexpected things life might throw at you, like damage caused by fires, lightning strikes, windstorms, hail, etc. With Shelter Insurance, their home insurance policy pays for restoration costs, which means after the work is done, they’ll pay to replace damaged items with new materials of comparable quality. Matthew J. Moorhead is your trusted, local Shelter Insurance agent. Matthew has been with Shelter since 2000. He makes customer service his top priority. Shelter Insurance consistently receives high ratings from A.M. Best Company (a national firm that rates the financial strength and operating performance of insurance companies). Shelter Insurance also gives a 25% discount on newly built homes! “In regards to fixer uppers, getting an inspection is even more crucial,” added Mike. “Get bids from contractors to have a good understanding of what each project will end up costing you. Having the ability to do the work yourself can save you money on a fixer upper. There are loan programs available to assist in the financing of the improvements so make sure you ask your lender what options are available if you are considering buying a fixer upper.” Home Inspector Spotlight: King’s Home Inspection — Randy King, an InterNACHI Certified Master Inspector who has inspected thousands of homes of all shapes and sizes in southeast Nebraska, has been the owner and operator of King’s Home Inspections for 19 years. King’s Home Inspection will do a comprehensive review of all aspects of your home—electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning, structural, interior and exterior finish, roofing, and grounds/landscaping. There are challenges in the current housing market which a loan officer will be able to help navigate. In a market where there is a limited inventory of houses for sale, local institutions like Cornhusker Bank can provide solutions that will get you into the home of your dreams.

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According to Mike, shoppers who are in the $275,000 and below price range can expect to be going up against multiple potential buyers on the same house. With so much competition, it›s recommended to work with a REALTOR® who can dedicate the time to watch for new houses that go up for sale on the market—one that knows the city, neighborhoods, schools, parks, etc. “Currently, in Lincoln, there is a shortage of homes for sale, which makes it a very good time to be selling a home or investment property,” stated Brad Hulse, vice president - broker at Lincoln First Realty. “However, mortgage loan rates are also incredibly low, which makes it still favorable to buy a home. This resulted in a lot of competition for homes that come on the market. My advice is to be prepared when you begin the home buying process. You’ll be forced to act quickly as the home you like is probably being seriously considered by several other buyers as well.”

Scan the QR code to download the Mobile Mortgage app and start your loan application today, or visit mobilemortgage.westgate.bank!

Brad has been involved in the real estate business for almost 15 years. He began his career at one of Lincoln’s largest property management firms in their leasing division. Over his career, Brad has worked with a myriad of people in varying different circumstances including distressed homes, first time home buyers, investment properties, new construction homes, relocation, farm property, and acreage homes.

westgate.bank | 402.323.8987 EQUAL HOUSING

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Brad Hulse Lincoln First Realty

“Recently, I helped the nephew of a past client of mine buy a home,” Brad shared. “They purchased their home nearly 10 years ago. Their experience was vastly different than what their nephew went #PrintProudDigitalSmart

through today. Back then, they were able to pick between several potential homes that were for sale and they only competed with one other buyer for the home they ended up purchasing. Their nephew, on the other hand, had been in competition to purchase a home with upwards of 10 people making offers on the same property and that was after seeing several homes which were sold before he could even make an offer.” People may underestimate how time-consuming and stressful the home buying process can be, especially if they don›t know what they are doing. A key advantage of trusting a realtor when buying a home is simply experience. A real estate agent is your advocate and sounding board, so you should feel comfortable directing any and all of your questions, concerns, and ideas to the one you choose to work with as a buyer or seller. Russ Meyer, REALTOR®, associate broker, and team lead for Front Door Realty Group of Nebraska Homes Sales, is excited to help buyers find the right home in and around the Lincoln area! “My job is to walk our buyers and sellers through the process of finding their next home or property,” Russ explained. “The hand-picked agents at Front Door Realty Group help our clients buy and sell the following types of real estate: residential, Russ Meyer commercial, investment properties, and Front Door Realty Group new construction. And I’m pleased to of Nebraska Homes Sales announced that we have some exciting housing developments coming to the Lincoln market in 2020!” “The advice that we give to all our clients is vetted by years of personal experience in the local real estate business,” Russ continued. “We routinely offer strategies for finding quality homeowners insurance at great prices, and we have a short list of the top home repair and maintenance people in the area. We work with a group of mortgage lenders that offer fair terms and financing rates, whether they are working with a first-time buyer or preparing a jumbo loan. This team approach to helping our buyers and sellers makes for a great end result—houses and deals that work for everyone!” When we asked Russ what someone can expect when buying a home in the current market, he noted that the Lincoln real estate market will be busy and robust in the second half of 2019. “Homes are selling faster than ever, for full price and sometimes more!” Russ exclaimed. “It takes a team like Front Door Realty Group to bring it all together for our buyers and sellers. On a recent home purchase, a client of ours was in a time crunch to find her first home, so one of our realtors, Lynn Hartzell, showed her multiple properties while another agent from our team submitted a great offer on the buyer’s behalf and I negotiated the details with the seller. We were able to get a deal together quickly for our client, from a first showing to completed contract overnight! This might sound startling, but this quick work is what is required in our current market.” Russ Meyer and his team at Front Door Realty Group ask a lot of questions in order to really get to know their buyers and sellers, and they want to start the home showing process right away to start finding out what will work for a particular buyer’s needs. Russ Meyer is a lifetime Lincolnite and knows the houses and the neighborhoods here by heart! Russ has been in the real estate business for eight years, all with Nebraska Home Sales, and has consistently been in the top 100 agents working in the Lincoln area. Russ has been recognized amongst his realtor peers as a housing developer having proposed two housing initiatives with NeighborWorks Lincoln. Many buyers using the NeighborWorks program have benefitted from Russ’s insight at the Cooper Commons project, seven new homes at 9th and D. St, and the 24 townhomes at Antelope Square near 23rd and Q St. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NeighborWorks Lincoln is a local housing nonprofit with the mission of revitalizing neighborhoods and supporting homeownership, keeping Lincoln a safe and prosperous community. We also spoke to Pa t Ohmber ger with HOME Real Estate to tap into her 25+ years of real estate experience. According to Pat, it is important that her clients know what to expect. This is why the first thing Pat does with a home buyer is set an appointment to meet and then she uses that time to explain the process of purchasing a home and set expectations. “As a buyer’s agent, my fiduciary responsibility is to the buyer.” Pat stated. “I provide buyers with my expertise, taking Pat Ohmberger them through a step-by-step process which HOME Real Estate includes educating them about the current market, assisting them to determine their purchase power, and negotiating the best offer possible. Communication and collaboration with all aspects of the process are ultimately the key to success.”

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Although there are short-term fluctuations in the economy, housing markets are largely shaped by longer-term demographic trends. Over the next decade, two generations will dominate population growth—the millennials (born 1985–2004) and the baby boomers (born 1946–1964). Statistics show that millennials are renting more than ever before, opting for one monthly payment rather than mortgage interest, property taxes, utilities, maintenance expenses, and any other cost associated with homeownership. Younger people today have greater student loan debt than previous generations. Buying a home may seem like something that is just too far out of the budget for most, but the thing about renting is you don’t get any of your money back when you move. Long-time homeowners build equity that can be useful later in life. A paid-off house is a valuable asset that can be tapped into for college, to start a business, or retirement, to name a few. According to Ben Bleicher with Professional Realty Group of Woods Bros Realty, buying a home is one of the most rewarding things a person does in their lifetime. “Money is a primary concern for most people when it comes to whether to rent or buy a home,” Ben addressed. “However, you can’t simply compare monthly payments to determine the better deal. Renting a home for $1,000 a month is not the same as buying a house with a $1,000 monthly Ben Bleicher mortgage payment. A home is the one thing in your life that you will spend the most Professional Realty Group money on, but it is also the one place where of Woods Bros Realty you will spend most of your time—making memories that will last forever! If you decide to buy, it’s good to make a list of what you need and want in a home.” Ben emphasized the differences between needs and wants when looking at homes to buy: “There is nothing wrong with having a dream home in mind, but at the same time, be realistic. Know your price range and know what to expect. Keep the necessities on the top of your list, like number of rooms, location, size of yard, etc. These are the nonnegotiable things that your family needs to live comfortably. You might have to accept that you won’t get all the bells and whistles you had in mind for your dream home, but those can become fun remodeling projects down the road.” If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed after looking at multiple homes and not finding one that fits your needs, make sure you have a realtor who knows what you’re looking for. They can weed out the ones that don’t match your preferences. “At Professional Realty Group of Woods Bros Realty, we know

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paperwork front to back and have the knowledge to get through the entire process stress free,” Ben said. “A good agent should be able to assist the buyer through all phases of the purchase with ease, which include the purchase agreement, title paperwork, inspections, etc. It is our job to protect our clients, the buyers, by doing things right.” Ben also told us about a beautiful new residential development that will be located on 10 acres of land off of 84th and Van Dorn Street. The development will be called Lokahi at Wandering Creek and it will embody sustainable living, modern design, and smart home technology. The concept of Lokahi was birthed with the desire to bring Hawaiian architecture and island-style living here locally. The homes at Lokahi, designed by Studio 951, will promote a contemporary mix of tropical and Scandinavian concepts, including spacious landscaping, high ceilings, and large windows. This $3.5-million subdivision will include 16 lots, each about .3 to .6 acres in size. Ben anticipates these lots will sell for $175,000–$240,000 each. Reach out to the Professional Realty Group team to learn more about buying a lot in this new development. As you shop for a home that will fit your needs and your personality, you’ll likely attend a lot of open houses. We spoke to Mary McCombs with Essentials Home Care about what someone should look out for when touring different homes.

Mary McCombs Essentials Home Care

“It is easy to get distracted by how the seller has decorated the home,” admitted Mary. “Try to picture yourself and your family in the space. It is less about the furniture or color of the walls. Paint and wallpaper are relatively inexpensive to change and you’ll bring in your own decor, but major construction can be a deal breaker. Is the

layout what you had in mind? Think about how your day-to-day will flow. Where will the most foot traffic be? Are the rooms large enough for your needs? What about closet and storage space?” Mary also suggested paying close attention to the neighborhood: “Do the neighbors keep their yards clean and tidy, or are there old cars and trash around? Is the neighborhood safe enough for people to walk, run, or bike, and are there children playing in the yards?” It is a good idea to try everything when you’re inside a home. Follow common courtesy but don’t be shy—open and shut the cupboards, flush the toilets, and whip out the measuring tape. According to Mary, before even stepping out of the car, you should take a few minutes to look at the curb appeal of the home: “What are the sidewalks and entrances like? Will the home need to be painted soon or does it have permanent siding or brick façade? Do the roof and windows appear to be in good shape? Will the plantings require lots of maintenance or is there a steep slope that will be difficult to mow or drive up in the winter? These are all great questions to ask yourself when you go to different open houses.” If you do buy a home that has everything you’re looking for on the inside, but the outside needs a little facelift, have the experts at Outdoor Solutions help. They offer an impressive assortment of decorative landscape rock, flagstones, borders, mulches, topsoil, retaining wall, pavers, and construction materials that can change the look of your home. Whether it’s your first home or you’re looking for a new house that fits your needs better than your current one, buying a home is an exciting time. Make it a stress-free time too by working with a team of professionals who are committed to helping you find the right home for you!

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Buying & Selling a Business There is a lot that goes into a business transaction. No matter if you’re the buyer or the seller, you’ll want to have a team of experts to guide you through the process. Just having the money to buy a business does not make you ready to buy that business. In order to make a smart purchasing decision, you’ll need to spend a lot of time working with the seller and checking every necessary consideration off the list. To ensure you are getting the best deal, it’s recommended to work with a trusted business advisor. In order to learn more about this, we asked MJ Cassner from Transworld Business Advisors for some insight on the process of buying and/or selling a business. “For sellers, we make confidentiality and best price a mutual goal,” MJ said. “My advice is to sell when the business is doing well—don’t wait until you HAVE TO sell. At Transworld Business Advisors, we offer a professional business valuation at no cost to the seller. In addition, we’ll advertise your listing on over 100

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MJ Cassner Transworld Business Advisors

MJ shared some advice for first-time buyers as well: “First off, have a down payment saved and ready for purchase. I recommend 20–25% of the amount you can afford for a business (for businesses that cost $200k, have $50k cash available). Buyers should have capital start-up money available to get through initial months for unforeseen costs, improvements, deposits, payroll, etc. I also encourage buyers to strengthen their credit history to 700+. It’s important to be honest in disclosing your income, as lenders will check your tax returns. Choose a business you can feel passionate about. You may need to work a lot at first to get the profit you want. Even an owner-absentee business takes effort.” The next expert we interviewed was Austin Zimmerman, team accountant at SP Group, P.C. “Buying or selling a business is often an emotional decision,” Austin addressed. “With all of the emotions involved, it is important to have a team of trusted advisors who know the right questions to ask and can provide an objective opinion to a prospective buyer or seller. A trusted tax professional can provide unbiased guidance in a multitude of areas, including the valuation of the business, the best structure for the transaction, and the potential tax consequences of the sale. Obtaining this valuable advice can help you feel more comfortable that you are truly making the right decision for your future.”

LIFE IS COMPLICATED ENOUGH BUT YOUR FINANCIAL LIFE DOESN’T HAVE TO BE. WE ARE

websites both locally and internationally at no cost to the seller. Another important part of our process involves interviewing the seller to determine discretionary earnings and creating recastings from the business’s tax returns. This financial information is then shown to potential buyers. We adjust back in interest depreciation, and any owner perks or add-backs, to show the true value of the company. Transworld will get the business pre-qualified with a bank so the process is easier, and our team will recommend other financial and legal resources too.”

Austin Zimmerman SP Group, P.C.

Austin offered some additional advice for anyone who is buying a business for the first time: “When considering the purchase of a business for the first time, remember that there is really no such thing as too much due diligence. Communicate early and often with your team of professional advisors, including your accountant, attorney, banker, and other consultants. Additionally, reach out to other business owners you know who have gone through this process before, as they may be able to provide valuable insight from their past experience. Using your network to your advantage will help you feel more prepared and at ease.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“Now is a time of great fluctuation in the marketplace, but with that fluctuation comes opportunity,” added Austin. “Baby boomers are approaching retirement age, and a new generation of professionals is eager to step in and take the reins. However, it is important not to just take the first opportunity that comes along. Utilize your team of advisors to get expert feedback on the terms of a potential sale. Planning with a tax advisor can help minimize the taxes owed, or at least provide advance notice for when April comes around. Often times, an installment sale can be used to spread the proceeds of the sale over several years, which helps avoid having a huge lump sum due in one single tax year.” As we get into the topic of financing the purchase of a business, it’s important to remember that financing the business acquisition is only part of the game. You still need funds to operate the business after the purchase. The simplest way to finance a business acquisition is to use your own funds. These funds include your savings, retirement accounts, and home equity. No matter what you do, you will need to use some of your own established capital for the purchase, but it’s uncommon for someone to acquire a business by using only their funds for the purchase. Along with seller financing, bank loans, and leveraged buyouts, one of the best options to finance a business purchase is to use an SBA Loan (small business administration loan). If purchasing a business or getting working capital is your goal, the SBA 7A loan is probably your best route. If you’re looking for a small business loan to purchase commercial real estate or heavy machinery/equipment, the SBA 504 loan is a better choice.

Jason Culver NEDCO

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Certified Development Companies (CDCs) facilitate 504 loans to small businesses by partnering with conventional lenders. 504 loans are guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration. To help us learn more about this, we talked to Jason Culver, SVP and chief credit officer for NEDCO. NEDCO is a great resource for anyone looking at buying or selling a business. Many business transactions involve the purchase of the business operations but also include real estate and equipment. NEDCO’s SBA 504 loan program can offer buyers the ability to purchase real estate and equipment for as low at 10% down.

“The low down payment can be key for business owners,” stated Jason. “Conventional financing can often require down payments of 20% or more. By allowing small businesses to purchase real estate and equipment with 10% down, it lets the owners keep more working capital in their business for other expenses, inventory, or to do an expansion in the future.” “When buying your first business, there’s no shortage of things to consider,” Jason continued. “When buying an existing business you need to look into getting a business valuation to make sure the purchase price is fair. Along with the purchase price comes evaluating the business cash flow to make sure it generates enough profit to service any debt you incur from buying the business.” According to Jason, in addition to the financial aspects of the business, there are a few questions new business owners need to ask: • Will existing sales differ under new ownership, is there any risk of losing existing clients? • Is there existing staff that will stay on after the change in ownership to help with the transition? • Why is the current owner selling? Is it due to retirement or has something changed in the market that will impact the business in the future? • Is the purchase for the assets of the business or for the ownership of the stock in the business? Most advisors recommend just purchasing #PrintProudDigitalSmart

MJ Cassner

Kent Londre

Melissa Buss

Owner - Sr. Broker

Financial Specialist

Broker

Contact us today! 402-413-1095 4435 O Street, Suite 113 | Lincoln, NE 68510 tworld.com/Lincoln AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

the assets of the business but forming a new company in order to separate your new business from the old one to avoid any potential legal issues the old company may have. • Will the seller offer to continue working at the business for a period of time after the sale? This can help with the transition as suppliers and customers get used to the new owners. Currently, in our state, we are seeing a high number of business owners reach a point where they’re thinking about retiring and potentially selling their business. One of the great things for someone looking at selling a business right now is that interest rates are at historic lows. This can make financing much more attractive to potential buyers. This is especially true with the SBA 504 program offered by NEDCO. “Our interest rates are at their lowest level and can be fixed for the entire life of the loan, as much as 25 years!” Jason announced. “By combining a low fixed interest rate and a low down payment, business owners can expand the pool of eligible buyers for their business.” NEDCO’s goal is to help small businesses all across Nebraska grow and reach their full potential. If you are a small business owner, make sure to find out what NEDCO’s SBA 504 Loan can do for you! Finally, the legal advice from your lawyer will be invaluable for a number of different reasons. Get an indemnity from the seller, otherwise known as a comprehensive form of insurance compensation for damages or loss. Even if you and your advisors have torn apart the seller’s books and records, sometimes things get overlooked and you find yourself getting sued because of something the seller did or didn’t do before you took over the business. With indemnity, the insurer indemnifies the policyholder—that is, promises to make whole the individual or business for any covered loss. If you’re looking where to turn for legal advice, we recommend working with one of the following expert firms:

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Berry Law was founded in 1965 by Attorney John Stevens Berry, Sr. They continue to uphold a heritage of aggressive, effective, and reliable legal advocacy to individuals in Lincoln and the entire state of Nebraska. Susan Napolitano is a relentless civil lawyer at Berry Law who fights for her clients, specifically in the area of business transactions to make sure they keep all they have earned and that they continue to build upon their assets. Susan Napolitano “Having handled the legal aspects of Berry Law hundreds of business transitions, I’ve learned that the smoothest sales involve an attorney from the beginning to the end,” said Susan. “Ideally, a seller should visit with his or her attorney (and accountant) at least one tax year before listing the business for sale to prepare for a succession. It can be helpful when the seller’s attorney understands the seller’s day-today business, but it is imperative that the seller’s attorney understands the unique legal aspects of the seller’s business transition.”

Another key consideration when buying a business is the current employees. Does the business you’re purchasing rely heavily on a few key employees? If you’re looking into purchasing a servicebased business, the future success of that business relies heavily on relationships. In this case, the key employees can be one of the most valuable assets for the business. Making sure you take time to identify who the key people are in the company, and ensuring those key employees stay with the company after you’ve purchased it, is a step that should not be overlooked. That being said, employee retention can be very challenging in the midst of a substantial transition period such as a change in ownership. If you’re taking over a business and you’re coming in with new ideas and changes that affect the culture, expectations, day-to-day operations, etc., be prepared for some resistance. It is difficult for employees to adapt to a new normal once they’ve gotten used to things being done in a certain way. As an owner faced with turnover, it’s good to have effective staffing strategies in place ahead of time. Now more than ever, the ability to tap the power of people with the right skills and experience can make or break a company. As the world leader in contingent and permanent staffing solutions, Manpower has talent resourcing options and workforce programs and solutions that will increase your business flexibility, agility, cost-effectiveness, and competitive advantage. Since a business acquisition can be complex and demanding, you can’t do it all yourself. When it comes to staffing, let Manpower help you source, recruit, screen, interview, and place candidates. Did you know that, on the average, a business is introduced to about 20 buyers before selling it? There are a lot of moving parts. To give us a closer, final look at all these parts, we spoke with Jethro Hopkins, owner of No Coast Business Advisors (NCBA). “When you are looking to buy a business, smart professionals use a business broker to represent their interests,” Jethro stated. “The business owner or seller is going to have professionals on their side, including a broker, CPA, attorney, advisors, and others. Having a trusted broker is a great way to level the playing field and protect your investment instead of just hoping that no one on the other side of the table will take advantage of you.”

Jethro Hopkins No Coast Business Advisors

“The first and most important thing in the buying/selling a business process is figuring out the value of the business,” Jethro informed us. “Depending on if you’re working with a CPA, appraiser, or a broker, you’ll probably get different valuation results. This is because each #PrintProudDigitalSmart

entity is calculating the value of a business a little differently. An accountant will generally evaluate your business on the basis of its book value on paper. If you’ve been working with a CPA, they probably have a working knowledge of your business that other appraising agents do not, and would be a great source of information for questions about the tax consequences of selling your business. An appraiser is going to give you the hard provable value of a business considering the value of all equipment, fixtures, vehicles, and intangible assets, and deriving the net present value of its projected future earnings. Whereas a broker is going to use real-world market comparables from multiple sources to figure out a realistic selling price based on accepted methodologies and multiple valuation formats. Because it doesn’t matter what any professional says a business is worth, all that matters is what the market actually shows a business can sell for.” Selling your business can be a full-time job in and of itself, and selling your business the RIGHT way requires specific experience, skills, tools, and relationships. Too often, someone tries to just wing it or they grind away in the process just to end up frustrated, disappointed, and making costly mistakes. One of the things Jethro pointed out was the issue of confidentiality. “There are a variety of reasons that you, as the seller, would want to keep the sale of your business as quiet as possible,” Jethro said. “If you’re careful, your employees, suppliers, vendors, and competitors won’t know your company is on the market until wrapped up the majority of the process with a qualified buyer. Being discrete can make marketing difficult. This is why working with a business broker is crucial. We can confidentially market you business through many avenues to qualified and interested buyers in a way that does not breach the confidentiality of our clients. Before a prospective buyer is given access to company information, they must sign an NDA that restricts their use of privileged information. This agreement prohibits disclosure of protected information to parties that have not been approved for access by the broker and/or seller.”

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Jethro also spoke to us about the condition of the local market for buying/selling a business: “The market is still booming. Any business that is operating in the green and has at least three years of established history, is a sellable asset that someone will buy. I’ve noticed that SAAS (software as a service) companies are a very lucrative business to sell right now. I’d say the average amount of time to sell main street market businesses is 5 to 7 months, whereas companies valued over $3 million will take 6 to 12 months because there are more details to prepare for a successful release to private equity groups. Another trend I see is absentee owner businesses, an individual or corporation that owns a business without actually actively managing it, are selling quicker than businesses with an owner who is actively involved in the daily operations process due to being of interest to a larger pool of buyers interested in acquisitions as an investment.” Clients enjoy greater access to financing and additional vendor options through No Coast Business Advisors, a national business brokerage specializing in sale and acquisition. Every advisor with NCBA has been a business owner, which gives them unique experience that allows them to understand other business owners. In addition, Jethro recently completed all requirements necessary to become Nebraska’s only business broker to hold the elite Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) designation, awarded by the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA). Someone would have to go to Kansas City to find the next closest advisor who can do what Jethro does. No matter which side of the table you are on, business transactions require a careful process that demands a lot of attention, and it’s impossible to go about it alone. You’ll need to have trusted advisors in your corner to assist you along the way. Luckily, there are so many experts and reputable companies right here in Lincoln to do just that. Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and ask for help! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

AUGUST 2019 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

There is a new trend in the world of health and wellness—Goat yoga! Always trying to keep up with what’s hot and happening, our Strictly Business team thought it’d be fun to host a goat yoga event in our own backyard. We invited friends, clients, and the public to join us for this unique networking and teamengagement opportunity. The event was more than just a good time, it was also meaningful as it doubled as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for Shepherd’s Rest Goat & Sheep Rescue. If your company or organization is looking for a fun team building experience, we totally recommend goat yoga! It’s a neat event to invite your family or professional network to as well. You can hold a yoga event at your office or as a retreat at their century old, 13 acre farm that has access to both meadow and woodland walking trails. If you can’t host a whole goat yoga event, Shepherd’s Rest does a “Cubicle Cuddles” program through which they bring one or a few goats to your office. They’ll take the goats around and say hi to your whole team! The goats are very clean, friendly, and guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Shepherd’s Rest Goat & Sheep Rescue is led by Jen Schurman and her team. The organization exists to rescue, rehabilitate, adopt, and provide sanctuary for goats in need. They also educate the public about goats and train goats and humans as therapy teams. A question Jen often gets is, “Why do goats need rescued?” Well, as Jen explained, many owners of goats find themselves in a situation where they are unable to support the goats in their possession in a humane way. Jen has traveled across the country to save goats from a situation of being unwanted, neglected, or even abused. They money she raises goes towards buying hay to feed the goats and sheep, along with medical treatment expenses.

goat yoga for a good cause

The goat yoga concept combines the wellness benefits of yoga with those of animal therapy. The mental health advantages of animal interaction are many, including lowering anxiety, increasing mental stimulation, and reducing feelings of loneliness. Goats are said to be the ideal therapy animals as they don’t need to develop a special bond with a human before they start interacting with them. This was evident at our yoga event as the goats wandered around throughout the session, going up to anyone and everyone for some nice petting and snuggling...and even occasional piggy-back ride! With the expertise of our lovely yoga instructor from Juniper Spa & Yoga Studio, our group was able to clear our minds and relax our bodies as cute little goats shuffled around. This experience didn’t have the same silence or structure as goat-free yoga does. Our spirits were brightened as we went from pose to pose, taking the occasional break to pet our new goat friends and giggle at the funny encounters around us. If you have access to hay, or know anyone who does, we encourage you to reach out to Jen at Shepherd’s rest about donating some to help feed the goats. Any amount of monetary donation is highly appreciated as well. A big THANK YOU to the two companies who helped sponsor and put on this event—Stephanie Witt with Guiding Hands for Senior Transitions and Bethany Arnold with Edward Jones!

Find Shepherd’s Rest Goat & Sheep Rescue on Facebook @ShepherdsRestRescue or call 402-580-5299 80

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